Dear parents and former housemates,

As you know, we have been living here at Jansveld with our little dog James for almost five years now. Although we are, hopefully, in the prime of our lives, James has been struggling with this a little lately. The holiday period proved to be very stressful for James, with constant changes and new faces. By the end of the holidays, James no longer seemed her usual self and she developed symptoms such as a bladder infection, back pain and a smelly coat. The latter was the result of an inflamed anal gland combined with her grooming herself.

We took immediate action when we noticed James was behaving differently; even her tail wasn’t standing up anymore. After two visits to the vet, it was decided that James would be given antibiotics and a course of painkillers and anti-inflammatories. She also has to rest for a total of six weeks. So, unfortunately, no playing with balls, frisbees, sticks or other dogs. Not to mention climbing stairs.

It’s now been almost two weeks, ten of which have been spent on the course of antibiotics and painkillers. At the moment, James’s tail is gradually standing up a bit more, but she’s not quite back to her old self yet. The course of treatment will be over in a day’s time, and we’re cautiously hoping for a positive (final) outcome. According to the advice from the Evidensia veterinary hospital in Nieuwegein, every sign of happiness in James is a step in the right direction. All this, of course, provided we can continue with this approach of rest and avoiding the stairs. From now on, James will be carried up and down every flight of stairs. She’s like the princess and the pea.

But our worries aren’t over yet; her condition is still very worrying and, as far as her back is concerned, we’ll probably have to schedule another visit to the vet. If these symptoms don’t disappear within the remaining four weeks, X-rays will need to be taken. In the worst-case scenario, even one or more scans. We have also been looking for better food. Any little thing that contributes to improving her health is a bonus. All these trips for James, apart from the tension in the air, were also a bit on the pricey side. Doctors do love their money, after all.

It is with some hesitation that we would therefore like to ask you for a small contribution so that we can offer James the lovely life she deserves. Below is a link to the page where you can make a donation. We will pass on all updates about our dear girl, and everyone is of course very welcome to come and have a cup of tea with James. If you have any questions, tips, comments or suggestions, we’d love to hear from you.

Lots of love, appreciation and thanks on behalf of James and all the boys here at Jansveld 41.