Barkley's IVDD journey changed the way I think about pet health, nutrition, and advocacy. While every dog's situation is different, these are some of the most valuable lessons I've learned along the way.
About three years ago, Barkley experienced her first episode of IVDD (Intervertebral Disc Disease).
It was a terrifying experience for both Barkley and us as her guardians. We were fortunate to be supported by an incredible veterinarian who understood the condition and guided us through the referral process to a specialist hospital, as well as the aftercare once Barkley returned home.
Looking back, there are several important lessons I learned throughout her journey that may help other pet parents facing their own challenges.
Lesson One: Surround Yourself with a Great Team and Communicate
When your pet is unwell, having a knowledgeable and supportive team around you is invaluable.
It's important to work with professionals who listen to your concerns, understand your goals, and are willing to collaborate with you to achieve the best possible outcome for your pet.
Every family has different circumstances, resources, and expectations when it comes to caring for a sick pet. Open and honest communication helps ensure everyone is working towards the same goal and allows you to make informed decisions with confidence.
Don't be afraid to ask questions, seek clarification, or discuss all available options. Your pet's care is a partnership.
Lesson Two: Advocate for Your Pet
When Barkley suffered her second IVDD episode, we saw a veterinarian who had limited experience with the condition. During that consultation, euthanasia was raised as a possibility.
Hearing those words was devastating.
Although I was frightened and overwhelmed, I knew I wasn't ready to give up. I trusted my instincts, sought a second opinion, and found another veterinarian who was willing to explore treatment options with us.
Advocating for your pet doesn't mean dismissing professional advice. It means asking questions, seeking additional opinions when necessary, and ensuring all options have been considered before making major decisions.
Advocacy is important in everyday life too. Our pets can't tell people when they're uncomfortable, stressed, frightened, or in pain. As their guardians, it's our responsibility to recognise those signs and speak up on their behalf.
Lesson Three: Nutrition Matters
As I began researching IVDD and ways to help Barkley live a comfortable and fulfilling life, I discovered how much nutrition can influence overall health and wellbeing.
Many health conditions are linked to inflammation, and supporting the body through a nutrient-rich diet became a major focus for us.
We gradually transitioned from a primarily dry food diet to a fresh, whole-food raw diet consisting of quality meats, organs, bones, fruits, and vegetables.
I also spent countless hours researching supplements. After trying several options, I found a few that I felt were genuinely making a difference for Barkley.
One of the key additions was SEWA Dog Boost, which contains bovine collagen, New Zealand green-lipped mussel, and wild fish roe. Together, these ingredients provide support for joint health, mobility, and overall wellbeing.
During the colder months, when pain episodes tended to be more frequent, I also discovered PEA (Palmitoylethanolamide), a naturally occurring fatty acid that has been studied for its role in supporting nerve comfort and managing inflammation. It has become an important part of Barkley's wellness routine.
Like many people feeding a homemade or raw diet, I sometimes worried about nutritional balance. That's when we discovered Pawsome Nutrition Complete Canine. It has been a fantastic addition to help provide extra confidence that Barkley's diet includes the nutrients she needs to thrive.
Lesson Four: Take a Break
Caring for a sick pet can be emotionally and physically exhausting.
The constant worry, interrupted sleep, appointments, and extra care can take a significant toll. When we're running on empty, it's harder to be patient, present, and resilient.
Looking after yourself isn't selfish—it's necessary.
Ask a partner, friend, or family member to watch your pet for an hour while you go for a walk, enjoy a coffee, or simply spend some time doing something you love.
Call a friend and talk about something other than your pet's illness. Spend time in the garden. Read a book. Take a nap.
Small moments of self-care can make a huge difference.
When you're in the middle of a difficult situation, it's easy to feel like it will never end. But recovery often happens one small step at a time. The tough days won't last forever, and brighter days will come again.
Lesson Five: Appreciate the Good Times
Our pets are only with us for a short part of our lives, but we are their whole world.
They give us unconditional love, companionship, and joy every single day.
Celebrate the small victories.
Celebrate the first steps after an injury, the first pain-free day, or the first time they return to doing something they love.
When they're enjoying a good moment, enjoy it with them.
When they ask for a cuddle, put down your phone and be fully present.
Those ordinary moments often become the memories we treasure most.
Barkley's journey hasn't always been easy, but it has taught me so much about resilience, patience, hope, and the incredible bond we share with our dogs.
And for that, I will always be grateful.