On another note...

It's been three years, to the day, since my always-beloved Bosco passed to the other side.

Just in case I somehow might have managed to forget, the forces that be had me outside of my office just in time to watch two men walking a happy, beautiful, sable Sheltie. I've been in that part of town for the past four years, yet today is the only time I've ever seen a sheltie in the area.

After work, I came home to quiet house and spent a few minutes decompressing before we, once again, played his song, Mr. Bojangles by The Nitty Gritty Dirt Band. The album version (as opposed to radio) has a lead-in that Bosco would sing to, if you asked. And there's a verse in that little tune that never fails to squeeze my heart.

Since he died, it's the only day of the year we play it at all.

We play it to think of him, in all his glory. Before he became ill. We play it in tribute to his life and his love and devotion. We cry a little. And it's O.K.

Bosco-pup, we'll always hold you close in our hearts.

Stem cell treatment for hip dysplasia

O.K., I admit it --- I was completely cooled-out by the recent Time magazine article that talked about the advances made in stem cell treatments for dogs suffering from hip dysplasia.

Having seen the agony that some dogs go through due to the condition, and the agony of pet owners who watch their beloved fur-kid break down before their eyes, this is one person who is hoping that this procedure produces the long-term results needed.

I also applaud Time’s efforts at bringing to light some of the more progressive treatments for pets that are available these days. Living in Bakersfield I certainly don’t see much “new age” veterinary medicine being practiced (and if someone knows differently, please let me know), but I worked alongside a veterinarian in Sacramento who practiced both Traditional Chinese Medicine and acupuncture and can tell you that there were dogs who definitely benefited. No question about it.

Anyone else who finds a cool pet medicine article, feel free to share.