Bear came to live with me and my other two Bichons when she was 9 1/2 years old. As a rescue, she was described has having survived severe neglect, and my heart immediately went out to her. She was very sweet and loving, but also a serious and cautious dog, and during the 4 years she was with us, she never played with, or even showed interest in, a single toy. She did love treats, however, and going for walks with me and her new sisters, Roxie and Maggie. She always had a lot to say, and often provided a running commentary for anyone within earshot. About a year before she died, she began slightly dragging one back foot, just enough to hear her nails scrape the floor, and having some cognitive dysfunction symptoms. Even after 2 comprehensive neurological evaluations at different specialty vets about a year apart, no one could identify what was happening to her, and we will never know.
It broke my heart when she died, and I miss her every day. It's my hope that research and improved technology in the future will provide better tools to help veterinarians be able to diagnose elusive neurological problems and help dogs like Bear lead happier and more active lives, even into older age.

Ramey F.