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Nana at 3 months

Nana at 16 months

Nana is a 17 month old Briard,  she is currently doing fine, not having had a head shaking seizure since November 30th.  I keep thinking it is a deficit in the neurotransmitter dopamine.  I wish I had a neurological vet student in my pocket to study this.  Her seizures also seem to be food triggered. As long as I keep her food tightly regulated and consistent she seems to do just fine.

This first year of dog ownership has been roller coaster ride of new and exciting medical events.  Some expected, like being spayed, others well not so much. The Briard breed can be a handful. They are busy, smart, independent and inclined to think they can get back to you later.  It isn't that they don't love you, they just aren't the type of dog you micro-manage.  The border collie lives to be told what to do.  The Briard is the independent contactor.  "So you want me to take care of the sheep?"  "Got it......and don't tell me how to do my job and what are you still doing here, if I need you I'll let you know".   She still thinks it is an equal partnership and obedience is optional.  Thank goodness she is a slut for food - my secret weapon.

They say people are their dogs, after listening to my trainer (who has border collies) about what I needed to do with Nana after one particular difficult training session, I realized I wasn't a lot different.  "Let me think about that and I'll get back to you".  Can't fault the dog for a personality trait we both share - but it sure can be annoying.