Four weeks ago he began to limp just a fortnight after recovering from a slipped disc in his back…..all jokes about lifting heavy boxes went a bit sour with the bills for the Xrays, treatments, and drugs. He also has arthritis in his lower spine.

Jazz has been a frequent flyer to the vet for numerous abscesses and issues over his busy, energetic life to date.

His late twin brother was also a platinum client at the vet after bladder obstructions and to cure that a perineal urethosomy(spelling) Mega dollars.

Vet care has changed so much in the past 30 years with attendant high costs that we are now ill equipped to cover thanks to the recession and health issues for a human in the family. So it is precious savings that get borrowed from next week to cover the $330 approximate bill…..

I adore Jazz and loved his late brother but Jazz will be our last pet due to the expense of ensuring the health and well being of one. Pet insurance is now becoming popular and probably essential for any pet owner nowadays.

In lieu of a pet I will turn my attentions to feeding the birds and encouraging the Tui, Bellbirds, Keruru and other natives that are appearing in greater numbers here in the ‘burbs.

Merry Xmas Rae and here’s to pet health!