Hanging with Aidan

Aidan’s been on a course of antibiotics for the last week treating an unidentified stomach issue, causing him to have difficulties keeping any food down for a few days, the second issue was related to a possible reoccurring urinary tract infection that he had earlier this year.  The first few days of antibiotics started with some inject-able doses due to the inability to keep the food and medication in his stomach.  By the 3rd day, we saw a noticeable improvement, now we just need to follow up on the full treatment.  The issue is that Aidan is very wary of the smell of any medication in his morning meatball, but antibiotics make him particularly suspicious.  Staff are very creative to make sure he gets what he needs.  There is a challenge with getting the urine sample to assess the status of his treatment.  Since Aidan has lost his status as the pack leader, he doesn’t display his typical raised leg urination or RLU response.   By displaying an RLU, a wolf is broadcasting their scent to anyone in the area; when in a low ranking position, psychologically, it’s probably best to not broadcast.  So, Aidan does a squat urination, dropping as low to the ground as 10-year old hips allow.  This is a difficult posture for capturing a urine sample, but again staff are creative trying to use baking pans and various scents to provide a marking platform and catch a sample.  Aidan does have a support network; Usually while resting, he is joined by Grayson and or Denali.  In the log photo, it’s both.