Chester Update 💙

Our beautiful senior man had another check-up last week, and we couldn’t be prouder of him.

When Chester first arrived at the shelter, he was at his heaviest, weighing 9.5kg. He is currently tipping the scales at 7.95kg! While he still has some weight to lose before he’s ready for the dental work and desexing surgery he needs, every gram lost is helping him move more comfortably and giving him the best chance for a successful procedure.

He was an absolute superstar when it came to having his arthritis injection — such a brave little gentleman. The eye tests were another story though! Chester made it very clear that he wasn’t a fan of having his eyes examined.

Unfortunately, his left eye has very poor tear production and significant scarring, while his right eye is doing a little better. For now, he’ll remain on Antinol Rapid to help with his arthritis symptoms and daily dry-eye drops, both of which will likely be lifelong treatments to keep him comfortable.

Despite everything he’s been through, Chester continues to embrace life in the sweetest way.

This week he enjoyed an off-lead stroll in a secure grassy area. He proudly made it all the way to a big tree and then walked back again. It may not sound like much, but for Chester, it was a huge achievement.

Nothing makes him happier than hearing the lead come out. He absolutely lights up when it’s time for a walk. Food is something he’ll wander over to after it’s been put down, and when he decides to eat he makes sure every last bit disappears!

At home, Chester spends his days waiting patiently by the front door for his foster mums to return. And when they do…..well the excitement is impossible to miss. He still tries his best to jump up for cuddles and be picked up, and of course, he gets all the cuddles he could ever want.

His favourite place is curled up on the couch beside his foster mums, soaking up the love he missed out on for so many years. They are doing an incredible job helping him discover what it means to be cherished.

As for his young foster sister! Well, at 3 years old, she’s a bit too energetic for our nearly 13-year-old gentleman. Chester prefers to admire her enthusiasm from a comfortable distance!!

Every day we see a little more of the dog Chester was always meant to be. A dog who is loved, safe, comfortable, and finally getting the care he deserves.

Sadly, Chester’s medical needs weren’t adequately met, and he was significantly overfed, resulting in a clinically obese dog. Over time, that excess weight has contributed to a number of serious health issues that now require ongoing management and treatment. The good news is that Chester is finally getting the care he deserves, and with every kilogram he loses, every medication that helps him feel more comfortable, and every loving cuddle from his foster family, his quality of life continues to improve.

Thank you to everyone following his journey and cheering him on. He may be a senior, but he’s proving that it’s never too late for a new beginning 💙