I want to share this story with you. Today is Billy's 15th birthday, I really didn't think he'd make it. I went into the hospital last March and he was doing fine, when I got out in July he couldn't walk. I wasn't expecting that. He could stand, but he could not make his legs walk. I was quite upset but my husband didn't want to put him down while I was in the hospital.
But Billy still had a great appetite, didn't have potty accidents and wasn't in any pain; he seemed content to spend the day laying in the sun, or on the couch, and liked snuggling in bed best! We decided he should stay at least until the cold weather hit, how could we just put him down? Fortunately we had a very mild fall, and long story short, Billy started to get better!
Fast forward to now and he takes tiny little steps with his front paws and the back ones will follow so he gets to where he wants to be. He's putting on a lot of muscle mass because he's walking around so much more. He can't see, and his gait is much less than perfect but he gets his own water now, stands at the door to go out, even kicks the big dogs out of the crate when he wants to take over!
We think he had a stroke and he is slowly recovering. He still struggles but he's a trooper. Good boy Billy, you're doing pretty good! Happy Birthday!!!
-Joanne
How very, very sweet.
Happy bday Billy boy! We raise a toast to you.
Happy Birthday Billy! Your traveling companion from Merced to Petaluma on your journey to Canada will be turning 14 years old the 20th of December. Nicky really liked Billy even though he only spent a few hours together but they had fun walking around the wharf in Emeryville.
Happy birthday to you, Billy. And my wish for many more. 
And if I may add…...yet another illustration of why you shouldn't give up on them until they tell you they are ready!
Happy Birthday Billy! You are a trooper!
Wonderful story - so glad Billy is coming back to himself. I believe they tell us when they are ready to give it all up, and obviously you can read him very well. Keep going Billy -
Happy Birthday to Billy and more of them. So glad he's recovered and I can tell you I know how you feel because my elderly lady has had two recent strokes and has recovered miraculously although somewhat wobbly. I reiterate what eeeefarm posts - never give up on them - just wait until they tell you by that certain look in their eyes that they are ready to 'leave'..
Happy Birthday, Billy!!! What a great story. Glad Billy is doing well.
Happy Birthday Billy! Your traveling companion from Merced to Petaluma on your journey to Canada will be turning 14 years old the 20th of December. Nicky really liked Billy even though he only spent a few hours together but they had fun walking around the wharf in Emeryville.
Wow, time sure flies, eh, they're both getting old now. Billy's Wild Ride seemed like such a short while ago; it was so exciting for me, following along with that trip and now that chapter will all too soon come to an end.
For those who want to learn about Billy's Wild Ride, it's at: http://basenjis.homestead.com/billy.html
Old Basenjis are the best & sweetest Basenjis. Happy Birthday Billy!
HAppy Birthday Billy….
