Dad: I'm sorry to tell Pooch's friends that he's suddenly been taken ill. I had to take Pooch to the emergency v*t late last night because he suddenly started being poorly and could not even keep water down. The v*t is not sure what is causing the problem but said poor Pooch's abdomen is very sore and swollen, so they think he has eaten something he shouldn't have. He's having x-rays and other diagnostics done today and I will keep you updated.

The house feels horribly empty without him... anyway, here's another shot from our day out yesterday, before the trouble started.

Hurry home, Pooch! :-(((((

1327: Update - I won't bore you with the details but Pooch is having to remain on observation at the Vet's for the next couple of days as they are not sure what is making him unable to eat or drink anything and need to do further tests. He may need an operation. The wife and I are really going to miss him. He's never been to kennels or away from us for this long before. I hope he'll be able to work out that he's in the best possible hands and that we haven't abandoned him!

1647: Thanks for the ideas about going to visit him and taking something that smells of home. It probably sounds naive but the wife and I didn't realise we'd be allowed to visit! However we've called the Vet's and apparently we can take a favourite toy and a blanket in, and also see Pooch for ten minutes max. He's still on an IV and won't eat, but is apparently quite bright. I just hope he does not think we've arrived to take him home...

28112006 1228: We saw Pooch for about 20 minutes last night. He was quite subdued and whining and spent most of our visit with his face pressed against my jacket, as though he wanted to burrow inside and be carried home. Apparently he is much better this morning and has even managed to eat a small meal. The vet will be monitoring him throughout the day and gradually reducing the medication. If all goes well, we will be able to take him home tomorrow - but if he's sick again then it will be "scope time". :-(
The cause of this sudden ailment is still a total mystery, but fingers crossed it will not recur and we can put this whole episode behind us. Thanks for all your support and suggestions, friends. :-)

28112006 2310: I saw Pooch again at the Vet's earlier this evening and he was very cross not to be coming home with me. However he's still on the IV and has not reacted well to having his anti-sickness drugs reduced. There'll be a further review tomorrow morning...
We miss him terribly. There are no two ways about it. Really, really missing him now. :-(