I had to do a terrible thing today.

[CamilleatGaelforce]

Charlie got clippered in a non-breed recognizable cut.  He won't let me brush him on his legs without biting, so I just scissored and clippered his underarms and belly, because he has picked up every evergreen prickle and blackberry vine he can find, and I can't get them out.  Plus, because of his EPI his meals are "runny oatmeal" in texture, and getting his beard clean has become impossible, so it's gone, too.  So, to avoid the look of a "puffball with a nose walking on toothpicks, I took off his ruff and mane, as well as trimming his body coat short.  As odd as he looks, bless him, he smells much better, and will be easier to keep clean and comfortable.  Now that he's shortened up, I will try gentle brushing with a soft bristle brush, so maybe I can let some coat grow back, but I think his beard will need to stay gone for sanitary reasons.  He turned 14 last week, so at this point comfort and health have to count more than style, even though it makes me very sad that he doesn't look very much like a Cairn Terrier any more.  At least none of the dogs at the park laughed at him, they all recognized him immediately, even without his fluff.

[Hillscreek]

10 hours ago, CamilleatGaelforce said:

at this point comfort and health have to count more than style

Absolutely. Am older myself and learning this lesson - finally!

Let him feel clean and comfortable and enjoy his life. His friends recognize him because he is still himself even if looking a bit different.

[Eliz222]

8 hours ago, Hillscreek said:

Absolutely. Am older myself and learning this lesson - finally!

Let him feel clean and comfortable and enjoy his life. His friends recognize him because he is still himself even if looking a bit different.

I agree. Comfort is number one right now. At 14 he should be as comfortable as possible. How sweet that his friends still recognized him.