Heya! I didn't mean to let the conversation lapse, sorry about that! Got an phone call just as you sent your messages.
I'm hoping that you're right re: proud flesh causing so many problems. He has had issues for a long time... originally it was abscesses (a lot of them, ugh) and arthritis and since I've gotten him and he's turned out 24/7 he seems to be down to just arthritis. We've overhauled his diet and he is just worlds better, but he DOES stay stiff and sore a good portion of the time. I have always said that if we come to a point where he is having more bad days than good, I'll put him down before they're
all bad. Know what I mean?
I just hope I don't have to make that call sooner rather than later.