Reunited: Red With White On Front Leg Saluki Male

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2014-06-12 21:34 ClaireC

Thanks for the positive update. Well done to you both and the jacket! xx

2014-06-11 13:22 jools

Just thought I would post an update on Houdi. He is getting on really well. Physically 100% but it is still difficult with his confidence. That said, he is definately improving albeit very slowly. I am able to take him on short lead walks now though I have to avoid the very busy roads. He is barking less at people and he is even making progress around other dogs though he does run a mile if they come charging over or if there is more than one but I have noticed that this is improving too. As for his being spoilt ( I spoilt him terribly when he was so poorly and broke all of our rules) well that is like closing the barn door after the horse has bolted I'm afraid!. He knows I'm a soft touch now and exploits it mercilessly. xx

2014-05-31 20:36 ClaireC

Hope you had a good time away and Houdi can still fit in his jacket!

2014-05-25 14:06 jools

Hi Claire,

I've been away so Houdi is with my partner and has been on hunger strike apparently. I am seeing him later and can't wait (the dog not the fiance lol) x

2014-05-23 21:38 ClaireC

Hi Jools how are things going with Houdini now?

2014-05-08 21:23 ClaireC

Great news Jools. Keep at it xx

2014-05-04 12:47 jools

Good news with the Thundershirt. I feel it is really making a difference. He seems to love wearing it and I have noticed that he trembles less violently and for a shorter duration before settling down when he has it on. I think it is helping him to very slowly regain some of his lost confidence. He has interacted with one other dog tentatively and barks less at others so progress is definately there. I would recommend trying these if any of you have nervous or anxious dogs. They come with a 45 day money back guarantee if not satisfied so it's really worth a try. I got mine from amazon.

2014-04-24 12:18 jools

Hi Claire, Thanks for the call - so kind of you. I have googled the thundershirt and also spoken to someone who uses them with his whippets and he rates them very highly actually saying he wouldn't walk them now without the shirts on so I have ordered one for Houdi and am really hoping to see some improvement. I will keep you posted. Thanks again for the call x

2014-04-23 15:53 ClaireC

Hi Jools lovely to talk to you today. Do please have a look by googling Thundershirt. Have a look at Cesar Milans video on it to see how they work with a stressed pooch. I am led to believe that they are very effective in treating this type of fear xx

2014-04-22 20:39 jools

Each day is so different with Houdi. Took him to the country today and Houdi was very happy and confident. He did snap at one little dog (the fear aggression thing) but it wasn't too bad. However, I am definitley getting the
adaptil as soon as possible Claire as hearing your story makes me realise that in fact, Houdi is not doing to badly given it's still early days. I am excited about the adaptil as I feel it may well be the answer to his anxiety issues. I will let you know how it goes. Thanks again for the tip and bothering to post with your advice . Jools x

2014-04-22 19:27 ClaireC

Hi Jools, sorry to hear about Houdi but have you tried the Adaptil collar? I have a Border Collie who is at most times terrified of going out because of being spooked by fireworks when she was 18 months old and is now 8 years old! When she is particularly stressed at times and sometimes in new surroundings I put a bandana soaked in the Adaptil spray and leave it on her for days/months (I don't even wash it!) I simply keep spraying it with fresh Adaptil every day. Not an overnight cure and can take a few days/weeks for it to be of help. It gives off pheromones which is was a bitch (mother) gives off to her puppies and makes them calm. It really will help Houdi I'm sure. It is still very early days and we never really know what goes through any dog's mind especially when they've been traumatised and injured. He may never gain full confidence again but the Adaptil will help. The Adaptil coller (you should only need a small size) lasts approx a month albeit not cheap but the Adaptil spray on a bandana is cheaper and certainly worth trying in addition to. When my BC was frightened at the beginning she never went out of the house for 18months. Just once a day to do the necessary and that was it! It was all thanks to Lynne Davies (ex Dog Borstal TV) that she helped at training camp to get her back out into the world again. Still not the greatest at getting her out but we do go out now which can be more than said for before! I have just resigned myself that she will never be the same dog that she was - running and chasing after a ball in the park -and every little step she has taken and still takes is a bloody great mile that she has travelled!x

Last edited: 2014-04-22 19:57:02 by ClaireC

2014-04-22 15:00 Nicky

just logged on to see how Houdini is doing. Im so glad hes improving but it will take a long time after what he has been through. I hope he makes a full recovery and wish him all the best

2014-04-20 12:26 jools

Poor Houdi seems to have lost some of the confidence he has built up. Took him to the country on Friday and he never left my side whereas prior to then he would run off happily. Then yesterday I was in Liverpool Street with him and it was very quiet as it was Saturday and the city is like a ghost town then yet he was quaking with fear. I immediately removed us from the situation but am so dissappointed as he seemed to be progressing well. The vet did say it may take up to a year and even then he may never really get back to how he used to be but I had hoped and prayed that he would recover mentally sooner. I have to remind myself it is still only a few weeks since this all began and he has been terribly badly traumatised - I think he has post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)!
anyway, tomorrow I am trying him out walking with my partners dog who Houdi knows very well. I am hoping that that might give him confidence. Its the first time he will have really engaged with another dog since all this began. I am hopeful it will do him good and be just what the doctor (vet) ordered.

2014-04-17 18:19 Clare

He is such a handsome boy Well done Jools for all the hard work you are putting in with him. Its early days yet after everything hes been through. Im sure he'll keep improving all the time. So glad to see him looking so well. x

2014-04-17 12:09 jools

Glad you liked the new picture of Houdi. He is improving all the time though I do have to take him out to the country every day as he is still petrified in any sort of park (I have tried him in several others now and it always results in him trembling with fear) However, in the countryside hed is so much more relaxed and is even reasonably ok with other dogs. I wouldn't say he is a good as before but he has had interaction with a few rather than cowering which he had taken to doing so on that front he is loads better and I think he will get back to his old self. Shelagh, does your dog still bark at people? It is a real problem and Houdi actually runs over to people to bark even when they are minding their own business. He only does this in town though as in the countryside he is just far more relaxed in general. The vet says to ignore it but I have to call him back as his victims are scared. Sometimes he really goes for it although thank God he hasn't bitten anyone just make s a lot of noise. I think it also comes from the fact that he feels territorial about the patch where I walk him morning and night. I should keep him on the lead but I know he needs a little run and I go out very early (6am) and late to avoid others.
all in all though he is doing great considering catastrophe that was March.
as always thanks to all of you who have supported him through this time and supported me too as knowing that people really cared has helped me get through this with him. Its been a really trying time but he is really happy again in general and there where times when I wasn't sure where this would all end up so to be where we are today is just fabulous xxxJoolsxxx

2014-04-17 08:06 duffs54

Good to hear he is improving, stunning boy xxx

2014-04-17 00:48 Shelagh

What a lovely photo of Houdini. He is looking great. His mental scars will take a long time to heal and maybe they will never go completely, but he will always be your Houdini. You may have to adjust your times for taking him out, when less traffic about etc.. The barking at people is a fear thing to keep them away from him, it all stems from original attack and escalates into various others. I have one very like him (fear thing) not look alike,so I do know what you are going through

2014-04-16 23:25 digbysmum

Aah, lovely photo. He is gorgeous xxx

2014-04-16 23:00 DogLostMillypod (Chris) - Administrative Volunteer

He is looking so much happier :)) Lovely to see the updated photo. xx
Well done jools.x

2014-04-16 22:45 DogLostSherlock- Area Co-ordinator & Police Liaison - Avon & South Gloucestersh

Beautiful boy ...looking so much happier x

2014-04-16 22:36 AlisonH

More recent photo added (refresh page to view)

2014-04-14 12:56 Meru

So very pleased that Houdini is making good progress. Hope you're back to full health soon sweetie xxxx

2014-04-14 12:14 mayjul

I have been following Houdini and I am so pleased that he is doing so well, he is absolutely gorgeous x

Last edited: 2014-04-14 12:16:12 by mayjul

2014-04-12 19:18 DogLostMax - Area Co-ordinator - Cornwall & Area Volunteer - Durham & Ireland

Just been catching up on Houdini. I am so glad that he seems to be doing so well & his stitches are out, it has certainly been a bit of a trying time for you.
good luck for the future. xx

2014-04-12 10:36 Goldenfrodo

Great to hear this lovely boy is improving all the time. Looking forward to seeing photos and having updates on him xx

2014-04-12 09:04 jools

Hi all - thanks for your lovely supportive words for Houdi and also thanks especially for the suggestions SuzeeBee re Zylkene and Claire W.T. for Adaptil. I will definately try these for him. Jamiejewel you are so right about the mental scars and often these are actually far worse than the physical ones. I feel that maybee the traffic thing will never really leave him but his issues with other dogs and people do seem to be improving. But it is still really early days (it just feels as though it's been so very much longer) so maybe, given more time, Houdi will, once agian, laugh in the face of red double decker buses roaring along belching diesel fumes. xxx

2014-04-11 23:59 digbysmum

So pleased the lovely Houdini continues to do well. Looking forward to seeing the new photos! xxx

2014-04-11 22:36 SuzeeBee

So glad to read that dear Houdini is getting his "Mojo" back. It may be an idea to try Zylkene, my vet recommended it for my pup who is terrified of the car. It is a natural product that has a calming effect and can be bought without prescription and used long term if necessary. It has certainly helped my little chap conquer his fears.

2014-04-11 22:27 ClaireC

So pleased to read that he is progressing well. You could try an Adaptil collar on him and a bandana sprayed with Adaptil on it. This gives off pheremones which helps to calm and helps to alleviate fears. These can be bought from your vets. Good investment and they certainly help.

2014-04-11 22:22 DogLostMillypod (Chris) - Administrative Volunteer

Great to see Houdini is doing so well. I am sure he will feel better now all the stitches have been removed. Enjoy your country walk sending hugs.xx

2014-04-11 22:10 Unknown

Pleased Houdini is doing well. Of course it isn`t just the physical scars he has suffered, but the mental ones as well, which may take a little longer, but with lots of tlc, and patients I am sure he will be the "Old Houdini" very soon. After all he has suffered a big trauma; seems to be "Getting there" already condidering what he has been through. Sending healing vibes, and gentle ((((HUGS))))

2014-04-11 21:33 DogLostSherlock- Area Co-ordinator & Police Liaison - Avon & South Gloucestersh

He has been through so much poor babes ....healing wishes continue....and yes, time is the greatest of healers xx

2014-04-11 21:18 DogLostJayne - Founder Doglost.

Jools thank you for the update...all sounds good ...

2014-04-11 20:49 jools

Great news! Houdi went back to the vet today and finally had the last of his stitches removed. First time in 5 weeks he has been free of them. His wounds all look to be healing really well at last. He seems really happy and I am taking him out for a long run in the countryside over the weekend. He is still wary of other dogs but not quiet as scared. He seems more secure when he is off the lead (he was on the lead when he was so badly attacked). He is still barking at people but I think that it might be a habit now as opposed to feeling threatened. He seems to enjoy it naughty boy! Obviously it is something we are working on as it isn't acceptable behaviour - I have allowed him to get away with murder since he has been so poorly so now I need to undo the damage, something tells me it will be a struggle. He is still petrified of traffic though poor thing but hey ho - one step at a time. I intend to upload some happier pics of him taken over the past 2 days over the weekend so you can see for yourself his transformation. He looks like a proud Saluki (albeit a slightly madly shaved one) again. xx

2014-04-08 07:54 Shelagh

Fabulous news. So happy Houdini has made so much progress and returning to his former self.x

2014-04-07 11:39 jools

So I took Houdi out twice at the weekend to a country park. Both times where quite late ie 5pm and he had a lovely time. I took us late as there were likely to be fewer dogs and people. I must confess I did let him off the lead and he was SO HAPPY. He seemed like his old self at last and he did see some other dogs and was just a little nervous but not too bad and no aggression or barking and none at all to people. He was running and bouncing as Saluki's do - he looked more like a springbok at times. I realise he is bored as he has been confined to barracks for so long now with lead only and strict rest instructions from vet but I just felt that actually that wasn't helping him in the end. He is so much happier and I really feel we have turned the corner at last. We are back at the vets on Friday for stitches out and then its about getting him fitter and more relaxed but since the weekend I feel that it will all right itself as at times I had really doubted whether he would get back to his old self. I am so happy for him I just can't tell you. Thanks to everyone who has supported him and sent healing thoughts and prayers etc. I will post agian on Friday after we have been to the vets. On a funny note, I had a hospital appointment myself last week and I mentioned it to a friend but said instead 'I have an appointment at the vet on Thursday' It's just that we have been so often to the vet I said vet instead of Hospital. lol

2014-04-04 21:26 jools

Thanks for that Nicky. Some great advice and I will certainly make a point of taking him out to the country fairs etc. With summer coming up there should be plenty. Jim Greenwood sounds a good prospect if things don't improve. He is extremely fearful at the moment so I intend to take things slowly with him and let him physically recover before pressurising him into confronting his trauma induced phobias xx

2014-04-02 15:11 Nicky

Poor Houdini being so scared. My Saluki suffers from fear aggression of other dogs despite me having taken him everywhere since a pup including dog training classes. He is OK with traffic but spends all his time looking round for other dogs and cant bear them walking behind him. You could try taking Houdini to country fairs and fetes where there are people, traffic, noise and where other dogs are on leads to try and get him used to everything again. I think this helped my dog but I also show him at local shows and hes much more confident than he used to be. I also take him on pack walks run by a chap called Paul Daly of Canine Coaching. These are monthly events in our area and we had 98 dogs on the last one. If you wanted to contact a behaviourist to help him this may be worthwhile too. There is a chap called Jim Greenwood who specialises in lurcher types. His details are on lurcherlink website or he has his own site. We had him out to ours initially and hes brilliant on helping out with behaviour/fear issues. It was money well spent and hes really kind and knowledgeable.

2014-03-31 16:11 jools

Thanks for the tip Nicky its certainly something to consider. It was really sad as I had to turn back from the walk as Houdi was literally trembling with fear. It broke my heart. I will have to walk him in quieter streets for sure but I'm not sure he will ever settle with traffic again. Does anyone have any advice that maybe helped with their dogs post traffic accidents etc He was fine before but recent events have clearly really traumatised him and taken him to breaking point. One happier note is that when I took him to the country for a run he was very happy but it's hard where I live as there are so many people and dogs and so much traffic. I just don't know what to do for the best. Maybe it is just too soon after all this saga began on the 4th March so not even a month has passed free from stress and worry for him Jools x

2014-03-31 15:02 Nicky

How lovely to hear that Houdini is doing well. I hope that he continues to improve and is soon back to full health. I get those comments all the time especially from children who often say loudly "look at that dog. Hes so thin" As you say Saluki's are not supposed to be fat and carrying too much weight would be a health risk. Once Houdini is fit enough you could try hydrotherapy to build up his muscle. All the best wishes for a speedy recovery

2014-03-31 13:18 jools

So we're just back from the vet and all looks fine with the tummy wound that was restitched on Friday. Vet insistent I keep Houdi on lead until stitches removed but that means the poor boy hasn't had a run in an entire month. His muscles on his back leg are half the size they were but the vet says the condition will come back soon enough once he is able to run and exercise properly. He is a bit off his food but to be honest he has always been a really fussy eater. I am trying to resist the temptation to give him cheese which he loves but which isn't good for him at all but when a dog is so naturally thin it is a worry if they lose more weight. I get fed up with people assuming he is a rescue and looking at me accusingly as if I starve him but they don't undestand that actually for his breed and size his weight is pretty spot on it's just that Saliki's are so bony. They say you get to resemble your pet but alas I don't show any bones and am not in any danger of appearing underfed but I live in hope lol! I am taking Houdi out later for a long walk on the lead as I need to get him used to traffic and people so if you are around Liverpool street in centrral London and you see a skiny dog looking pitiful and covered in scars that'll be my lovely boy (and me) Thanks for all the good wished and healing thoughts etc we really appreciate them Jools x

2014-03-31 09:38 Meru

Wishing you well very soon Houdini xxxx

2014-03-30 23:33 Rachnchick

Oh my goodness, I've just caught up with Houdini's saga. Sounds like you've had a nightmare of a time! So glad to see things are looking up for you both and that he's on the mend now. He's such a beautiful boy!

2014-03-30 12:23 Clare

Ha ha maybe having to wear a pink t shirt will teach him not to lick his wound. Well done for everything you are doing for him. Sending much love and healing to him. x

2014-03-30 11:20 jools

Houdi is well this morning but his tummy wound is losing a tiny bit of blood. I think it is entirely my fault as I allowed him to go without a tee shirt last night as he hadn't tried to lick the wound at all yesterday. Needless to say I caught him doing just that first thing so straight back in with the tee shirt. He has about three changes per day as he sometimes gets some urine on them. I only have a pink tee shirt clean and dry for later so I'm afraid Houdi is going to look quite 'camp' this afternoon!

2014-03-30 09:36 Bo

How's the big man doing this morning Jools? X

2014-03-30 09:19 duffs54

oooh looks so big, no wonder he had probs bless him xxx

2014-03-29 19:38 DogLostMax - Area Co-ordinator - Cornwall & Area Volunteer - Durham & Ireland

Houdini is such a trooper. More white light on it's way. I really hope that when he is physiaclly better, his mental strength will improve too & he will be less anxious.

2014-03-29 17:41 DogLostSherlock- Area Co-ordinator & Police Liaison - Avon & South Gloucestersh

Hoping and sending oodles of get well wishes and positive vibes for full recovery...poor baby xx Hugs & Kisses xx

2014-03-29 15:52 DogLostJayne - Founder Doglost.

TX Jools for update...so everyone look at the wounds imagine them better..and keep sending positive vibes....Jools needs it!

2014-03-29 15:35 jools

I wanted to add the new picture of Houdi 'milking' the sympathy. He is certainly good at it but then again, I don't think I've ever met a dog who isn't! The wound on his side (image bottom left) is now really looking better after the second op. His stitches are out and it is holding closed this time. The skin is ridged but that is to be expected given the magnitutide of the missing piece of flesh. The image (bottom Right) is his tummy wound which had to be operated on again yesterday as it opened completely when the stitches were removed. I have just taken him out and he is being really very playful so now I am convinced he will be fully recovered soon. Then of course I will have to deal with the re-socialisation issues that need addressing. These recent events have really affected him and he has fear aggression (barking at people and dogs etc) & he's also very frightened by traffic which, considering he was running loose and panicked in some of the busiest central London streets for almost 5 hours and got hit by a vehicle, is not at all surprising. I am focussing all our efforts on his physical recovery for the time being. I am sure given time and working together we will overcome his behaviour and anxiety issues. Thanks again to EVERYONE who has Houdi in their thoughts - I am utterly convinced the positive vibes are helping him as it is just incredible how well he has been today xxx

2014-03-29 15:05 AlisonH

New photo of Houdini taken today. (refresh page to view)

2014-03-29 13:59 Zaksmum

OMG! Only just saw this about Houdini and just wanted to add my thoughts and prayers for his recovery.

Poor little guy has been through so much, he deserves some good luck now so hoping he will very soon be back to normal.

2014-03-29 13:02 DogLostJayne - Founder Doglost.

Great news! tx everyone for thinking of him...

2014-03-29 11:02 jools

Hello to everyone, Let me start by expressing my gratitude to everybody who has been kind enough to care and send supportive messages and energy to a dog they don't even know. Your extreme kindness has really touched me and helped give me strength and I am convinced the positive energy has helped Houdi as this morning at 6am when I got up to take him out he was happy and wagging his tail and even wanted to play. I just could not believe it! Obviously he is on lead only when we are outside as he mustn't run and compromise the stitches but I know that had I l allowed him he would have cantered off. His spirit just continues to amaze me. He has slept since though, but he must still be knocked out by the fourth anaesthetic to be fair. Vet said he needs lots of rest and for those of you who know these sight hound breeds you will understand that actually that isn't much of a problem as, unless they are out doing their thing, they are really very content to lounge all day (well my boy is at any rate). Janiejewel we really appreciate the prayers - my auntie has lit a candle too and been on the rosary beads constantly for him lol. Duffs54 how lovely to hear about how long your lovely boy lived to and your wishes for Houdi to have such a long life. Hi Debz - yes the ripping with our type of hound is a real issue, a tiny snag can just burst open and of course with so little flesh they are hard to close. Thanks for the manuka honey tip, someone else suggested that too though on this occasion I'm not sure I will try it as I don't want to encourage him to lick his tummy wound as he loves honey. I will certainly try it in future though. I am supposed to keep his Buster collar on - the vet was very strict- but it really traumatises Houdi and I think he has had enough trauma so I have him in a tee shirt completely covering his tummy and when we go out I uncover it somewhat so he is able to urinate. Anyway, I will keep you up to date on his progress and thank you to everyone who has read Houdi's story and left kind comments Much love to you all xxx

2014-03-29 10:54 Goldenfrodo

Sending you and your beautiful boy lots of love, positive and healing thoughts xx Stay strong xx

2014-03-29 08:58 Unknown

That was a very good age for Benson to live to. Sending Houdini absent healing, and prayers. I shall light a special candle for him at Church tomorrow, and have just lit one here for him too. GET WELL SOON Houdini. We are all rooting for you. ((((((HUGS))))))

2014-03-29 08:06 duffs54

poor Houdini only just caught up, he is a brave boy to go through all these traumas, healing thoughts on there way and lots of love,Our old boy Benson was a saluki cross and lived to a ripe old age of 18.5yrs lets hope Houdini will too xxxxx

2014-03-29 06:10 Abe babe

Sending Love and Light....x

2014-03-29 01:58 Debz

Just read all of Houdini's story - Poor boy. I have Lurchers that rip easily too. Have you thought of using Manuka Honey to help with the healing?

2014-03-29 00:26 BBKM

Having just read all the trauma poor Houdini has suffered, I would like to send lots of positive healing thoughts to your boy. He looks such a beautiful loving dog.
Wishing you a full and speedy recovery Houdini x

2014-03-28 23:35 DogLostSherlock- Area Co-ordinator & Police Liaison - Avon & South Gloucestersh

Sending so many positive vibes for this little man...stay strong xx

2014-03-28 23:33 Esther

Lots of people thinking of you jools, and sending you and Houdini all the very best

2014-03-28 23:07 Jane

Wow I've just read what you've both been through and wanted to send you our very best wishes & positive vibes, for Houdini a speedy & complete recovery & Jools the strength to continue facing these challenges. I will keep reading yr updates willing you both on to happier times

2014-03-28 21:56 Shelagh

I'm so sorry to hear about all the trauma Houdini has been through,poor baby. It must be horrendous for all of you. Sending positive energy to Houdini to make a full recovery, he looks adorable

2014-03-28 18:52 Timmy's Mummy

Its going to be a lovely sunny day tomorrow so maybe a bit of sunbathing for Houdini might help. Poor little sausage xxxx

2014-03-28 18:51 Bo

Great news he's home with you Jools and fantastic news that he's interested in food still. X

2014-03-28 18:27 DogLostMillypod (Chris) - Administrative Volunteer

Poor Houdini sending you both a hug and healing thoughts xx

2014-03-28 18:22 jools

Thank you all for your messages of support. Houdi is now back at home with me and resting on the bed feeling very sorry for himself naturally. He is eating well but also, crying as I think the anaesthetic and sedative is making him a bit disorientated. I will update tmrw hopefully with good news. What an ordeal my poor beautiful boy has been through xx

2014-03-28 17:33 DogLostMax - Area Co-ordinator - Cornwall & Area Volunteer - Durham & Ireland

healing white light on it's way. Hope Houdini recoves from his ordeal. Hugs to you too, it is obviously a very trying time.

2014-03-28 16:53 Kate

Sending many prayers for Houdini and lots of love to you both. xx

2014-03-28 16:10 Nicky

Just seen this post. How sad. I have a golden Saluki very similar to Houdini. He suffers from fear aggression but is a big wimp really. i hope Houdini continues to improve and make a full recovery. hes lovely and certainly deserves to pull through. Thinking of you all and wishing Houdini all the best wishes to get well again.

2014-03-28 14:24 Unknown

Sendinbg (((HUGS))) to you both. Please try, and stay strong, may be just a set back. Remember "Where there is life, there is hope" Sending Houdini healing vibes, and my prayers too. Keep us posted.

2014-03-28 13:53 ClaireC

The lovely Houdini will get there with vet expertise and lots of TLC. Keep strong xx

2014-03-28 13:51 LisaMell

Just to say sending hugs and love to you Jools and Houdini.Stay strong for each other xxxxx

2014-03-28 13:31 Shopaholic_nic

Stay strong, you are still making positive steps forward even if they are small ones, just focus on how far you have already come. Having your love and care will give Houdini the strength to keep battling until he is fully well. x

2014-03-28 12:48 jools

More sad news - Houdi went back to the vet today and his tummy wound has not healed at all for at least half the length of the wound. Approwimately 4 inches still open when they took the stitches out so he is now undergoing his fourth surgery to clean and reclose his wouond. It is not infected and he was well in himself. This sorry saga goes on. When he had the original surgery after the second dog attack and being hit by a car he was very poorly under anaethetic (I think it was the shock and trauma) so they had to close quickly as him temperature started to drop alarmingly. Vet feels that was why the wound wasn't stitched closed awfully well in the first place. I cannot believe the saga continues as I really thought today would be our last visit to the vet. My poor darling boy - so sad x

2014-03-24 22:54 jools

we went back to the vet last Friday and he thought' given the fine Saluki skin, Houdi's stitches neede another week so we return next Friday on what should be' God willing' our last visit there for a very long time. Houdi is really doing well now. He has recovered that Saluki bounce to his gait which all of you Saluki lovers will know exactly what I mean by that. He was very traumatised, understandably and was nervous arounf people and other dogs which resulted in him uncharacteristically barking at people. This now seems to have lessened so I am hopeful he will not take too long to get over his increased anxiety. I did try to take him to the park in which all this sorry saga began. It proved to be a bad move as he was stressed and scared so we left immediately. I am introducing him to things gradually but feel it is too soon to allow him to be ner other dogs as I worry they can smell he is weakened at the moment with so many stitches etc and couldn't bear for anything more to happen to him. He is so very brave and stout hearted and I love him so very much. x

2014-03-18 16:25 lunasmum

Yay, so pleased 😀 xx

2014-03-16 17:53 jools

Good news Houdi is lots brighter today. Back to the vets tomorrow but it looks as if he has turned thge corner. Lets hope this is the end of his run of bad luck x

2014-03-14 17:00 DogLostMillypod (Chris) - Administrative Volunteer

Poor Houdi sending him a big hug. Lots of rest lovely boy.xx

2014-03-14 14:14 jools

Houdi is still under the weather and lacking energy but that is to e expected. I am giving him constant love and cuddles etc. He is back at the vet on Monday so I will post an undate then. Thanks Jools xxx

2014-03-13 12:22 AlisonH

Thank you for the update. So glad Houdi is on the road to recovery.

2014-03-13 11:40 jools

PS - I am exhausted with the emotional rollercoaster. I need to be kept on a lead and only allowed up for toilet breaks...lol x

2014-03-13 11:37 jools

Hello friends. More news of Houdi the Lionheart. He was so very much better yesterday and we went to the vet to have the stitches removed from the first dog attack last Tuesday. The dog had removed a large approx 6x4 inch patch from Houdis right ribcage. It was completely out of the blue as there was no fighting, growling or aggression at all, in fact they were playing. He had the stitches reomoved at 9.30 and was lovely and so much more himself all day then at 4.30 disaster. The wound just split right opeen again. We rushed back to the vet once more and my poor poor darling had to have yet ANOTHER operation to close him up. He has had 3 anaesthetics in a week and as you know these dogs are sensitive and shock easily so I was beside myself. This time the vets used a three stage sstitching proceedure with 2 layers of intenal stitches as well as the external ones. It is difficult as the ribcage has so very little flesh and it is an area that stretches and takes the stress of the dogs twisting movement. I brought him home again late last night and he was very groggy and we had a rough night with him crying (I had given him Loxicom painkiller ) The vet said the crying is in response to the sedative etc as it makes him spaced out. He is sleepy today but very much himself as in wanting fuss and he even tried to chase a cat (thankfully he was on the lead). Vet says I have to give him strict rest as he has been through such a lot in a short space of time. So only toilet time outside and always on a lead as he mustn't stress his wounds by running. I think the reason this wound re-opened was because I had to let him run during the second attack when he went missing etc which led to my original appeal on this site. He is young and fit and health as well as being very strong and this has undoubtedly helped him through this awful time. I am hopeful that this is the last in this ridiculous run of bad luck and Houdi will go from strength to strength from here on in. Thanks for all your kinds words and thoughts and I will keep this post updated tomorrow. Jools xx

2014-03-13 09:43 lunasmum

Any news on sweet Houdini?

2014-03-10 19:34 Patspaddy

Sending positive vibes and gentle hugs for the brave Houdi xx

2014-03-10 18:52 DogLostMillypod (Chris) - Administrative Volunteer

Everything crossed here too. Sending gorgeous Houdini positive thoughts and gentle hugs.xx

2014-03-10 18:42 lunasmum

Oh dear, I'm sorry you have this additional worry Jools. I feel in my bones though that Houdini is going to be fine. He wasn't called Houdini for nothing, Everything crossed for him & sending him very gentle hugs xx

2014-03-10 13:56 jools

A worrying development. Houdi is losing blood from his penis. It has been like that since he came home on Sunday. Back at vets today. They do not know why. His belly is incredibly bruised from the collision with the car and his stomach wound is being very slow to heal. On a more positive note his B/P was fine as was his temoerature and pulse rate. He is eating and drinking well and able to go to the toilet with no problems. The vet said his tummy felt fine and wasn't full of blood or fluid. I have to take him back on Wednesday to be checked again but obviously if his conditions worsens then I will take him immediately. The worry goes on but he continues to be such a wonderfully brave and loyal boy. If anyone is still following our posts then it would be great if you could send some positive thought and prayers. Thankyou. Jools x

2014-03-09 18:42 DogLostMillypod (Chris) - Administrative Volunteer

Great to see Houdini is now home. Lots of rest now gorgeous boy.xx

2014-03-09 18:10 lunasmum

Wonderful news. I think he'll now go from strength to strength. It will probably take time for him to gain confidence once he starts walking outdoors though. Xx

2014-03-09 16:49 jools

Yes I agree and it broke my heart to leave him in the vets overnight but He needed the stronger pain relief they can only give as an inpatient and also, the fluid drip which helps the shock apparently. He is eating and drinking now and despite the glorious day we have stayed home and quiet cuddling up and generally keeping things calm. The bruises just keep on getting bigger and redder but I guess thats to be expected since he was hit by a car. Back at vet tmrw so I will keep updating untill he is fully recovered. Again, thankyou your prayers worked and we have been so incredibly touched by the outpouring of love and concern from so very many strangers it is overwhelming

2014-03-09 12:55 lunasmum

Im so relieved Houdini has made It. I hardly dared log on. Thank you so much for updating us I think the best medicine is being home with those he loves <3

2014-03-09 11:56 jools

Houdi home with me now. Poor thing looks like Frankendog as he is so covered in scars and stitches. He is very bruised and very subdued (naturally). He is resting on his blankets. He doesn't want food but is drinking. The vet said he did eat something there so thats a good sign. They were worried as those first 24 hours post op were critical. He has been so, so increidibly brave. I guess it will be a long slow road to recovery but I will keep you all posted and when he is a bit brighter I will upload some new pictures. Thank you all once again for your kindness and support ...Jools x

2014-03-08 21:20 lunasmum

How sad. Poor Houdini. Thinking of him & willing him to make a full recovery. Xx

2014-03-08 20:40 jools

Thank you all so much. I am overwhelmed by your kindness and good wishes.

2014-03-08 20:32 DogLostMillypod (Chris) - Administrative Volunteer

Thoughts are with you beautiful Houdini, stay strong and speedy recovery. xx

2014-03-08 20:16 Patspaddy

Jools, how heartbreaking for you and I send healing thoughts for Houdi and prayers for his recovery and you are also in my prayers.

2014-03-08 19:52 jools

Thank you all so very much for your kindness. Houdi was attacked and had a chunk bitten out of his side on Tuesday and had to be operated on. I took him for his 1st walk on Friday and he was attacked by a pair of whippets. I had to let his lead goto give him a chance as the attack was so sudden and severe. He ran off and despite hours with so many people searching nothing. Then He was found in Liverpool Street (I live in central London) He had travelled several miles with bleeding feet, fresh wounds from the attack plus his original wound opening up in some of the busiest central London roads. He was hit by a car too. He was too traumatised to be operated on last night so was operated on this morning. He had internal injuries and a possible ruptured bladder. He has been split along his entire belly and as you all know there is so little flesh on these beautiful dogs that he is very very poorly. He is in hospital still and may come home tomorrow if we are lucky. He is obviously extremely traumatised and that is the worry now. He is such an incredibly happy and gently boy and I hope that if he does recover his temprement is intact. He is from wonderful Arab bloodlines and is KC registered but all that is irrelevent really as he is just my beautiful baby. I will update this post tomorrow so you can keep up to date with his progress. Thank you all and please keep Houdi in your prayers

2014-03-08 14:47 AlisonH

Comment awaiting moderation

2014-03-07 21:50 DogLostMe N My Girl - Administrative Volunteer

Glad he's been found, hate seeing a frightened dog.

2014-03-07 21:46 DogLostMillypod (Chris) - Administrative Volunteer

Good to see Houdini has been found. Sending gentle hugs.xx

2014-03-07 21:30 AlisonH

Houdini has now been found. He is very traumatised and has been sedated. He is due for an operation tomorrow.

2014-03-07 18:10 dekkaann

If possible have someone stay where he was last seen, all night if need be. Also if walked to the park someone remain at home with gate and door open. Once the fear has gone he may return to either place, someone needs to be ready.
Good luck.

2014-03-07 14:29 AlisonH

Photo on the way.