Geo

I was hoping Barefoot would come on last night, because she really does have excellent advise, better than I could do, but she didn't so I am going to respond and I hope I can do it in the most caring and gentle way.

I have had animals all my life. I would bring them home to nurse them to health and keep them if they were domestic or set them free if they were wild. I even rescued a baby deer once.

A 16 year old doxie is getting up there. You have obviously taken very very good care of that baby. I assume you have made an actual visit to the vet, for there are things that can be done about the dementia and even blindness as other posters have stated, but it could be expensive, and you have to of course consider the age.

As dogs age, and even mine is starting to show it, they start becoming more bonded to their humans. Especially, when they start having health problems. Your baby can't speak, so they are acting out to get your attention, saying, "hey something is wrong here!" They become filled with anxiety and you are their security blanket. They are scared.

Let's address the crate. It would be cruel to continue to crate your baby. I personally would not use baby diapers, but that is just my opinion...That is one of our worst fears as a human is it not? He is as disgusted as you would be sitting in his own mess and he doesn't have the option to clean himself up. If you are going to be gone, what I would suggest is a large refrigerator box, that has a nice length to it. Cut in some windows and cut off the top so they do not feel confined. Place a nice soft bed at one end, and line the entire bottom with puppy pads, which can be bought by the hundred at PetSmart. That way, if they have to go, they can leave the bed and do it on the other end of the box and makes cleanup easy for you and keeps them clean at the same time. Gives them some dignity.

Your baby is a Senior, they deserve tender loving care and unconditional love, especially at this juncture in their life. Start spoiling him some more, give him a few more treats and goodies, hug him like you never hugged him in your life, and have a very frank and honest discussion with your vet, and if you have already had one, reengage and go from there.

Extra Big Hug from me to you and your baby.

Katie