Just Don't Call Me Goofy. Or Pointy Headed.
This rather odd looking fellow is, yes, our boy with a fused jaw, Travis. I took this photo a couple of weeks ago after he "escaped" again from the dog yard and went zooming around the ranch at 90 miles an hour. I forgot I hadn't posted it on the blog and re-discovered it tonight.
His jaw is fused from a rare muscle disease called masticatory myositis. (Go ahead, say it fast three times.) As a result, Travis can't even open his mouth to pant. So after he's had a really good work-out, this is what he looks like. In this photo he is actually breathing rapidly through his cheeks because there's a gap between his upper and lower jaw in one place (this is also where he can get his tongue out to slurp his food). I just didn't capture the "poof" part when he was breathing out.
When this happens he ends up with this clown-like look, along with the funky pulled-back-ears thing. His head is pointy because the jaw disease also affects the muscles on the top and sides of the head that are used to close the jaw. (Interesting tidbit: There are different muscles to open the jaw.) What people usually first notice about Travis is his pointy head, but then we have to explain that's really not his main issue, it's the jaw.
Because panting is the primary way dogs cool off when they get hot, we really have to be careful with Travis in the summertime. Of course he doesn't realize he can't cool off by panting, so he's at risk for overheating because he never slows down. On hot summer days we keep him indoors a lot, even though he'd much rather be racing around outside.
So not being able to pant is mostly a summer problem. Being pointy headed ... well, that's a year-round problem.
(Click on photo for larger image.)
Travis is such a sweetheart,he does look like he's smiling!I just picked up the copy of People this morning with the Ranch featured.I again cried when I saw little Spirits' picture there on the page.It's good she knew she was loved by so many after such a hard life.I hope the article in People brings more people to understanding that a animal with disabilities can live a full life the same as a healthy one.Give slurpy Travis a hug fofr me,such a sweet boy! God Bless!
Posted by: Elaine Miller | February 27, 2007 at 05:25 PM
Gee, somehow I missed this post in my mailbox! I am glad to have found it now, because it makes me smile, after crying all morning about dear Spirit. Travis, you are a beautiful boy, so very special. '
Hugs,
Sherry
Ontario, Canada
Posted by: Sherry Burnett | February 26, 2007 at 08:44 AM
Travis, you are sooo cute!...and please don't run off on any solo adventures!!
Posted by: Nina | February 23, 2007 at 11:59 AM
I smile every time I see a picture of Travis!!!
Posted by: Shannon | February 22, 2007 at 05:03 PM
I love you, Travis, whether you have a pointy head or not! I hope you stop running off.
Posted by: Roz | February 22, 2007 at 02:55 PM
I think Travis always looks so cute in photos! He looks like a smiley, happy boy who doesn't have a care in the world. A little thing like a fused jaw doesn't seem to ruin his fun!
Posted by: Sarah Doering | February 22, 2007 at 02:42 PM
"Bless his pointed little head," something my grandmother used to say. Now I just wish I could remember who she was talking about or maybe it was a story about someone less fortunate. That's what the story about Travis reminded me of, so I thought I'd pass it along.
Hugs,
ginger & Tobias
Posted by: ginger & Tobias (the greythound) | February 22, 2007 at 12:24 PM
No one could look at him and those blue eyes and call him anything but a beautiful sweetheart!
Nancy
Posted by: Nancy | February 22, 2007 at 10:33 AM
I think he's really smiling here too, cause he got away with it again! What a cutie! :)
Posted by: Katy | February 22, 2007 at 07:39 AM
I LOVE Travis! He has it ALL; the sultry eyes, beautiful smile and is always highly fashionable in one of his many coats. He's a real treasure and seeing him will bring many smiles to my day.
Posted by: Leilani | February 22, 2007 at 07:30 AM
Looks like he has the biggest smile on his face...like YES I finally got to run around!!! This is the life!!!
Posted by: Laura Whale | February 21, 2007 at 10:53 PM
What a beautiful boy, locked jaw and all he along with the rest of your pack of dogs, cats & horses are very special, fortunate and grateful.
I am involved in animal rescue, volunteer wise and such and wolf conservation for the past 11 years.
I had a very long day today with my own hurdles, been following your blog and website since your segment on the national morning show, thanks for making me smile on such a personal dreary day, your efforts, compassion and huge hearts affect many more than you could imagine possible. Kudos and best wishes from Minnesota.
Posted by: sasha | February 21, 2007 at 10:10 PM