Advocating for My Sweet Girl Ava: Advice from Ava’s Mom
Parents want the absolute best for their little ones. And when you have a golden doodle pup like my Ava, who has some extra medical needs, you quickly become more than just a mom. You become their voice, their biggest cheerleader, and their tireless advocate.
Being an advocate is not just about stepping in when something goes wrong (though I have done that too). It is about making sure Ava always gets the best care, the right support, and the respect she deserves. It is not always easy. Sometimes, I have felt overwhelmed in vet offices, worried I would sound like “that dog mom” (you know the one), or unsure if I was asking the right questions. But every time I have spoken up for Ava, it has helped her—and honestly, it has helped me feel more confident, too.
Our pups change as they grow and how we advocate for them also changes. But you will probably be their voice for life. If you are on this journey like I am, here are a few things I have learned that might help you and your pup.
🐶 Be Part of the Pack (a.k.a. the Care Team)
One of the most important things I have done for Ava is build a team with her vets, specialists, dietitians, etc.—everyone involved in her care. I make sure everyone is on the same page and share updates with each person, so nothing slips through the cracks. It takes a little coordination, but Ava is worth it. ❤️
📁 Keep Paw-sitive Records
I keep a folder (okay, several) with everything. Then, if anything comes up, I can pull the information up quickly. It also helps me remember the tiny details that might get lost in the shuffle.
Here are ideas on what to keep in the folder:
- Test results
- Medicine changes
- Treatments
- Complications
- Notes from her vet visits
- Photos and videos to show progress (or concerns)
🐾 Be Prepared Like a Pro
Before every appointment, I sit down and think: “What do I want to get out of this visit for Ava?”. I write down questions, the purpose of this visit, bring up past concerns, and stay focused on what matters most. I ask myself what the goals are I want for Ava. When I am organized, it makes a world of difference—especially during quick vet check-ins.
I have also learned everything I can about her condition, treatments, and tests—always from trusted sources (usually recommended by our vet). When I walk into appointments prepared, I feel more in control, it saves time, and it shows I am serious about Ava’s care—and her team really respects that.
💬 Speak (and Listen!) With Love
Communication is a two-way street. I talk to Ava’s care team often—sometimes via email, sometimes on the phone, and sometimes through online portals (super handy for non-urgent stuff!).
If I do not understand something, I ask. No shame in it. I will say things like, “Just to make sure I am understanding right…” or “So you are saying this will help with Ava’s tummy issues?” The more clarity we have, the better care she gets.
Staying calm can be hard when it is your pup we are talking about. But I have found that when I take a breath and speak firmly but kindly, we get better results—and Ava picks up on that energy too. Our little ones mirror us, after all!
🧡 Find Your Support Pack
Some days are hard. There have been times I have cried in the car after a rough appointment or felt completely unsure if I was doing things right. That is when it really helps to talk to someone—whether it is another dog parent, a close friend, or an online support group.
There are so many other parents out there walking similar paths, and they get it. Do not be afraid to reach out—your vet may even know of a local or online community that can help.
Being a dog mom to Ava is not always easy—but it is the most rewarding, love-filled journey I could have imagined. She trusts me with everything, and I will always show up for her with my whole heart. 💕
With love and treats,
Ava’s Mom 🐾💖
