Introducing Fraser - our sweet Fraser has crossed The Bridge

[Boriss McCall]

ha.. I have a "flower" as well. My bulldog Pearl. She is so clumsy.
I hope the foot is okay. Last time this happened to Pearl it ended up being a sticker. So, I guess she had a right to be limping around.
Pearl likes to sleep in the crook of my back as well. I usually have to move her at some point cause 60+ pounds on my back all night hurts. :rolleyes:
I love Fraser he is a funny guy!

[Simba's Mom]

Oh are pups are something, my Sim had a limp so off to the vet we went only to find out it was a sympathy limp, seriously, makes me laugh....thank you for sharing the cute stories!!

[molly muffin]

So how is Frasier's foot today? Was it a sympathy limp as Simba's was?

Molly get the pine needles in her feet sometimes too but you know molly the diva princess, stops dead still and hold her foot up for you to pick her up and take care of it. No stickers for her. She got one once when she was young and it became infected because a piece broke off inside. That was it for her, from them on it was foot in the air and fix it mom.

I completely agree, Frasier has so much personality and it's so quirky and funny. He is just adorable hugabug!

give that man a scritch from me and molly. What a sweetie

hugs,
Sharlene and Molly Muffin

[Budsters Mom]

Fraser is one cool dude!:cool: It is all about training and he definitely has you trained! Ha! He is in a class all by himself! He definitely is a character. I hope his foot is okay. Keep the stories coming Naomi!
They are always entertaining.
Love and Hugs,
Kathy and Buddy:cool:

[SoggyDoggy]

Well I had an impromptu moment and called the IMS this morning, made an appointment to see her this afternoon. I've been a bit concerned at how Razy has been chewing his paws so much, has been a bit withdrawn from cuddles but clingy at the park. I asked my sister what she thought of how he seemed, her answer was "miserable". He's also been very picky with food, a bit nauseas and tires very easy. So i rang the IMS and took him in for a check up and discussion.

The good news is, he hasn't lost any more weight, which is a huge relief for me seeing how fast he lost it last time. She also couldn't feel any significant changes in him, which was also reassuring as I thought his gut had grown a bit, but it seems that I am now just aware of what was under the fur. His fur is slow growing back after the shave for the ultrasound, which is also a bit unusual for him, his fur usually grows pretty fast, but it has thinned out quite a bit.

Anyway, apart from the check up, I also wanted to discuss his meds. With his disposition lately, the scan results (1 shrivelled adrenal) and the low dosage of trilo, I was wondering whether he even really needs it. We've agreed to stop giving the trilo and go without, see if there is even a return of symptoms or if he doesn't even need it. I have a feeling he doesn't, I suspect his numbers had dropped again even being on 5mg, so I guess we'll see. From what I've learnt here and how other issues can affect cortisol, I guess I'm wondering whether the cushing's may have been a misdiagnosis. I never repeated tests with the IMS, just picked up with reduced dose and monitoring. This will be interesting indeed. I'm going to continue the denasyl and start back with the silymarin again tomorrow too, but that's all he'll be on now. I do hope he picks up a bit, for all that he smiles still, he isn't himself. And the biggest thing with that is, I don't know if it is indeed the trilo and cortisol levels, or his liver. Another reason to take the trilo out of the picture, see what we are actually dealing with.

So that's been my excitement for the day, photo-shoot is booked for tomorrow morning, so really looking forward to that. Buying the photos is gonna cost a bomb, but hey. No more ACTH tests so guess it will balance out int he long run :p

Must be off now, have to bath the boys and get them looking all pretty for our early start tomorrow. (I'd rather do it tonight and have a bit of a sleep in - it's been a hard first week back after holidays :D)

[molly muffin]

I can't wait to see the photos. I hope they are on the best, wacky behavior so the personality really shines through. I think this is a very cool idea Naomi.

Well, with one shriveled, I doubt that he is currently cushings. Still might want to keep an eye on the baseline just to make sure that he isn't too low and that the other adrenal is working fine. Just a thought, you can see how he does without the Trilostane, but they can feel pretty yucky with low cortisol too. So, might not be the liver making him feel off.

Hugs,
Sharlene and Molly Muffin

[Trish]

Ohhhh hope they enjoying the primping and the photo shoot, how cool... fingers crossed the weather is good today.

Boooo just checked your weather and it said light rain/showers. GO AWAY RAIN!! Ohhh maybe the photo shoot is inside?? Can't wait to see the pics as well! Hope the boys behave for their big day!

Good luck on the cush meds Naomi, I am hoping he feels better without them too.

So with you on the sleep in, I have had a sucky work week too. Was in bed till 10am and it was bliss!! Goooo weeeeekends!!

xxxx

[SoggyDoggy]

Yep, photo shoot is inside, so weather is irrelevant for a change. And sleep in means up at 7.30 not 6.30. I am so not a morning person! Tomorrow, if I have to surface before 10 at least, is going to mean grumpy me for the next week. I really got into holiday mode this time, go to bed at 1 or 2am, wake up 9.30-10.00am, lie in bed for another few hours (after dog pills anyway). :(:( Cant do that until middle of July again now.

Oh well, photos await. Good news though, boys look lovely clean and I got snuggles last night from Razy, he's already feeling a bit perkier (either that or he was cold) :D Will report in later :D:D

[SoggyDoggy]

Well, we're back! That was so much fun! I can highly recommend a photo shoot experience if you have a great animal photographer around. Houndstooth studios are just brilliant! There will be a Facebook link for proofs to view in a week, so will post that when we get it, otherwise full viewing in 4 weeks. Looking forward to that, yet far enough time away to give me a chance to save up :p

I really thought the boys would just sit there and look bored, but they were both so excited and into it, was so funny to watch. Fraser even played ball a bit too which he hasn't done for over a month now. Obviously he is starting to feel a little better, no trilo for 48 hours now. Though they are both exhausted and ready for a sleep after that. An hour of "performing" certainly wore them both out, but there were lots of treats to have so they were pretty happy with that.

Soooooooo looking forward to seeing them! :D:D:D

[molly muffin]

Ohhh, how exciting! I'd love to have seen that photo shoot. Like a fly on the wall, just looking on.

Gads, I completely understand. I am not a morning person either, really not a fan of them. Now laying around with molly in the mornings is a treat to be treasured. My sister is the same way, only she has like 2 or 3 alarm clocks away from the bed so she Has to get up, otherwise, she'd turn them off and go right back to sleep. Luckily the middle school she is at, is right down the street from the house, so just a quick drive over. Must be something that runs in the family. Is your sister a sleepy head in the mornings too?

I'm so glad to hear that Frasier is a bit chipper. Sure does sound like he enjoys his cortisol being a bit higher.

hugs,
Sharlene and Molly Muffin

[SoggyDoggy]

Hey Sharlene, I don't know what is going on with his cortisol to be honest. I do know that when his results came back perfect that one time (at 1.8) he was excellent, but they just seem to always continue to drop even further. Even on 5mg I think they were dropping too low still (as in down to crash point) and with that being such a low dose, I don't think he needs the trilo. I guess we'll see in the next few weeks.

Oh well, we've had a great morning already, off to Dim Sum lunch in an hour, doing mothers day a day early then I'll cook her dinner tomorrow night too, so she will be spoilt this weekend. Not that she isn't normally mind you!

So on that note, need to get myself off this computer and get organised. Happy Mother's day to you all (for sunday), whether your kids are two or four legged, we are all mums. Hope you have a great weekend and will check back later on. :D:D:D

[Skye]

stopping by to say hello!!!! havent been able to get on forums for couple days and trying to catch up on how everyone is doing! Hope being off trilo is working out okay. Looking forward to seeing the photos. that sounds like such fun.
hope you have a happy and blessed mothers day!!!!

[Trish]

That's weird, we are taking Mum out for Yum Cha/dumplings tomorrow for Mother's Day too, she picked it! My sister has just decided she is vegan, so god knows what she is going to eat, maybe they have tofu dumplings :eek:

The photo shoot sounds like it was a big hit with the boys, I bet the treats included topped off all the fun! They sound all tuckered out after their morning of stardom, so can't wait to see the pics!

Be great if Fraser perks up a bit off the Trilo, thats a definite bonus. Are you going to get it tested again, or just keep him off? I guess if he is a happy little fellow then no need to test!!

[SoggyDoggy]

Well so far it's three days off trilo and Mr Spunky Bum is back! :D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D He's got a big smile on his face, played ball at the park (and a little bit during his photo shoot yesterday) pick a new girlfriend to follow (yet another black poodle. Working dogs and poodles seem to be the go) and trotted himself off to his favourite trees to check the messages. On top of that, he is starting to be a little more interested in food - though still picky - and his poop is forming up again. So with all of that going on, it seems like even the 5mg was too much for him! Soooooooooo glad I stopped it now!

At this point, as long as any symptoms don't go overly haywire, I am reluctant to even think about starting it up again, but then who knows what the next few weeks will bring? Wow, what a ride the last 8 months have been. :cool: I'm still questioning whether it really was/is cushings in the first place, or if it was raised cortisol levels due to the liver tumour. If only I'd had that ultra sound done last year hey?

Hindsight....... But you know what? Mr Spunky Bum is back for now!!!!! :D:D:D

And on top of all that, Oz is the best I have seen him in years. He is so completely happy with himself at the moment I would think he has gone senile or something! I just looked at him a little while ago and he grinned at me and started thumping his tail madly, funny boy. While running at the park in his socks the other day, my sister gave him a new nickname - Bootylicious! And he is! So all up, it's been a great weekend for us here. Here's hoping it stays that way for a while to come!

[Budsters Mom]

YAY FOR SPUNKY BUM AND BOOTYLICIOUS!! Bask in the moment Naiomi!:) What an awesome report!! I thought you said that Fraser was gay!!! :D LOL LOL

Love and hugs,
Kathy and Buddy:cool:

[molly muffin]

LOL Love that, Spunky bum and bootylicious. How freakin adorable is that! I hope they both keep it up for a long long time. :)

Yay for great weekends.
hugs,
Sharlene and Molly Muffin

[Harley PoMMom]

Naomi, so glad to hear the boys are feeling much better. Just love their alias, Spunky bum and Bootylicious!!! so cute!!!

[Trish]

Awesome news! I have a big smile on my face reading this Naomi :D:D:D:D:D so pleased you had a good weekend, long may they continue!! Those boys of your have a new lease on life! xx

[SoggyDoggy]

Just found two pics on facebook already! There will be more coming at the end of the week, but here's a couple to preview. Check out the rest of the site, Alex is an AMAZING photographer! Ranked No1 Canine photographer in the country!

https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=10151608984621208&set=a.305248546207.191089.177830156207&type=1&theater
https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=10151608986196208&set=a.305248546207.191089.177830156207&type=1&theater

My beautiful boys!

[Squirt's Mom]

I love those! Your boys are so very handsome!

[Boriss McCall]

Those pictures are awesome! I really want to do something like this. love it!!

[Harley PoMMom]

Those pics are awesome!! What beautiful boys Oscar and Fraser are!!

[doxiesrock912]

Gorgeous pictures!!!!!!!

[molly muffin]

Oh My! Those are just beautiful. You can sure see the personality coming through. Wow! I don't think I can say that enough.

hugs,
Sharlene and Molly Muffin

[Budsters Mom]

You didn't tell us that you were raising celebrities!:D WOW!! The photos are extraordinary! Their individual personality shine through!
Thank for sharing.:)

Hugs,
Kathy and Buddy:cool:

[Trish]

OMG sooooooooooo cute!! What stars they are, esp Oscar in his socks... he has 454 likes and Fraser is not far behind, those socks are a big hit judging by the comments!!! They are awesome Naomi, you must be so pleased to see these first ones! :D:D

[Trish]

Hi Naomi
I bet like me you are glad your working week is over! Any more pics available yet? I think your guys are both so cute, they should be on a calendar and get one on your coffee mug too while your at it!! I hope there are some of them together :) Hope your week has gone smoothly and you are ready for a weekend of fun with the boys! xx

[addy]

Wow, the photographer is amazing, what a fabulous job he has done capturing your pups.

Your pups are just beautiful, Naomi. You must be loving every minute of the photography adventure.

hugs

[Mel-Tia]

Hey Naomi

Just checking in to see how you all are?

Photos are super super cute, loved both Oz in his boots and Fraser with his paw. They looked so animated in them.

Big hug, kisses to the fur kids

Mel
Xxxxx

[Budsters Mom]

Hey Naomi,
I know you're back at work,but we are having withdraws around here! ;):D Where are the Frazier and Oscar stories? We want to hear more about Spunky Bum and Bootylicious. Seriously, I hope all is well with you and the boys.

Hugs,
Kathy and Buddy:cool:

[SoggyDoggy]

Hey everyone,

haven't checked in for a few days, work is crazy stupid busy and just getting worse at the moment. Having to take time off to go to physio today so long weekend for me (yay!) Boys are both doing well. Oz is the best I have seen him for ages, full of mischief and bouncing around with a smile. So good to see. Fraser is doing well off the trilo as well. I think he has lost a bit more weight though, but he has good energy, no nausea and is eating and drinking well. He does seem a bit hungrier, but I don't know if that's just coz it has gotten chilly here recently (and he always eats more when it's cold) or if his cortisol is rising a bit. Water consumption hasn't increased noticeably. Tiny bit more perhaps but nothing to worry about, so I think the decision to stop the trilo was a good one.

Both are going for haircuts today too, so his groomer will be able to give me her impression. She has seen him religiously every 8 weeks since he was a pup, so she knows him really well too. I think she will be a bit shocked to see how skinny he has gotten, but at least he is still smiling, and he tried to chase another girlfriend at the park a couple of days ago. It's very weird being able to feel his backbone when you pat him. he was always called Soggy Doggy for a reason :p

Anyway, the rest of the preview photos came in on monday so check out the link. I'm not especially keen on the group ones, I am hoping there will be better to see at the full viewing, but there are some doozy cute individuals!

Hope everyone is well and that nothing is going wrong. Haven't checked other threads yet, will get to that tomorrow.

https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10151615157181208.1073741902.177830156207&type=3&uploaded=6

[doxiesrock912]

I like the one with both dogs laying down :-)
You're right about the individual photos though, more personality shows through.
I'm glad that both are doing well.

[milosmom]

hi naomi so happy to see the pics how adorable and happy to read your babies are feeling well....nice to see you check in,enjoy your holiday !!! patty(milo)meka xoxox

[Trish]

Totally gorgeous Naomi, I like the ones of them together :D:D have a good weekend!

[molly muffin]

They are soooo adorable. I love the pics, together, apart. LOL It's all great to me. :)

Glad Frasier is still feeling good. :)

hugs,
Sharlene and Molly Muffin

[Budsters Mom]

Very handsome gentlemen indeed!! Your photos are. WOW!!!!:). Thanks for sharing. I am glad to hear that your boys are spunky, active, and feeling okay. I have missed hearing about their antics.

Hugs,
Kathy and Buddy:cool:

[Simba's Mom]

Love the photos, how fun for you and those cute furbabies!

[Budsters Mom]

So what's happening with Spunky Bum and Bootylicious?:D

Hugs,
Kathy

[Trish]

HI Naomi!! Hope work has been ok this week and not too frantic! How are the boy's this week? Have you got any pics back to hang on the wall yet? Hope Fraser is still feeling spunky! Miss you on here :) xxxxxx

[SoggyDoggy]

Hi all,

Well the photos online have had to tie me over for a while, but we have our full viewing on tuesday night so looking forward to that, and then some! Really hoping there is at least one really great shot of the two of them together. As I said, I wasn't particularly keen on the ones posted online, and certainly not keen enough to fork out $4-500 on one. (Yeah, they are super expensive to buy, but then that's what you get when you go to the best :p)

Anyway, both boys continue to do really well. Fraser has been particularly good this week, he's gotten frisky with the girls again both today at the park, and on friday night when my sister looked after him. Her Aussie Shepherd is the one who first drew his attention, so maybe the visit back is what started him up again. Very bizarre, but I take it as a sign that he is feeling well so I'm glad to see it. He's also been rolling on the grass at the park again today and he only does that when he is feeling happy and safe, so more good signs.

As for being off the trilo, there has been no recurrence of symptoms I've decided. His eating and drinking are what I would refer to as normal, (in other words he only rushes to eat his dinner if he really likes it, such as fresh barramundi which he scoffed, or he will eat half of it and leave the other half to go back and finish as a snack before bedtime.) Drinking is normal too, and urine is concentrated, he still has a pot belly, but then I now know tha's not because of cushings anyway. Only in the last few days has there been any sign of nausea (which he used to get relatively often on the trilo) which makes me hope to god that he hasn't turned and gone Addisonian! With his liver tumor that huge, I don't want to start having to give him pred now instead!:o

I'm actually wondering if it could have been that that first initial overdose did more lasting damage that expected. Seeing as he is now back to normal and couldn't tolerate the 5mg dose, could that initial 60mg dose have caused the adrenal necrosis? His ultra sound commented that one adrenal had a mass but was normal in size and yet the other was shrivelled. (I'm also wondering if he then even had cushings in the first place, but the ultra sound did show that adrenal mass so who knows). It's been playing on my mind a bit, I can't see any other reason for this marked turn around, considering his tumour is still present and growing. I might ask his IMS next time I see her, though now that he is off trilo, I'm not expecting that to be for sometime (unless he gets symptoms of cortisol dropping low again anyway). I actually saw her out walking the other day. Was walking the boys around a local lake and a lady walked past that looked really familiar, I thought "Nah, too weird, couldn't be" but then when she did a double take on seeing fraser I knew it was her. How bizarre. Said Hi but didn't discuss him at the park, not fair to her, work hours were over so I'll send an email with an update just to let her know how he is doing. Will need to get some more Denosyl in a couple of weeks anyway so will touch base on the phone then probably too.

So that's Fraser. Oz continues to do well, other than chewing all the fur out of his toes with the itches that is. I lost his socks the other day and now can't find any decent ones to replace them with. Wanted to get some muttsoks by muttluks, but nowhere over here sells them (not even online) and the pet shops in the US don't tend to ship internationally. So annoying at times, they're just socks for goodness sake! You can get the mutluks boots easy enough, but not the socks! Meh, the search continues, though if anyone know a shop that keeps them and will ship to Aus, please let me know!

Oh well, signing off now, dinner time (after reading Trish's earlier post I'm trying so hard to convince myself I DONT want pizza! struggling like mad to lose weight, and now I've got a hankering for that Arrrgghh! :o)

[Trish]

Ohhh yummy, lucky Fraser :D:D I love Barramundi too! Cannot get it here but I always make sure I have some when I visit over the ditch!!

So pleased to hear Fraser is doing so well, frisky little lad isn't he!! Glad to see it, hope that nausea settles down for him and certainly hope he is not addisonian, I am wondering how long it would take to show up if he did have it, how long has ben been off the trilo now, a few weeks I thought?? That adrenal mass could be like the one Flynn still has in his remaining adrenal, just a nodule and it is not causing any cushings symptoms (touch wood!).

Speaking of frisky boys Flynn tried to hump the Siamese tonight but she wasn't having any of that... weird as he has never tried that one on before!! We had a catchup with real old neighbours, 5 sisters that I hadn't seen in about 40 years, they all live over in Oz now so we had a big dinner party for their visit to town. We did a lamb roast and I caught two of them feeding it to Flynn!!! Not quite part of his hydrolysed diet :D:D:D He loved it though and looked like the cat that got the cream! Still he is transitioning so no real harm done!!

Nice to see you and read the good news about the boys, what about some baby socks for Oscar, he is pretty small though so probably even the tiniest ones would be too big! Time to get the knitting needles out Naomi, I can see an opening in the market here and Oscar can be your marketing model you can sell heaps and retire early :D:D Have a good night!! xxxx

[molly muffin]

Hi Naomi,

Muttsoks ships internationally from here in Canada
http://www.muttluks.com/page.php?pid=27

If you can't do an order of them from where you are, PM me and I can order them and then send them on to you.

Oh I do hope that you find a picture that you really like of the two of them. That photographer is very good, so I'd hope that there is at least one that is showing them both to their best.

Frasier is a hoot When he decides he is interested he goes all out for the girls. LOL

hmm, Flynn might have been corresponding with Fasier on the side it sounds like. Humping the Siamese! Really, of all the cat breeds in the world, that is the one that is most alooof and probably going to put him in his place.
Maybe Frasier needs to further explain to Flynn that it is the girl dogs he has recommended chasing around. Much more fun than a cat. hehehehe

Great to hear from you Naomi. Hope you had a good weekend

hugs,
Sharlene and Molly Muffin

[Budsters Mom]

Great to hear from you Naomi,
I am thrilled that your boys are doing well. They're always an entertaining read! ;):) Chasing the little vixens at the park is always a good sign. Poor little Oscar. I hope you find his socks soon. Buddy has grass allergies too. It's not fun!

Hugs,
Kathy

[SoggyDoggy]

Hi Naomi,

Muttsoks ships internationally from here in Canada
http://www.muttluks.com/page.php?pid=27



Thanks Sharlene, I tried that route yesterday too, created the account, had everything lined up in the cart, but the confirm order site crashes everytime on my computer, even using two different browsers. :( Don't know why, will try again today or ring them tonight. If that doesn't work, I have cousins living in both US and Canada too, so might bug them first. Thanks for the offer though, if nothing works I may just take you up on that :D

As for Flynn humping the Siamese! Well at least he started at the top of the chain and went for classic breeding first :D Shows he has good taste :D

Enjoy your work week everyone. Long weekend here so got today off too :D Means I have time to clean my house up properly for a change.:D

[SoggyDoggy]

Ok, time for a new question and this time it's about Oz -I'm just going to high-jack Frasers thread for a bit. About 15 minutes ago, Oz starting shivering for a few minutes and then threw up on the carpet. Nothing in the vomit, just yellow bile. Normally I would just think empty tummy (he has done this his entire life when he is hungry) but its the shivering before hand that is worrying me. He was hot and clammy to touch, but after vomiting, he has cooled back to normal, stopped shivering and looks a heap brighter. He's dozing comfortably now, but got up without hassle to follow me around the house (only to have a face wash :p) and had no issues jumping back onto the couch again.

The thing that is sticking in my mind, is that when I got home yesterday, there was 8 vomits on the ground inside. I don't know which one did them, some had partially digested food in them, others were just bile. Both dogs seemed quite bright and were happy enough to run around the park, but that on top of today has me a bit worried. There was nothing on the carpet when I got home from work today, only the two that have just now happened.

So I am wondering if anyone has opinions on what this may be? I don't know if with pancreatitis it can have symptoms come and go that fast? I do have an appointment to see vet, but couldn't get into the one I trust until Monday night so am asking my knowledgable lounge chair vets. ;)

No other symptoms I can see as yet. Will be feeding shortly so will see if he is interested in food or not and what happens after. A least I know where the specialist emergency vet is and it's only 10-15 minutes away.

Thoughts, comments, questions?

[Trish]

Eek Oz, what you up to?!? What's he been eating? Any chance he got something he shouldn't have?

What's happening at the other end? Any diarrhea or constipation?

If Flynny is about to vomit he can get the shakes so wouldn't be to worried about that as such. If he is hot though at other times it could be infection in gut, or maybe choleycystitis but that would make him pretty sore too.

In my limited experience with pancreatitis he didn't pop straight back to hopping on the couch after vomiting, he was sick, off his food and sore... any signs of pain in his tummy or arching of back like he is trying to brace a sore tummy?

What's his tummy like, soft to touch, bloated, sore if you press anywhere?

Hmm looks like you just have me as armchair vet, in my jim jams too... lordy poor Oz! :) Hope he perks up after he eats, let me know!

Least it is Friday now and you are home for weekend!

[SoggyDoggy]

Uh huh, yay for weekends! Been a bad week, right down to and including me trapping my thumb in a ladder. Doh!

Anyway, hind end is normal as always, no runs or constipation as of yesterday, haven't seen tonight as we didnt go walking. I just had a feel of his tummy as he's lying down. No tension and little bugger just lifted his leg in air for a scratch instead. No evidence of being unusually hot at other times that I have seen/felt, so I don't know. I just hope I'm panicking for nothing, but the shakes after finding 8 anonymous deposits on the carpet yesterday has me worried.

Will be feeding in 10 minutes (going to cook roo meat now) so will post update in 30 minutes or so.

Thanks Trish, much appreciated. :D

[Trish]

He does not sound too bad then, least now you can keep a closer eye on him over weekend and work out who is responsible. Kinda hope it is just Oz with a bit of an upset tum that he recovers from quickly and not Fraser... he does not need to be sick! Is he looking OK?

Do they have access to food while you are at work? Wonder if he overate if Fraser did not eat all of his??

I think if any other symptoms flared like off food, bad poop I would take him in tomorrow instead of waiting till Monday, I know what you mean about taking to the vet you know though, I have trust issues too with new vets!

OMG your poor thumb... I bet that brough tears to your eyes and bad words out your mouth!! Ouchies! :mad:

Hope Skippy goes down well :)

[SoggyDoggy]

Hahahahahahahahaha, you're bad! Skippy indeed :D

Well it took a bit of bribing but he is eating now, how much remains to be seen I guess. They always have access to food, there are always biscuits down, but they haven't been touched. Exactly the same as when I left this morning so definitely not over eaten. He doesn't do that anyway, he has self regulated his weight his entire life. Never varied more than 200grams in 12 years. (Except when he lost a kilo after his knee surgery, but now he is back to his same 7.4kg)

As for the thumb, tears almost yes, bad words no. I had students all around me :rolleyes:

Well verdict is in, he ate a normal size dinner so that is positive. Guess I will just watch over weekend and see what happens. Geez they scare you don't they? A least Fraser is doing really well these days. Bung liver and sloppy poos aside, he is just a typical cuddly 13.5y/o old boy. Thank god! Bout time he gave me a break :D

Thanks again, always helps to have someone to bounce ideas off. Will update if anything untowards happens, otherwise no news is good news.

[Trish]

Yes they do scare us, naughty boys!! Pleased to hear dinner went down OK! Good news for me to go to bed with :) I will be looking for updates but hopefully we can just chalk it up to one of those things :) Yay for Fraser, yes he does deserve a break the little frisky monkey :D Hope you all have a good sleep and your poor thumb is not throbbing too much! What on earth are you doing at school with your students that involves a ladder?!?! Nighty nite!!

[labblab]

Hey Naomi,

I am making a big leap in even mentioning this (and hopefully you won't see a repeat so this will all be a moot point!). But I believe that small focal seizures could possibly cause what you are seeing. I don't know a whole lot about them, but I think you can have a brief episode of abnormal behavior such as twitching or tremoring followed by vomiting and/or diarrhea.

The reason why this has stuck in my head is because my Peg went through months of unexplained vomiting episodes before we witnessed her having a grand mal seizure. We'd not infrequently get up in the morning to find multiple spots of spit-up around the house that had happened during the night. We could never figure out what was going on because she otherwise seemed perfectly OK. But then we saw the first actual seizure, followed by vomiting and diarrhea. We still don't know for certain about those nightly spit-up episodes -- whether or not they were precursors or related in any way. But the interesting thing is that they totally stopped once we started her phenobarb. So I do now think that they had to be somehow related neurologically.

As I say, this probably has nothing to do with Oz and I feel creepy about writing anything that would sound scary. But since you are asking, I felt obligated to throw it out there in case Oz's episodes continue. :o

Marianne

[SoggyDoggy]

Hey Marianne,

With those seizures, were they petit mal in appearance? As in the unfocused eyes, inability to respond etc? I was sitting next to him and patting him during the shakes and he was quite responsive the whole time, looking at me and leaning into a leg massage, then got up took 2 steps forward and vomited. The shakes then stopped immediately, which made me think gut pain. I have seen him shake like this in the past (but we're talking 4+ years ago) when he hurt his back and would have muscle spasms. That's why I thought pain initially, then gut pain after the vomit.

I ask about the appearance of peg's seizures as I have had a severely epileptic dog before and know only too well what they look like (he ended up stabilized on 5 1/2 phenobarb a day, was a mini doxie) but we managed that for 9 years before he passed over aged 13.

Anyway, at this point Oz ate all of his dinner, proceeded to eat a greenie (dental treat) and then polished off some biscuits, so appetite is obviously not affected. He has kept it all down for at least a couple of hours since and is not showing any signs of discomfort at the moment. Will continue to watch him closely, but thanks for the heads up. If it continues, I will discuss it with vet as potential possibility. Just hope I don't have to go down that route obviously ;).

[SoggyDoggy]

! What on earth are you doing at school with your students that involves a ladder?!?! Nighty nite!!

You kidding? Performing Arts, we are always up and down platform ladders, rigging and mounting stage lights etc, but in this case I was just trying to get a chair out from behind it for one of the kids and sandwiched my hand between the chair and step. Hurt like hades! Still swollen and prob blue tomorrow, but that's just the excitement for the day :rolleyes: I have moments of complete clutziness some days :D

[Budsters Mom]

Naomi,
I am so sorry that Oz has been having some spells. They are so scary.
You sure have you hands full. You said that he had a grass allergy. Could he possibly have eaten grass? That would make vomit, but that doesn't explain the twitching.

Hugs to you and the boys,
Kathy

[labblab]

Hi Naomi,

I honestly don't know if Peg had any genuine neurological issues prior to the grand mal seizures. But this is what we experienced. From the time she was fairly young, she would occasionally exhibit a really weird behavior in that she'd be sound asleep on the couch and then suddenly jerk awake, bolt off the couch, and then walk around the room flipping her head back towards her tail as if there was something bothering/biting her in her hindquarters. It didn't last but a few moments, but always followed exactly the same repetitive pattern every single time it happened. No vomiting though, and no loss of consciousness or responsiveness, per se (although she was always focused on her behind and not me when I called to her).

During the same time period, we'd get up in the morning and find several areas of spitting up all around the downstairs. Never caught her in the act, though, so never knew what was happening, although a couple of times when I was dozing on the couch, she did leap off the couch and immediately started spitting up. Then just over two years ago, she started having grand mal seizures for which there was no mistaking what was going on, and that's when we started the phenobarb. Since beginning the phenobarb, there have been no obvious seizures, and also no night-time spitting-up and also not a single one of the weird jumping-off-the-couch incidents, either. So even though I have no idea whether they were also neurological in origin, all I can say is that she's stopped having them since the phenobarb...

Having said all that, I think it very unlikely that seizuring is Oz's problem. But Peg's history was just weird enough that I thought I'd go ahead and mention it.

Marianne

[SoggyDoggy]

Hmmnn. Thanks Marianne, doesn't sound like that's what's happening with Oz, but I will keep it in mind. We've had nothing further overnight either, so I guess I'll just watch him through the next couple of days and see if it repeats. Poor boy, he looks so pitiful when he's throwing up. :(

[molly muffin]

Awww, poor Oz. Hope he doesn't do any more throw up. Their little bodies just look like it is turning inside our or something. I hate it when Molly throws up. Then she goes and tries to eat it for like a second course. Gross!!! I know dogs do that and it's all natural but still....GROSS! Not that she'd try to lick up yellow bile though, hers is usually food when it happens.

hugs,
Sharlene and Molly Muffin

[Trish]

EEK! I don't like the sound of that Marianne, but seems like once you got on top of it everything went pretty well!

I will stay on the ate something he shouldn't have, so pleased to hear nothing else coming up since yesterday. Poor Oz, I HATE when I vomit and also hate to see their wee body heaving. Poor things, but yes it does turn the stomach like Sharlene said when they turn around and eat it.... or worse if they see the cat puke they also consider that a tasty snack. Ack I am nearly dry retching typing it so will shut up now :D

Will check in later to see if all has kept down today! Tonight is the ABs first game of the season vs France so we are off out soon to watch it (not at the park though!) Flynn has his All Black jersey on and we are all ready to cheer!!! (ohh must change his avatar!)

[SoggyDoggy]

Well so far so good. There was a tiny bit of clear/white spit up on the floor this morning, but none of the yellow bile from the last two days. Again I don't know who did that little bit, but my guess is Oz. Anyway, he ate all his dinner again this evening, plus greenies again and no tummy upsets or shivers, so let's just hope it was a one off freak spell.

Meanwhile, Fraser is still good, we had his girlfriend here for a few hours this evening but he didn't go all frisky this time. Hope he is feeling ok, so hard to tell with him sometimes. But at least he ate all his dinner without complaint as neither of them ate their breakfast this morning. Fussy bums. At least I can say that neither of them have EVER tried to eat their own up-chucks again, that's too gross to contemplate! <shudder>

Oh yeah, question: How much pumpkin blocks up, and how much unblocks (so to speak) :p I know there is no definite quantity, but a guide would help me out. I never knew about the pumpkin trick until coming here. :D

[molly muffin]

Glad to hear that the spit ups are looking better (no bile) That is a good sign.
Ahh, Frasier, Frasier, just doesn't Always feel like chasing the ladies. Every casanova needs a rest now and then. :)
I think that it isn't you give this amount for constipation or that amount for diarrhea. Pumpkin seems to be more of a regulator. So, you give the same pretty much for either.

The dogchatforum says:
It depends on the size of the dog but as a rule of thumb a couple of teaspoons daily for a small dog or a couple of tablespoons for a large dog. You may have to disguise it in you dog's favorite food.

I know some dogs love it and you can just put it on your finger and they will lick it off. Others need it mixed in food.

Remember, no pie filling, just plain pumpkin. To save it, fill an ice cube tray, freeze, then pop into baggies for storage in freezer and thaw one out when you need it.

Hugs,
Sharlene and Molly Muffin

[addy]

Glad to hear things are getting back to normal. Poor Oz, feel better sweet thing. I used to give Zoe about 1/2 tablespoon when she was about 20 pounds to firm up her stool. Never had to worry much about constipation for that girl:rolleyes::rolleyes:

[Trish]

How is Oz and his tummy troubles, well and truly settled down I hope :D I hate Tuesday's, it is such a blah day and seems ages to the weekend so hope yours is going better!!

Lots of pats for the Aussie boys!!! xxxxx

[SoggyDoggy]

Hey Trish,

He's settled down but we went to the vet on Monday anyway, even if the tummy was ok we still had manky feet, vaccinations and cartrophen to discuss so it was never going to be a wasted trip :D. She gave him a full work over, found some tenderness in his tummy she was a bit concerned about so is running a full blood panel and urine sample anyway. Suits me, I had been thinking about asking for one just for peace of mind so that's cool - just hope peace is granted hey? She also did a cytology test on his feet and found a bacterial infection of some weird but apparently quite cool to watch strain (they move in circles around the hair shaft apparently :eek:), so that explains why he has been chewing the fur out of the top of his feet. 2 weeks of antibiotics is the plan to clear that up. Here's hoping, his toes are bald! (and I thought it was his grass allergy :o)

No vaccinations or cartrophen till we get the bloods back which is hopefully today, just hope to god he had some tummy virus or infection or something, not another issue brewing, we've all had enough. Especially he was the one that started the funding drain by jumping off a wall and rupturing both cruciates in his knee!

Will let you know what I hear about bloods, right now I have to get going for work, would rather spend the day in bed. Too exhausted at the moment and the next few weeks aren't going to get any quieter. Assessments, reports, 3 concerts and an international school tour? Roll on July 10 when it's all over and I have 1.5 weeks of holidays! :o

[Trish]

Lordy, I am exhausted reading what you have to do in the next few weeks! You will need a month off not a week or two!

Have you got the results? I have everything crossed for good things for Oscar... really hoping it is nothing much too but good to get it investigated.

Oh no about the non grass allergy now being a bacterial infection, poor wee man. But I am kind glad I am not the only one to misdiagnose my dog... I thought Flynn was getting fat a couple of years ago so put him on a diet, unbeknown to me he was developing his huge 650g liver tumour and when they took it out it he looked so much skinnier :eek::eek: Poor dog nearly died while I was making him diet :rolleyes: Bad bad dog Mummy I am!!!

Good luck with results, will be keeping an eye out for sure!!

[SoggyDoggy]

Ozzie's blood panek is back, everything pretty nomal with no major concerns. CK slightly elevated at 239 (47-228) but vet said that could still be high from muscle exertion of throwing up thursday and friday, and calcium a bit low 1.98 (2.2-2.8) She's recommended we find a calcium supplement for this. Otherwise, no overt reasons showing up for why this happened. He's been good since, but if he does anything like it again, we will go for ultra sound, and then if nothing shows up there, look into neurological avenues. At this point I'm just happy that nothing unexpected or serious turned up and am firmly hoping that hejust ate something that his gut objected to. Poor little sprite, at least I found his socks again (thought I'd lost them a few weeks ago :o)

So the next question for the resident experts aka armchair vets, has anyone used or knows of a calcium supplement that they could recommend?

[SoggyDoggy]

Hey Trish, yes nice to have an answer for all, especially the feet. And even though he has the infection, he is still allergic to grass anyway, has been for years. Given the preference, he will walk the long way around at a park if there is a concrete path on the outside, anything to avoid it. He will even head straight to sand patches if there are any coz even he know the grass sets his feet off. He's a smart little cookie. He knows too that clover has prickles in it and will pick his way around it rather than get a prickle in his foot. It's very cute to watch him go slowly and delicately to avoid it. Of course, now that I won't let him outside at the park without his socks, that's not so much of an issue. But it does mean that we now have to wash the socks in antibacterial after every walk, no point re-infecting if we are trying to kill it off with antibiotics!

Life is never boring is it??? Wish it would be though ;)

[Trish]

Phew what a relief!! Awesome news for Oscar and you!! So pleased everything was good :D:D Hmmmm I have not needed to use a calcium supplement so no use to you there, but I am sure someone will have a tip for you! I do know in humans with low calcium they can vomit so wondering if it can happen with dogs too and that could be cause of his upset tum??? I am sure you are googling as we speak to see what causes low calcium. Might have a look myself too!

[SoggyDoggy]

Hmmnn, will look into that thanks. Off for a walk now before it gets much darker or colder. Have a great night, and good news about flynn too! Good news all round really :D

[Trish]

I did have a look at it, one possibility made my ears prick up.. pancreatitis. Maybe he had that and he had the crook tummy which caused low calcium?? Chronic renal problems was another but his renal tests are good aren't they so we can discount that. Lily toxicity?? I guess he would be sicker if he had brushed up against a lily?

Others you could rule out with his current blood tests
(hypoalbuminemia) due to some other problem or disease, it also affects the total calcium level. Although it accounts for more than 50 percent of hypocalcemia cases, low levels of calcium associated with hypoalbuminemia are not generally associated with any symptom.
•Hypomagnesaemia (low levels of magnesium in the blood)

Others:
•Poor calcium absorption in the gut
•Alkalosis (condition in which the body fluids have excess base alkali)
•Hypoparathyroidism (Inadequate secretion of parathyroid hormone resulting in abnormally low levels of calcium in the blood)
•Nutritional secondary hyperparathyroidism

I have ruled out all of these ones because they just not our Oz!:
Hypoparathyroidism secondary to surgical removal of the thyroid gland (thyroidectomy
•Rickets (early age disease caused by deficiency of vitamin D and sunlight associated with impaired metabolism of calcium and phosphorus)
•Puerperal tetany (Clinical neurological syndrome characterized by muscular twitching and cramps and seizures; associated with calcium deficiency [hypoparathyroidism] or vitamin D deficiency or alkalosis)
•Phosphate-containing enemas used in patients with severe constipation
•Citrate toxicity in patients with multiple blood transfusions were conducted for some other health problem

[SoggyDoggy]

Lol, no you can pretty much rule all of that last stuff out, poor absorption may be it, who knows. All his bloods for pancreatitis etc were perfectly fine, no issues there. There is the potential that there is something growing in there that wont show up on the bloods, but I choose not to think about that right at this point. I have found out that dogs can loose calcium if they have a high phosphorous diet, which my two do as they have a home cooked heavy on the meat diet. I'll look into a supplement and monitor it from there, at the moment I don't want to scan as I won't be able to do anything about it if there is a nasty, an infection would have shown up and therefor ignorance for another month or two will be bliss.

At least Fraser's calcium levels are ok, they were measured not too long ago and were good. Maybe the higher calcium concentrations with cushing's helped offset the high phosphorous. Has to be a bonus somewhere doesn't there?

Oh well, for now he is good, that's what counts.

[Trish]

Haha pleased to hear you have not been giving him enemas and that he hasn't had a litter of pups :eek::eek:

Yep I agree, he is good so maybe just one of those blips we never get to the bottom of! I'm sure it will right itself with a bit of extra calcium!

[Budsters Mom]

I am with you! Savor the moment:D Both boys are okay, life's good!

Hugs,
Kathy

[addy]

Cant help with the calcium supplements but can stop by to give hugs.
Koko goes next week for his yearly physical :rolleyes::rolleyes: It all does blow the budget out the window.:rolleyes::rolleyes:

Hey- I have off the week before you do, we can count down together.:):):):):):):)

[Harley PoMMom]

"Citracal" and Calcium Carbonate made by "Now Foods" are the two I see most used. There are differences between the two and I am providing this link as it explains it much better than I could: http://www.healthcastle.com/calciumcarbonate-calciumcitrate.shtml


Sending huge and loving hugs to you all, Lori

[SoggyDoggy]

Cheers for that Lori, will check it out thanks.

[Trish]

:)Gosh this forum is busy, I found you guys down in the depths on page 3!! That is no place for spunky bum and Oz!! How is the week going, hoping both tummies have remained settled! I dunno about you but I have found my life seems to revolve around my dog's poops and various other doggie related things. I see a good poop and it makes me happy, what strange people we all are :D:D:D Hope your having a good week Naomi and your not to exhausted with your frantic school days, just remember that holiday is not far away now!! xxxxxx

[Trish]

Well your only on page 2 this time :D:D Are the boys behaving? Oh and YAY its Friday night!!!! Your holidays are not far away now :) See you soon for an update! xxx

[SoggyDoggy]

Yep both boys behaving and doing well. Sorry been away, its been crazy time with marking and reports, only going to get worse this week with rehearsals and three concerts, then Singapore next week - smog permitting.

Fraser is still pretty perky looking but has lost more weight, down to 8.2 kg now. Thinking of getting him some nutragel or something to go for some high calorie food. Don't want to overtax his liver though, it's coping with enough. Oscar is just finishing up last days of antibiotics so manky feet are looking a heap better. Tried walking a few days this week without socks, not an option. He chewed his feet something awful again so it's just not worth it. So basically it's all status quo here. I'm sleep deprived, Fraser is skinny and Ozzie is full of beans even if he is itchy.

Will check in again later in the week if I can keep my eyes open. Take care all, enjoy your sundays.

Oh yeah, have ordered Oz some calcium tablets online. They are chocolate flavoured chewables. I gave them to Fraser as a pup and he loved them then, so lets hope Oz likes them now. Was easier to get tablets than liquid or powder - too much risk that Fraser could get either one of those.

[Budsters Mom]

Naomi,
It's so great to hear from you! We have missed your stories.;) I'm glad to hear that even though Frazier is skinny, he still pretty perky. :) It cracked me up when I read that Ozzie was full of beans. Got a love that!:) Did you ever find his socks? Please check in again soon when you get a chance. We miss you when we haven't heard anything for a while.Hugs to all,
Kathy

[Simba's Mom]

Just checking in on you and your pups, hope you have a great weekend...

[molly muffin]

Wow, you have a busy couple weeks coming up from the sounds of it.
I think Oz is just going to be sock wearing little munchkin. At least he is okay with them. That helps. Glad Frasier is doing okay. Skinny but okay. :)

hugs,
sharlene and molly muffin

[Trish]

HI Naomi - are all the reports done? Sounds like this report writing is happening worldwide with other teachers on here buried under paper too! I don't envy you that, but I do envy you the holidays :D:D Must be time for the Singapore trip, when do you go? Who is looking after the boys, I bet your are a bit nervous to leave them. Hope they and you have had a good week! I guess Singapore is not too much of a holiday having to supervise all the rug rats! Hope they behave and you don't lose any :D:D

[goldengirl88]

Naomi:
I am wondering which cool pads you got for your dog, and if they work? Kathy had a good suggestion for me to put one in the closet for Tipper, as she goes there during storms, and it is very hot in there. She just pants like crazy, and will not drink any water, so I am worried she is getting so hot and dehydrated. Hope all is well. Blessings
Patti

[SoggyDoggy]

Hey, hell week over so 1/2 day break before gearing up for the trip. Managed to finish all my reports this morning and proof read the reports for the rest of my department so school work almost finished. Now just have to write a weeks worth of relief lessons :( as we leave at sparrows fart on tuesday morning. I will be relieved to get on that plane in some ways, means the hard part of the term is over, but I'm going to miss the boys something awful. They are going to my sister's place. I know she will take care of them and spoil them, I just hope her dog doesn't keep them awake all day. Gracie is only 2.5 yrs old and very high energy, boys are 13.5! (Fraser has his 14th birthday on sept 23) I know she sleeps during the day, but don't know if that will continue when house-guests are present, she certainly loves them to its as she is always in their face, but I have found that if they don't get enough sleep, they will both get sick, so here's hoping not. I'm also in the process of preparing 9 days worth of food for them, just pulled 2 roasts out of the oven, have to cook up the pasta and veggies tomorrow, along with some turkey too. Would love to send them with some fish, but this is the sister with the mega sensitive nose and she would likely murder me if I put fish in her house! (she eats it, but it's not allowed to smell at all:p)

Anyway, so as of tuesday morning I will be in Singapore for 8 days, so forgive me if I don't check in. Am going to buy a local sim and hope to check up on everyone via the phone, but will be short of time anyway. At least the smoke haze has cleared somewhat so lets hope it stays that way.

Patti:
I ended up buying the gel type mats for the boys. They aren't chewers so I didn't need to worry about that, and the mats are light and easy to move while having a vinyl type covering which means I can wipe them with a wet cloth very easily to keep them clean. They also don't contain water so don't get musty smelling and don't need to be redampened or refilled like most of the water ones do. I have to say, they work [I]really[I] well.

Basically, when you put weight on them, i.e. you lean your hand on them or the dogs lie on them, they feel cool to the touch, and the longer you stay there the cooler they feel. I think they work by absorbing the heat from the body which gives the cool sensation. After a few hours they have warmed up and wont feel as cool, but you can always stick them in the fridge for a quick "charge up" or if you want them even colder, but personally I think that would then make them too cold. Also the mats will recharge themselves when the gel has time to cool off again, ie an hour or so without direct contact. I also found that it's best to let the dogs discover the mats themselves. I firstly draped one of my t-shirts over the corner of the mat as both boys like to lie on my clothes, (especially if freshly washed and ironed ready to wear :rolleyes:) and I think once they worked out that the mats were cool in very hot weather, they just started to go to them themselves. i have two, one smaller and one larger. The smaller one is about 2/3 the length of them, the larger about 3x that size. Typically, they both like the smaller one though. just as an example, this is the sort I got and I think (just by looking at the pic) this is the size of the small matt I got too. http://www.ebay.com/itm/Hugs-Pet-Products-Cooling-Gel-Mats-For-Dogs-/360473482006 Sorry, ebay link, was just the first one I found is all. Good luck, let me know what you end up doing, but these did work really well for my boys.

[addy]

Oh Naomi, have fun in Singapore, rug rats and all:):):) It does sound like a wonderful trip and very exotic and exciting.

Your sister will spoil the pups and they will play you when you get back;);)

[Budsters Mom]

What a cool field trip!:D My field trips are never that cool! Have an awesome time! It sounds like the boys will have a great time too and be in excellent hands.:) Big hugs,
Kathy

[molly muffin]

Have a great time!

I'm sure the boys will have a blast, be spoiled rotten while you are away. :)

hugs,
Sharlene and Molly Muffin

[Trish]

You have cool field trips Kathy, didn't you go to Sea World or somewhere exciting recently, that sounds exotic to me!!! :D:D

Have fun Naomi, hopefully you sister has a separate area where the boys can get a bit of peace and quiet when they need it to recover from the boisterous young one!

Have a blast! xxxxxx

[Trish]

BON VOYAGE NAOMI!!! Have a fab time in Singapore hope you get to do heaps of shopping, sightseeing, eating and relaxing... although somehow doubt a couple of those with a busload of kids in tow!!

Now don't drop any rubbish, I remember they are very strict about that over there :)

Hoping Fraser and Oz enjoy their mini break at your sisters and don't get into too much mischief, see you when you get back! xx

[SoggyDoggy]

Hey everyone, just stopping in to say boo and hope you are all well. I'm in Singapore at the moment typing this on my phone so it's just a quick message. Been VERY busy with school visits, shopping and eating like mad (there went the diet) but the business side of hints are over and now the fun will begin tomorrow - a whole day at universal studios.

Spoken to my sister a couple of times. Fraser is still very unsure of being left and apparently following her around like a bad smell, though Ozzie is having a ball. She took a couple of work at home days this week so at least they have had company but I don't think Fraser is letting hem sleep much at night, he keeps pacing to the door to see if I'm home yet :(. My poor baby. 4 more days and I can spend 1 1/2 weeks spoiling and cuddling him all day.

Anyway must be off, need to go check on kids. Have t checked any threads at this point so I hope all is smooth sailing elsewhere. Take care and catch up with you again soon.

[Budsters Mom]

Hey world traveler! I hope you're having an awesome time!:) Poor Fraser misses his mommy, but you'll be home soon and be able have snuggle time with him. We've missed you! I know that you haven't heard, but Buddy passed on this past Tuesday. I miss him so much!:) xxxxxx

[Trish]

Awww poor wee Fraser, that's so good of your sister to take a couple of home days with him, she is lovely doing that :)

Yay the fun begins over in Singapore, sounds like you have been busy so have you have a fab time for the rest of your stay Naomi! That time off with your babies will be so good, don't forget to buy them a pressie :D:D xxx

[Trish]

Are you home yet?? Hanging out for my Fraser and Oz update!! Hope your not too jetlagged Naomi and your credit cards are not in to much debit!! Looking forward to hearing the news and for you to have a big old rest with the boys! xx

[Trish]

Naomi Alert!!! I see you online so you must be home!! Hope it went well in Singapore and the boys are pleased to have you back!

[Trish]

OK I am now officially worried about you and the boys!! Hope all is going well Naomi, you must be due back at work next week... I keep hoping to see an update from you xx

[Budsters Mom]

Naomi,
I noticed you are on-line. Please post an update. We've been worried about you guys. Xxxxx

[molly muffin]

Hey Naomi,

Hope all is well and that you are recovering from the Singapore trip. :)
How did the guys do? I bet they were thrilled to see you and to be back at home.
I hope that Frasier is doing alright and that Oscar is wearing his booties.
Drop a line when you have time

hugs,
sharlene and molly muffin

[SoggyDoggy]

Hey everybody,

Apologies for the absences, after Singapore I was just exhausted and since then have been stupid busy going back to work again. It looks like I am on the site when I may not be as my computer remembers password strings and if I am on the computer, it possibly shows me connected to the site.

But anyway, the important news is that both boys are absolutely fine. :D Fraser is actually going pretty well considering. He is still pretty thin but I don't think he has lost more weight, he is pretty bright and spritely most days as long as he stays on the denosyl. If he doesn't get it he gets very nauseous (and he didn't get it for about 10 days pre and during Singapore trip as I ran out - long story with vet prices but ended up ordering it online and had to wait a week) Basically without it he throws up regularly, but on it he is fine. No nausea or chuckies so that's good. Adding the sillymarin to it made him nauseous too, so he just gets the plain denosyl. In the last few days he has been doing rollies on the grass at the park (which is always a sign he feels good), been chasing his ball at the park a few times, but most importantly/impressively, thinks nothing of walking himself to the other side of the oval to check his messages. That too is a big sign for him. He gets very clingy when he feels bad or things aren't right, so as long as he is doing all this, then I know he is ok for now.

Oh! and my other good news! I picked up the boys glamour shots last week! Finally got the prints from the photo session I booked, one giant one (which has current pride of place above the sofa in the lounge) and 4 medium size shots. The smaller ones have 2 each of the boys, a close up face shot of each and a lying down aren't I beautiful shot of each. The best part is that she managed to flip a couple of them, so if I hang them side by side, the boys look at each other, it's very cute. I'll try over the weekend to see if I can get some photos of the photos (just remember they wont look anywhere near as good!) and post them up for you to see. Fraser's close up is probably my favourite, it's a stunner. None of these shots were on the website links i posted previously, they're all new, so stay tuned.

On that note, off now to check up on a few others then I'll be back over the weekend again to say boo again. Once again sorry for the absence, lack of energy just got in my way. :o

[Budsters Mom]

Hi Naomi,
I am thrilled to hear that everyone is doing well! :)I can't wait to see their glamor shots! ;)Such handsome boys you have! Did you ever find Oscar's socks? Big hugs to you and belly rubs for Spunky Bum and Bootylicious! :D

[molly muffin]

Welcome home! Really happy to hear that the boys are doing well.
Can't wait to see the glamour shots you picked out. I bet they are gorgeous! The ones online were wonderful and if these are even better....! Wow.

hugs,
Sharlene and Molly muffin

[Trish]

Hi Naomi

So pleased to read this good report on the boys, especially all of Fraser's romping and playing, he must be feeling pretty good :D:D The holidays seem to have gone to fast, back to school already... :p

The photos sound fabulous, dying to see what they look like so happy you are pleased with them!! With those two boys starring I am sure they will be awesome :D:D xx

[Squirt's Mom]

Good to hear from you, Naomi, and especially to hear that ya'll are going alright!

[Trish]

HI Naomi .... another I miss very much on the forum :D:D Hope all going well with you and the boys although I can understand the lack of energy thing, suffering from that myself :D:D roll on spring and daylight savings, think I might have that thing where you get sad when there is not enough sunshine :D:D Give Fraser and Oz a tickle from me xxxx

[Budsters Mom]

We are still waiting to see the glamor shots Naomi. :D Belly rubs to Spunky Bum and bootylicious. :):D

[SoggyDoggy]

Hey folks, apologies, long time no visit. My bad. I have been having a stupidly busy term, got a virus and had no energy for a few weeks, was sleeping approx 14 hours a day, working the others, but feeling better now, just have to get past concert season. Holidays coming up in three weeks now (not that I'm counting or anything) so will definitely do a big catch up then.

Enough about me though, quick update on the boys. Both are still going, Oz is in fine form, I honestly think he is going a bit senile, he is like a puppy sometimes the way he bounces around, but it's so cute, and he has gotten super cuddly of late too. Fraser is still going, I wouldn't go so far as to say "well" these days, but he still has spark in his eyes and a bit of pep in his step.

He had a gastro upset 2 weeks ago, was vomiting for about 5 hours then a super bout of diarrhoea (of course all over the back seat of my car 20 metres from the vet - thank god for the bissell!) but managed to bounce back from it ok. He has lost more weight, down to 7.3 at that vet visit (which is now the same as Oz) and his bones are pretty prominent. He got a nausea and tramadol shot at the vet plus some electrolytes (which he refused to drink the little turd) but seemed to get better, was eating again by the next day and after a full day of sleep was happy to go for a walk the following day too.

I broke my own rules and gave them both chicken. They haven't had it for ages as it made Fraser's stool pretty runny and Ozzie's breath just foul, but the stool issue is a non-issue now anyway (it' always runny regardless) and Oz just gets a greenie after dinner so he is happy. They both enjoyed the chicken and Fraser then decided he wouldn't eat anything else but chicken! Except then he got sick of chicken after a few days and has gone super picky with food. He's not eating much now at any one time, I guess the tumor is pressing on his tummy now too, he only eats a little bit at a time and goes back 3 or 4 times for dinner. Unfortunately I am not home during the day to feed him lots of small meals so he gets his breakfast and then doesn't seem to eat again until dinner. There is always biscuits down for the boys, but they haven't been touched, he hasn't eaten bikkies for a while, I don't think he has the jaw strength the crunch them up now. Will try softening some for him tomorrow to see if he is interested but not counting on it.

He's also been pretty nauseous over the last few days I have noticed. Because he isn't eating much, there isn't much in his tummy to tie him over so he feels it. He has always gotten sick his entire life if his tummy is empty, so not surprising really, I just hate to see him licking the air so often. The picky food issue isn't helping, the only way I can tempt him to eat is by adding little bits of ham to his food, essentially bribing him to eat. That way when he gets started he continues to eat a little more, but if he doesn't like it he just won't eat at all. He will no longer eat fish (he had it the night he got gastro and now associates it with that i think - he has always been pretty smart that way) just sniffs and turns his nose up at it, so getting a bit thin for ideas now, he's just not interested.

At one stage I honestly didn't think he would make it to his 14th birthday, but it seems he will, it's in about 2 weeks, 23rd September, so will have a big doggy party for him to celebrate, the awful thing is I really don't think he will last till Christmas - there's just nothing left of him. I hate that but I don't want him to have to feel sick and suffer, will just have to see how he goes. Right now, other than some nausea, he isn't in pain, he isn't jaundiced and he still walks every day. It's always a day at a time isn't it?

Meanwhile his toy collection continues to grow. He always perks up and has a good play when he gets a new toy, so there's been quite a few of those in recent months. Although Oz doesn't really play with toys, I always have to buy two to make it fair, give them both one. That basically means Fraser gets two new toys at a time - he loves it. And where he once used to destroy them completely, now he just licks and squeaks them to death, so my toy basket is completely overflowing. (My 5yo niece thinks that is great though and takes great joy in throwing them all over my lounge room floor when she visits) If it wasn't for the smell (from bad breath due to tummy issues) and the dried slobber, the toys would almost be new! If the washing machine wouldn't destroy the squeakers I would wash them, but he doesn't like them after that anyway, and if they don't squeak there's no point playing with them. Oh well, I'll just keep passing the older ones to my sister's dog who thinks she's so special when she gets a treat from me - and then proceeds to destroy it within seconds. She's strong and very destructive - but only with her toys, never anything else.

So that's a run down of where we are at the moment. Again I apologise for now posting for ages, but if you don't hear from me it's all status quo. No news is good news right? If anything changes you will all be among the first to know, but it won't be for a while yet so I will have time to do a big catch up in a few weeks when I'm on holidays. For now, I hope you are all ok and that the kids are going well. Hugs and kisses from us all!

[Trish]

HI Naomi

So nice to wake up and see your posts and to hear Fraser still has a twinkle in his eye! Flynn is volunteering to come and help Fraser with the toy excess!

Is Fraser on anything that might help settle his tummy, for the nausea? He is a finicky little fellow and you have always fed him so well, lucky boy :D Bikkies always are first the go when they are feeling crook

Glad you are over that virus, that must have really knocked the socks off you, but you had been so busy with work and then the trip and then more work... time for a wee slow down and catch up on your sleep. You don't have to apologise for not posting Naomi, we have such busy lives with so much going on that we are pleased to see you whenever you can make it... hugs to you and the boys! xx

[addy]

I'm just so glad to hear from you but so sorry to hear you have been ill. Some of those viruses go on forever and really take a toll. Hope you feel better.

One day at a time is about what we all are doing, Naomi, we understand completely. I love that Fraser's toy collection is growing. I had to take Zoe's Kong away, she kept getting it stuck on her lower jaw, how I have no idea but I do miss watching her tearing at it and having fun so i can imagine the joy you get in giving a new toy.

So glad to hear Fraser still has a twinkle in his eye and OZ is staying out of trouble.

We will always be here, sweetie, whenever you need us or want to say hi.

love ya bunches

[SoggyDoggy]

Hey guys, thanks for that. Trish, the only thing Fraser is on now is Denosyl. That seemed to keep the nausea at bay for a while (when I forgot to give it to him it was always obvious the next day but as long as it was regular he was good) but I think the tumor is just so big now that his liver can't cope regardless.

Have been trying to find something, pepcid doesn't appear to be easily available here, and peptosyl which is used for dogs seems to be more for gastro, i.e. both ends, not just nausea. He's not throwing up but I'm sure it's making food taste funny which is why he is so resistant to eat. Poor bub, think I'm going to call the vet in a bit and ask her is there anything he can have, when he got that nausea shot after his bout of gastro he ate like a pig! It was fantastic!

Anyway, he just ate a bit of brekky (doused with ham again) so ok for now. Take care all.

[Harley PoMMom]

What about slippery elm bark?

[Budsters Mom]

Slippery Elm bark was the only thing that helped Buddy's tummy, but his tumor was elsewhere. :o

Sending lots of love to you and the boys. Xxxx

[molly muffin]

Wow, Naomi, you've had a time of it since coming back from Singapore. You not feeling well and Jasper's bouts with nausea and the runs.
Literally it is one day at a time it seems and to be even more cliche, you can only do what you can do and that is to give him the best time he can possible have and the love and security for as long as he is still showing that spark. :)
I bet you are looking forward to holidays! Our next holidays here is in October for Thanksgiving, but I'll be working day before and day afterward, so no fun there. Bah humbug. LOL
Great to hear from you.
hugs,
Sharlene and Molly Muffin

[SoggyDoggy]

OMG What these kids put us through!

Over the course of the weekend, Fraser was so nauseated, low energy and just not eating anything, I went to work monday morning and broke down thinking this was it. I'd contacted the vet on Sunday morning and got some nausea meds for him (metaclopromide or maxolon), came home monday after work and the little turd was full of energy. He'd eaten biscuits during the day, went to the park and chased his ball for 40 minutes! :eek::eek::eek: ate his dinner and then flaked out for a good nights sleep. I am giving it to him 2x a day, gave him an extra one last night as he was licking the air again, but was fine this morning. (He can apparently have it 2-4 times a day, so if we get by with 2x for now that's good.)

Got home today and he was wagging his tail all happy to see me again, went the the park (was raining and too wet to play ball so we just walked) but then got home and presented me with a toy to play with. WTH!!! Ate his dinner again and is now out for a good nights sleep again. I think I am noticing that the meds must kick in about 20-30 minutes after taking it, cause he gets all peppy and bossy about that time, he must feel so much better. It does say a side effect could be increased energy - who am I to complain? I welcome that side effect with open arms! Just so glad he has picked up! Until next time anyway.

Talk about the emotional roller coaster. I want to say thanks to Lori and Kathy on the SEB idea, didn't see it till after speaking to the vet but will keep it in mind for when/if he needs that extra bit of help in the next few months. I am concerned though, I have read somewhere that it can interfere with absorption? Is that just with meds taken within a few hours or can that be for food consumed as well? He is so skinny and his liver is almost kaput, I don't want him to have to process something else if he can't even get the nutrients from the small amount of food he does consume.

So small update for this week, will stop by again when I get the chance, busy week, 2 concerts this week and exams to finish writing. Oh joy......

[addy]

makes my heart sing to read this:):):):):):)

[Squirt's Mom]

Hi Naomi,

What a great update! So good to hear Fraser is feeling better with the new med.

The SEB will need to be given 2 hours either side of meds - 2 hours before or 2 hours after. SEB has quite a few nutrients itself, too, and can help with nausea and loss of appetite. It acts sort of like an internal bandaid, protecting the mucous membranes. Since I typically give meds in food to Squirt, she gets SEB separate from all food and meds. However, Trink seldom has meds in her food so she gets the SEB in her food and I've not noticed any problems.

I hope our little guy continues to feel good and brings you many toys to play with.
Hugs,
Leslie and the gang

[Boriss McCall]

so happy that Fraser is feeling good & spunky this week. ;)

[Harley PoMMom]

Oh, Naomi, what wonderful update about Fraser!!

Sending huge and loving hugs, Lori

[Budsters Mom]

Oh Naomi,
Your update on Frasier made my heart happy!:p:p:):):) xxxxx

SEB does not interfere with the absorption of nutrients from food. However, it could interfere with the absorption of meds and supplements. That's the reason for the two hour window that Leslie mentioned.

GO FRASER!!!!!!!

[molly muffin]

Awwww Naomi, it's always so good to hear that Frasier is feeling playful and full of energy. If that is a side effect well, it's not a bad one for this situation at all. I know you just love to have him acting like his old self. Hmmm, maybe I need some of that, feel a bit run down by the end of the day. LOL
Yikes! you have a really full week!
Take care and hugs,
Sharlene and Molly Muffin

[Trish]

Hi Naomi

Glad you have the nausea under control, sounds like it has made a huge difference to how Fraser is feeling and that is just awesome!! So pleased he is having fun times... that is really what it is all about :) :)

Your week will fly by being so busy, it all sounds so interesting though with the concerts. Hope it goes fast and you get to enjoy the weekend with the boys! xx

[Tina]

Hi Naomi,
Happy to read that Fraser is feeling better on the new med, and I hope it continues! :) Thanks for your posts of support for me and Jasper on our thread. Yes, it is such a roller coaster most of the time.

Hugs,
Tina and Jasper

[Trish]

Hope your sleeping in! Hopefully catch up on the weekend and that Fraser has continued the week like he started it with a spring in his step :D xx

[SoggyDoggy]

Well I've had doubts, but Fraser made it to his birthday. He turned 14 on Monday this week.

The horrid thing is, as I've had a feeling since late last year, his time has pretty much come. I've just had this thought that it would be around the time of his birthday and I think I am right. I've known this for a few weeks I guess, even my sister said to me the other day "he's pushing sh*t uphill now" in other words he's not going to bounce back again. He hasn't fully bounced back since that big bout of vomiting a few weeks back, it took the stuffing out of him completely.

He is so emaciated, there is nothing left of him (even his gums are skinny), he is nauseous pretty much all the time (though I try to keep the nausea meds up so he doesn't feel it - they are still working if he gets them every 5-6 hours) but I can't keep him going, it's not fair to him. I am on holidays as of the end of this week and have pretty much come to the conclusion that it has to happen in these holidays, for his sake, for mine and for Ozzies. It absolutely kills me to have to do this, I spend more time in tears than not at the moment, especially as he has become both feisty when at the park and cuddly when at home. He is not acting sick when we go out, but he is exhausted by the time we get home. His fur is falling out more too, he left a big clump on the carpet where he was rolling and wiping his whiskers after dinner, and when I ran a come over him this morning it came away with a heap in it. And his mouth and breath are just vile, the smell is so bad. It's not something that can be fixed though, it is the internal issues.

He is still eating but I don't know where it goes. He doesn't poop a whole lot and he certainly hasn't put on any weight. He was lying on his side on my bed next to me a few hours ago and I ran my hand over his tummy. I can feel (and see) the borders of the tumour now it is so big and hard. He is becoming jaundiced and has started some very weird behaviours. He walks outside and stands there and barks - he doesn't normally do this, it has just started in the last week. He also charged and snapped at another dog at the park yesterday - now admittedly the dog was trying to take the toy out of his mouth, but Fraser went on the attack and kept chasing for a good 10 metres! My sweet boy doesn't do that! Growl or snap maybe, but not charge! The number of times in the past he has just let another dog take the toy straight from him is unbelievable, for him to do this now is not right.

And yet at the same time he was so sweet this morning, stood for 5 minutes just so I would keep rubbing the side of his neck. He clearly doesn't want me to go to work in the morning, follows me everywhere and tries to stand on my feet to keep me in place. He's always followed me, but this is extra clingy. I don't know if it's because he knows I am so upset or what, but things are changing. When his energy is up he will jump on me to demand being taken out for a walk. It has been really stormy here in the last week so he missed a couple of days walks.

I guess I am thinking that by doing it in the holidays it will give me a little bit of time to stay with Oz. I don't know what to do with him though? Do I take him with me to the vet so he knows Fraser is gone or does Fraser just disappear and not come home? If I take him though, will that just traumatise him on going to the vet in future? Do I see if the vet can come to my house? But I don't know If I can handle seeing him then being taken away. I've had this before and seeing my baby being placed into a bag would destroy me.

I haven't spoken to my vet yet, every time I even let myself think of it I breakdown in tears, I don't want to lose him but I know there is no choice. I would rather him not feel worse and still have some joy in his days than to see him suffer any more than he is. What do I do? Not to mention I am crying around him so much that I don't want him to become anxious as well. I try not to but it's too hard, as you would all know.

Oscar is booked in for a haircut with his cousin Gracie on friday next week. The only thing I know is that I don't want to do it before then as Oz will be grieving too and I don't then want to have to leave him somewhere for hours. Though he loves his groomer and Gracie, I still think it would be too hard for him, but then I don't know what to do with him when it's time. When I have to go back to work after the holidays (2 weeks) I will be taking him to my sister's house and leaving him for the day with Gracie. He stays there fairly often if I have concerts, or when I went to Singapore for example so he is as comfortable there as he is at home, and he loves them too so he won't be by himself during the days, but it will still be a change for him. He is an independent little boy, but 13.5 years is a long time, he has never been without Fraser. (Fraser is 6 months older than Oz) I just hope he will settle with Gracie during the day.

At this point any advice is appreciated, how do I handle this for Ozzie?

[Squirt's Mom]

aw, Naomi, my heart is breaking for you all. :( I know where you are and it is a very tough place. I can share our experiences with our Ruby when it came her time.

She had been sick for a while and the vets could find nothing wrong, but she continued to decline. The time came when we knew it was unfair to keep her and we made "the decision" to take her in to the vet. We invited family and friends over to spend some time with her during those last days. We fed her any and everything she wanted and as much as she would take. We sat with her for hours on end, talking to her, grooming her, just touching her. We made sure our other babies got to spend time with Rube during these days and on "that day" we brought them all in for one final visit.

We brought her body home and lay her in the garage. Then we brought the other babies in to see her and we once again caressed her soft fur. It seemed to help the other babies to see her after she was gone and to watch the burial. Crys seemed to miss her most but didn't mope long - she seemed to understand.

My thoughts and prayers are with you during this most heart-wrenching time. Enjoy your sweet boy all you can, make memories you both can cherish til you meet again, and know you are guided by your love for Fraser. For only a love like yours could cause such pain.

Hugs,
Leslie and the gang

[goldengirl88]

Naomi:
I read your post , I feel so bad you are in this position. It would seem for most of us on here we will walk in your shoes one day. I cannot imagine the thoughts racing through your mind. It is a terrible position to be in, but who would do such a brave deed but one of us? My heart aches for you, and I will be praying that whatever you decide you will be at peace with. God Bless You and your dear baby. Blessings
Patti

[SoggyDoggy]

Thanks Leslie, ideas help. I think Oz does need to know, but I don't know how go handle it. I will have Fraser cremated, not buried so don't know yet what I'll do, but that helps, thankyou.

In the meantime I just added a couple of pics I took on Monday for his birthday. Looking over his other ones, I can see the changes in his face, even his nose looks skinnier, but he still has those eyes that drill into me. He was also very tired when I took those photos, he had been playing hard with his toy at the park for nearly an hour (as in sitting on my lap while munching his toy and playing bouts of tug), brand new toy that he gutted with great delight. I don't know who taught him that, Gracie or Flynn! (Yes Trish! Your boy is long distancing his bad habits)

That's what makes this hard, he has so much spunk still, yet I know he feels awful. I came home yesterday to find him dry heaving in the backyard, no midday meds when I'm at work, I try to rush home soon as I can so he doesn't go too long without, but even then they wear off faster than I get home. The meds take roughly 45 minutes to kick in after which he is obviously feeling better, but two weeks ago we were getting away with 2 a day, now we are at 3-4 a day. It's getting worse. That's why I know he can't keep going, I don't want him to have to feel like that, and he doesn't get the energy spike that he did with them in those first few days either. His system is obviously just working too hard now.

Anyhow, I also added another pic, this one of cousin Gracie. She loves eating rice. I always smile when I see that pic. It was about 8 months ago but I thought some might get a chuckle out of it. Sometimes we just need to smile.

[molly muffin]

I can see what you mean Naomi. When I put the pictures side by side, you can tell a difference in Frasier. I was just thinking that I am so glad you had the pictures done when you did. That was a good call.

My heart just breaks though to hear of Frasier's decline. He is such a fighter, that it just makes it harder to realize that there are decisions that will have to be made.

I don't know how one goes about that final good bye because of Oscar mainly. With my Tasha, we took her to the vet and I stared into her eyes and rubbed her ears till after the final breath was taken and then I cried, but I didn't while she was still with us, because I didn't want to upset her or her last thoughts to be worry for me. I know that sounds strange, but she was golden and thought her job was to protect the world and worry about it.

Hopefully Oscar, hanging out with Gracie will be okay for him. It is being home that will be hard I think. Not just for Oscar but for you as well. There is no good way to really prepare I guess. Maybe how Leslie did it, but it still breaks your heart to even think on it.

I hate that this time is coming quicker than you or anyone can possibly be prepared for. You just do the best you can Naomi. Spending time with him is the greatest gift of all and I'm glad you're going to have a some time off work coming up.

Happy Birthday Frasier! Have a belly rub from Molly and me.

hugs,
Sharlene and Molly Muffin

[Harley PoMMom]

Oh Naomi,

My heart is breaking with yours. I had the same dilemma as you, didn't quite know how to let my Bear know that Harley would be passing. I decided to cut some of Harley's hair off and let Bear sniff it and then he watched me put the hair in a small box. I really don't know if that helped Bear realize that Harley was gone but I hope it had.

Sending you tons of loving and comforting hugs, Lori

Happy Birthday, Fraser!!

[Budsters Mom]

Happy Birthday Frasier! I am so glad that he made it to his birthday.
My heart breaks for you Naomi. Yes, it will be hard for Ozzie to understand, but you'll both get through it together. Your boys are blessed to be adored and cared for by you. Sending tons of hugs and love your way. Xxxxx

[Concernedmom]

Naomi I haven't posted to you before but I was reading a little bit about your story with Fraser and it broke my heart. I am so very sorry you have to go through this. I don't know if this will help or not but when it was time for my dogs to cross over I wanted them to be at home with the other dogs. It didn't work out that way though. 2 were able to pass at home and 2 we had to take to the vets. They all passed in their beds with their favorite blanket which they were cremated in. Even though we had to change our plans and go to the vets office we took the other dog with us to say the final goodbye. I've had 4 deaths so far and you will know what you want to do when the time comes. I've read it is a good thing for the companion to smell the dog when they have died. I don't know if it helped mine to do that but I was really glad they were there at the time of death. I hope you get the strength you need to make the best decision for you, Fraser, and Oscar

[molly muffin]

I was just remembering others who have had the vets come to their homes, in the back yard or some place they were happy and comfortable at and that way didn't have to do the trip into the vets office.

I don't know if your vet would do that but it might be worth checking out.

hugs,
Sharlene and Molly Muffin

[addy]

Oh Naomi, my heart breaks in two reading your post. It is so hard to know what to do. I do remember reading a book by Patricia McConnell or some dog trainer. She always helped her dogs cross at home and then allow her other dogs closure by being able to be there and smell their dear friend. But words written in books are sometimes not the real world for some of us who's emotions run so deep and perhaps it is not something we can bear to go through and that is okay too. I understand when you say you don't want to see Fraser put in a bag but sometimes compassionate vets will carry them from the home and do that part outside away from you.
It is what I have planned for Zoe, if I am able to give her that but sometimes plans change.

We follow our hearts through our journeys and our hearts will guide us at the end even though they are broken.

Sending love and prayers and strength from across the ocean and please know how much we all care for you and Fraser and Oz.

Follow your heart, dear Naomi as you always have.

[apollo6]

Dear Naomi
My heart breaks for you. I am angel Apollo's mom, He died in my arms a month before his 14Th birthday last year, in September. NO one can tell you what to do. I can only share my experience. I talked to Apollo the month before he died and asked if he wanted to go and said how much I loved him. I knew things were not right with his intestines, we went to the vet and he said Apollo was dying and just take him home and love and care for him. We took the weekend to go to all the places we went to with him often knowing it was the last time. It was like he knew , he was so proud and strong for us that weekend. things got worse, he stopped eating, so I knew he was giving up. I could not make that decision, Apollo made it for me. But during that month, I looked into my options and got prepared. I would have had it at home if I had to do it. I did not want him to be in a strange place. I had him cremated because I have no place to bury him. We had a little memorial for him before he was cremated to honor him. I asked for lockets of his fur, which I have in a locket around my neck. I also had his paw print done. Talk to Fraser, he will let you know when it is time. You will do the right thing, he knows it. I prayed every day before he died hoping for a miracle, but that was not to be. We are here for you. You don't have to do this alone. Just for today Frasier is here. Treasure each day you still have with him. He is such an angel.
Hugs Sonja and Angel Apollo

[frijole]

Naomi, My heart breaks for you. My Annie had a tough time when Haley passed and I sat with her and had a long talk. I don't know if it helped her but it helped me a bit. It's so hard. You will do what is best I am confident. We'll be thinking of you and sending you strength. Kim

[doxiesrock912]

Naomi,
I'm crying as I type this. You will know what to do. I agree that having this done in Fraser's favorite spot with Oscar with you sounds so peaceful and having Oscar there might help you as well. We all know that humans tend to underestimate or furlets.

I believe that having Oscar there would help him too and he won't be wondering where Fraser went.

Prayers and comfort for all of you.

[Budsters Mom]

Dear Naomi,
I will do my best to put my thoughts into words for you. I am doing this through tears, so please bear with me. As you know, I released Buddy a few months ago. That is something that no one should ever have to do. I was where you are now and it's a crappy place to be. Buddy let me know when he was in pain. Releasing our babies is the ultimate act of love. We take on their pain knowing that we will never be the same again. You will know when the time is right. Frazier will let you know. As for Ozzie, do what you feel is right at the time. Try not to overthink it, just go with your gut and you can't go wrong.

Sending you tons of love and strength. We are with you. You are never alone. Please keep talking. Knowing that the angels were with me and I wasn't ever truly alone, helped me get through a couple of really tough weeks. We are here for you too. Xxxxxxx

[Squirt's Mom]

Thinking of you, Fraser and Ozzie this morning.
Hugs,
Leslie and the gang

[goldengirl88]

Naomi:
Just wanted to let you know I m praying for you and your baby. Blessings
Patti

[Trish]

Well this just sucks. I wish I had some words of wisdom that will help you at this time. All that keeps going through my head is how lucky Fraser and Oz are to have you in their life. They struck the lottery the day you decided to bring them home Naomi. It's school holidays here too, so glad you have some time to spend with your boys right now before you have to make the decision none of us wants to make.

Re Oz, I only know how Flynn reacted when I had to put the cats to sleep. He had been with them his whole life too, when the time came I did not take him to the vet while they were put to sleep but when I brought them home to be laid to rest in our pet cemetery at Mum and Dad's where all our cats are buried I showed him them. He gave them a good sniff over then horrified us by going over and helping Dad dig the grave :eek::eek:, he must have thought the digging looked a bit of fun! From what I could tell he did not pine for them, he was particularly close to our Nala too. Maybe it is different with a cat sister and brother then it would be if it was another dog. But he did not seem to miss them, I thought it a bit heartless to be honest but then reminded myself not to put human emotions onto him! Oz is lucky to have your sister and Gracie to go to during the day, he won't be alone so that is good.

I think Fraser is entitled to feel a little crotchety if some other dog takes his toy! He still feeling up to telling that dog to back up stinker that's MINE! That makes me smile, good on ya Fraser!

Big hugs for you Naomi and for the sweetie boys too xxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

[mcdavis]

Naomi,
I'm so terribly sorry that you are facing this decision. As Kathy says it takes immense love and courage to make the decision to say goodbye. I can't help with how to make it easier for Ozzie but suggest you talk to your vet and discuss some of the suggestions others have made.
Thinking of you all

[goldengirl88]

Naomi:
Just thinking and praying for you and your baby. Blessings
Patti

[SoggyDoggy]

An update.

I had to take Oscar in to the vet on thursday last week for his Cartophen shot and to get some antibiotics for a recurring skin infection on his feet. I spoke to them then about what to do with Frazy.

We are going in tomorrow. It is time. He woke me up at 4am this morning outside dry heaving again, the maxalon is wearing off faster now and I have to make sure it happens religiously every 6 hours or he feels it. I think perhaps that if my vet had been working today, I possibly would have even taken him in today. I wanted to spend some time with him when I was on holidays, I've now been home with him for 2.5 days straight and have promised him that I wouldn't leave him. Even now he follows me from room to room, he won't let me out of his sight for more than a minute. If I don't come back fast enough he comes looking.

We are still going for daily walks but I think he has stopped asking to go now, it's hard to tell when I'm around all the time, he gets worn out following me to the point I have to make sure I sit in one place and don't move for hours just so he gets enough sleep. As a result, I've been catching up on a few books to read. But he still wags his tail at me and is happy to go out, I even bought him a new toy again yesterday, we had a short game of tug but it didn't last too long.

So we are going to the vet tomorrow. I don't know what time, I have to ring in the morning as the vet that I want to do it has blocked the day off for no appointments for some reason, we don't know why until she is there (she owns the practice). I am sure she will accommodate us, just don't know when. I am taking Oz with me on vet advice, everything I have read suggests it is a good thing so that he will know what has happened, but it's going to be damned hard, that's for sure. My mum is taking us, she wanted to be a part of it as she had Fraser for the first 5 years of his life, originally when I was still living at home, and then when I worked in the country and would come home at weekends. He still resumes his normal position whenever he goes to her place even now, curled up against her stomach lying on the couch. Only he doesn't last there very long any more, it is too uncomfortable for him, he prefers to sleep with his torso draped over a pillow. I think it takes some pressure off his lungs as the weight of the tumor is then underneath.

I am trying to stay strong. While I know tomorrow is going to be devastatingly hard, in some ways last week was worse. I think that's when it really hit me. I am trying as hard as I can not to cry around him or to be upset, but you would all know how hard that can be, sometimes you just can't.

I've been watching some videos I took of him at the river in January this year. He has changed so much since then. He was so spritely and looked so healthy (even though at the time we were dealing with the medications of cushings, which I still don't know if that was accurate of not - the tumor had obviously been there a good long while and he reacted so strongly to the doses). He is now still my beautiful boy but he has withered to almost nothing. It's time to let him rest, he is telling me this now too, I saw it properly for the first time last night, it was in his eyes. He has always tried so hard to please me, I can tell that's what he is still doing, so now I have to try and please him and let him rest. And yet knowing this doesn't make letting go any easier does it? He is my first child, he always will be. I wanted an extra week, but I can't do that to him, it's not about me.

So I expect that tomorrow night, my Spunky Bum will be at the rainbow bridge hassling all the girls once more and looking as handsome as he ever was.

[molly muffin]

Oh Naomi. My heart breaks for you and your mom and Frasier and Oscar. It is so hard to see them fading from what they were just not that long ago that he seemed to be doing so well.

We will all be thinking of you and keeping you close in our hearts tomorrow.

hugs,
Sharlene and Molly Muffin

[Budsters Mom]

Naomi,
Buddy told me when he was ready to go with his eyes too. It was a pleading look that I will never forget. :o You are absolutely right. It is not about us, it is about them. We are the ones left to pick up the pieces which makes it all so hard. I will be with you tomorrow in spirit. Sending you tons of love and strength. Xxxxx

[doxiesrock912]

Naomi,
I'm so sorry that you have to go through this, we will be with you tomorrow in spirit even though it can't be in person.

As difficult as tomorrow will be, you are doing what is best to help Frasier. God bless you for recognizing the signs that it's time.

[Trish]

Awwww I am going to really miss you Fraser, your stories and zest for life have always made me laugh and smile many a time.

I am so pleased even through all of his illness he has enjoyed a damn fine doggy life and has got out and about and enjoyed his days even when he was feeling yucky. Your a star Naomi always so sensible and putting him first all the way. I don't want to get all sad and maudlin as I know that is not your style, so I am going to spend tonight and tomorrow celebrating Fraser's life and send him off to the rainbow bridge with some advice:
1. You will get to chase all the pretty girly dogs you like sweet :)
2. I know it is hard to believe but the food up there is going to be as good as your Mum's :)
3. You won't have to put up with your Mum washing and brushing you any more, you can swim in all the rivers and your hair will Never get messed up or sandy! :)
4. Find a nice comfy spot to call home in amongst all your new friends and keep it ready because we will all be there one day to join you and you know we will need lots of room :)
5. Now your a smart boy, so find a way to send your Mum and Oz a message so they do not worry about you.
6. Most of all you relax and rest easy after a life well lived!

I hate that it is your time to leave us Spunky bum because you will be missed so much but we will take care of your Mum as long as she needs us xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

[Tina]

Dear Naomi,
I am so sad to read the latest about Fraser. My heart is breaking for you, as I know how difficult this will be. Memories of my precious Angel Dakota come rushing back as I read your words about Fraser. She was my first child also, so I can relate to your feelings. You are a wonderful Mom and have given him a wonderful life. You have been so strong throughout everything, I wish I could be more like that. You and your special boy will be in my thoughts and in my heart tomorrow. And we will be here for you whenever you need us. Sending lots of love.

Huge hugs,
Tina xo

[labblab]

Oh Naomi,

My heart is with you and with your dear boy. Sending you all my hopes for comfort as you send Fraser off to join all his mates eagerly awaiting him.

With many hugs from across the miles,
Marianne

[Squirt's Mom]

Oh, Naomi, you are such a good mom. Fraser is so very lucky to have you. You "hear" him and you will honor his wishes in spite of the incredible pain it will cause - that is the definition of love...that we take their pain onto ourselves so they no longer have to bear it. And taking Oz with you is a good idea for all. Your love and courage is evident in every key stroke and that will show to Oz as well, helping him with this transition.

My guess is this is one of the most difficult decisions, and steps, you have ever had to make, sweetie. We are surrounding you, and your Mom, with our love, strength, and hope. You are not alone as you walk this Valley.

Many hugs,
Leslie and the gang

[Squirt's Mom]

Love’s Final Gift
By Cheryl Goede

I know it is hard on you, there are no words that can describe
the piercing sorrow which does not lessen with time.

When you had to bring me with you, on that last car ride to make,
all the while knowing the course of action you needed to take.

I know you feel guilty, I feel your sorrow, it’s true,
I could always sense your each and every mood.

When they called my name I knew that your heart was breaking,
you carried me to the room…getting closer to my new awakening.

The friendly doctor I know gave me treats and spoke low,
he was giving you the time that you needed to let me go.

All left the room, and you gathered me close,
as you wondered how you could do this for me when you needed me the most.

I tried to convey, my last wishes to you,
I looked into your eyes with all the love you are used to,

Mom and Dad, this earthly body has served me well,
but the time has come for us to part, to no longer dwell.

You understood the signal, and knew it was time for me to go,
but before I leave there is just one more thing you should know.

I will look out for you, each day I will guide,
my spirit in some way will always be nearby.

Before I make it to the Bridge to stay,
I will return the love tenfold in hopes for my debts to be paid.

For when that new pup or dog will enter your world,
a new love will blossom and slowly unfurl.

I hope you realize that new dog is Love’s Final Gift,
sent from me, your baby girl.

That new dog was chosen by me, to lessen your pain,
like the gentle warmth of the sunshine after the rain.

When you hear him bark, it’s my bark too,
when he cuddles you close, it’s what I would do.

So open your heart when the time comes to see,
that the love he gives comes also from me.

Take comfort, hug him, and reminisce
as he gives his love freely in the form of a dear doggy kiss.

It’s what I would do, if I still could,
and what you would want that is understood.

But the time has come to let me go,
to make that unselfish choice, even though tears will flow.

Hold me, cherish me, until my last breath,
but please don’t look at this as my death,

Someday we will be together again, come close for one last kiss,
I know this it true, as it is my soul’s last earthbound wish.

Now I can feel my spirit floating it is traveling high,
as though I were a cloud in the endless blue sky.

Please find peace, you have honored my life with this,
For I have been reborn through your Love’s Final Gift.

[goldengirl88]

Naomi:
My heart is breaking for you. No one should have to make this decision about their beloved pet. This disease has no boundaries, and is relentless at taking lives of our beloved babies. There is nothing anyone can say to change things, but know I am praying for you both. Blessings
Patti

[Budsters Mom]

Dear Sweet Naomi,
Sending you and Ozzie many, many loving hugs as well as my thoughts and prayers. I will miss hearing about Spunky Bum's adventures. Your first boy will live on in your heart forever. We will be here for you for as long as you need us. We most certainly need you because we are family. :p

[SoggyDoggy]

It's done. My gorgeous boy is now at rest, hassling all the girls, swimming and destroying all the new toys he can get his teeth around. He will be forever loved and forever missed.

Oz is very depressed, he knew what was happening and has since retreated to his bed. I just hope he will be ok too. Fraser was really bright this morning, the brightest he has been for a while. He ate all his breakfast and greeted my mum with waggy tail. In some ways I am glad, in others that made it harder. He gave me lots of kisses though so we had that one last special morning.

I just wanted to let you all know.

Be good my little boy, I will always love you.

[doxiesrock912]

Naomi,

I'm crying as I read this. I am so sorry but am glad that you had a wonderful day with Frasier. Give Oz LOTS of attention, he needs it. They definitely feel the loss too.

Hugs.

[Budsters Mom]

Hi Naomi,
It us almost midnight here. You have been on my mind all day. I thought I would check on you once more before heading off to bed.
Thank you for updating us on your precious boy. He has now joined the rest of our fur angels, including mine, at the rainbow bridge. They have his back now and we have yours.

I'm glad that you had a such a kissy, special morning with Fraser.

Give Ozzie some time. He needs time to process all that has happened. I'm so glad that you are on break and can be home with him now. He loves you so much! You will get through this together.

Sending you love, comfort, strength and understanding. Xxxxxx

[Trish]

Hi Naomi

You and your boy were bought together for a reason and that is something you must hold close to your heart in this truly sad time. You guys have had an amazing life together and this last unselfish act and your outstanding care of him while he has been sick shows the true love and friendship you were lucky enough to share with Fraser... he was showing you he was ready this morning, he was such a small boy but with such a huge heart :) I will miss him.

Kia Kaha Naomi, much love and a big cuddle for Oz xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

[Squirt's Mom]

Fly free, sweet Fraser, fly free. You are so loved, dear boy, and will be missed by many.

Much love and many hugs to you, dear Naomi. We are here anytime should you need to talk.
Hugs,
Leslie and the gang

[goldengirl88]

Naomi:
I am praying for you and sweet Frazier. God Bless you both
patti

[mytil]

Oh dearest Naomi,

I am truly sorry to hear this. My heart is truly breaking with you. We are all here for you. Fraser touched us all.

Sending tons of healing (((((hugs)))))
Terry

[Bo's Mom]

RIP Sweet Fraser...you will be missed by us all and we will forever remember you.

[addy]

The last gift we can give and it breaks our hearts.

I am so sorry.

[Harley PoMMom]

Oh Naomi,

I am so terribly sorry for your loss of dear Fraser, and my heart is breaking with yours. Loving them is so easy but losing them is so very hard. My thoughts and prayers are with you and sweet Oz. We are here for you, dear Naomi, and we love you.

With Heartfelt Sympathy,
Lori

[Roxee's Dad]

Dear Naomi,
I am so very sorry as my heart breaks with yours. Hold his memories close to your heart as will we.

Rest in Peace Sweet Fraser, tonight you are our newest and brightest star in the sky...

[BestBuddy]

Dear Naomi,

So sorry to hear Fraser has passed. I am so glad you got to spend that special time with him so you have some happy memories that hopefully will be what you remember after the pain has passed.

Jenny

[molly muffin]

Naomi :( HUGS Holding you close in our hearts. You and Oz have each other and of course he has the whole family that I am sure will be rallying around you both.
I am so sorry that it all came much too soon.
Sharlene

[scoora]

Naomi, I am so sorry to hear of the loss of your sweet boy Fraser. My thoughts and prayers are with you.

[Trixie]

It's so sad to read the news about Fraser..I'm sorry you have lost your sweet boy.

Barbara

[Sabre's Mum]

Naomi.

I am so sorry for your loss. Hugs from across the Tasman.

Angela

[spdd]

I'm so sorry to hear about Fraser. It's an unselfish act to let them have peace, and yet so very hard on us.

Please take some comfort in knowing we all care and share your sorrow.

My heart goes out to you.

[goldengirl88]

Naomi:
May God bring you comfort as you travel on this sad journey. Blessings
Patti

[SoggyDoggy]

Thanks everyone for the well wishes. It's been a very hard few days, to be expected. I took him in on Tuesday (which was by far the hardest thing I have ever done), Wednesday was sort of ok I guess, a few breakdowns but not too bad, but thursday was awful. I had to go back to the vet to finalise Fraser's arrangements, i.e. cremation etc. I spent most of the day in tears, but it was like the final goodbye. Yesterday not too bad, this morning not too bad. I still get teary when thinking of him, but I have to keep up the brave face for Oz too. He gets upset when I do.

Yesterday morning he was obviously missing Fraser. I had to give him a bath to go to the groomers, afterwards I was washing all the bedding, dog blankets etc. That was hard, but I have left one blanket with Fraser smell still on it. Going to be a while before I wash that one I think. Anyway, while I was doing this, Oz was lying on the one spot on my bedroom floor where Fraser always lay. He's done the same in the family room too, was rolling on the floor in that same one spot.

Last time I was at the groomers and booked appointments, I made sure that the rest of his appointments for this financial year are booked in with his cousin Gracie (Fraser's fur wasn't growing any more so hadn't booked him in anyway). Yesterday he apparently demanded to be on the bench next to her (my sister dropped them both off). As soon as he was next to her he was ok. I guess he is feeling all these "firsts" too, that's the hardest part. The first time you do something that would normally include Fraser, that's when you feel it.

I guess it is getting a little easier, I have known this was coming for quite sometime, a week beforehand especially, so in some ways it feels like I have been grieving for him for a while now. I miss him terribly, but I have his photos around on the walls to comfort me, and find myself looking at them heaps. Lots of people say to pack their stuff up and put it away, yet I find that looking at his photos helps me. I had to pack up his toys yesterday (filled 2 archives boxes of them). That was really hard, but I ended up staring at his photo through a lot of it and even managed to throw some away (they were too chewed up and manky to be of any use to anyone). That was hard for Oz too, he took himself outside around the back of the house for a while, but I think getting out yesterday and spending hours with Gracie helped him too.

So I guess Ozzie and I are doing ok for now, considering. As usual, it's just a day at a time. We'll be ok I know, we just have to find our groove again, and only time will help that.

[Budsters Mom]

Naomi,
What a great mom you are. I am so glad Oz has you. You will get through this together. We love them so much as they are our children. Sending you both love, strength and healing energy. I lit a candle for Buddy the other day and I asked him to show Frasier all the best stuff up there. Our fur angels are happy and there together, until we meet up with them again. Xxxxx

[Trish]

Hi Naomi

SO lovely to see you :):)

Poor little Oz, feeling for him and YOU of course. All those firsts for you both do suck... he is so sweet trying to feel close to his brother. Pleased he has Gracie to stick close to now for doggie comfort.

You sound like you are hanging in there pretty good, I think you are very right about the time working yourself up to it can be just as horrid if not worse.

What you up to for the weekend, any plans? Temps warming up here slowly, lovely day today.

xxxxx

[SoggyDoggy]

Hey Trish, no major plans, 9.45am here and still in bed (this is not unusual for a weekend btw). Been awake for hours but just surfing around here and on the net, it is my morning bludge time.

Rest of the day I will probably spend doing housework and gardening (in between the rain anyway), I have let it all go pretty bad over the last couple of months. Fraser used to follow me everywhere but would get so tired that I would just have to stop and be still for multiple hours just so he could rest. No excuses anymore, Oz just takes himself off for a sleep, he is much more independent that way.

So on that note, it's time I go dig my socks out of the garden. Fraser's last gift to me - he always buried my socks if I left them on the floor, I'm missing a heap at the moment so no doubt there will be tears in the garden today as I find all the gifts he left me. It was like a game, he would see how many he could steal between digs and then would follow me looking very repentant as I dug them all up, meanwhile trying to steal more to go bury. He only ever did it while I wasn't home though, it was kind of like his revenge. He was a funny boy, but it was our ritual, it had been going on since he was a puppy. One time, I obviously hadn't left any socks for him to find, so he stole a teatowel from the kitchen instead. After that I always made sure he had at least one sock to get. Rather then socks than the tea towels!

Im off now, take care and catch up again soon.

[Trish]

Well you are setting a good example for me, I just bought tomato plants so I shall join you in the garden this sunny afternoon!

That Fraser was such a funny dog, such a personality and I love how you make it shine through when you write about him so keep it up as I love hearing his stories! Scarf round the neck will mop up any tears and can be used to keep the rain off too... happy digging Naomi and let us know what Fraser left for you to find, watch out for spiders too! xx

[molly muffin]

"First" seem like the hardest, when it just hits you. Grief is like a tide, it comes in and then it backs out, but then it comes back in. Sometimes it will feel stronger than others and just wash over you, others it will just gently lap at your toes.

I am sure the garden will be bittersweet today. I hope Frasier left you lots of pressies. Maybe you don't need to find them all today though. :)

Sending you big hugs and Oscar some belly rubs.
love
Sharlene and Molly Muffin

[spdd]

Love the stories of the buried socks. It is really wonderful.

I know if it was me, it would bring a smile to my face probably along with the tears. It's a great memory.

Thinking about you today as you uncover the presents Fraser left. As I wrote that last sentence the tears welled up in my eyes. I think it's a precious reminder, and memory.

[SoggyDoggy]

Well I found a LOT of socks, apparently I haven't done a dig for a while and he was a busy boy, no wonder he always wanted a rest when I got home. There is still at least one sock that I know of missing, so it is obviously buried deep, deeper than I could find and will now stay there for ever and ever. Maybe one day when I'm gardening again it might appear and I can have another smile over it. There could be more, who knows, until I have washed them all and go to match them up again I won't ever know, but as usual his favourites must have been the new ones, the majority I found were only ever worn once, no wonder I couldn't find any socks!

Anyway, we've had a pretty good day today, a few tears when my niece drew a picture and asked me to leave it for Fraser. For a 5 year old she is pretty cluey. Such a precious boy he was, and if burying socks was the worst it ever got, no wonder I used to spoil him so rotten. Blessed doesn't cover it.

[labblab]

Oh Naomi, your tale about Fraser and your socks brings tears to my eyes. What a dear scamp!! Our Peg has a special daily ritual that she plays with her dad. Every morning he drops a special, unraveling crocheted "footie" on the floor of our closet (one of the "used" footies crocheted by his mom -- I wrote you a little note about them earlier from our gmailbox). Peg thinks she is SOOOO sly by grabbing the footie and proudly parading around the house until she "lets" us catch her and give her love in exchange for the footie. Every morning the ritual is the same, and I cannot bear to even think about the first morning when the ritual ceases. I dearly hope you find that last sock at a time when you need it most, and that it boosts both your heart and spirit in just the way that Fraser intended.

Marianne

[Trish]

Hi Naomi

How's the holiday going, hope you are taking some time to pamper yourself this week and lots of playtime with Oz. So glad you have those lovely pics of the boys, my Mum has actually painted Flynn in water colours on a canvas... well she is in the process of it and has been for the last 3 years at least!! She keeps tinkering with it and won't give it to me until it's just right which at this rate it is never going to be :D she is 79 in a couple of months so I must tell her to get a wriggle on :D:D. He is sitting up the beach in the painting with our bay in the background. I want to get him up on the wall like you have with Fraser and Oz, I like that idea :):), its nice to have them close like that. Thinking of you and hope your doing OK xxxx

[SoggyDoggy]

Hi just checking in, we are doing ok considering. I had to go pick up Razy's ashes on wednesday which was hard as expected but I only used 2 tissues and only needed them when I walked through the vets doors so I guess thats progress. I still miss him horribly of course but it is getting easier. I guess having known for so long it was coming that it is a bit easier in some ways.

I was watching some vids of him from Jan and Feb this year the other day, he really had deteriorated severely, the tumour was horribly aggressive and it ate away at him. It was time, but it was still too soon. I'm just so glad that I took those videos and have such beautiful photos to hold on to forever. Mum said I should take them down as I wold bawl every time I see them, but they are a comfort, his gorgeous eyes staring at me from every room, how could I take them down?

Oz hangs out for his walks each day, that is when he is happiest, even though I make him wear his socks again - his foot infection came back a while ago and he has been on antibiotics for a few weeks again now. I'm going to buy and try a colloidal silver spray for him, I've read so many positive things it is worth a try, anything to avoid more antibiotic repeats.

So that's where we are at the moment, still a day at a time but it's getting a little easier. I can at least reminisce about him with family without too many tears now. But going back to work next week is going to be hard for sure. "Did you have a good holiday?" "No."

[doxiesrock912]

Naomi,
I am laughing about the socks :-)
That's great! Maybe Frasier is saving the one remaining sock for when you meet in Heaven?

Wonderful idea to save one item that has Frasier's smell for Oz. I'm sure that is the reason why he's laying where Frazier used to. It surely gives him comfort to smell him.

[molly muffin]

One day at a time is all any of us can do. Hugs Naomi.

Sharlene and Molly Muffin

[Budsters Mom]

Hi Naomi,
Sending you and sweet Ozzie tons of love and healing hugs. We are all blessed to have had Fraser in our lives through you. I miss him too! Xxxx

[Trish]

Hi Naomi

I have to laugh as I keep imagining that US TV show Frasier when I see people do typo's on Fraser's name!! I loved that show and it always made me giggle :D:D My niece's partner is named Fraser too, so I always think of your sweet boy when I catch up with them.

For sure keep the photo's up so you can see him, all my screensavers and backgrounds on lappy, phone etc are of Flynn too, but no pics on the wall of him, I must remedy that at some stage! So pleased Fraser is home with you guys again, sad thing to have to go back to the vets for that though. Your doing great Naomi, if it was me I would not say anything at work. Sometimes when I am on the verge of tears it only takes someone to say something kind and the floodgates open. So avoidance is my tactic there :p xx

[Tina]

Naomi,
Reading about Fraser and your socks brought tears to my eyes too. What a sweet little rascal. Thinking of you and Oz, and sending love and big hugs.

Tina and Jasper xo

[Trish]

HI Naomi

Another week has flown by and I am sitting here hoping that you are doing OK. I now have a week off to do all those jobs that seem to not get done during the short weekends!! Hope your hanging in there and Oz is doing ok too xxxx

[Boriss McCall]

Hi Naomi,
I have been away from the forum for a bit. I just wanted to let you know I was thinking about you. I know it was a hard decision you had to make for sweet Fraser. :(

I hope Oz is starting to feel better & giving mama lots of love.
hugs..

[mcdavis]

Naomi,
I am so terribly sorry to read the sad news about Fraser. He was a truly amazing dog and how wonderful that he left the socks for you.
I too have photos and screensavers of Hamish - I hope that when you look at them they remind you of the many happy times you spent together.
You and Oz are in my thoughts

[SoggyDoggy]

Hi everybody, thanks so much for the well wishes, we are actually doing remarkably ok. With all the photos I have of the gorgeous boy, his photos on my wallpaper for phone and ipad, and now saved as my computer desktop too, I always have him close to me. Every time I look at his pic I remember something about him, I can now talk about him with just a catch in my voice rather than a full breakdown and can talk about memories etc with some laughs. He was a beautiful boy and will always be loved.

My dad made a customised box for his ashes with his name etched into the front as well and then sealed and varnished it so it can't be opened. That way I know he is always safe and he sits underneath his photo. Every now and then I'll hold the box and stare at him but it's gotten a lot easier.

I guess because I knew so far in advance that there was just nothing I could do for him to make it better, and nothing that I would subject him to that would make him suffer more, that the grieving process started a long time ago, possibly even 8 months ago I guess when I knew he was on the downhill path. While I miss him terribly and always will, it doesn't hurt as much anymore. I understand people now when they say there is that sense of relief that comes with terminal patients knowing they are no longer suffering. While I still wish I hadn't had to make that decision, I'm glad that I got to say goodbye, that I was with him at the end and that I had had a few days before to spend solely without leaving him at any time. In those last few days, he came everywhere with me or I stayed home. I promised him I wouldn't leave and I didn't. We had our time together and it was special, and I'll always know that he left me those socks to find one day :p

Ozzie is also doing pretty well too now. He is thrilled to get out and go for his walk every day. He did put on a little bit of weight but is self regulating again and loosing it now so he is returning to his beautiful trim form. He is pretty happy on a day to day basis, and when I think we both need it, I pull out Fraser's red tartan jacket to hug and smell. It hangs very carefully in my closet where it is safe from the rest of the family dogs during visits.

I took Oz back to the vet for the first time yesterday (to get some anti inflammatories for his knee - arthritis has set in 12 months post cruciate surgery) and he did well. He was very nervous and unsure to start with but with lots of cuddles and reassurance he was ok. He even ate the liver treat, so that's good.

All in all, three and a half weeks seems like a lifetime ago, but he is still with me every day. I swear sometimes I can hear him grumping at me as he did, and I'm positive he was digging for his ball in the car the other day! I had to turn around to see what was going on! So I know he is with me still and he is watching us both and taking care of us both. Knowing that I keep moving forward and know that it will continue to get a little bit easier each day, but I can smile at the memories now and laugh at what a fool he could be, rather than fall apart at the first thought. He will always remain my beautiful Soggy Doggy!

[addy]

Oh Naomi, we all love Soggy Dogdy too.

Hugs to you and Oz and I am glad you are holding on and I hope Oz has adjusted as well.

Love you both

[Squirt's Mom]

Nice to hear from you, Naomi, and especially nice to hear that you and Oz are doing alright. I'm glad he seems to be adjusting as well as his mom but with her tender loving care, how could he not?! ;)

[molly muffin]

Hi Naomi! I had to have a bit of a cry when I read your post. I know, I'm a mush, it's true. :) It was just very touching. I'm so glad to hear that you and Oz are doing well. I know it is hard some days probably more than others. It's true, you had quite a while to prepare so you are probably further down the road of grieving because of that.

We miss you and I hope that Oz's medicine helps with the arthritis.

hugs,
Sharlene and Molly Muffin

[Trish]

Hi Naomi

I always love to read your posts and I am pleased to hear you and Oz are doing OK, hope the meds help his little knee feel better. Wish I could give Flynn the anti inflammatories but not going to happen with his dodgy liver and kidneys, a shame as they work so well and I am sure they will help with his aches and pains.

Your Dad is a darling making that special box for Fraser, I bet he had tears in his eyes when he was doing it too, knowing how much you all loved and miss him.

Fraser is making sure his presence is still felt, by letting you and no doubt Oz know he is not far away!! Love it :D:D

Have a good weekend, it is Labour weekend here, it was also our province anniversary day on Friday which is why I took the first four days annual leave which gave me a total of 10 off... only 3 to go it is whizzing by!

We are keeping well, Flynn is in pretty good nick all things considered! My sister, niece and I are off around to Mum and Dad's this arvo to clean down their house and clear out the guttering of the autumn leaves so no doubt I will have found some muscles I lost by tonight :D:D xxxxx

[SoggyDoggy]

So finishing off what has been a pretty crappy month all round in my family, I just found out tonight that my Dad's 5yo Mini Poodle has had a malignant sarcoma cut off his neck! The are seeing the oncologist tomorrow so hoping for better result with that, but the position of it is apparently not wonderful, next to lymph nodes and blood vessels.

I think Trish has the right idea, we should all be allowed to ban certain months from the calendar. For me it's October. Wow, started and finished on the world's crappiest notes. At least Ozzie is good, and the NSAID did wonders for his poor knee. He even ran at the park today! That hasn't happened in months, if not years!

[goldengirl88]

Naomi:
Thinking of you and your sweet baby Fraser. Hope you are doing better. Blessings
Patti

[addy]

Naomi, I'm with you let us get rid of October!
I am glad to hear OZ is perky but so sorry to hear about your Dad's pup. Hopefully, it will all work out.

hugs all around:)

[molly muffin]

Oh no, what a crappy thing to have happened, and so young too :(
Hoping that it will be okay and nothing has spread.

Well, we're going to break Trish's bad November and All have a good November this year.

I know what you mean though, some things you wish you could just sleep through, wake up and it's all over.

Great to hear that Oz had a run! Way to go Oz!!!!

hugs,
Sharlene and Molly Muffin

[Trish]

Oh blardy heck!! Poor little poodle pup, hopefully they got it all and nothing more is needed. That is so unfair to happen so soon after Fraser and too young to have a nasty. I am going to cross everything that oncologist is happy they have it all. Pleased Oz is back to full steam though, that is awesome news xx

[doxiesrock912]

Oh no! Praying for the puppy. That is a shock!

I'm so glad that you and Oz are finding your new "normal".

[Trish]

What were the results for your Dad's pup Naomi? Hope there was good news for you all xxx and a pat pat for Oz! :)

[SoggyDoggy]

Got my dates wrong, Dad's appt with K9 oncologist was today. They are running more tests but looking at one of two things apparently - soft tissue Sarcoma or histosarcoma. They said they will keep me in the loop when they know more, but hoping for the first. They think they got clear margins when removing it so here's hoping!

[Squirt's Mom]

I hope he gets a good report, Naomi! Let us know what you learn.
Hugs,
Leslie and the gang

[Trish]

Yay for clear margins! Hoping for good results, your family needs no more doggie tumours right now! How is Oz doing? How are YOU doing? Hopefully work is not to stressful at the moment xxxx

[addy]

We love clear margins:):):):)

I hope you and Oz are okay, Naomi.

I love watching House Hunters International on Saturday night, they go looking for houses in Australia a lot and then I always think of you:)

[SoggyDoggy]

Well we are due for some good news, and looks like we might have it. Got an update from Dad a short while ago, his poodle has/had what appears to be a low grade soft tissue sarcoma, which was removed surgically with clear margins as previously said. Oncologist recommends now a baseline chest x-ray, which if clear is then repeated in 3 months, then 6 then 12. After that he gets the all clear. They aren't expecting anything on the x-ray, its just a baseline to watch if anything spreads.

So after all that, what they thought was a cyst that they got removed cause it was ugly, was the best possible step. Early removal of potential disaster. Score one for vanity!

[addy]

That is good news!!! We never know with these lumps and bumps, boy I learned my lesson with Zoe.

Vanity wins, that is quite okay!!:D:D:D:D

[Trish]

HI Naomi

Sending you a hello! Love to hear how things are with you and Oz. Was the CXR good on your Dad's pup? Hope work is not too hideous, but hey its Friday!!! Yay, that has to be good... xxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

[doxiesrock912]

That's awesome news Naomi!!!!

[Trish]

Hi Naomi

Have not seen you in ages, hope you and Oz are doing OK. Lots of hugs to you both xxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

[spdd]

Hi Naomi.... glad to hear the news about your Dad's dog. Clear margins is something you definitely want to hear.

Glad Oz seems to be doing well too.

[Trish]

Hi Naomi

Was thinking about you just now so here I am to drop you a note and hoping all is well in WA, hope your not going swimming as I heard about another shark attack at a beach south of Perth. Miss having you around but I am hoping you and Oz are doing well. I am sure Fraser is never far from your thoughts and I often think of that tough little boy and smile as he was such a special boy xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx

[SoggyDoggy]

Hi Everyone,
Just stopping by for first time in ages to wish you all a Merry Christmas!

Oz and I are doing really well these days, still miss Frazy like crazy and some days are definitely harder than others, but overall we are good. Ozzie got a new sister a little while ago, Marcie, who is now 4 months old. She is a treasure, super smart and he loves her to bits. If he is not grouching at her to leave him alone (he is nearly 14 after all) he is kissing her all over or gaming her and being very vocal in play. He has perked up considerably with the company and is a very good teacher. I'll post a photo in an album in a bit to show you how cute she is. The only sad part is that I know Fraser would have been jealous as hell of her as she is a snuggle bug too, and he wouldn't have liked that, he was the only one allowed to crawl on my lap for snuggles. It breaks my heart sometimes but she is so sweet I can't help but smile.

On a different note, Dad finally had his boy x-rayed to check for that sarcoma, it did come back all clear so that is great news too. Been nice that there has been a few up points in what has otherwise been a horrible year for us.

Rather than dwell though, as I said, just stopped by to wish everyone a fantastically wonderfully MERRY CHRISTMAS! May all your wishes come true and here's hoping 2014 brings nothing but the best! Take care all.

[doxiesrock912]

Marcie sounds adorable. I'm glad that Oz has taken to her. You never know how older dogs will react. Merry Christmas!

[molly muffin]

Marcie is just as cute as can be. Oz Does seem quite taken with her. Whatan adorable muffin. Belly rubs to them both.

I know it is probably still sad times missing Frazier.

Wishing you all the best for 2014 and a merry christmas
hugs,
Sharlene and Molly muffin

[Trish]

Hi Naomi

How lovely to see you!! So pleased to hear all is going well with you!! Marcie is just the cutest little thing!! Marcie is the same as your sister's dog? I remember you showed me a webpage of them once, she is just adorable and I love she is a snuggly girl. Aww I bet Fraser would have loved her too, how could he not! :D Oz looks fit as a fiddle too, his allergies still playing up? I see he has his socks on the grass! Big YAY for your Dad's dog too, so pleased to hear she has the all clear. :) It has been a hard year for you so it is great it is ending on a happier note.

Poor Flynny has had rough month too, but he seems to be coming right I hope. :)

Merry Christmas Naomi, hope you had a lovely day with the family!! xx

[kaibosmom]

She is so sweet. Merry Christmas.

[Squirt's Mom]

Good to hear from you, Naomi! You are missed, dear! I am so happy to hear about the new baby. :cool::):cool: I'm sure Fraser is happy for you as well...until his lap space is occupied any way. ;):D I can't wait to see sweet Marcie and I am so glad that she and Ozzie are getting along so well. She will help to heal both of your hearts.

Wishing you and yours the very best this Christmas season!
Hugs,
Leslie and the gang

[addy]

Ah Naomi, Sweet Marcie sounds like just the right tonic to heal your hearts. We love them all so much.

[SoggyDoggy]

Hi folks,

Just checking in, it's been a while.

So we passed the 6 month mark on saturday - it's hard to think it has been that long since I lost my gorgeous boy. I still talk to him daily and I have his pictures around me constantly, on my computer, and of course his glamour shots on the walls, but I'm now at the point where I talk about him with family and friends and remember the funny things he did. I never did find that sock in the garden!

I still sometimes wonder whether I held on too long, I look back at the photos I took of him in those last few days and think he just looked so unwell, was it me being selfish to hold on so long? I'll never get the answer to that one I know, but he did still enjoy his walks and give me kisses. The last 6 months of his life were just so fast. He went from being a robust demanding snuggle bug to a frail old man. He lost half his body weight during that time and ended up so skinny and fragile it was heartbreaking, but it was so hard letting go.

Last month I had to de-register him with the local council so I could register Marcie. Poor woman on the phone, I broke down completely. She was lovely though. I thought I was past the crying stage, apparently not. (Actually I'm crying now thinking about it, first time in a while but I just miss him so much still) I think the hard part was that it was the final link. That was the last thing I had to do for him, and as long as I held it off he was still around.

I used to hear him in the car, ruffling around on the back seat when I was driving. He hasn't been around for quite a while now though, I know he has finally moved on, hopefully having great fun with all his friends and chasing his ball, shredding toys etc. If we ever went to someones house for a BBQ or something, he would always demand to sit on my lap. I miss that, we had it sussed so completely, I would sit a certain way and he would drape himself over my legs. Every half hour I would swap legs and he would lie the other way so I could work out the pins and needles in my feet, but as long as he was allowed to sleep there it didn't matter. No one else seemed to get the position just right for him so he always looked to me to be the one - though he did love to share himself around and tried as many people as he could. I miss that too, Oz isn't a lap sitter and Marcie is just plain too big for a lap. She will sit next to, but not on.

She is so different from him it is good. I'm not looking for traits that were his, she is her own self and he remains my beautiful Soggy Doggy, never to be forgotten and completely irreplaceable.

Ozzie is doing brilliantly too. His feet and allergies are still an issue, I don't think that will ever change for him now, but he is healthy as ever, loves to play each night with Marcie and enjoys his snuggle at the park. While the big dogs run around being lunatics, he sits on my lap so I can protect him and make sure he doesn't get bowled over in the process, it's the only time I get a good lap cuddle from him and has become "our time". That and when I march him around the oval, that's his "walk time" and he demands it each day. I can tell he is getting older though, he does require a lot of sleep (mind you he's always loved his sleep) but gets very glassy eyed and quiet if he doesn't get enough. Thankfully he has taught Marcie to sleep the day away, and if she wakes up and doesn't want to sleep, she is happy to entertain herself mostly - unless I am around and then she bugs me. I do have to keep her away from him in the morning as she tries to jump over him in her excitement of a new day and seeing him. She is definitely a "Morning person", unlike Oz and I - I have to make sure he gets at least half an hour to wake up slowly which can be a challenge. But barring anything awful happening, I can see Ozzie being around for a few more years yet. He definitely has a spark about him these days and generally looks very bright and happy.

I was given a new toy for Marcie when she was a pup, a buster cube. One of those things that you stuff biscuits and treats in and they bash it around for the treats to come out. Well Marcie took a while to warm up to it, but when she did, Oz discovered what it was all about and realised there was food in it! It was the first time I had ever seen him become food aggressive! I had to go buy a second one. Now that Marcie is a bit older she has considerably more brains, and Oz has chilled in his food aggression, he now has a new system. He waits for her to push it round with her nose and then scoops in and picks out the best treats! Little Rat! And he looks so please with himself in the process, his tail wags and his eyes sparkle. But Marcie is quite happy to let him have his share, with 2 cubes on the go it keeps them both occupied for an hour or so in the morning when I leave for work, then they both settle down for sleeps. It also keeps the destruction of a highly intelligent dog that is teething down to a minimum - though I'm sure my jarrah skirting boards disagree with that statement.

Anyway so that is us for now. Still missing Fraser but progressing generally well. Busy and always occupied with new antics but moving forward one step at a time - I guess I can't ask for more.

Hope everyone else is well and that all the fur kids are staying good (both behaviour and health). Take care and enjoy each day as it comes.

[doxiesrock912]

Naomi,

So great to see that all of you are thriving in your new normal routines.
Marcie and Oz sound adorable together.

[molly muffin]

Hi Naomi,

So great to hear from you.
Frasier was one of a kind, your sweetheart for sure.
I'm happy to hear that Oz is still doing so well and that Marcie is fitting right in.
You'll need to post a picture of Marcie and Oz now you know. :) :)
Take care and hugs,
Sharlene and Molly Muffin

[Trish]

Naomi!!!!! How exciting to see your post on the board tonight, I have missed them and my Australasian buddy so it is lovely to see you! I often think of you guys too. Sounds like the household has slowly settled into that new normal... although there does not seem to be anything slow about that Marcie, she sounds like a real livewire! Can't have her interrupting Oz's beauty sleep, I know I would be a cranky thing being rudely awoken by a young pup leaping over my head!! :eek: She sounds a real delight though Naomi, I did LOL at Oz learning to steal the treats as she tips them out!! Smart boy that Oz :D

I also loved reading some of your memories of Fraser, that boy was one of a kind. Such an endearing pup! Wonder what he did with that sock :rolleyes:?? I don't think you held on too long Naomi. Everything you did for him was right at the time and there is no denying Fraser had a dog-worthy life right to the end. So kudo's to you for that. I did have a sniffle reading about your dealings with the council, thank goodness you had someone understanding at the other end.

Flynn doing pretty good, he had more surgery last November for 9cm liver tumour, now there might be another on his scan. But he currently doing alright so we are monitoring at this stage. But you can read all about it on his thread if you have a spare 3 days :D:D Don't be a stranger!! xxxxxx

[SoggyDoggy]

Hi Everyone, been a really long time since checking in, but been thinking about you all and just had to drop by. It's going on 19 months since losing my gorgeous boy but life marches on. His photos still claim prize spot on the walls and computer desk top (which never gets cluttered then coz I can't let stuff cover his smiling face) but I have let him move on from my phone, Oscar and Marcie now share those honours. I still talk to him a lot too, but not daily anymore, though a few tears did spring to my eyes reading back on some of the posts here. So glad to see that a number are still kicking on, but sad to see that some have passed on too. It's not easy at any time, but it does get easier.

Cushings is such a hard road to travel, but wow you guys are just so wonderful to be there for everybody that it makes it so much easier to cope with. For that I want to offer you my heart felt thanks for being the amazing, wonderful and supportive bunch that you are. I don't know what I would have done had I not found you! I do know for a fact that I would have lost Fraser a lot sooner than I did had I not found you guys and had the guts to challenge the vet! (The silly cow who nearly killed him with way too low cortisol levels has thankfully left that practice!). But with your support and advice, I did challenge her, stopped his meds and saved him from that impending adisonian crisis. In the end it was the liver cancer that took him from me though. I did learn so much from you guys during that time though that has stuck with me and has benefitted me in so many other ways, knowledge of diet, supplements etc, the wealth of knowledge here is unparalleled! Thank you again!

Anyway, so an update on us then. Everyone is chugging on quite nicely really. Ozzie is nearly 15.5 now, healthy as can be expected (some arthritis and cataracts) but still bossy, demanding, independent and full of life. Marcie will be 2 later this year also, she's a gorgeous thing, super smart and very active. We've been very into obedience training, she's going after trial titles now and doing pretty well. She also still prompts Ozzie into a nightly game, he chases her, they have a play and then he cleans her eyes for a few minutes. It's a nightly ritual and so sweet to watch, he loves her to bits. He has days when he seems really old but then perks up like nobody's business the next day and marches himself off for a lap around the park if I don't get there fast enough to suit - the down days are the ones he doesn't get enough sleep I think. Anytime I mention to strangers that he is 15 their eyes bug out, he just doesn't look or act it. Ironically, he is on daily low dose pred for his allergies (1mg) to keep them under control. It took 3 years but 3 of his 4 feet have fur growing on them again as he is no longer chewing them. I get yearly bloods done on him to check him out, no issues though so all good.

We did have a bad time a couple of weeks back where within 24 hours of each other they both hurt their back legs. ozzies was so severe he couldn't walk and I thought I would have to make that horrible decision, but we decided to see how he would pull up on NSAIDs and tramadol, and Lo and behold, 3 weeks later he is walking better than he was before! Weekly acupuncture has helped too and he is clearly feeling better than he has in a while as he is bossier than ever. Been off all nsaids and pain meds for 2 weeks and doing well. Unfortunately Marcie ended up in emergency from nsaid intolerance, she has a super sensitive system and within 2 days had bloody diarrhoea and vomiting but she's all good too now (no organ damage). We know now she can't have them so that's another thing crossed off her list (had a similar reaction to a common worming tablet (drontal) as a pup too, now only use the Much more expensively stuff that she is ok with! Only the best of the best is good enough it seems :rolleyes:)

So that's us basically, I just wanted to drop by, say hi, and a huge thanks again for you wonderful people and say to anybody new reading this - ask questions, read widely, then ask more. No question is too dumb and no answer too obvious. Vets are human and can and will stuff up, you have to be ready to call them on it and work with them in the best interest of your fur kids. It's in your hands.

Take care everyone and I promise to check in again soon and not leave it more than a year this time!

Naomi.

[molly muffin]

Naomi,
So great to hear from you again. Sounds like things are going well, I'm glad they both pulled through the crisis a couple weeks back. So, no NSAIDS for Marcie girl. :)

Wow, Oscar is something eh. Just keeps on going on. He is such a little champ.

Hope things continue to go well and so glad you stopped in to say hello.

hugs

[mytil]

Naomi! It is really good to hear from you!!!! We do think of you.

Thank you for the update - am glad things are going good for you and your gang (especially after those episodes - scary).

Please stay in touch more.
Terry

[Squirt's Mom]

We sure have missed hearing from you, Naomi!

[Trish]

Hey Naomi!

Wow you have a little star with Marcie, she sounds adorable and so glad the leg issues resolved for both of them!!

Ozzie is doing so well! 15.5 now, time flies. he has always had those allergies hasn't he, I remember his very fetching socks!

I can just imagine Fraser's photos on the walls, they were stunning pics and he a gorgeous boy! I bet you smile everytime you turn your computer on with him looking back at you :)

Time does march on doesn't it, it is lovely to catch up with some of the oldies, was so nice to have your support when Flynn was going through some of his tough times and we definitely think of you guys a lot too... maybe one day we can get online same time for a catch up, least we are not clogging up the K9C forums with all our chit chat anymore :D:D:D

Big hugs xxxx

[labblab]

I loved the chit chat. :o

You two can come and chit chat ANY time!! :) :D :D

[Trish]

Haha, Naomi and me used to be mainly on while you were all sleeping being in the southern hemisphere and all. We used to have the night crew, with Mel and Tina poppin in on her loo stops for Jasper. Patrolling the forum overnight if any newbies popped in, it was kinda fun (when no sick pups were involved) ahhh the good old days, jeez I sound like I am a 100 LOL :D:eek:

[molly muffin]

oh and with Kathy and Tracy too. Had tons of chit chats going nonstop it seemed. What fun that was.

[Trish]

Oh yeah, was quite a night crew LOL.... Naomi going to be pissed we having a chit chat on her thread and she's not here LOL :D But I imagine she still sleeping in Perth, think they 4 hours behind me and it only 10.30am here! You snooze, you lose Naomi :D

[molly muffin]

Wake up Naomi!

[labblab]

I've got C-H-O-C-O-L-A-T-E....:D :D :D :D :D :D

[Trish]

Well I'm still here, I will eat her chocolate :D:D:eek::D:D what kind is it???

All I been allowing myself lately is a few pieces of dark chocolate I have for baking LOL... desperate much. It is a good quality one though, but I actually hate dark chocolate so I do not eat much of it :D

[labblab]

It's actually those chocolate-n-caramel Rolos, YUM I love them. Although I guess there's some big to-do over Cadbury's being bought/merged/something with Hershey here in the U.S. and the formula changing or some such thing. But as far as I can tell, they are still DELISH and I am popping them in my mouth as fast as I can swallow them so somebody else had better step in and save/help me!!!!!! :eek: :eek:

[Trish]

Now I feel mean, we can leave Naomi a couple of pieces in the corner, when she next comes to check on us next year :D:D:D Up high, so Oz and Marcie don't find it of course :)

Actually Marianne, I remember you make the BEST dinners in a time of crisis! Tempting us to eat on those days you just don't want too... so you could whip up one of them... ohhhhh and some girlie drinks in case Addy pops in too... you know those frothy ones with the wee umbrellas!

[labblab]

Uh Oh, the Rolos have stolen my appetite for dinner but I am always onboard for girlie drinks. :)

Let's go whip some up and hope that Addy may stop in!

[molly muffin]

Someone said chocolate!!!! Perk!!

Up for foley drinks with little umbrellas even. Lol

[molly muffin]

I love mini rollos!

[Trish]

Hahahaha Typo Queen strikes again, you know in my line of work Sharlene... a foley is a hmmmm no nice way to say this... a urinary catheter!!!! Could use it as a straw I guess :eek::D

[labblab]

I love mini rollos!
Oh yes the minis are really good, but I've got (Errrr...did have) the standard size tonight (BURP!). :rolleyes: :o

[molly muffin]

That is just gross Trish!!!!
Dang iphone I swear I wrote girly. I swear

Okay I have to have wine now with the neighbours. You all behave now!

[Trish]

They are sterile hmmmpftttt :D

[SoggyDoggy]

So a girl doesn't check in for a few weeks and you all have a chocolate party without her? (But you can keep your "straws" Trish, sterile or not, they're all yours :p. That's ok I guess, I just bought a 1/2 kilo of caramel Hershey's kisses. I'll take those over Rolo's any day. Mmmmmmmnnnnnn. :D:D:D:D

[SoggyDoggy]

I forgot to say, I had another photo shoot last weekend with the same photographer that took the shots of the boys. There were two photos she posted on Facebook originally that I never bought as I thought " they're available, spend the money on different ones" but I loved them and have regretted not buying them ever since. She states very clearly on her site that photos not purchased at the viewing are deleted so I've always thought they were lost. Last week when I saw her, I asked to make sure, no harm in asking right? Guess what???!! She still has the original files!!!!!!!! :D:D:D:D:D:D:D. When she said that I started crying! Sooooooooo happy, she completely made my week (month, year!). So I've got the viewing this week on the new images of Marcie and pair shots with Oz, and she's going to put in the other ones of Fraser and Ozzie too so I can finally buy them! OMG, sooooo happy!!! :D:D:D:D:D (smilies need party hats!)

[Trish]

Hey. so pleased the photos are still there... wow that's amazing, I think a sign from Fraser :) :) Love to the see the news ones when you get them so pop a pic up!! x

[Marcie]

Well this is certainly bringing up an old thread. I’m back again, new username because I don’t remember even what email account I used to create Fraser’s account, but this time it’s all about Marcie. If anyone is still here that knew us back then, you may remember I got Marcie shortly after Fraser had passed from liver cancer, well today it all starts again, Marcie has just had her LDDS test 🤦🏻*♀️. Don’t know if I ever posted it here, her breed is a lagotto, and I got her as the breed was not known for having to deal with Cushings, but Lo and behold, that’s what it looks like. I’ll start a new thread for her, but just wanted to post here to let any originals that are still here know that I’m back again, it’s been 10 years now, but I have to start the research again as I’ve forgotten so much. Hope to see some familiar names come up!

Naomi.