Meet Grace! - sweet little Grace has passed

[Squirt's Mom]

You know how we make these "firm" decisions and for a while stand strong on those decisions then something comes along that blows that strength away like a Dandelion puff?

Meet Grace!

With Squirt's place in her Journey, I had decided no more fosters while she remains in this life and have managed to say "no" to taking in some needy, scared, lonely little Souls. Then a friend sent me a shelter pic and all my reasons for saying "no" melted away in a second or less.

Grace was found as a stray in a city about 40 minutes north of us. She is blind, mostly deaf, geriatric, and covered in tumors. Because she is a stray, ARK law says the owners have to be given 7 days to claim the animal then the animal becomes the property of the entity holding it - ie, shelter, rescue, individual, vet, ect. After those 7 days, they can do as they see fit with the animal and Grace was slated to be euthanized on the 8th morning due to her health and age. She had stopped eating and drinking in the shelter, was crying out when touched, shaking constantly, has horrible teeth, respiratory stress, her little body covered in tumors, and obviously long neglected. The vet for the shelter wasn't sure she would last for the 7-day hold but they had to force her to endure them regardless. :( The shelter listed her as a Shih Tzu mix, but she is a Toy Poodle in my book, the vet's, and the groomers.

Fortunately, the shelter who had Grace has a wonderful Friends of the Animals support group and they posted Grace on FB, looking for the owner then sent private messages to their contacts seeking someone to foster her until the owner showed up...they really didn't think she was going to survive the 7 days in the shelter, and she probably wouldn't have. A friend on the FOA network list sent Grace's shelter pic to me and just like with Trinket and Brick, I knew she was mine - or rather me, theirs. ;)

We went to see Doc B after picking her up Thurs. morning and he diagnosed her with breast cancer, just like sweet Tasha. We also discovered when trying to draw blood, that several of the "lumps" were horrible mats of hair. The actual tumors are limited to her abdomen. We came home with Clavamox and Temeril P for her cough. At this point, we aren't sure if she has an infection in her lungs or if the cancer has spread to her lungs (we know she has an infection by her elevated WBC); the shelter said she was wheezing and coughing when she came in and that they do not have kennel cough. Thurs. afternoon Grace went to a groomer who worked for hours cutting hair, trimming nails, cleaning eyes, and bathing her - she worked 4 hours on Grace, not one scratch on this baby, and Grace was calmer than she was when I picked her up that morning. She weighted 3.7 lbs at the vet's and I bet she lost at least an ounce of hair that evening. And no longer stunk to high heaven! :p

After a night of syringing water and other goodies, she ate a tiny bite of liver at 6am Fri. morning and her appetite steadily improved throughout the day and evening. This morning, she was ready for her breakfast! :cool: She does her business outside; not once has she soiled her bedding! She is still in isolation in my bathroom trying to make sure she hasn't brought something in from the shelter but this morning I've opened her crate door and she has run of the bathroom. She wasn't strong enough yesterday but is this morning. ;) She's still not drinking on her own but her food has plenty of water added and I continue to syringe water several times a day. She's no longer dehydrated and she pees every time she goes out.

Grace is still quite aloof and almost seems disconnected from her surroundings but I think that is in large part due to her loss of senses and the amount of stress she has been under for who knows how long. She is slowly, slowly responding to my touch in a positive way instead of being startled and moving away. At some point in her life, I think someone took care of Grace; she was good for the vet, the groomer, and this morning stood calmly and allowed me to clean her eyes and mouth. As the antibiotics work and she puts on a little weight with some good nutrition on board, I hope she has enough time to realize she is safe now - unless the owners claim her before 5pm today; after that, she is here for good.

I've posted an album for Grace this morning and unloaded a few pics, her shelter pic and a couple of "after" pics. Here is the link so you can see this sweet baby girl - http://www.k9cushings.com/forum/album.php?albumid=776

If all goes well, she will be venturing out into the bedroom and slowly meeting the gang in a few days. I hope she is comfortable with them and they with her...and that my Queen doesn't send me to the dungeon with nothing but bread and water for a fortnight! :p

[lulusmom]

Where's the like button, or better yet, love button? Grace is in the best hands possible and I know she will be showered with love for whatever time she has left on this earth. I do understand how difficult it is to stand firm on your decision to put fostering on hold for the sake of your own babies. It's kinda like committing to quitting smoking. You've done it a hundred times and will do it again. :D:D:D

[Budsters Mom]

Love it! You are such a loving and sweet Angel Leslie.:) Grace hit the jackpot with you! :p WELCOME GRACE! you will now truly know love. Xxxxxx

[Mel-Tia]

Your post brought a tear to my eye, bless you for offering little Grace a loving home, you in my opinion are one of earths true angels

Mel
Xxxx

[frijole]

That made my week. God bless you Leslie. Love her with all your might as I know you will. xoxo Kim

[Roxee's Dad]

You are wonderful Leslie... a heart of Gold !!! Grace will know love, security and compassion in your loving arms.

[infoviewer]

Leslie: You are the most wonderful person I have ever heard of. I cannot believe there are such sweet loving angels in this world. Grace is so lucky that you found her. I know all on this forum wish we could help you some way since you help so many. I wish we could start a Leslie Foundation. Any suggestions. Love, JoAnne

[molly muffin]

Grace is so adorable and that she might have known love and then lost it, just breaks my heart even more.
Leslie, you are a treasure. Grace is going to love and adore you and the gang, just as you do her.

Sharlene and Molly Muffin

[Squirt's Mom]

If not for this family here at K9C, I couldn't do what I do. ;)

[Squirt's Mom]

Those of you who have dealt with kennel cough, can you describe what the pup is like for me? Grace is honking and wheezing - reminding me soooo much of Josie tho not nearly as bad as Josie was. She does cough but it's seems to be the same kind of cough Tash and Josie had so I'm wanting to try to make sure this is NOT kennel cough before I let her meet the gang.

I heard from the rescue that worked her and they are sending a check to cover the cost of the exam Thurs and gave me a number to call so she can get an xray and the GHS done. I plan to call Doc in the morning and get these scheduled asap. That will give us a better idea about her status.

[molly muffin]

When Molly had kennel cough I thought I was going to lose her. Very scary. It was like not being able to breath and wheezy, labored breathing, and if she moved, she coughed. I think it would sound very similar though if there was tumors in the lung or other problems affecting heart/lungs.
I would definitely have her checked out before letting her mingle with the rest of the gang, just to be on the safe side. Nice that the rescue will cover the cost of that.

Regards,
Sharlene and Molly Muffin

[lulusmom]

Kennel cough and heart cough sound a lot alike and both can be triggered with excitement. A dog coughs and ends it with a gacking sound, like they are trying to bring something up. Not sure you would be able to tell the difference given that Grace is pretty senior and probably not very active but dogs with kennel cough remain very active, eat normally and are usually normal in every other way. It's usually a self limiting virus lasting a few weeks. Antibiotic precribed is Doxycycline but some vets don't always prescribe unless they suspect a bacterial drive upper respiratory infection. Other vets immediately prescribe Doxy if they suspect kennel cough. One shelter I pulled from would hand me the dog and then an envelope with a few weeks worth of Doxy. Incubation is anywhere from two days to two weeks.

[Budsters Mom]

All three of the neighbors dogs that share a fence with us had kennel cough. Buddy did not get it because he was a puppy and been immunized a few months earlier. All three of those dogs acted perfectly normal except for terrible honking coughs. They were given antibiotics and their coughs cleared within a few weeks. Xxxxxx

[Squirt's Mom]

Ok, that is as I feared - no real way to know if this is KC or tumors or heart or simple respiratory infection. I'll wait til Doc sees her again to let the gang meet her. Thanks!

[Budsters Mom]

If Grace has kennel cough. It is highly contagious! :eek: Yes, it is best to keep Grace quarantined until you know for sure, to protect your babies. Xxxx

[lulusmom]

All three of the neighbors dogs that share a fence with us had kennel cough. Buddy did not get it because he was a puppy and been immunized a few months earlier. All three of those dogs acted perfectly normal except for terrible honking coughs. They were given antibiotics and their coughs cleared within a few weeks. Xxxxxx

Chances are that Buddy wouldn't have gotten kennel cough from neighbor's dogs, even if he hadn't been immunized, and if those dogs were otherwise healthy, they probably would have recovered without antibiotics in a few weeks. This virus runs rampant in kennels without adequate ventilation, like shelters where they have rows and rows of multliple dogs in one kennel. I quit giving my dogs intranasal bordatella vaccines when I started following Dr. Schultz six or seven years ago. He believes "kennel cough is not a vaccine preventable disease because of the complex factors associated with the disease. Furthermore, this is often a mild to moderate self limiting disease." I have always been careful about bringing shelter dogs to my home and exposing my own immune challenged dogs, but they were exposed a few times when the rescue dropped off dogs while I was away and my husband didn't know any better. Though exposed, they never got the virus. My dogs are also routinely groomed in grooming shops every two to three weeks and have never gotten kennel cough. I do make sure the grooming shops are clean, well ventilated and don't overbook so as to keep dogs there for hours on end. While not really related to kennel cough exposure, grooming activities should be in plain view so customers can see how clean the shop is and how groomers interact with the animals. There are nasty groomers out there...and I'm not just talking about cleanliness. Physical abuse by groomers is common and they hide behind walls for a reason.

[Budsters Mom]

Thank for the information concerning kennel cough exposure Glynda. I do not give my dogs Bordetella immunizations anymore either. Buddy had his over over 10 years ago when I was not aware of the potential dangers of over vaccinating and unnecessary vaccinations. Buddy shared a fence with the dogs next-door and would often greet them at the fence. I was told by my vet, that he didn't get it because he was vaccinated. He doesn't know EVERYTHING.;)

[goldengirl88]

Leslie:
Imagine that Kathy wants to send Californians to Arkansas!!! Too Funny

[StarDeb55]

Leslie, I thought I'd chip in my 2 cents worth. Harley had a round of KC, even with the vaccine. The thing is I never, ever heard him do any coughing. He had KC after he had already been diagnosed with cushing's. All I can tell you is I got home from work, I noticed Harley was extremely quiet to the point of lethargy. He absolutely didn't want to even get off my bed. I called the vet immediately, & took him straight in. My GP who knew him almost as well as I did, could tell that something was badly wrong within a couple of minutes. Before we jumped in & started getting him ready for an ACTH, the vet did do a physical exam. The vet pressed on his larynx/trachea, & BAMM, the little guy starts hacking his head off, sounding like he was trying to cough up a lung. The vet looked at me & said he's got KC. We were sent home with the ABs for 2 weeks, as I'm sure the vet simply wanted to lower the risk of a bacterial infection. Harley was fine. It goes without saying that I kept him as isolated as I could from other dogs. Chewbacca had already been exposed, but didn't contract it. The little man didn't go out for walks or anything else.

I will say I was quite shocked when I heard KC because of the lack of a cough. The vet said it happens sometimes as each pup is different.

Debbie

[labblab]

Kennel cough has been really quirky in our house, too. All of my dogs have gotten it at one time or another, but the only time I could figure out the source was actually one time after Peg got an intranasal vaccination :rolleyes:. We were going to board both girls and the kennel requires proof of vaccination. Luna's was still valid, but Peg was due for revaccination. She got the nasal spray, came down with kennel cough shortly thereafter, and also passed it on to Luna who was supposedly protected. So neither of the girls could be boarded since they were actively ill (thankfully my mom came and stayed with them).

With the other instances, I never could figure out a link because they hadn't been in to the vet or at the kennel. Our yard is surrounded by other dogs, though, and I do walk our pups in areas frequented by others. They've always recovered with no problems, thankfully, and without antibiotics. They have gotten a couple of doses of cough suppressant, though, to ease that awful "gacking" honk/retch (you nailed it with that description, Glynda). Cuz in our case, they've all definitely had "the honk."

So bottom line is, our dogs have gotten KC both when supposedly protected through vaccination and also at times when they've been unvaccinated. Given our experience, I would never choose to vaccinate, either, unless forced to do so due to the need to board them or have a pet-sitter in. Thankfully, in recent years since my mom moved near us, she has been delighted to come and stay with her granddaughters when we've been away.

[addy]

Koko had terrible kennel cough with green mucus stuck all over his face when we brought him home and that cough was just as Glynda described. Two rounds of antibiotics to clear it up. He goes for grooming at a small kennel near by, has never had another vaccine for it or redeveloped it. Zoe's groomer insisted she have the vaccine or she could not come. I would never go back there now and am grateful for the groomer we have.

Leslie- I just looked at Gracie's photos and I am sitting her at work bawling my eyes out because I am so happy you took her.:o:o:o

[Squirt's Mom]

Grace goes to see Doc B at 2:30 this afternoon for a GHS and Xrays. I hope the Xrays give us a better idea about the breathing/coughing issue. The Clavamox and Temeril P don't seem to have helped much but then I don't really know how bad she was in the shelter....I only know she hasn't improved in that area since being here. And I may well be spreading this if it is KC by letting her out in the yard even tho she's out there without the rest of the gang - just me and her. The field out back is belly deep to her in leaves with grass taller than she is along with millions of gum balls, and my front yard has rose bushes and other "sticks" planted that could injure her eyes so the back yard it is. I want her to have fresh air and sunshine and want her to start acclimating to her space, learning that she is safe there. I clean her poop as soon as she's through.

But in other areas, she is coming along nicely! She still sleeps quite a bit but is up and roaming the bathroom some every day. She seems to recognize my voice now but can't tell where it's coming from. Her hearing is no where near as good as Brick's or Trink's. Neither is her sense of smell...and I'm still trying to determine her tactile functioning for finding her way around. She is trying to enjoy herself a little more and sat in the sun just a bit ago with her head raised, soaking up the rays. She looked so content and sweet! :)

She can't handle hard treats or kibble - I'm not sure she has any back teeth at all - none I have been able to feel or see. But she is really enjoying the food she gets and it makes me feel so good to see her excited to eat. She still won't drink on her on, tho. I haven't seen her take a drink from the bowl once and the level doesn't change. I continue to syringe water and include quite a bit in her meals. By the tent test, she isn't dehydrated.

This morning I got her a baby brush, soft, to brush her with and she LOVED it. Her skin is so thin and dry, flaking all over. I started her on salmon oil yesterday and may rub some coconut oil on her back, which is the worst area. And I got some FreshPet feed that is salmon and whitefish hoping that will help as well.

Grace has the weirdest rectum I've ever seen! When she first came home and tried to poop, she couldn't seem to do so without me massaging her rectum. AND that area became VERY large with round balls protruding from each side where the anal glands are as she strained. It looked as if her insides were trying to come out it would stick out so far and get so big! :eek: The round areas are smaller and the rectum, if that is what I'm seeing, doesn't protrude quite as far now and she doesn't always need help anymore. I am wondering if her anal glands are impacted or if she has tumors in the rectum/intestines too. So Doc will check that out as well.

I'll let ya'll know what we learn when we get back.

OH! There has been NO CALL so far and as far as anyone at the shelter knows, no one claimed her so she is HERE TO STAY!! :cool::):cool::):cool:

[molly muffin]

I am waiting on pins and needles for the report from Doc on Grace. I wonder if her ears need to be cleaned out too? Ear was can gum up and block the ears, so sound doesn't get through. I'm sure the doc would take a look at that though.

She is such a little trooper.
hugs,
Sharlene and Molly Muffin

[Jenny & Judi in MN]

what a lucky little pipsqueak of a dog! I hope you can get the breathing figured out. Jenny got kennel cough when she was newly diabetic and cushings and it took about 6 weeks for her to get over it.

[Squirt's Mom]

Well, more good news than bad so far. Doc used his last test for the GHS on Grace and didn't have enough sample - she is very hard to draw from. So we go back tomorrow afternoon for the GHS. Xrays did NOT find any other tumors than those on her belly and chest. YAY!!! :cool::) I was scared we would find another mass like Josie had based on Grace's breathing sounds or that it had metastasized like with Tash.

Everything but the the heart looked good on the Xray. Doc said the heart should be 3 1/2 rib spaces in size and hers is around 4 but the bad thing is the shape of the heart - it should be oblong and hers is almost round. Doc said the right side of the heart is failing. :(

She coughed during the Xray and that showed a collapsing trachea - hence those sounds like Josie's. So Doc does not think she has KC but it is the heart and trachea causing her breathing issues. I did notice today that activity doesn't seem to stimulate the coughing but stress/nervousness does. She has a harder time breathing when I'm syringing water and she had a hard time when she was stretched out for the Xrays - Doc thinks that is probably due to the heart.

Grace walks with a hunch in her back and we both expected to see some problems there but the spine looks good.

Now for the anal glands - I have noticed dark curls on her otherwise brown turds and feared bleeding somewhere along the line BUT it was her anal glands making deposits as I massaged! That's why those knobs were getting smaller the more she pooped - they were finally emptying. That baby had so much stuff in those pockets it was UNREAL! Extremely thick and almost black in color...and LOTS of it! :eek: Doc commented it looked like she was pooping but it was all from the glands! Trink has never had anything like that come out of her yet she's ruptured twice while Grace didn't. Amazing. Bless her heart - she may lose some of that back hunch now! :p

Doc expects the GHS to be pretty good, no real surprises expected but since the rescue agreed to pay for one I wanted to go ahead and have it done so we have a baseline to work from and to try to make sure things are as they should be.

So, all in all, not bad! She may be around much longer than the shelter and rescue first believed. ;)

[goldengirl88]

Leslie:
You are an angel. Grace is so sweet I am so glad you got her. She will know what real love is now, and have the good life that she should have had all along. You inspire me in so many ways. You give these poor, sick, unwanted babies hope, and that is all they need. Blessings
Patti

[molly muffin]

Can they give Grace the shots to help with the trachea? to strengthen it? What about Hawthorne for her heart, anyway to try and strengthen that and get rid of the fluid build up?

She will feel so much better with those anal glands getting back to normal. I'm sure that because no one was taking care of her, things that should have, could have been done weren't. Now she has you. He didn't think it was kennel cough either right? so that it is the heart causing her coughing? Does that mean she can meet the rest of the gang now? Hope that doesn't stress her too much.

hugs Leslie, you're doing such an awesome job
Sharlene and Molly Muffin

[Woodydog]

Some real good news there Leslie. I am so glad the little mite found her way to you where she can live her life in the lap of luxury as she should have been doing :)

[Budsters Mom]

Great news for Miss Grace.:p xxxxx

[lulusmom]

Les, is Grace on heart meds? As you know, my Jasper has a bad heart and collapsing trachea. I really thought I was going to lose him at one point. He would cough with the least bit of excitement and appeared not able to catch his breath. When he was first diagnosed with heart problems, he was prescribed Enalapril and Lasix. We subsequently added Vetmedin, which made a big difference but within a year he started to cough a lot so the vet added Theophylline, which is a bronchodilator. That worked really well. You may want to Dr. B about prescribing it for Grace. Torbutrol syrup will help with the cough too. I always had that on hand in case Jasper needed it but the Theophylline seemed to be the only thing he needed for his cough.

[mcdavis]

I have just read the story of Grace - she is so very, very lucky to have found her way to you. I find it so hard to believe that her owners have let her get into such a terrible state, although I do wonder if it may be someone with Alzheimers - I remember reading of a dog who was adored by their owner who had Alzheimers, but neglected at the same time.

[goldengirl88]

Hi Leslie:
I am hoping this finds you and Grace well. I heard on our news that the south is going way down in the temps tonight, so you are going to get this cold snap. Do you think the Adequan would help Grace? Tipper goes for another shot tomorrow, and she needs one. She has had lots of the swallowing and sounding like her mouth is sticky inside. I am calling Dechra here in a while and will post what they say about the bone marrow. Blessings
Patti

[Squirt's Mom]

Grace drank water from the bowl just a few minutes ago! First time that I know of she's drank on her own! :cool::cool::cool:

[Budsters Mom]

YAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAY! Great news Leslie. Knowing that she can drink on her own is huge! Make sure the water bowl is always in the same place, so she'll be able to find it. Of course, you know this already having other blind babies, but I couldn't help myself.:D xxxxx

[Squirt's Mom]

Just heard from Doc and her GHS was PERFECT! He said even the marker for cancer was normal so this may not be breast cancer after all! WOOHOO!!!

[lulusmom]

Yay, I'm glad her GHS is normal. Now can you tell me what in the heck a GHS is and what it would mean if a GHS was abnormal?

[Squirt's Mom]

:D Something I learned yesterday that I have been wrong about for some time. The GHS is the test that shows things like ALP, BUN, CHOL, etc. and I've been calling that the CBC. The CBC shows things like white blood cell elevations. GHS stands for General Health Screen.

[Cooper is missed]

I know it's been said here already but I agree, Grace is so lucky to have you!

[Woodydog]

Go Grace can,t say I,m surprised you are getting better and stronger with a mom like Leslie :)

[lulusmom]

I kinda figured you meant a general health screening but that didn't sound right to me. My general health screening every year consists of blood, urine, pap, mammogram and dexiscan. The two screening blood tests we see here are the CBC (complete blood count) and blood chemistry. A complete blood count measures the concentration of white blood cells, red blood cells, and platelets in the blood. That's the one with the values we can't spell or pronounce. :D The best definition I could find for blood chemistry is "The blood chemistry test is divided into groups of basic blood tests that give specific information about the condition of the organs. The tests are grouped according to body functions including metabolism, drug absorption, blood circulation and body fluid balance." This is what you were calling a CBC. With suspected cancer, I would think Dr. B did both a CBC and blood chemistry and if Grace aced both, then WOOT, WOOT!

[labblab]

And FWIW, the electrolytes are part of blood chemistry panels. :)

[molly muffin]

Oh my gosh, this is fantastic Leslie! I wonder if those "tumors" are in fact lipomas? We all seem to deal with those at one time or another, and so it might not be surprising that Grace would have a couple.
It actually sounds like her health is decent considering her history. Acing everything is great, so basically teeth and those nasty mats being gone, and of course blindness to deal with, but the heart is probably the biggest issue and we need to get her on something for that. Ta Da! :)
I could just happy dance all over your thread, good med report, cancer marker good and drinking! This absolutely Made my day!
hugs,
sharlene and molly muffin

[mcdavis]

I am just so pleased to hear she got such great test results - her luck changed the day she met you Leslie, and really do hope that things continue to improve for her.

[Squirt's Mom]

I've opened the bathroom door to let Grace roam and start to acclimate as well as get used to the gang. She wandered around the bedroom for a bit then I heard Brick making angry YAK sounds. I looked at his box where he sleeps and saw Grace's back end sticking out. LOL Brick was telling her off! "This is MY box! Get your own box!" :D:D:p:p:D:D She kept inching in and is now almost all the way inside his box, both of them sound asleep. :)

[Budsters Mom]

Ahhhhhhhhh, how sweet.:p That melted my heart.:p Brick probably thinks he's outnumbered as it is. Now, another dang girl!:D xxxx

[lulusmom]

Hey Les, I wanted to let you know that my old girl, Sophie, just had a full senior panel and aside from the fecal, which won't be back until tomorrow, everything is within normal range. Given her less than healthy looking body condition, deafness, impaired vision and graying black coat, the vet was pretty astounded by such great results. So her only problems are arthritis, fused disc and incontinence. The vet suggested I try Incurin which is fairly new. Always nervous about new drugs due to no history of adverse events but vet said she's prescribed it a lot with good results and no reports of adverse reactions. If it works, her quality of life and mine will certainly be better. How about that....two very old ladies who defied the odds. They've takin a lickin and keep on tickin.

[Squirt's Mom]

What good news, Glynda! It's been a week for pleasant surprises.

Grace has braved venturing out of the bedroom today and there is no holding her back now. She gets lost but will not stay in the bedroom. When I bring her back to familiar territory - the bedroom - she starts searching for the door and is off down the hall again! :D

She can't hear, see or smell worth a crap but she is learning to feel her way around. She's going to need more guidance in this area that Brick since he has exceptional hearing and smell - that boy can smell an empty pizza box a mile away! :p Grace does see something but maybe only sparkles of light as I've heard humans describe cataracts because she will squint when moving from shade to sun. She hears very little and cannot fix direction at all. She can't seem to smell anything that isn't right under her nose - no reaction to nor ability to zero in on her food bowl with stinky fish feed when it's 1" away.

She is eating very well, drinking regularly from her bowl, and is pooping better tho she still needs some help at time especially first time in the mornings. Her poops are normal shaped now and not flat ribbons with her glands empty! :eek::p She loves being brushed and tolerates her face being cleaned - she's feeling better enough to argue about a few things now. ;)

She graduated from the bathroom to having her crate in the bedroom today and has already learned where it is. She learned her way around the bathroom pretty quickly and knew where her crate was by the bathmat it sat on. After I moved her crate to the bedroom this morning, she stayed in the bathroom walking around then sitting on that mat like, "hummmm it was just here, I'm sure of it!" :p But after being put into the crate in its new spot and leaving on her own a few times, she had it down. She is quite smart! When we come in from outside and I set her on the floor, she immediately starts turning, ears perked, waiting for that treat she knows is coming. First thing she does when I put her in her crate for the night is root around for the treat she knows is there. :D I put a towel under her feed and water bowl and by the next day she could find it for a drink.

She's not bothered by nor interested in the gang nor they her so things have gone well there so far. As she roams more freely and trespasses in territories or steps on the Queen, that may change. :rolleyes::D

[mcdavis]

It sounds like she's starting to settle in :D

[molly muffin]

Isn't she adorable. Grace is getting comfortable in her new home. I love the way she loves to have her face washed. Now she needs to give my little miss a lesson in sitting still for that. LOL

hugs,
Sharlene and Molly Muffin

[scoora]

Grace is so sweet. She now has a safe and comfortable home with a loving mom!

[Squirt's Mom]

Oh, this tiny thing made my old heart SING this morning! :) When I opened her crate and put my hands near her nose, she got up wigglin' her body and waggin' her tail! She recognized something, my scent, the scent of the air in the room, something - and it made her happy. :cool::cool::cool:

[mcdavis]

That made my heart sing too. No matter what they always find a way to let us know how they're feeling.

[molly muffin]

That is awesome Leslie (my word of the year LOL) I bet it is your touch she knows. She says "oh yes! This is the touch of the person who cleans me and hugs me and makes me feel safe and loved. I like this touch, it is home and safety and love. This touch is now my world and it's one that I like very much"

Gosh I'm a mush! LOL
hugs,
Sharlene and Molly Muffin

[frijole]

You did exactly what I knew you would do - you taught this dog what love is. And she likes it. God bless you both. Kim

[Squirt's Mom]

A little while ago, Grace was having a coughing spell standing in the hallway and Sophie came running from the living room, licked Grace on the nose and sniffed her all over until she stopped coughing! (insert heart icon here) It was the sweetest thing to see! Sophie wears a clown hat and a nurses uniform.

[molly muffin]

Oh poor little Grace. Sophia is such a darling to take care of her. Super super sweet.

Is Grace going on heart meds? Maybe that would help with the coughing spells.

hugs,
Sharlene and Molly Muffin

[Squirt's Mom]

Yes, she's been on Lasix since last Tues. and started Vetmedin Fri. She finished the Clavamox and Temeril P last night.

[Budsters Mom]

I think You have a pint sized nurse or two, to help you out. :D xxxx

[Woodydog]

Checking into see how little grace and nurse Sophie are getting on x

[goldengirl88]

Leslie:
How is Grace doing on that Vetmedin? Is she still coughing as much? I am so glad for her that she found her way into your loving home. Blessings
Patti

[mcdavis]

Just dropping by to see how Grace and friends are doing? Hoping that all is well.

[Squirt's Mom]

Thanks for asking after her! :)

Grace is doing alright. She doesn't have the appetite I would like for her to have sometimes but she's gaining weight and filling out so I'm happy about that. It may be that I'm just used to pups who start yelling for their meals at least an hour before it's time! :p

From the time she got here she would assume a calming position every time I touched her - shoulders lowered, front legs stretched out - and I assumed she was calming herself in a strange situation with a strange person AND trying to calm the strange person so they didn't harm her. I think that was a large part of the behavior at first but now it's a sign to play as well. She does something similar to Trink's Bulldozer game. If I put both my hands loosely around her snout while she's down in that position, she starts pushing against my hands, snorting, and wiggling that butt! :D She pushes in a straight line not pushing-flipping-twirling like Trink but it's play nonetheless! :cool::cool::cool: When I move my hands away from her snout, she stands up, turns around a bit then drops back in the play position waiting for my hands. :D She tires easily and ends up coughing so it doesn't last long but it's a great sign in my mind!

Her cough seems to finally be improving a bit. I was getting concerned that she may need more than the Lasix and Vetmedin but they seem to be kicking in and helping at last. As she gains strength, I will start looking into some possible herbal support for her as well but I want her to be stronger and settled with these meds first.

Grace sleeps most of the time, especially during the day. She becomes more alert and active as we are winding down our day so I have to wonder if in her previous life the activity routine was reversed from ours - no one home during the day but busy around the place at night when they got home...ya know, a normal life routine! :p We're up early, busy during the day, and shut things down early in the evenings just when she's conditioned to start participating in things. Needless to say, my routine has changed in the evenings! :p

My gut says she will never be able to sleep on the bed with Squirt, Trink and I - she's too much like Brick in that she has no sense of where the edge is and doesn't stop. Unlike Brick, she moves very slowly and cautiously so it is easier to have her on the bed with us for a period of time. She will lay down and either sleep or relax while Brick simply cannot.

Ya'll should see Trink trying to get Grace to wake up and play with her! It is PRECIOUS! Grace will be laying in her crate sound asleep when I hear this yipping and whining. I look and there is Trink in front of the crate, bouncing and whirling around doing her best to get Grace's attention. Grace sleeps through it all! :p I've tried several times to video this but I never seem to have the camera handy when it starts and by the time I get back, Trink has given up. I finally did catch the tail end the other day and will post the link. It is so sweet and I hope one day the two of them figure out a way to communicate.

All in all, I am happy with how things are going so far. It is very difficult at times for me not to pity Grace - her world dark, mostly silent, with limited olfactory input - a tough place for a dog to be. Yet I also see the other side of her - her strength, determination, courage, intelligence, will to live, and in spite of everything, a desire to love and be loved. A Spirit like that deserves admiration, not pity.

Hugs,
Leslie and Grace

Her coat and skin continue to improve as well. It's such a joy to brush a pup who likes it! :p It is apparently uncomfortable for her to lay on her back but she does lay over on her side and lift her back leg for me to rub her little belly which thrills me no end to see her trust.

[Squirt's Mom]

Trink gave it one more, half-hearted attempt and I managed to catch that...but she wasn't making racket any more. BTW, I keep the bedroom pretty cool (Ive been accused of hanging meat in there before! :p) so I wrap the crates and Brick's box with blankets to keep them warm. Grace's crate has little knobs that stick out from the latches that could hurt hers and Brick's eyes so I drape a sheet over them to pad them. Other than that, I have no excuse - I'm just a slob at times. :D

http://s752.photobucket.com/user/girffie/media/001_zpsc56c1522.mp4.html

[mcdavis]

So happy to hear that she's improving :D. She really does deserve admiration for her attitude and determination to overcome the problems that she is facing - I don't think I would be as strong in the same circumstances.

[molly muffin]

I think Tink is just adorable trying to get Grace to play. What Tink has to learn maybe it to give her a nudge that it doesn't do a darn bit of good to bark at a deaf dog. LOL Grace is into her snooze time. LOL
Wouldn't it be sweet if one of them would curl up and sleep with her sometime? With sight, hearing and scent issues, touch is her world.

I think as Grace gets stronger that she will also get more sure of herself and hopefully her time will adjust to the packs time.

hugs Leslie, they are so cute
Sharlene and Molly Muffin

[Woodydog]

Oh loved the video. So glad to hear that Grace is wanting to play even in her dark world she finds a way, she is to be admired as are you leslie for taking this little girl in and giving her the life she deserves.:D

[goldengirl88]

Leslie:
You are just the best. To give Grace such a opportunity to have the rest of her life in a loving home speaks volumes about you. It warms my heart to hear how Tink tries to play with her. When I read your postings the world seems a better place to live in. I hope God blesses you and your babies this Thanksgiving. Are you staying home or going somewhere? Whatever you do, know that I am blessed on Thanksgiving for knowing you, and having the opportunity to hear about your wonderful babies. Blessings
Patti

[Squirt's Mom]

Little Grace has had diarrhea since around 9 last night. Poor baby. I guess she was more stressed about being in a strange place than I thought...at least I hope that's the reason behind this. Diarrhea is a side effect of both the Vetmedin and Lasix she is on so they could also be playing a role. It was odd to me - the last week her poops were coming more easily and were better formed. Instead of 15 little poops she would poop all at once and I thought this feed was working better for her than the others we have tried (she's on a different formula of the FreshPet). Then it went from good poops to a real mess. I hate withholding food but that's what's needed today so we will manage. I have NutriCal and SEB as well as some herbs that may help which she has been taking all night long.

Since she doesn't have much sense of smell, she ends up walking around in the mess she makes which makes her a mess which means she has had to have numerous sponge baths throughout the night. They have helped, of course, but she's starting to stink again! :p Inevitably, I overlook a spot on her, pick her up and hold her in way that ensures that spot gets smeared on my clothes while I'm cleaning her or giving meds. We fixin' to see just how well this washer holds up to 24/7 washing over the next couple of days! I ran 3 loads of bedding and cloths during the night and have the first one of the day finishing up now.

Before we went to Mark's I got another package of peepee pads and I'm very glad I did but I hope I can get out to the store today or we will be out then she will have to stay in the bathroom and I'll be mopping every hour or so. My back and mops do not get along at all. ;)

Ahhhh, the adventures we get into in our house! :p

[mcdavis]

Oh poor little Grace. Is it possible that she has eaten something which has disagreed with her, and it's not related to the food or medication? Have you tried a bit of pumpkin to see if that helps?
Give her a hug from Henry and me - we're hoping she's better really soon.

[Concernedmom]

Hi Leslie I noticed you mentioned Grace is on Freshpet and having some diarrhea. Buddy is also on Freshpet and had been eating the beef rolls but on Saturday we tried the Freshpet select chicken and rice roll to give him a variety. He doesn't have diarrhea but has terrible gas. Back to the beef for him. Hope Grace starts to feel better.

[molly muffin]

Poor baby. :( Poor you!! Hope that washing machine holds out till this passes.

No telling what she has been eating all this time. Probably nothing good. So, anything is liable to upset her stomach. Add in meds and the health issues and it's a tricky road for sure.

I'm just as convinced though that you will get to the bottom of it and get her fixed up.

Hmm, we'll be needing a new picture of grace soon won't we. ;)

hugs,
Sharlene and Molly Muffin

[scoora]

Leslie,
You mentioned that you have NutriCal and SEB for Grace's diarrhea. Can you explain them to me. I wonder if they would be of any help for Archie's diarrhea.
I know others have used FortiFlora. What do you think about it? Do you think it is a good product?
I saw the video. She is so precious.
Thanks

[Squirt's Mom]

I've wondered about the chicken...she started out on the FreshPet salmon formula and she was so hungry then she would have eaten anything. After that hunger was satisfied, the salmon was no longer what she wanted so I tried the one that has beef, salmon, and chicken and she did ok with that one other than a little constipation. So I tried the plain chicken formula this time and she loves it....then the diarrhea started. There's bright blood present at times so that is why I'm thinking colitis like Trink has - stress colitis. Grace had become quite happy in her little space here and was really learning her way around. Then came yet another change when we went out to my brother's for a few days during which time she had to stay in her crate for the most part to keep her from being stepped on.

I hope the roads are cleared today so I can get to PetCo and get a different formula for her to try. I have some canned venison I may give her a very tiny bit of today. And I have some of Josie's home cooked food in the freezer that would still be good that is salmon based. She had some of it when she first came and liked it. I have a 'neaking feeling I'm gonna be cooking for Grace soon, too. ;)

Vicki, I'll talk to you about those things on Gus et al's thread. ;)

[Squirt's Mom]

Grace is doing better. She hasn't had a BM in over 12 hours and has been eating again. I'm giving her the venison instead of the chicken and will get more for her today to see how she does on that.

One strange thing I noticed - I wasn't able to give her the Vetmedin for about 36 hours and her coughing and wheezing were noticeably less. This morning she took the Vetmedin and is coughing / wheezing again quite a bit. One of the side effects of Vetmedin is coughing and with the trachea I'm not sure this is good. So I'm gonna call Doc and talk to him about this drug.


What are the possible side effects of Vetmedin: If any of the following serious side effects occur, stop giving Vetmedin and seek emergency veterinary medical attention; an allergic reaction (difficulty breathing; swelling of the lips, tongue or face; hives), scratching, sudden onset of diarrhea, vomiting, shock, seizures, pale gums, coma. Discontinue giving Vetmedin and contact your veterinarian if your pet develops; poor appetite, drowsiness, diarrhea, labored breathing, weakness, incoordination, fainting, accumulation of fluid in the lungs or abdomen, and cough. Other side effects may also occur. Talk to your veterinarian about any side effect that seems unusual or bothersome to the pet.

[Squirt's Mom]

Grace goes to see Doc tomorrow afternoon. I'll let you know what he has to say.

[Squirt's Mom]

Doc said her heart sound much better today than it did a month ago. :cool::) She didn't cough, wheeze or honk the whole time, not even when he rubbed her throat. She did a little bit of mild hacking but that was it. She hasn't had any Vetmedin since the dose yesterday morning so we are stopping it for now and going to try Temeril-P at bedtime. She gets a dose tonite and tomorrow, then I am to to call and report to Doc how she is doing.

Tho no tumors showed up on the Xray last month, Doc said it is possible there is a very small one present and when the Vetmedin makes the heart pump harder, it's causing pressure causing the cough to worsen. The main concern is the leakage from the capillaries pooling in her abdomen, something the Vetmedin helps prevent but we don't want the meds to cause extra stress for her either. So I will watch extra close for an extended belly and swelling in her legs. We are to continue the Lasix at the dose she is on - 2/10 ml 3/week.

They noticed how much better she was looking, too! :)

[mcdavis]

Good to hear that it was mainly good news at the vets - hoping the new meds will help and that there won't be any swelling etc.

[molly muffin]

Well I am glad that overall she is doing better. I do hope there won't be any problems with leakage and that this other drug will help.

You awesome mummy.

hugs,
Sharlene and Molly muffin

[Squirt's Mom]

Grace woke me up at 4am with diarrhea again...but it's my fault. I accidentally gave her the chicken formula last night instead of the beef and bison. :rolleyes: No question there is something in the chicken one that does not set well with her! And the beef and bison formula seems to be causing constipation. Yeehaw! :rolleyes:;):D

She's been coughing a bit more today, too, so I'll be calling Doc Monday to let him know.

[Trish]

Can you get venison, that seemed to be a good choice with the low fat. Flynn was good on that for several months, with just the odd mucousy one. But we have had to swap recently to lamb. Running out of proteins for these sensitive tummies... hope it settled down Leslie xxxxx

[addy]

I remember way back when you had Trinket, I think it was Trink, on whitefish and sweet potato. So i tried adding that into Zoe's diet and we never looked back:):)

Did I ever thank you properly for that?:D;)

[Squirt's Mom]

awww....I'm glad that helped Zoe too. It was Trink that ate that when she first started with the colitis. She ate the sweet potatoes and cod then we gradually added more things to her recipe. Thanks for reminding me! Grace doesn't care for the FreshPet salmon formula and a fish based diet is what I would prefer her be on with all these tumors so I may get some fresh salmon or cod and see how she likes those.

I do still have some venison, canned, and she is getting that mixed with the beef/bison to transition. The beef/bison formula caused her to become constipated; she was really straining again - then the chicken goof and no more straining! :eek: She seems a bit like Trink in this too - give Trinket some turkey and boy does she flare! Chicken is one that seems to effect Grace the same way - tho we haven't tried turkey yet I'm always leery when a pup shows a bad reaction to poultry that that will translate to all birds. BUT Trink can handle chicken just fine. Grace is still having some problems but she is getting better where the diarrhea is concerned. I am going to put her on the venison til we get a diet designed for her - which I hope to be able to do soon.

She coughed quite a bit more yesterday than she has since stopping the Vetmedin when she first got sick. She was coughing in her sleep, which I really don't like to hear. :( She's not coughing this morning so far and hope it doesn't start up again.

I've noticed two more growths coming up on her side - two lumps about the size of a snow pea over her right ribs. I need to find out what these things are; it's so odd to me they didn't show up on the xray. :confused: Tasha's showed up but Grace's don't. :confused:

She is such a sweetie. When I rub her back, she arches like a cat does. :D

[Squirt's Mom]

Grace and I were up all night with diarrhea - both of us! :eek: She has been eating the venison and not having any problems with it. I took her little "pen" down yesterday and let her loose in the house again as a result. And she thanked me by making mess after mess on the carpet almost immediately. :p I ended up putting her in the bathtub while I cleaned the carpets, her crate and put clean bedding in it. Then she went into her little tub for a butt and foot wash and back into the "pen". :( I hate keeping her penned - she needs activity for her heart and this really limits the amount of space she has to move about.

Funny - this morning she is having normal BMs. :confused: I am wondering about the Lasix - one of the side effects is diarrhea and she had her dose yesterday, diarrhea last nite. I'm gonna watch and see if this is a pattern - her next dose is due Thurs. If so, I don't know what we can do about it as she has to have something to help with the fluids. I have diuretic herbs I can use if needed just not sure they are as powerful as the Lasix. But if diarrhea is going to be a result every time she takes the Lasix I'm not so sure that is good either. :rolleyes: Boy, each one of these babies brings their own challenges! :D Where Gia left off giving me gray hairs, they have taken up her job quite well! I'm sure she is giggling her butt off! :p

[Budsters Mom]

Poor little Grace and poor you! Cleaning up diarrhea is not in my top 100 favorite things to do! YUCK!!:o I hope her little tummy settles soon, so she doesn't have to be crated. (((((HUGS))))

[addy]

Hope Gracie is better now. Yeah, the problem with drugs sure can be the unwanted side effects. Sometimes dang if you do, dang if you don't.

I hope it is not from the drug and Gracie and you feel better.

[molly muffin]

Oh goodness. What a night. Hope those are not going to happen very often.
Not fun cleaning up messes like that and she must have a sore bum from going that often. Poor baby, both of you.

hugs,
Sharlene and Molly Muffin

[Squirt's Mom]

Grace has gradually started coughing more, especially in the afternoons and at night. So we are going to up the Lasix and put her back on the Vetmedin but at half the dose. Instead of 1/2 pill 2x a day, she will get 1/2 pill at bedtime. Instead of 2/10 ml 3x a week of Lasix, she can take up to 3/10ml/day. And we are to continue with the Temeril-P at night.

Her poops are back to normal so once again I've taken down her "pen" and she is roaming the bedroom. I hope it gets to stay down!

[Squirt's Mom]

I am completely flummoxed by Grace's diarrhea. She will have 4-5 good poops, then a few when she strains again, then diarrhea, then straining, then good poops, then straining, then diarrhea, then good.....with no pattern than I can see so far. The meds may be playing a role, tho. I'm gonna get her in to see Doc end of this week or next week and see what we can do about it. I hate to add any more drugs to her system but she needs to be regular, too. So we will see what he has to say. And when I can, I'm gonna get a diet designed for her and hope that helps, too. The canned and wet foods she needs to eat have gums and carrageenans which can cause problems for some pups.

She is doing better with the coughing and wheezing. I think the Lasix dose change has helped most of all. She is now getting 1/10 ml once a day. LOTS of pee but less coughing and more energy so I'll take that. WalMart is happy with the increase in peepee pad purchases. LOL

She's so cute when I'm changing out her bedding - she REALLY likes clean bedding! :D Not real sure how she knows what I'm doing but she is right by my side every time and anxious to get in her crate with the clean blankets. She'll go in and start making her nest right away then curls up and goes to sleep. I can almost hear her say, "ahhhhhhh....." ;)

It is heart-breaking watching her try to find her food bowl. :( I always pick her up and set her down with her nose right over the bowl then rub and pet her for a while giving her time to know the food is there. She will usually notice it after a minute or two and start eating. But sometimes she turns her head and loses the connection immediately then starts trying to find it again. Most of the time it is right in front of her, less than 2" from her nose but she cannot find it. If she raises her head from eating, she loses the bowl even tho her body hasn't moved. She will roam her whole little pen or the bathroom, which ever place she is being fed at the moment, looking for what was right under her nose to start with. :( If she could eat kibble, I'd fashion a feedbag for her like horses wear but I don't think that would work very well with wet foods. :p

[mcdavis]

Pleased to hear that some things are improving, but it's not good on the poop front. Not sure if it will help, and I'm reluctant to suggest more drugs, but when Hamish had problems our vet suggested a quarter of Zantac (Grace would probably need less as she's smaller) and it seemed to help, although we also started to give him a small amount of pure pumpkin every day and that definitely helped too.

[Squirt's Mom]

THIS info belongs to Grace. I accidentally posted it under Trinket's thread yesterday. :rolleyes: dug :o

I've been at my wit's end with Grace's digestion. She's been to the vet 3 or 4 times over the last 5 weeks or so - no parasites, no infections or bacteria, nothing but the diarrhea continues to raise its ugly head. BUT it's not constant - she goes from constipated to normal to diarrhea to normal to diarrhea to constipated to diarrhea to normal to diarrhea.... I've tried just about every protein source available trying to find something that didn't end in diarrhea, both commercial and cooked. The other day, I posted on FB asking if anyone was going rabbit hunting or had found a stray ostrich or kangaroo in their back yard! :p I've stopped and started all her meds, supplements and herbs repeatedly trying to see if one of them is causing it. She's had a variety of drugs, vitamins, and probiotics via the vet which work til they wear off then she's right back on the roller coaster again.

So last week, after the latest round of meds were finished and we were off again with the inconsistency I made a decision. After looking at every single thing I could think of that she had been ingesting and searching for patterns, I decided to stop the Lasix for now and put her on Dandelion Leaf instead. I want her on a fish diet, preferably salmon, but think she may be extremely sensitive to fibers - not sure which ones just yet but they seem to be one of the keys so far in the latest experiment, bless her heart. So for a few meals she got nothing but home cooked Sock Eye salmon ($$:eek:$$) with NutriCal and nothing more. Then I added a small amount of Beechnut baby food green beans for a few meals and started the Dandelion 2X a day. Then I added a small amount of quinoa for a few meals. She liked all the stages very much, thankfully...but didn't have a bowel movement for 3 days. :rolleyes: Soooo, I added a tiny bit of Beechnut sweet potato and WAHLAH she pooped after two meals with the SP. Not perfect but not bad either. So I held at that for a few meals til she had a couple of more normal poops and gradually starting increasing the quinoa yesterday. She's been back on the Vetmedin for two days as well. Last time Doc saw her he said her heart sounded very good and made the comment she must be doing better with the Vetmedin. I told him she hadn't had it in 2 days due to the diarrhea and he was surprised her heart and lungs sounded so good, which I was very glad to hear. Her coughing still gets worse after being on it for a little bit but after she's off of it for a while, the coughing gets worse as well. I think if I can get her on a healthy diet and get some balance going in her digestive tract, she will feel better and hopefully not cough as much period.

She's happy and is looking so much better. Her coat is growing in thicker and is so soft! Her skin is still dry and flaky but not near as bad as it was. She still gets anxious at times when in a strange area of the house or yard but is more comfortable with her home and family as each day passes. I pray one day that fear of being all alone again will leave and not come back.

ADDITIONAL INFO AS OF THIS MORNING -

Grace had 2 poops yesterday and both were almost normal. Her first poop this morning was also almost normal. So I'm really hoping we are on to something with the changes mentioned above! :cool:

[mcdavis]

It sounds like things are going in the right direction - so pleased to hear that she's improving and hoping it will continue.

[molly muffin]

We all like normal poops! LOL
Don't always get them, but sure nice and comment worthy when we do! LOL
Hope she continues to improve on that front.

hugs,
Sharlene and Molly Muffin

[Squirt's Mom]

Hoping I'm not jinxing anything - she has not had diarrhea or even a loose stool since my last post. :cool: And I learned something. I woke up the other nite to go to the bathroom and noticed when I walked by her pen that she had pooped. Not having time to stop then, I came back to pick it up and it was GONE! :eek: So she may not have gone 3 days without pooping I may have just not seen it before she cleaned up after herself. gaggaggaggag

[molly muffin]

Uck! :( Makes one wonder if her taste buds along with her sense of smell isn't acting up too.

Sharlene and Molly muffin

[mcdavis]

It may explain the cycle of solid poops then diarrhea as I remember reading about a dog who ate it's poop and the owner said that it caused the dog to have vomiting and diarrhea. Maybe Grace is doing it to keep her bed clean and it's making her ill.

[Squirt's Mom]

Mc, you may be right. I have a 'neaky suspicion she spent quite a bit of her former life in a cage. :(

Grace is doing better with her digestion. This diet seems to be the key - now to get help getting it balanced for her! She has been eating a mix of quinoa, salmon, and Beechnut baby food sweet potatoes and green beans. Home cooked SP give her bloody diarrhea right off as does Gerber brand so Beechnut it is!

She has not had any more Lasix and no longer takes the Vetmedin. The Lasix gave her diarrhea and the Vetmedin makes her coughing worse after about 3 doses so it was off an on for a bit then I simply stopped it. Doc said her heart sounded good last time he checked her and was surprised she had not been on any of her heart meds for a bit. She gets 1 1/2 ml of a Dandelion Leaf decoction twice a day. I have started an herbal heart tonic for her made with 80% glycerine, 15% water and 10% brandy that will be ready very soon. The tonic will contain Dandelion Leaf, Gingko Biloba, Yarrow, and Hawthorn Berry...each glycerite made separate and mixed later into one tonic. I'll let ya'll know how this works for her. It is a formula from Herbs for Pets by Gregory Tilford and Mary Wulff - a good book, easily presented and understood, if you are interested.

http://www.amazon.com/Herbs-Pets-Natural-Enhance-Your/dp/1933958782

[molly muffin]

I'm so happy to hear that Grace is doing better. Heart good, just makes one wonder what the heck kind of life she had before. Poor baby, she is such a little sweetheart. Leslie, she won the lottery the day she entered your home.

hugs,
Sharlene and Molly muffin

[Squirt's Mom]

Grace started taking the Hawthorn glycerite day before yesterday and has done well so far - no digestive upsets! I skipped the Dandelion Leaf tea yesterday and started the glycerite form this morning. If she does well with these two for a couple of days, I will add either the Yarrow or Gingko - probably the Gingko first - for a few days, then complete the formula by adding the last ingredient. Glycerites are quite sweet and I was a bit concerned she may not like that taste but she seems to love it! It hides the taste of the herbs, which can be quite offensive, as well as the little bit of alcohol (10%) in the menstrum. I'm looking forward to seeing how she does with the full formula and how she presents to doc on her next heart check.

[molly muffin]

Yay Grace. Hopefully this works for her. Probably a good time to not have fussy taste buds. LOL

hugs,
Sharlene and molly muffin

[Squirt's Mom]

My sweet Grace is in trouble, and it looks like serious trouble. This afternoon I went to give her her supper and noticed bright red blood drops and smears on the pads in her pen. I checked her over and found a large lump between her legs that was bleeding. We are just back from the vet's - it is a tumor that has ruptured and Doc said it feel like "the bad kind" - meaning he thinks it is malignant. :( We came home with ABs and Pred. He said the pred should shrink this by at least 1/3 which will make removing it less risky. I ask what he would do if it were his baby knowing what he does about her heart and he said if this will shrink it, he thinks he would try. If we don't, this is going to keep happening over and over. :( So I have about 10 days to decide whether to risk surgery or not.

I gave her a bath day before yesterday and did not notice this at all. Today it is huge, hard and hot to the touch. I am just sick. Grace has more than enough on her plate as it is. :( Please keep her in your prayers.

[Harley PoMMom]

Oh, dear Leslie,

OMGoodness, I am so sorry to hear this news about sweet Grace and will definitely be keeping you both in my thoughts and prayers. Sending positive energy with lots of love, Lori

[molly muffin]

Oh my god Leslie! Sending you huge hugs, love and healing wishes. Poor Grace, she doesn't deserve this after everything that she has over come and finding a nice warm home that she feels comfortable in at long last. It just is breaking my heart. :(

Okay, pred, lets kick this tumor and see whats what under there. It doesn't sound good that it came on so fast and ruptured though. That is just..well..it doesn't sound good I know. If they do surgery, then what are the chances that they will get it and that it hasn't spread? What can they do to check and see if it has spread?

I'm right here with you Leslie
Sharlene and molly muffin

[Trish]

Oh no, poor Grace! I hope it is infection or something the meds will fix. Especially as it came up so fast. Is it still draining? Hopefully if all the yuck comes out the meds will kick in and surgery will not be needed. Big Hugs for you Leslie as this is another worry you do not need.

How are you feeling? Hopefully a little better, although the glandular fever can take ages to kick. I had it as a teenager and was in bed a month, and it took a few months to finally disappear. xxx

[mcdavis]

Oh no - poor little Grace. She really doesn't deserve this - she's faced so much. At least now she has a wonderful loving caring home which will give her the best chance. I really hope the meds will help.
Big hugs to all of you, and you will be in my prayers

[Budsters Mom]

I am so sorry to hear this news about Grace. :o you and all of your babies will vet I my thoughts and prayers. Xxxxx

[Squirt's Mom]

After the first 36 hours on the pred, I could tell the tumor was smaller and not has hot to the touch. At around 48 hours the bleeding had stopped and it was oozing a clear fluid. I felt hope.

However, since going to the once a day VS twice a day dosing on the pred, the tumor is no longer getting smaller, it is hot to the touch again, and has started issuing more blood along with the clear fluid. Also, this morning I noticed another one of the growths on her chest is changing; it has lost the pebbly feeling it has had, has started enlarging slightly, giving it a smoother texture, and is no long flat but getting rounded. So I fear this is spreading. I had just about decided to have the surgery til I noticed this second one. Now I just don't know.

She looks pitiful because I have been trying to cut her hair myself. None of the groomers will touch her as she is now and her hair had gotten really nasty, especially around her belly, back legs and rump/tail where the blood and fluid from this tumor has been draining. It is so hard to clean her without getting her belly wet, which causes more bleeding, and it was too much to keep up with via a washcloth. So I'm cutting her hair as close as I can all over. Grace has been exceptionally patient with me. :)

Her appetite has been good but the pred is probably playing a role there. She isn't peeing or drinking more but with the diuretics she's on that's not a surprise either. She is sleeping in her box much more than she used to and I can tell tumor is causing her discomfort to walk or use the bathroom (because the tumor rubs on the pad when she squats).

My heart is breaking over this. Grace has been handed such a heavy burden as it is. Her little world is so severely sensory deprived it just rips my heart out to think that pain may now be among the few sensory inputs she possess. In spite of her limitations, Grace was coming out of her shell and enjoying her days more and more. Now she's not comfortable being held in my lap with the placement of the tumor; she doesn't seem to want to roam the house, rather she prefers to stay in her pen and box. She still arches her back when I pet her but doesn't keep coming back for more like she was but starts looking for her box when I stop touching her.

I want someone to tell me that yes, we can take these out and she will live to enjoy her days a while longer. I can't stand the idea of her passing on a cold operating table instead of in my arms. But can I take this chance away from her?

[Harley PoMMom]

Grace, what a fitting name for her, it was by the grace of God that she fell into your arms and is surrounded by your deep love and devotion.

I know you will make the right decision for her, you have always taken exceptional care of your babies and know them so very well.

My love, hugs, and thoughts are with you and your furkids, Lori

[mcdavis]

I'm just so very sorry that you and Grace are facing this, and having to make this decision.

Please don't think I'm trying to influence your decision but in case it helps I faced something similar a few year ago. One vet was incredibly cautious and said they wouldn't operate because there was a risk of loss during the operation, however another vet said that we would lose him if we didn't operate, and whilst there was a risk of losing him during the operation, at least we were giving him a chance.

You'll be in my prayers

[molly muffin]

Did the vet take blood sample when you were in to see if cancer marker are showing up now?

What about calling the vet and asking about remaining at twice a day pred for a bit longer and tell him about the second one acting wonky now too. These were all previously thought to be cysts correct? and now the vet thinks they are cancer, but it is unknown for sure if they are?

I'd find out that first. Can the vet biopsy an area and find out if you are truly dealing with cancer here, or multiple cysts who are now breaking open?

That would maybe help you to make a decision on what to do going forward and it's what I would most like to know I think to help me make that kind of decision.

hugs Leslie, I know this sucks and I agree Grace had just been through so much. She is adorable though and wormed her way right into our hearts

love
Sharlene and molly muffin

[Squirt's Mom]

The second spot that is growing has gotten larger since yesterday as has the original growth...and I can feel 3 other "cysts" changing today.

Grace and I go see Doc B at 10:30 this morning. I don't know what the outcome will be.

[Harley PoMMom]

You both are in my thoughts and prayers, and I am sending positive energy too.

Keep us updated.

Love and hugs, Lori

[molly muffin]

Oh Leslie! :( Sending you and Grace positive energy and love

hugs
Sharlene and molly muffin

[Spiceysmum]

Leslie,
So sorry to hear this, you and Grace are in my thoughts.
Linda x

[Squirt's Mom]

Thanks, ya'll.

I left this morning prepared to let Grace go but Doc gave me just enough hope that I opted for surgery instead. I will take her in at 8am Mon.

Doc studied her old xrays and didn't think there was much use in wasting money or putting her under the stress of having more today. I can have more extensive testing done if I wish but that will delay the surgery time which she really can't afford at this point and cause her extra stress which is something else she doesn't need. So we are going ahead with it. Doc said he will take the big one, the one that has already ruptured out first and if she is doing alright he will get this second one off, and if she's ok he will get as many of the other out as well that he can.

He said she may well pass during surgery but without it, she has no chance at all. With it and a little bit of luck, she does have a chance....so I feel like I have to give her this chance.

Please keep Grace, Doc B and his team in your prayers, and send positive healing energies come Mon.

Thanks!

[molly muffin]

Always Leslie!
So glad the doc felt there was at least a chance.
You'll both be in my thoughts and prayers.

love,
Sharlene and molly muffin

[mcdavis]

She deserves all the luck in the world - sending lots of positive thoughts and prayers for her, especially on Monday.

[Budsters Mom]

Leslie,
You and all of your precious babies are always in my thoughts and prayers. I'll double up on them for Grace this week. xxxxx

[Harley PoMMom]

Please keep Grace, Doc B and his team in your prayers, and send positive healing energies come Mon.


Tons of prayers and tons of healing energy are being sent your way.

[Squirt's Mom]

Talked with Doc this morning and he said the surgery may be more extensive than he thought yesterday BUT he still feels she has a chance so we are going ahead with it Monday. She panics when being stretched out for xrays so they are never as clear as we would like. Doc is hoping he can gas her and have the first one out pretty quickly but he may have to use anesthesia after all.

[molly muffin]

I have fingers and toes crossed for her!!
Told molly to cross her paws. :)

love
Sharlene and molly muffin

[mcdavis]

Henry and I will have everything crossed for her too.

[Mel-Tia]

Thinking of you all today Leslie.

Paws up Grace, docs gonna get all those nasties for you so you can have happy times again with your Mom. Stay strong girlie.

Big hug
Mel
Xxxx

[Squirt's Mom]

At the moment, we are once again trapped in the house. We weren't supposed to get anything more than a "stray flake or two" here but instead I woke up to the steps and ramp iced then topped with a light dusting of snow. If we can get out in a bit I will be on the road with Grace...if not, I'll see what Doc wants to do - whether bring her in later today or reschedule.

Thanks, Mel. I appreciate your thoughts! And she sure needs the prayers.

[Tina]

Thinking of you too Leslie. Be careful with the ice. I hope you are able to navigate the roads ok. I am keeping Grace in my prayers.

Big hugs,
Tina and Jasper xo

[goldengirl88]

Thinking of you and Grace and praying for the best possible outcome. Blessings
Patti

[Squirt's Mom]

:):cool::) GRACE IS OUT AND AWAKE! SHE MADE IT THROUGH! :cool::):cool:

Oh I really do need that dancin' mama icon right now! :D I've been shaking like a leaf all morning since dropping her off and can hardly believe the good news that she made it through.

Doc had told me he was going to try to do this with gas so there would be more pain and awareness than usual in surgery. I tried to explain to Grace this was to give her heart the best chance to handle this. It looks like Doc was on the money again. He said she did great! She is crying some now so they are have given her a shot to help with that and will sit with her til she settles and the watch period is over. The tech said she thought he took 5-8 tumors out and hopefully they won't come back or show up anywhere else - but we realize that is a possibility. For now tho, Grace has a brand shining new hope for her future.

And get this - she gets to come home TODAY! They are gonna call in a few hours and I'll go bring her home.

Thank you for being with us as you have whenever we face a new obstacle. You are all the "wind beneath my wings" always.

[Mel-Tia]

Well done Grace this had made my day. So pleased she came through with flying colours and gets to come home today.

Big hug to you Les, am sure the relief is immense xxxx

[mcdavis]

That is absolutely wonderful news - so very pleased you were able to make it to the vets and great to hear she can come home today too. :D
We'll be keeping her in our thoughts

[molly muffin]

Whoooo hoooooo!!!! So glad she came through this.

They are going to send them out and find out exactly what kind of tumors they are right?

She is okay to come home, no risk of clots of bleeds? I always worry as much about the right after as I do the actual procedure time.

Worry wart here!
love
Sharlene and molly muffin

[My sweet Ginger]

Superb job there, mom and the Doc and what a little fighter you've got there. I hope Grace's recovery will be a smooth one as she deserves a break in life. I'm so happy for you, Leslie. Hugs.

[Trish]

Leslie, I am so excited for you and Grace! So pleased to read this today that she came through the surgery well. What a little fighter she is. I hope she is quite comfy when she comes home later today and the histology is favourable! Go Gracie Girl! xxx

[Squirt's Mom]

Grace is home and glad to be here. This is a pup who doesn't make much sound other than coughing and she whimpered all the way home. Connie and Lori, the techs, said she cried and cried unless she was knocked out while there, too. On the way home, I had decided not to put her in her pen but to put her in one of the big wire crates instead but she changed my mind.

When we walked into the bedroom she started kicking and yelping to get down! :D She recognized that she was home. So I put her in her pen and she found her box and went right in. Then she came out and walked around and around. She peed and went back in her box making contended little sighing noises. She was crying as much from confusion and fear as pain, Doc and the girls think and after seeing how she acted once home, I do too.

Doc said everything came out clean. He cut out the bigger ones and burned a few small ones. As for pathology / histology, I just don't know. He knows my funds are strapped and does all he can to keep my costs low. He also knows there would be no chemo or radiation regardless of the outcome. For now, I am very, very pleased with how today went AND to have these out of her. We will worry about tomorrow if need be when it gets here. ;)

Thank you again!

EDITED TO ADD -

None of these tumors were in the body cavity - they were all between the skin and skeleton / abdominal wall.

[Trish]

Fantastic to hear you have her home already, poor girl wanted her own bed eh! Nothing like it when you are a bit under the weather. Hope she is better with a good sleep Leslie. So pleased they are all gone, yes I guess the histology would cost a bit and if there is nothing to be gained by knowing what they are then why do it. For now we will celebrate THEY ARE GONE!!! Yippie!! :D:D xx

[Harley PoMMom]

Oh Leslie, I am so happy that Grace is home and that her surgery went well!! YaHOO!!!

Keeping you all in my thoughts and prayers.

Love and hugs, Lori

[Budsters Mom]

Thrilled she's home and doing so well! Xxxx

[Squirt's Mom]

Grace had a good night last night. She rested well and didn't display any signs of pain. I syringed 2-3 drops of water into her mouth every few hours during the night and let her have her water bowl this morning, tho I am still monitoring the intake so she doesn't get nauseated. She was not interested in breakfast but I am trusting her to know what she is ready to tackle.

I kept hearing a sound after she got home. It was a soft grunting noise and I thought she was hurting at first but it only happened when she would enter her box to lay down. I watched her several times and finally decided those were sounds of deep contentment because she was in HER place with HER bed - something I think she feared was gone from her life while at the vet's yesterday.

Just got off the phone with the vet clinic and they do still have the tumors. Connie is going to talk to Doc and see if he recommends sending them off or not since I wouldn't take any steps like chemo if they are malignant. BUT if Antech does the lab work they can tell us if they are likely to return or not. So we will see what Doc thinks. Knowing one way or the other would give me a better idea on diet, herbs, etc. that might help. So I'll be thinking about it while waiting to see what Doc thinks.

[Squirt's Mom]

Well, Miss Grace has managed to lick one of the incisions open...and they are stapled! :eek: It looks like 1 or 2 staples are missing and I haven't found them. :eek::eek::eek: SO I'll be calling Doc this morning.

I have gone through 3 commercial e collars and none would stay on - they just aren't made for a teeny tiny neck and head. ;) So I made one from an old sheet and some sticky Ace wrapping. I made 3 of those before I got it right so she can't reach her belly. She looks funny, kinda like some pics I've seen of native tribes who stretch their necks, but it works! I posted some pics in her album this morning. I put her back in the big wire crate when we started with the collar because she either couldn't get in her little box or could only go in head first and had to back out. So the crate gives her more room to move.

She hasn't wanted to eat her food but is happy to get treats. And she had some diarrhea yesterday but only once, thankfully. That's the first time for this in a while so I hope it's just the meds and stress of the last few days.

And I have decided to send the tumors to Antech for analysis. That will give me more info to use that might allow me to help her no matter what it shows.

[Squirt's Mom]

Back from Doc's and Grace is fine. He left that spot open a bit so it would drain - that is where the big tumor was that ruptured. There are no staples missing either. ~~whew~~ I was really concerned she had swallowed one or two.

They got a charge out of her collar! :p

[molly muffin]

Yikes! Glad Grace didn't have a midnight snack of staples!

I hope good news comes back from the lab. Benign baby, all the way!

That is funny about the e-collar, over come and adapt. :)

hugs,
Sharlene and molly muffin

[Squirt's Mom]

Weeelll the pathology ain't gonna happen. The tissue got tossed yesterday before I made up my mind. :rolleyes: :o

[molly muffin]

pfffttt oh well. Hopefully there won't be another time to worry about.

Grace is doing okay today?

hugs
Sharlene and molly muffin

[Trish]

Hi Leslie

Hoping Grace's wounds are still in one piece and she is healing and recovering well xxx

[Squirt's Mom]

Grace is doing well. She's eating again and no more diarrhea! YAY! I let her keep the neck stretcher off during the day but put it back on while we sleep. She wandered around the bedroom a little bit this morning, too.

[molly muffin]

oh yay for Grace! wondering around is a good sign for her!

love
sharlene and molly muffin

[mcdavis]

Oh yay for Grace - so pleased to hear she's wandering, eating and poops are good.

[Squirt's Mom]

We got the staples and stitches out this afternoon. She's a MESS! Between bleeding from the rupture, draining after surgery and the diarrhea she is really nasty! I've kept her clean as I could using a wet rag or having her stand one leg at a time in a coffee cup full of warm water and simply cutting hair off but she needs a bath badly. She hasn't had a real bath since a few days before the tumor ruptured and I had planned to bring her home this afternoon for a good scrubbing. But she gets so stressed at the vets I'm not gonna do that today. She will get that tomorrow. I have some herbs infusing and I am going to soak her belly in them. She will stand in a little plastic tote I have that fits her perfect for baths and let this infusion soak off the worst of the areas on her belly / chest and legs while also aiding the healing. Grace has to feel better with all those things off and the staples / stitches out...a warm soak in soothing herbs will help her feel even better! Then next week she get a real grooming and I'm having her cut as short as possible all over.

Her skin has gotten dry again since I stopped the salmon oil after the rupture. I plan to start that back next week.

Connie, one of the techs, noticed while we were there today that she has a blood spot in one of her eyes. As I looked at it under their spotlight, I could tell the coloring of that eye has changed as well - it is now grayish instead of the cataract blue. Doc said it meant the lens has moved forward and there isn't really anything to do about it. She doesn't seen to be bothered by it and her vision is already compromised. I was afraid we were facing enucleation and I think her heart has been challenged enough for a while.

I hope this is the last problem for sweet Grace for a long time to come. This was scary for both of us and we are glad it is over!

[mcdavis]

I was seriously worried when I read the first bit - thinking that she was still bleeding, etc. so was pleased to hear that the stitches and staples have now been removed. Hope she's feeling better after her herbal soak, and that will relieve some of the stress from the vet's visit.

[molly muffin]

Warm bath and an infusion of herbs on her skin should do the trick. After her bath tomorrow, she should feel really well.

Poor baby, with the eye. I know it was compromised already but still. I think as long as she has her safe room though, she will be fine. She obviously feels very secure there and with you close by, she'll come through like the strong little trooper she is.

love
Sharlene and molly muffin

[Trish]

Is she all cleaned up and sweet smelling again? Her haircut next week will have her all ready for the hot summer that is about to appear. Hope she is feeling better Leslie and her eye is not giving anymore trouble xx

[Squirt's Mom]

:( Another growth has come up on Grace's abdomen. This is a new one. Plus the incision from the tumor that ruptured is weeping again. Her cough is worsening, too. Doc is out til Mon. but she will see him first thing Monday morning before he starts any surgeries. :(

[Harley PoMMom]

Oh Leslie, I am so sorry to hear this news, poor sweet Grace and poor you (I know how much this must be worrying you), will be sending healing energy your way and will be keeping you both in my thoughts and prayers.

Love and hugs, Lori

[Squirt's Mom]

Thanks, Lori.

[labblab]

I know it will be a long weekend for you, Les. Sending you both tons of hugs.

[molly muffin]

Oh Leslie, I'm so sorry that this has come back so soon. What the heck man, it's like her body didn't get the memo.
Sending you as much positive energy and vibes, prayers your way.
love and hugs
Sharlene and molly muffin

[Squirt's Mom]

I was cleaning her from the draining when I noticed her teetee is swollen, too. After I put her back on her pads, she squatted three times as if to pee but nothing came out. So I went ahead and took her in to see Doc Stacy. She feels the tumors are coming back; the incision isn't opening, it's being pushed open by another tumor in that same spot. :( We came home with ABs, an ointment for the incision, and more Pred. Grace's bladder is not full and the pads I had picked up had been used recently but Doc Stacy said the tumor and inflammation is probably pressing on the urethra making Grace feel like she needs to pee.

I'm thankful to have the pred - if these grow as fast as they did last time she would be in trouble by Monday. Nor am I expecting a miracle by Monday morning. But I couldn't chance her not being able to pee for that long....and I really want Doc to be the one to give her the shots. So barring that unexpected miracle, Grace will be free from all of this Monday.

[Woodydog]

Sending you hugs and strength for the coming days

[Trish]

Awwww crap, that's not fair. So sorry to read this Leslie, I hope the weekend passes peacefully for Grace and I know she is always going to kept comfortable in your loving care. Big Hugs for you both xxxxxx

[Squirt's Mom]

Grace and I spent the afternoon yesterday piled up in the bed watching movies. She enjoyed Gravity but The Desolation of Smaug was a bit too much with all the growing and loud booming. I baked some chocolate chip cookies and as the scent wafted down the hall and across the bed, her little ears pricked and her nose went up with obvious interest. Two little tiny things - reacting to the sounds of the movie and the smell of the cookies - that not long ago would have filled me with hope today crush my heart. I keep reminding myself that she has no idea, that she lives only in those moments, in this moment asleep in my lap. Those thoughts of future moments are mine alone.

I'm going to Mark's for lunch today then I'm going to pick up a couple more movies and spend today in bed with her again. Tomorrow morning she will get a light breakfast of her normal food along with goodies she has been denied because of the diarrhea. I want badly to give them to her now but just can't justify adding a sore butt to the mix. So she will get goodies in the morning.

This one is tough. I have held such hopes for Grace's future since that first negative test we did for the cancer I was told she had. In spite of all her limitations, she has improved and found some joy in her days...each step forward more cause to rejoice and strengthen those hopes. And they were all dashed beyond repair with that one look at her belly and the new growths that again came on so rapidly.

When the shelter asked me why I wanted her (they believed she was dying then), I told them all babies deserved to die in the arms of someone who loved them. A large part of me feels that I have failed Grace, that I put her through all of this for nothing...but Grace will leave this life in the arms of someone who loves her deeply.

Thank you all for taking yet another heartbreaking journey with me. Grace and I think you are the bravest, strongest, and kindest people in the world.

[Woodydog]

No Leslie you are the strongest, bravest and kindest person I know for giving little Grace the love that all pups deserve ill or not. Bless you for giving her movie nights and treats and she will fall asleep in the arms of someone who loves her and the angels will surround you Leslie with all our love and strength for the journey ahead x

[Budsters Mom]

((((((hugs)))))))No words, just tons of love and hugs. Xxxxxx

[Tina]

Oh Leslie, I have a lump in my throat and tears streaming down my face as I read the latest about Grace. I went back to your first post to remind myself how she came to your loving home. God Bless you Leslie for taking in these elderly babies with so many health issues. You are one of the most unselfish people I know. You haven't failed her sweetie, you gave her comfort, safety, kindness and love for the time she has been with you. Things she would not have known otherwise.

Sending love and strength to you at this most difficult time.

Love and hugs,
Tina and Jasper

[goldengirl88]

Leslie:
God bless you and sweet Grace. I will pray for you both. You are a strong woman Leslie, and you do so many wonderful things for the animals. There is a seat for you in heaven. Blessings
Patti

[molly muffin]

Oh Leslie! :( I am so happy that you and Grace are having some precious time together. That all she knows is that she is held in your loving arms, lying with you together. She is safe, she is warm, she is fed, she is held, she is loved. These things she knows and she only knows this because of you. You gave her the greatest gift in all the world, it was just a gift of time but of quality time, of perfect time.

The tears are rolling down my face, as you know how this precious little heart touched so many of us and she will not be forgotten. I'm sorry that it wasn't longer time together but what time there was, was the best.

Big hugs, my heart and my thoughts will be with you and Grace.
love
Sharlene and molly muffin

[Trish]

If today is the day for Grace to leave us then I am so very glad she has spent the last six months of her life in your tender loving care Leslie, you take these pups on when no one else wants them and shower them with love and kindness. You know they are not going to be with you a long time but you still take them in. I am so pleased that when they leave this place they know they are loved and cared for and go with a belly full of tasty treats! You have rescued her and given her the best care, so please do not doubt yourself. I couldn't do it, I think you are amazing, much love and hugs for the day ahead xxxxxx

[labblab]

Thinking of you and Grace with much love and tenderness. I hope the sun is shining down on you this morning, to guide both your own way and also little Grace's.

We are right beside you, Leslie. All of us.
Marianne

[molly muffin]

Thinking of you and Grace today and sending bright sunny love rays towards you.

love
Sharlene

[My sweet Ginger]

Leslie, I'm terribly sad that one more goodbye lies in front of us but at the same time I'm so glad that our precious Grace going to rainbow bridge knowing what being loved, held in loving arms, cared for, comfortable and not being hungry is probably for the first time in her life. Yes, it was for a very short time you and Grace had together but no doubt the best time she ever had in her life. I know it's so sad it has to be so short so we all are crying but still... We love you Grace.

Leslie, you are an angel. With so much gratitude, admiration and love, Song.

[Squirt's Mom]

We fought so hard to stay this day but now my sweet little Grace has flown. Her eyes are clear again, the blue scales of cataracts falling away to reveal soft brown eyes happily drinking in the beauties of the Rainbow Fields. Her little bat ears are open to all the sounds found there, eagerly turning so as not to miss a single one. Her nose is twitching with a myriad of wonderful scents long denied, leading her across the Fields with joy in her heart. Her senses restored, Grace is once again able to run and leap and play to her heart’s content, that organ beating strong, her lungs filled with air. Never again will she be afraid or lost or confused by her surroundings. I know Gia was there to greet her and Grace will always have loving arms to hold her any time she wants, someone to run with her and play with her all she desires as well as a host of babies around her who have gone before. Never again will she feel isolated or alone.

Fly free, my precious Grace, fly free and know you are loved and missed here on Earth.

[Spiceysmum]

Leslie,
I am so sorry to hear about the sad loss of Grace. The short time she spent with you were filled with so much love, care and tenderness and she loved you for it. She will be sadly missed.
Linda x

[molly muffin]

Good night sweet Grace. I am so glad she knew all the lobe and safety a dog should know her last months here on earth.
Lobe to you Leslie you am angel too
Love sharlene

[Harley PoMMom]

Oh Leslie, I am so sorry for the loss of dear Grace and my heart goes out to you, my dear friend. I am glad Grace was surrounded by your love when she received her angel wings and precious Grace will be missed by us all.

Godspeed sweet Grace

With Heartfelt Sympathy,
Lori

[goldengirl88]

Leslie:
I am so sorry. I know if she had a chance of making it it was with you. At least she felt love and knew what it was like to have someone love and care for her. You went beyond, and did all you could. She is free from any pain now, but will always miss your love. Blessings
Patti

[Woodydog]

Goodnight sweet Grace xx

[lulusmom]

My sweet, dear friend, I am so sorry for the heartbreak of yet another loss but I'm glad that little Grace is free of her suffering. No matter how long you have a foster, whether it be one day or one year, I know, without a shadow of a doubt, that that dog knew what it felt like to be loved and nurtured by an amazing human being. You are a precious commodity, Les, and I'm not just talking about the rescue world. You are one of few on this earth who has made a tremendous difference in the lives of both untold canines and humans you have touched with your love and compassion.

I'm not here as often as I'd like to be but I hope you know that I'm only a phone call away if you need anything.

Godspeed sweet Grace.

Love and huge consoling hugs,
Glynda

[Budsters Mom]

Run free little one, run free.

Leslie, thank you for taking in so many little ones to love. Grace crossed over knowing how much she was loved. Xxxxx

[Trish]

Leslie, you know we are all standing alongside you as you grieve for little Grace. I hope you do as Grace was special and you lovely lady, mean the world to us. RIP sweet girl xxxxx

[Squirt's Mom]

Thank you all for your kind support. Grace was here just a short time but left a huge hole behind. My lap feels so empty this morning; she usually spent the mornings in my lap while I worked on the computer. I kept reaching out to touch her while watching TV last nite and couldn't pass her pen without looking in to check on her....then remembered after a momentary shock at not finding her in her box. So I have picked up the pads in her pen to remind me not to look. Everything else remains. So much was involved in her care I am lost and keep feeling like I have forgotten something crucial.

Grace was a fighter, no question about it. Doc had to give her two shots instead of one even tho he gave her a dose for a 10 lb pup the first time...her little heart just kept on beating. Mark dug her grave for me Sun. and I carried her to our little pet cemetery on his land and buried her. Grace was laid to rest beside Baby, the horse and is surrounded by Crys, Syra, Dinah and so many other babies laid to rest there with love.

My heart's eye keeps seeing her running, something she couldn't do in this life for fear. I see her leaping like a Poodle should, her long legs like springs sending her sailing high over the green grasses as she chases her new friends. I see her free, free from all the constraints and limitations this life dealt her, free to be what she was meant to be. But my heart is also selfish and wishes she were still in my lap this morning.

Thank you again....I don't know what we would do without you.
Hugs,
Leslie and Angel Grace

[addy]

Leslie, It was hard for me to read about Grace so I found myself unable to write to you until today. I know you understand. I'm so sorry for your loss. It doesnt matter how long we share our lives with our pups, the loss still hurts.

[apollo6]

Dear Leslie,with tears in my eyes,little Grace came into this world with so much suffering,but she left knowing and feeling loved and cherished,even if only for a short time. She is now free and healthy. Leslie now that you gave this precious little girl ,even for a short time,joy,happiness, love and kindness. No one could have done as much as you did for her.
Hugs Sonja and Angel Apollo

[molly muffin]

I cannot even imagine the hole she left in your home. I am just so glad that you were a part of her life and she a part of yours. Short or not, it was huge

hugs and love
Sharlene and molly muffin

[Trish]

I imagine that little dog is going to leave a huge hole, changes the whole routine of your life. Little Grace has left an big impact for sure, big hugs today as you find a new way of doing things xx

[mcdavis]

I'm so very sorry to hear about Grace, yet so glad that she had the time she had with you, Leslie, so that she experienced love and kindness. You are a truly amazing person.
Run free little Grace

[Trish]

Hi Leslie, just checking in to see if you are doing alright? Hope so, are the other babies missing Grace? Big Hugs for you xxxx

[Squirt's Mom]

Thanks, Trish. Just trying to stay busy. There was so much involved with Grace's daily care I feel at lose ends most of the time but that will pass. I haven't picked up any more of her things; her pen and box remain as they were. It's habit to look in her box as I open the drapes in the mornings to see if she reacts to the light - that may take a while as will meal time. Most of all, I miss my lap buddy when on the computer.

[Trish]

Awwww whip up that Squirty for a bit of lap time! Routines are hard to break at the best of times aren't they... you know how this goes well so make sure you take care of yourself OK.. you don't want me turning into the food police!! Are you eating?!?

[SasAndYunah]

Awwww Leslie, due to my "teeth-thingy" I hadn't been here for a few days so it's just now that I see that your lovely Grace has passed, I am so sorry. Yet, I am also greatfull that Grace was in your life. No living creature should ever leave this world without knowing what it feels like to be loved...and that's what you have given Grace. She left your arms and this world, loved and cared for, despite her hardships a very lucky girl.

Hugs and all my best,

Saskia.

[Squirt's Mom]

A high school friend of mine is donating dog food to the Arkansas tornado dogs in memory of Grace. She taped a big white piece of paper on the bags that says, "In memory of Grace and Leslie Hays Richards". My friend lives in the town where Grace came from and the shelter that had her was destroyed. I have cried so many tears for Arkansas since the storm but these tears are different. It is such an honor to know Grace touched others so deeply, and so touching my friend would do this in her name.

Please keep the state of Alabama and Mississippi in your prayers along with Arkansas. Those two states where hit hard last nite. :(

[molly muffin]

OMG, the shelter was destroyed!! This has been a horrible couple days and doesn't look to be over yet :( Grace was precious, she'd had it really rough for a long time it seems, but she did touch those who knew her and loved her.
Just so sad about the shelter, animals and peoples lives destroyed in a blink. :(
love
Sharlene and molly muffin

[mcdavis]

That's such a lovely thing for your friend to do.

So very sad to hear about the shelter, and also the devastation caused by the storms. Will be keeping everyone affected in my thoughts and prayers.

Leslie - I've been searching to see if there's a way we can help the tornado dogs but not found anything. If you have information that you could post that would be appreciated.

[Squirt's Mom]

Well, I came to Grace's thread already in tears after pulling out her baby food to donate and saw your edit, Mc. Now I'm sobbing. Thank you more than words can say.

The HSUS has brought trucks into the area that are being loaded with food and supplies, plus they are taking donations for all the pets effected throughout the South. In addition, here is a bit more info -



The Arkansas Lost and Found Pet Network has set up a Facebook group for owners and finders of lost and found pets from last night’s storms. They also have other information if you care to scroll along. Join the group here if you are on FB - https://www.facebook.com/alfpetnetwork

CARE - http://myemail.constantcontact.com/Devastated-Pets-From-The-Recent-Storms-Say-Thank-You.html?soid=1102811929568&aid=k5zJeMMGj_s

The Humane Society of Pulaski County,14600 Colonel Glen Rd. (501) 227-6166 - and their FB page https://www.facebook.com/HumaneSocietyPulaskiCounty?fref=ts

Maumelle Friends of Animals, who helped with Grace, can be reached here - P.O. Box 13061, Maumelle, Arkansas 72113(501) 851-7114. And their FB page is at - https://www.facebook.com/MFOAFB?ref=br_tf

Again, thank you so very much for asking.

[Squirt's Mom]

Also Faulkner County Humane Society - one of the hardest hit counties - scroll down to the "donate" button -

http://www.fixingfaulknercounty.com/

[molly muffin]

Thanks for posting the links Leslie. I keep up with the lost and found via you, so heart breaking. I cry every time I look on there.
Great idea MC, I was wondering who to send to get the most benefit too. These are some good ideas.
Oh I'm sorry Leslie, it is so hard to have to go through their things. :(
sending you hugs and love
Sharlene and molly muffin

[Squirt's Mom]

I want to thank you, Sharlene, for your help and for reminding me of Amazon - they will send supplies to the various shelters and aid stations from just about anywhere...and I just didn't even think of that! :o

The FB group is sending out a list of foster volunteers today so I may have a houseful just any day again. I am SO PROUD of my fellow Arkansans. They have pulled together and stand shoulder to shoulder helping complete strangers. Someone came up with the saying, "Arkanstrong" - and it is certainly true.

Not only Arkansans are showing up from all over the state, there are people from other states driving days to volunteer. But those who are reaching out from all over the world just astound me. They don't even know where ARK is but neither do they care - they just want to help. If you have lost hope for the human race, find a way to hear the stories coming out here - they will melt your heart and give you that hope again.

[Squirt's Mom]

I miss you, Little One. Selfish, I know, since you are now free from all of your limitations but I do miss you so.

[Trixie]

Leslie,
I don't know how I missed this news on Grace until just now. I saw your post on the other thread for Brittany where you mentioned losing Grace...I am so sorry I didn't know sooner and I'm so very sorry for your loss. I was just looking at her photo album yesterday and I had no idea she was gone. She was so sweet and I know how much she must be missed by you.
I'm sorry.

Barbara

[mcdavis]

Thank you for the links Leslie, and also the information about Amazon. We actually drove through some of those areas less than a month ago.
{{{HUGS}}}

[Squirt's Mom]

I miss you, little one. You and Squirt take care of each other and know you are so very loved and missed.

[molly muffin]

I miss her too Leslie. Not like you of course, who loved her and cared for her and she needed you so much. You were there for her when she needed someone to be. That is special and can never, ever be taken away. But yes, I miss hearing about her, seeing her pictures and just knowing she was safe, was enough.

love
Sharlene