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Thread: Sammy's Story - Adrenalectomy (right adrenal), Pheochromocytoma

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    Default Sammy's Story - Adrenalectomy (right adrenal), Pheochromocytoma

    This is Sam's story, recovered (thankfully) by acushdogsmom after the original Canine Cushing's Forum was lost.

    The first post explains why we originally came to the Cushing's Forum in 2003, and the rest of the posts follow the ups and downs of a very complicated adrenalectomy and post-op care over 6 days. It was a harrowing ordeal (particularly for Sam's mom and dad!) but with a very happy ending. Sam got another two+ years of life, thanks to the skills of a particularly talented board certified surgeon and the ICU doctors and staff of this state-of-the-art vet hospital.

    My first post:

    10-15-2003, 07:36 PM
    I've been poring over this board for two or three weeks now as my dog Sam has many of the Cushings symptoms -- excessive drinking, urinating, panting, seeking cool places, shedding, increased appetite -- but has also tested negative on his ACTH and low-dex stim tests. His cortisone/creatinine urine test was negative as well, and his liver enzymes only slightly elevated.

    Unfortunately, both the general practioner's and the specialist's sonograms revealed a large tumor in the right adrenal gland that has thoroughly invaded the caudal vena cava. It's possible that the tumor is causing some cortisol production, which would explain his cushinoid symptoms. However, given the invasion into the vein, the specialists are recommending surgery. If we decide to go this route, there is some comfort in the fact that this is a state-of-the-art teaching hospital with board certified surgeons, etc., and a great deal of experience apparently with adrenalectomy, including clamping off the vein and repairing it as well. But this is our baby, and he seems so happy now and otherwise healthy -- particularly since it's gotten cooler.

    Sam is a Standard Schnauzer mix, 56 pounds, a rescue who was 6 months in a no-kill shelter where he had been abandoned, so no history; age at time of adoption was approx. 3-4 years, now estimated at anywhere between 8-10 years by the vets (we've had him for 4 years in January). It was love at first sight. He was not without problems however. Low self-esteem and fear aggression were our focus for over a year, but I can attest to the fact that love does indeed conquer all. Today, he is our big baby enjoying a life that we feel sure he never had before. Even with the symptoms of Cushings, he is so happy these days..... which makes it all the more difficult to make this decision -- we want to give him a chance for a cure, but we could lose him on the operating table or in the critical days afterward.

    Has anyone else had to make this decision besides minniesmom? If Sam doesn't have the surgery, the tumor will kill him eventually, but there's no way of knowing when -- it could be tomorrow. Any words of advice or input from someone else with a similar experience would be most appreciated. I'm sorry to go on so long, but we're at a very critical point and have to decide his course of treatment -- so I wanted to provide as much detail as possible.

    There are so many wonderful people on this list and I wish you all the best.
    Sammy's Mom
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    LoraineinPerth
    10-15-2003, 10:10 PM
    Hi Sammysmom I am so sorry that Sammy has yet another hurdle in his life. I am also sorry that I cannot give you any advice on an adrenalectomy, all I can give you is my support in whatever decision you make and my prayers for Sammy

    Hugs and poodle pecks
    Loraine & Coco
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    denni50
    10-16-2003, 03:11 AM
    Sammy is one lucky dog to have found himself a wonderful, caring and loving family....and I would
    place all bets on that same luck carrying him through
    the surgery...as you state....the hospital is a top-notch,
    state of the art facility with top-not board certified
    surgeons and specialists.

    These surgeons evidently have a great deal of
    expertise, knowledge and experience performing
    the surgery and then following up the comprehensive,
    state-of-the-art aftercare.

    Perhaps you could ask how many successful adrenalectomy's have they performed with followup
    evaluations.

    My opinion would be to follow the recommendations
    of the specialists. They obviously feel confident in
    securing positive and successful results.

    I know there are several others here who have had
    the adrenalectomy performed with success...maybe
    they will see your post and share their knowledge
    and experience.

    My dog Scruffy has an adrenal tumor that we are
    treating medically with Lysodren...it's been 18 months
    going and she is doing great....for now.

    Trust your instincts but also trust the skills of the
    surgeon(s) and the facility.

    all the best to you and Sam...
    Denise
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    igsmith
    10-16-2003, 03:34 AM
    Don't know too too much about adrenalectomy, but Feldman gives the following statistics:

    Of the 102 dogs they had diagnosed with functioning adrenal tumors, 98 had a unilateral tumor and 63 underwent surgery.

    4 dogs euthanized at surgery with an inoperable mass.

    18 dogs died during surgery or soon after as a result of direct complications from the surgery or post operative problems.

    41 dogs underwent successful sugery (24 had carcinomas and 17 had adenomas).

    Surgery is ruled out for dogs with a large inoperable mass or with metastic lesions on the lungs, liver or other tissue.

    Feldman does say that the ideal treatment for a dog with a functioning adrenal tumor is surgical removal of the tumor. However medical management using Lysodren can be used. He says that more than 60% of dogs with adrenal tumors treated with Lysodren have a "good to excellent response".

    ANyway, those are the facts as I can find them.

    Ian, Gina and WEINER
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    chapmandou
    10-16-2003, 10:35 AM
    Thank you so much for your replies and support. I'll be talking to the internal medicine M.D. this evening about the surgery, which will probably be scheduled for early next week. Both he and the radiologist have strongly recommended this course based on the ultrasound and his other tests.

    I know he'll be in the best of hands, but it's hard thinking that this weekend might be his last with us as well. You can't imagine how we're spoiling him. (well, maybe you can...:\ ) He is still bouncing around :rollin and loving this fall weather -- he couldn't be happier. We can only pray that he has a lot more happy days in his future.

    Has anyone had any experience with a pheochromocytoma. We're thinking it might be the culprit. I sure hope they can fix this big hairy baby of ours.
    Sammy's Mom
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    acushdogsmom
    10-16-2003, 11:02 AM
    Hi Sammy's Mom,

    The best we can ever do is to find a Vet we trust and then follow their best advice as to how to proceed. I'm sure the Specialists think that surgery is going to give your Sam a chance for a successful outcome or they would not have mentioned the surgical option to you.

    Besides Nettie we also had another dog named Sam here (Valerie's Sam) who underwent a successful adrenalectomy, but who has since passed away (from an unrelated cause). Valerie still stops by here sometimes to say hi or see how we are doing, so maybe she will see your post and lend some moral support to you as well.

    Here's the link to Valerie's Sam's story:

    http://www.caninecushings.net/forums...read.php?t=370

    Also, here is a link I found about pheochromocytoma.

    http://www.vin.com/proceedings/Proce...A2002&PID=2557 (http://www.vin.com/proceedings/Proce...A2002&PID=2557)

    Will be keeping you and Sam in my prayers. Please stay in touch.

    (((hugs)))
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    springundfancy
    10-20-2003, 04:03 PM
    Hi Sammy's Mom-
    I just came to the site and read your posts. I know what a hard choice it is to make when you have to decide to opt for this surgery or not.
    It sounds like your Sam is in excellent hands and you are receiving lots of information from the vets. Still, there are no guarantees, and that's what makes it so hard.
    My Sam did very well with his adrenalectomy and recovery. But, he was an old boy and went into chronic renal failure months later; we tried to fight that, too, but weren't successful.
    I'm anxious to hear about your Sam. I'm sorry I didn't see your post sooner, but know that I'm thinking about you and your Sam.

    Valerie (a Sam's mom, too)
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    allend
    10-20-2003, 04:29 PM
    Very timely. Our dog will likely be going in for this exact same surgery within the week. Fortunately we were referred to a very qualified specialist. One thing I asked was how many times the surgery was performed by the internist and what was their mortality rate. Some internists have a very mortality rate with this particular surgery. Fortunately ours was only 5% with hundreds of adrenalectomies.

    I am worried about our dog, but after consulting with the experts I believe it is the best thing to do.
    ________________________________________
    chapworthy
    10-21-2003, 12:31 PM
    Thanks everyone for your kind words and support. We'll be needing all your positive energy and healing thoughts especially for the next four days. We met with the internal medicine specialist and the surgeon this afternoon. Sam will have the surgery first thing in the morning. Should take from 1 to 3 hours, and then the next 72 hours are critical (he'll be in intensive care with around the clock attention and monitoring).
    We've started him on beta blockers already in anticipation. The doctors agree that it looks like a pheochromocytoma. Fortunately, the surgeon has extensive experience performing these operations, including removing the tumor from where it has invaded the caudal vena cava (major vein to the heart).

    There are a lot of things that can go wrong and we're worried to death thinking it might be Sam's last night with us. The mortality rate is 10 to 20 percent (although I have read as high as 30%). However, without the surgery, Sam is a "walking time bomb," and with it, he has a chance for maybe up to two years additional life.

    Over the last three weeks or so, he's never been bouncier or happier -- which is good and bad. Good that if they're his last days, they've been so wonderful for all of us and we're extremely thankful for that. Bad in that it's doubly hard to take him in tomorrow for the surgery when he seems so well and happy.

    If everything goes perfectly, we can bring him home Saturday. I guess that's what we have to focus on. "Like a laser beam" I guess.

    Again, thank you so much for all your best wishes and please keep Sammy in your thoughts. We love him so much.

    Sammy's Mom
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    allend
    10-21-2003, 01:12 PM
    My thoughts are with you in this surgery. I will keep my fingers crossed. It is a good sign that the dog is upbeat, because their health and energy going into the surgery is a big factor in how quick the dog will rebound. Keep us updated!
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    sachimom
    10-21-2003, 01:17 PM
    Sammy's Mom,
    You will be in our thoughts and prayers for a successful surgery. Even though this was a difficult decision, your are a great mom for giving Sammy the best chance possible.
    Keep us posted.
    Sending Good Dachsie Healing Rayz your way.
    Mary Ann & Sachi
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    acushdogsmom
    10-22-2003, 03:33 PM
    Sammy's Mom,

    I've been thinking about you and Sammy (positive and healing thoughts, as requested!) all day and am hoping to hear from you soon with news that Sammy's surgery went well.

    (((hugs)))
    ________________________________________
    chapmandou
    10-22-2003, 05:18 PM
    We've got 72 hours to get through... but Sammy has made it through the surgery -- all 3-1/2 hours

    Your thoughts and healing energy are working, so please don't stop. They got the tumor out from that tangle of veins and capillaries, and they also got it out of the major vein that it had almost completely blocked. (This is what was causing the hind leg weakness apparently.) They repaired the vein and saw no evidence of disease in the liver or other adrenal gland. There was a lot of blood loss, but they transfused him during the operation. And since they also suspected that it was a pheochromocytoma as I had feared, they were prepared to deal with the blood pressure spikes caused in manipulating the tumor during removal -- his pressure would spike from 60 to 360 and back again apparently. The surgeon had to have the internal medicine M.D. come in to assist the anesthetist in controlling Sam's pressure. At the end of the operation, he was relatively stable at 120-140.

    Like most of you, I've spent hours reading about my baby's condition on the vet websites and in the literature, and what I learned is that so many things can go wrong in removing a 'pheo' with vein invasion that it almost didn't seem possible. What a relief that he's over this hurdle at least, and the damn thing is out -- all of it!

    Sammy got out of surgery at around 5:15. I called at 10 this evening and he is "the same." They'll call if there is a turn for the worse. Otherwise, we'll talk to the surgeon again at 9 a.m. So we're still holding our breath -- but if Sammy can rebound successfully from all this stress and not throw a clot or encounter some other complication, everything looks a lot better than it might have. We really are hoping he can come home on Saturday.

    Although Sam had some of the classic Cushings symptoms (excessive drinking, peeing, panting, and hind leg weakness), he tested negative. His case may be instructive for other dogs with similar symptoms who are not testing positively. The sonogram is crucial and a 'pheo' should always be considered. And if surgery is recommended, it should be performed only by a board certified surgeon who has experience with removing them. It is common for them to invade the caudal vena cava (major vein right next to the right adrenal), and so it requires a skilled doctor to address all of the issues that come into play.

    Again, thank you all SO much for thinking of Sammy. He still needs you. I need you too, and appreciate your support more than you know.
    Sammy's Mom
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    acushdogsmom
    10-22-2003, 08:05 PM
    Thank you for the update! I will continue to think postive thoughts for you and Sammy and I hope to hear from you again tomorrow with more good news.

    Try to get some sleep! (I know it won't be easy)

    (((hugs)))
    ________________________________________
    mom2misty
    10-23-2003, 02:48 AM
    Thank God Sammy came through the surgery. I know this is
    so hard for you, but prayer is powerful and that is what we
    will be doing for your family and especially Sammy.

    Special hugs

    Shelba and Misty
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    chapmandou
    10-23-2003, 04:11 AM
    I spoke to one of the doctors who assisted in the surgery this morning and she reported that Sam was doing really well considering what he went through yesterday. His blood pressure remains stable. He has some arrhythmia, so he's on a constant heart monitor, but this is not unusual given the surgery apparently. She said the 3-1/2 hour operation yesterday was 'pretty stressful' for all of them, so they seem pretty pleased about how Sammy is doing. She also said we can visit him, so we're going right after work. :rollin

    All of your positive energy and prayers continue to work --we just can't thank you enough. The surgical staff at this place (in Connecticut) is truly amazing. We're so lucky to have such a brilliant team taking care of our baby. And we're so lucky to have you thinking of us.

    All the best to all of you and the furry members of your family. Give them lots of extra hugs and kisses from us.
    Sammy's Mom
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    mom2misty
    10-23-2003, 05:46 AM
    Wonderful!!

    Still praying.

    Hugs
    Shelba and Misty
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    denni50
    10-23-2003, 08:55 AM
    Sammy will pull through with no sweat....
    with a brilliant surgical team and amazing family
    in his corner how can he not come out a winner!!!

    keeping my paws(er...fingers) crossed.
    Denise
    ________________________________________
    sachimom
    10-23-2003, 09:41 AM
    I'm so happy o hear the Great News!
    We'll keep sending healing prayers Sammy's way.
    Hugs and Happiness
    Mary Ann & Sachi
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    rileyzmom
    10-23-2003, 10:25 AM
    I am very happy to read about Sammy's progress. Please keep us posted.

    You also piqued my interest in some of your comments about helping other dogs. I think my Riley may fall into just that category. Perhaps we could communicate on another topic line, but I would be interested in how you found out what Sammy had. Riley has had an ultrasound (sonogram), and she does have a significantly larger right adrenal, but her ACTH tests have come out negative, while her alkaline phosphatase keeps climbing (2100 and counting). Was there another less used test that confirmed Sammy's diagnosis?

    Thanks for any help. I know you have a lot on your plate right now. I have a question posted about clots if you want to reply there.

    Sammy is in our thoughts,
    riley's mom
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    rileyzmom
    10-23-2003, 11:45 AM
    Very glad to hear of the positive progress. I have been thinking about Sammy all day.

    I left you a reply on your earlier topic "adrenalectomy???" if you wouldn't mind reading it I'd appreciate your help.

    Please keep us posted.

    riley's mom
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    acushdogsmom
    10-23-2003, 06:06 PM
    Glad to hear there is more good news today. Hoping to hear from you again soon. How was your visit with Sammy today?
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    LoraineinPerth
    10-23-2003, 08:13 PM
    What reassuring news. I am so glad that Sam is doing well. Please let us know how your visit goes

    Hugs and poodle pecks
    Loraine & Coco
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    pippin52
    10-24-2003, 12:41 AM
    GREAT!!!!!!!!! GLAD THINGS WENT SO WELL. Give Sam a big happy Dal kiss from Annie.
    ________________________________________
    mrluckieee
    10-24-2003, 05:02 AM
    From my Sam to your Sammy , glad he is doing well.
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    chapmandou
    10-24-2003, 07:58 AM
    Thanks everyone for all your kind words and support. We visited Sam last night and even though he's "doing very well," it was heartbreaking for the parents. Even devastating. We couldn't even think about dinner afterwards. We got home (my husband driving more slowly than ever in his life, particularly since he's a race car driver), and after a stiff drink, we both just went to bed in an attempt to hide under the covers until Sam is well.

    He was hooked up to a heart monitor and had one of those direct-line things around his neck where they have three ports they can hook up whatever is necessary -- his IV, plasma, nutrition, antibiotics, morphine, etc. He hasn't been offered food yet (maybe midday today), and they had just given him morphine before we came in (this in addition to his pain patch). So he was panting and not too responsive. Apparently the morphine causes the panting.

    I talked to the doctor this morning and she assured me that he's still doing very well and is not painful. She said that she is so used to seeing dogs in this state after going through a serious surgery, she finds it very normal. We should probably have been more prepared -- it's just that you can't talk to him and make him understand that everything's going to be all right and he'll be able to come home soon. (This morning she said maybe Sunday, not Saturday as had been the plan.) I told her we certainly didn't want to rush anything -- we want him to be where he can get the care he needs while he's recovering. He's going to have more plasma today to introduce more clotting factor, since his is slightly prolonged. He lost a lot of blood during the operation and was transfused with a fair amount of blood product then.

    Okay, I'll stop. Sorry to go on, but I feel like I'm falling and I can't yet see where we're gonna land. You know the feeling. We just want Sam to be well and to be home. Our big baby.

    Thanks so much for thinking of Sam and us. We need every bit of it, and Sam especially.
    Hugs too all of you,
    Sammy's Mom
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    acushdogsmom
    10-24-2003, 08:52 AM
    Hi Sammy's Mom (and Dad too),

    I know how hard it must be to see your Sammy hooked up to an IV and needing state-of-the-art post op care. But please try to remember that the Vet says that Sammy is doing well, and she can see past the tubes and meds etc (all the things that you can't help but notice when you look at Sammy) and that the Vet still says Sammy is doing well.

    I'm sure that once you can take Sammy home you will see a big improvement, but for now Sammy is where he needs to be to get the very best post-op care.

    Thank you so much for posting here to keep us updated even in the middle of all the stress and worry you've been going through. I am continuing to think positive thoughts for Sammy and for you and your husband. Can't wait to hear you telling us that Sammy is home and feeling fine.

    (((hugs)))
    ________________________________________
    mom2misty
    10-24-2003, 02:26 PM
    Thinking of you guys. Praying too. Just try to keep the
    faith and I know Sammy can feel your warm love flowing
    to him and that will give him all the reason to get through
    this. They can be so strong for us when we need them
    so much.

    You have wonderful care for little Sam and they will take very
    good care of him. Even though it is so hard on you to see him like this, he is where he needs to be right now. Just keep
    reminding yourself that he will be home soon.

    Love and hugs
    Shelba and Misty
    ________________________________________
    Buddys mom
    10-24-2003, 02:37 PM
    Just wanted to tell you to hang in there the next day or so. It is so hard to see your babies looking lost and vulnerable. Usually thay are so sleepy at the vets that I think its harder on us. Time will pass and hell be home to get some good TLC. Hugs to you and Dad
    ________________________________________
    chapmandou
    10-24-2003, 04:18 PM
    You guys were all so right! Sammy was so much better tonight. He raised his head and turned over to see us, he LOOKED at us and seemed happy we were there. He almost tried to get up! He reacted to the other poor doggies (12 of them) that were there in emergency tonight (Sam's still in ICU). We petted him and he liked it. He wasn't panting. We told him what a good boy he was and that he was going to be fine and happy again and home soon. He put his head down while I petted him and told him to rest and go sleepin'. We said good night and came home in such relief you can't imagine. Well, maybe you can.
    Your thoughts and prayers continue to work. Thank you thank you thank you.
    Hugs from us all.
    Sammy's Mom
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    mom2misty
    10-24-2003, 04:36 PM
    What wonderful news! I am so happy for you. Maybe you
    can finally get a good night's sleep and maybe tomorrow
    will bring even better news! God bless.

    Many hugs
    Shelba and Misty
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    mrluckieee
    10-24-2003, 06:08 PM
    That is wonderful new, I tried to find a post, what kind of operation did you Sammy get? Sounds very serious. Glad he is coming around.

    Diane , Sam "the king" &SugarBear <---still a brat
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    acushdogsmom
    10-24-2003, 08:45 PM
    Good news! I'm hoping that tomorrow Sammy is feeling stronger and that he can come home on Sunday -- and I'm sending more hugs your way too.
    ________________________________________
    LoraineinPerth
    10-24-2003, 09:08 PM
    This is such good news I am so happy that Sammy is doing so well, and I do hope that he can come home soon. I am sure he understands that you will keep on being there for him. (((HUGS))) to you all

    Hugs and Poodle pecks
    Loraine & Coco
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    denni50
    10-25-2003, 02:47 AM
    That is the best news I've heard this weekend.

    I just knew Sammy was one special lucky canine..
    not to mention a real trooper...and that his will
    to come home with his parents would carry him through.

    It certainly gives me hope if and when the time comes
    for my Scruffy to have to go through this harrowing
    procedure.

    a toast to Sam!!!!
    Denise
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    CairnTerrierMom
    10-25-2003, 04:01 AM
    Great news! I can hardly wait to hear if Sammy comes home tomorrow. Please let us know how he's doing today.

    --Mary
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    chapmandou
    10-25-2003, 06:14 AM
    The report today is that he's resting comfortably, but still having arrhythmias and still won't eat. They asked us to bring some food and try to see if he'll take it from us when we visit.

    This is SO Sammy. :\ If you offer him a cookie (that he wants), he turns his head once, twice, maybe three times before he'll take it -- as if he's embarrassed, not sure, or someone in his past used to tease him badly with food (I can't bear to think about that grim possibility...)

    I sure hope he takes the nice boiled chicken I'm gonna try to hand feed him. It's his favorite, and easy on the tummy. Does this bring out the mom in me or what? My baby won't eat!!! And I want to go NOW, but Sam's daddy wants me to wait for him (he's working). Can't I do both??? (the hospital is an hour away unfortunately, but do I care?)
    Hugs to all of you from all of us.
    Sammy's Mom
    (background: adrenalectomy Wednesday, Oct. 25, to remove right adrenal gland with catacholamine-producing tumor and repair invaded vein -- risks include high blood pressure spikes, clots, arrhythmias -- he crashed during surgery and they almost lost him -- the whole surgical staff and internal medicine specialists ended up participating during the 3-1/2 hour operation)
    ________________________________________
    Kathy and John
    10-25-2003, 09:44 AM
    Sammy sounds so special, and so do you guys.
    Life is a trial, a test of faith, and if you believe, your best hopes will be answered. Sometimes they aren't and that is a test.
    We wish you the best and hope your prayers are answered.
    Hope you all are feeling better tomorrow.

    Kathy and John
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    sachimom
    10-25-2003, 01:03 PM
    Good to hear that Sammy is making progress. He is such a special boy and sooo lucky to have such wonderful parents. It is so heartbreaking to think that someone tormented him with food, an essential part of life, but there are some real monsters out there. Explain to him that he must eat his chicken so he can get strong and be one step closer to coming home. I hope and pray that he will be able to come home soon, but not to rush it. Do you have a vet close by if anthing should happen after he gets home. An hour is a very long drive if there is a problem, but very managable for a visit!! Continuing the good thoughts and prayers and -
    Sending Good Dachsie Healing Rayz for Sammy.
    Mary Ann & Sachi
    P.S. Thank you so much for taking the time to keep us updated.
    ________________________________________
    CairnTerrierMom
    10-25-2003, 05:15 PM
    I sure hope somebody ate their chicken today like a good boy! Hang in there Sammy's Mom... you are all in our prayers and I hope Sammy continues to improve.

    --Mary
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    chapmandou
    10-25-2003, 05:34 PM
    Well, now they're saying maybe Monday Sammy can come home. He still has some arrhythmia, but not as frequent, so they're cutting down the medication that's been controlling it to see how he does. He hasn't wanted to eat anything yet. And no, he wouldn't take the chicken I brought him. I'm impatient and want him to be well NOW but I know it takes time after the ordeal he's been through. We almost lost him in surgery, so I have to be thankful he's doing as well as he is.

    Tonight when we visited him, for the first time we didn't have to go into ICU to see him -- they suddenly appeared with him on a leash -- still wearing his heart monitor, but with his IV ports unplugged obviously. He came in and wagged his tail when he saw us. We got to visit in one of the examining rooms for about 15, maybe 20 minutes. They came in to check on him a couple of times. First he sat his bottom down on his daddy's lap (we were all on the floor). Later he laid next to me and eventually turned over on his side, wriggling to get comfortable in that way he has, with a couple of big sighs.

    He was very docile -- obviously still recovering but seemed to be glad we were all together for a while. That's his very favorite thing in the world -- when the three of us are all together.

    These days seem endless til he comes home, but we want him to be out of danger and they have a lot invested in him as well, it was such a tremendous effort on everyone's part. We do have a local vet for an emergency, but they certainly don't have all the high-tech equipment that the hospital does. So no one wants to take any risk on this. We'll visit him again tomorrow and try to be patient. Maybe Monday? He's been such an angel. And so are all of you. Angels.
    Now go give your sweet doggies a big hug and be thankful they're home. Home is the best place.
    Sammy's Mom and Dad
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    acushdogsmom
    10-25-2003, 05:47 PM
    Woo Hoo! It's great to hear you visited with Sammy in an exam room today instead of in ICU!

    Don't worry about his not wanting to eat, even the chicken you brought -- some dogs just won't eat while in hospital but will when they get back home again. (while in hospital they can feed him via IV if he won't eat solid foods, I'm sure)

    I think it's a good idea to keep Sammy in hospital until they are very sure he can safely go home, although I also know how much you do want him home with you of course.

    Have just given my little boy a special hug (as requested!) although he already gets about a hundred or so hugs a day.

    Attaboy Sammy! Just keep getting better so you can come home soon!
    ________________________________________
    LoraineinPerth
    10-26-2003, 01:50 AM
    what great news that Sammy is walking around. It seems you all had a great visit. I am sure that Sammy will be home with you all very soon.

    Hugs and poodle pecks
    Loraine & Coco
    ________________________________________
    Audrey
    10-26-2003, 12:43 PM
    So glad Sammy is feeling better. I think once you see those first signs of improvement, no matter how slight, it's easier to believe everything will be ok. When Malthus was hospitalized, it was the day that I came to see him and he tried to rub his head on me and on the wall to greet me. Even though he only did it the tiniest bit, that was a normal behaviour for him and I knew he was feeling better.

    Hope Sammy continues to improve and is back home with you soon.

    Audrey
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    sachimom
    10-26-2003, 12:51 PM
    Glad to hear the good news on Sammy. Tell him it was a good first step (no pun intented!!) to be walking, but it would make us all real happy if he would eat a bit of that yummy chicken!
    He'll continue to be in my thoughts and prayers.
    Mary Ann
    ________________________________________
    Buddys mom
    10-26-2003, 12:57 PM
    Yes- I am glad Sammy is feeling a bit bettertoo. I know you cant wait to get him home. I always enjoy taking care of them when they are down. (even though we mostly want them well) They know and appreciate it when they get that SPECIAL attention. Hang in there. Its getting close! Hugs from Angie and Buddy
    ________________________________________
    mom2misty
    10-26-2003, 02:10 PM
    So good to hear Sammy is still improving. With all the love
    and prayers going out to him, I believe he will be home real soon sitting on dad's lap and snuggling next to mom.

    Love, hugs and prayers

    Shelba and Misty
    ________________________________________
    mrluckieee
    10-26-2003, 03:06 PM
    Wow that sounds like a very tough operation. Glad for you both, he sounds like he is improving. Its so hard, the wait.

    Diane , Sam and SugarBear
    ________________________________________
    chapmandou
    10-26-2003, 03:20 PM
    Today, tonight is not so good. Sammy had a new arrhythmia last night -- atrial instead of ventricular. His heart rate went to 220 around midnight Saturday. He threw up a couple of times -- they attributed to drinking too much water at once. Still won't eat. They tried a new medication for the atrial arrhythmia, which seems to have it under control so far. However, when we visited him tonight, he was panting heavily, and his nose breathing -- when he stops panting -- sounds quite congested. He was also extremely restless and anxious -- clearly uncomfortable, maybe even painful. They gave him some hydro-morphine later. His pain patch had been removed. He's clearly depressed.

    We waited to talk to the doctor on duty this evening. She had looked at everything today for upper respiratory problems, infection, etc.; his heart monitor is constantly vigilant and okay since last night, they did a heart x-ray, blood tests, etc. Everything seems okay. Slightly elevated temp., nothing serious. But she was worried about the breathing, the anxiety, the depression, etc. She just thinks he should look better. So do I. His tests don't indicate anything to be causing it, but something's not right. Needless to say, I am in a state as well.... Cried all day since I talked to her this morning and got her report about the arrhythmia and temp. Tomorrow the internal medicine docs will evaluate him and he'll be moved to medical from surgical care.

    I am fraught. Five days now and I thought maybe we had turned a corner last night. Wrong. His Daddy thinks he needs to be home, that his depression and overall condition is due to being in hospital so long. He wanted to know if we brought him home maybe he would improve, although this idea scared me. I was afraid he would die. She thought we could try this as soon as it's safe to try, but not while he may be in danger where medical intervention might be curative. Seems an awfully hard call to me. As a dog mom, I am just devastated right now. Please can we get through this and have him home and well? My heart is breaking. What can I do??? This isn't even a real Cushings case, just a horrible adrenal gland tumor, and I am unloading on all you wonderful Cushings parents. I'm sorry -- I just don't know where to go. We love him and we want him home and well. Please keep him in your thoughts and prayers.

    Sammy's Mom
    ________________________________________
    Dukies Mommy
    10-26-2003, 03:33 PM
    I will say a "Healing" prayer to St. Jude for Sammy.

    Dukies mommy, Susan
    ________________________________________
    mrluckieee
    10-26-2003, 03:36 PM
    I am not a medical person, but maybe you could ask the doctors if he could come home. Sammy, He probably doesn't understand, why he can't come home. Could you stay with him at the vets, several hours then home and then back? I know that sounds like a hardship, too. I feel so bad for you, maybe if you were there at the dog hospital? sitting beside him he would rest better and not be so stressed? I hope and will pray he does better. I have watched for your post.

    Diane , Sam and Sugarbear
    ________________________________________
    acushdogsmom
    10-26-2003, 04:03 PM
    Please don't ever feel you can't come here and talk as much as you want to. You are part of this community as much as anyone else here is. We are all rooting for you and praying for Sammy. If we can offer support and a place for you to vent where everyone understands what you are feeling, then we're glad to do it.

    Even though home is where you want him to be and where I'm sure he also would rather be, it may not be wise to try to take Sammy home until the Vets think it is safe enough.

    Is there any way that they'd allow you to stay with Sammy at the hospital?

    I know that most Vet hospitals have rules that don't usually allow family members to stay with their dogs, but I wonder if perhaps in this case, where the staff cares so much about Sammy and what he's been through and is trying so hard to help him, maybe they would let you stay with him if they felt he might be more relaxed and comfortable and might recover better with his Mom and/or Dad right there with him, petting him, whispering to him how much you love him ... it might really help him a lot to have you there with him in addition to the state-of-the-art medical care he also needs right now.

    The Vet Specialist Facility where I go does not usually let clients stay with their pets, but they did make an exception for me once after my dog had surgery. I brought a comforter and a pillow and stayed the whole time, day and night, there with him on the floor. He was much calmer with me there holding him and touching him and whenever he woke up he saw me and heard me and he felt safe I think. The Internist realised that my dog was just one of those who would recover better with me there than without me there so she made an exception and let me stay.

    I will say special prayers for Sammy again tonight.

    (((hugs)))
    ________________________________________
    chapmandou
    10-26-2003, 04:04 PM
    Well, of course, I asked if I couldn't stay in Sammy's cage with him tonight. I would do it in a heartbeat if they allowed it. But I guess they don't.... They want to give him another day and have the specialists evaluate him tomorrow.

    I agree about bringing him home even for a little while if that's at all feasible. There's no such thing as inconvenience here -- I work at home and make my own schedule. ICU has its schedule too, which is very limiting. Believe me, we will do whatever we possibly can -- and they're doing everything they can, I know. I hope the internal med. M.D. has an answer for us tomorrow, a new idea, something.... Weekends are hell in hospitals.... I welcome your ideas.
    Sammy's Mom
    ________________________________________
    chapmandou
    10-26-2003, 04:19 PM
    Thank you so much for your story. You are such a generous and incredible dog mom, and I have read your posts with particular interest.

    Tomorrow I will ask again about the distinct possibility that there is a psychological component to this case. I actually wanted to stay with him from the beginning. After being abandoned and incarcerated in a no-kill shelter for 6 months, Sammy is a boy who really needs reassurance that his life is not going down that path again. I told the doctor about this tonight. I know that the activity in ICU is extremely critical for all the patients there and I understand how they must limit visits. But I'm really wondering if it might make a difference at this point if we can spend more time with him.
    ________________________________________
    mrluckieee
    10-26-2003, 05:49 PM
    We once had a dog , Scruffy, that ruptered a disc ,(which we found out later) playing ball with my husband. I had him xrayed and they missed it thinking it was his leg.
    Probably made him worse the xray. They had to knock him out to do it. But 1:00 am that night , he came to
    greet me at the door when I came home dragging his behind. It was so awful, those days no ER for dogs. I was
    horrifed my dog suddenly coundn't walk. They had to keep him , and keep him from walking and doing
    much. Steroid shots. While he was there at the hospital, He wouldn't eat or drink , out of depression. He was
    also in pain, as the spinal cord swelling went down. So it went on for days. They didn't want him excited but I
    did go over there twice a day, and stay, sat with him and brought home food like you did. Scruffy, was not
    eatting at all until Mommy came. He would take food and water from me and me only. He had back problems
    for the rest of his life, thinking back he probably had cushings too. I had to give him steroids for his pain off
    and on. I do understand how you feel. I feel bad for you .Your baby is more seriously ill, but maybe
    tomorrow will be better news and maybe they will let you come and stay longer with him during the day
    maybe?.
    ________________________________________
    LoraineinPerth
    10-26-2003, 07:06 PM
    I really don't know what to say to you. I am so very sorry that Sam is having such a hard time of it. It does sound to me as if he is fretting too much about being in that place, especially given his history. I will be praying for Sammy to get thru this terrible patch. I'll also be sending a prayer up for you and your hubby

    Hugs and poodle pecks
    Loraine & Coco
    ________________________________________
    denni50
    10-27-2003, 03:23 AM
    On that same note with Diane & Cushy...
    your presence could help Sammy through this
    critical period psychologically.

    Perhaps you could make a plea for some healing time
    with Sammy. Even an hour during the day and evening
    of petting and stroking him, having him hear the
    sound of your voice and the sense of your presence
    would give him what he needs to fight and survive.

    It is well documented that humans have a faster
    healing and recovery when they are surrounded and
    supported by family and friends...undoubtedly it is
    the same for animals.

    Caring and nurturing is a powerful stimulus on
    the body's physiology.

    I will hold Sammy in my thoughts.....
    Denise
    ________________________________________
    Alastair E
    10-27-2003, 09:41 AM
    Its hard for you both when you are apart, but he's in the best place if anything should happen.
    When my dog Rocky had to spend the day in the Vets for his Cushings tests, another of my dogs, Spot kept him company. Before we rescued Rocky from a dog-shelter with a 7 day termination policy, (picked him up just as vet was arriving to do the deed), He had been involved in a fight, and abandoned at a vets, who had passed him on to the shelter, after he had been fixed up and kept a few weeks.
    The thought of him being left alone in a strange vets with all the memories he has, made me ask to have Spot present as well--The Vet agreed, and when I picked them up later,I was told how much better Rocky had been than normally expected with a dogs first stay with them.--He had been a model patient.
    Spot didnt mind, as he is quite old, and seems to be used to cages, He's also a rescue dog, a whippet

    Dogs are pack animals, and dont like separation from their pack. If theres only one dog in the family then the family is the dogs pack, separation causes anxiety and stress.

    As soon as his condition improves I would take your Sammy home, as the reduction in stress alone would do him the world of good, or even visiting for as long as you can and as often in the mean time will help.

    Our thoughts are with you.

    Al, Rocky, Brewster and Spot
    ________________________________________
    CairnTerrierMom
    10-27-2003, 10:34 AM
    Nothing to add to the other suggestions -- just want you to know we're still praying for Sammy and hoping for improvement.

    --Mary
    ________________________________________
    lovemysage
    10-27-2003, 10:56 AM
    I will pray for you and Sammy. I am so sorry this has been such a hard road for you both. Will the Dr.s allow you to bring a blanket or pillow that smells like home and leave it with Sammy. I know having you with him would be the best, but if they won't allow it, maybe they will let you bring a piece of home to him.
    Hugs, thoughts and prayers,
    Cindi
    Sage, Misty, Hunter and Oscar
    ________________________________________
    lulusmom1g
    10-27-2003, 11:29 AM
    PRAYER FOR OUR ANIMAL FRIENDS
    (To make a Novena for a sick pet,
    say this prayer for 9 consecutive days)


    Heavenly Father, the bond we have with our friends of other species is a wonderful and special gift from You. We now ask You to grant our special animal companions your Fatherly care and healing power to take away any suffering they have. They trust in us as we trust in You. Give us, their human friends, new understanding of our responsibilities to these creatures of Yours. Our souls and theirs are on this earth together to share friendship, affection, and caring. Take our heartfelt prayers and bless these ill or suffering animals with healing Light and strength to overcome whatever weakness of body they have:


    (Sammy).


    Your goodness is turned upon every living thing; Your grace flows to all Your creatures; Your Light touches each of us with the reflection of Your love. Grant long and healthy lives to our special animal companions. Bless their relationships with us, and if You see fit to take them from us, help us to understand that they are not gone from us but only drawing closer to You. Grant our prayer through the intercession of good St. Francis of Assisi, who honored You through all Your creatures. Empower him to watch over our animal friends until they are safely with You in eternity, where we someday hope to join them in honoring You forever. Amen.
    ________________________________________
    mom2misty
    10-27-2003, 11:49 AM
    I know your precious Sammy is a very sick baby and is in a
    place where he is well cared for and monitored by professionals, but Sammy doesn't know that and that's what
    makes it so hard on all of you. Breaks my heart. The only
    thing you can do is what is best for Sammy.

    I agree, but understand if not allowed, that spending time
    with him and letting him know you haven't betrayed him does
    matter.

    When Misty was so sick and wouldn't respond to anything the
    doctor asked us to come spend a few hours with her to see
    if there would be a change. After four hours, it was amazing
    how she responded. It made all the difference in the world
    with her. I realize Sammy's condition is more compromised
    and guarded, but it might be just what he needs as a turning
    point.

    I just hope the doctors will find a way to let you guys spend
    a few hours with Sammy.

    My thoughts and prayers, as are so many others, are with you
    and your husband and especially sweet Sammy.

    Love
    Shelba and Misty
    ________________________________________
    chapmandou
    10-27-2003, 12:23 PM
    There's no place like home. And Mom. I have to tell you this: I can't even watch the movie Dumbo because of that scene when his mother is taken away from him. When he's reunited with her and swinging from her trunk outside her jail cell as she sings a lullabye to him, I can't help but cry uncontrollably. Sounds silly. But today, Sam and I were reunited just like that baby elephant and his mom, and I'm not sure who it was better for -- him or me. I soothed away his anxious panting and, pretty soon, he fell into a deep, restful sleep with me stroking him softly and singing to him. He was even dreaming of chasing squirrels at times, as I watched the familiar twitching of feet. And finally, I could relax too.

    Our internal medicine specialist did another heart test (echo) while I was there (interrupting our 3-hour visit for a mere 10 minutes), and was very pleased with the results. He was going to reduce the arrhythmia med even further, and if he does all right over night, he gets to come home tomorrow. His daddy was right about him needing to be home. You were all right too. How can we ever thank you for your support. Keep your paws crossed for tomorrow.
    (((hugs)))
    Sammy's Mom -- leaving right now with Sammy's Dad to have one last evening visit with him before bringing him home tomorrow (please!)
    ________________________________________
    sachimom
    10-27-2003, 12:57 PM
    I know the feeling about Dumbo. I have tears in my eyes just reading about Sammy, but now they are tears of happiness - for Mom, Dad and Sammy. I am so happy that you were able to spend the time with Sammy so he could relax and proceed to heal. The healing power of Moms (and Dads) is indisputable. And the prayers help too. So I will keep you all close in thought and continue to pray that Sammy will continue to do well enough so that he can come home with you tommorrow.
    Tons of hugs ~ Mary Ann
    ________________________________________
    mom2misty
    10-27-2003, 01:41 PM
    Well now, how about that!! These are tears of joy over
    Sammy's improvement and I just hope and pray tonight's
    visit is even better.
    Mountains of hugs and continued blessings
    Shelba and Misty
    ________________________________________
    mrluckieee
    10-27-2003, 04:00 PM
    I am sure, your Sammy was truly secure and healing, just having you there. I know
    with Scruffy it worked. They are so sweet, our babies. They are like children not
    understanding and feeling abandoned. How can they understand, and on top of that they
    feel awful. He will be better and better, you will see, when he gets home. They just
    want to be with their people thats all. Through thick and thin. Please keep posting, we
    are all so interested and waiting to hear more good news!!! Still praying too.
    ________________________________________
    chapmandou
    10-27-2003, 04:32 PM
    Just got back from our visit. Another two blissful hours with Sammy lying between us, sleeping like a baby, occasionally lifting his big sleepy, hairy head to look and make sure we were still there, then putting it back down to go back to his dreams of squirrel chasing, car-riding, getting cookies at the bank teller window, and home.

    Toward the end of the second hour he became more wakeful, wanted his tummy rubbed (scar and all -- softly ), stretched, yawned and then started scratching his muzzle and ears. He often scratches his ears when he's embarrassed by affection. He also starts scratching when he wants to go out for a pee. It was time for us to go and we told the tech we thought he wanted to go outside. She said we could walk him. So his daddy took him out and he had the longest pee, instead of the sort of dribble he'd been performing for the staff. Can you imagine how loony we felt over being really really proud of that pee???? Then Sammy wanted to come right back in to see where I was. He immediately went back into the room where we had been and which I had already left. I clicked to him so he'd turn to find me on the other side of the hallway, and he actually came and tried to jump up on me! He only does this when he's really really really happy or is afraid I'm not going to take him with me. This is not a dog that jumps normally. I took that as a particularly good sign that he's ready to come home. We're all ready.

    Everybody keep your paws crossed that Sammy really does come home tomorrow, and thank you thank you for your prayers, your positive vibes, your healing thoughts, your power of love. These are all possibly the same thing. Whatever it is, it works.
    many (((hugs))) and sleep well (we will, at last!) --
    Sammy's Mom and Dad
    ________________________________________
    acushdogsmom
    10-27-2003, 04:40 PM
    The miracle is in your love for Sammy and his love for you.

    I sure hope he can come home tomorrow.

    (((hugs)))
    ________________________________________
    mrluckieee
    10-27-2003, 05:37 PM
    You both are good medicine for Sammy, sounds like he is feeling better. I hope he can come home tomorrow for the sake of all three of you. I will keep thinking positive for all of you!
    ________________________________________
    denni50
    10-28-2003, 03:00 AM
    What fantastic news that you were able to spend some
    nurturing time with Sammy and his incredible response.

    I truly believe the worst is over and when Sammy finally
    gets home his recovery will even be more dramatic
    and speedy.

    Tears of joy shared by all.....

    Dumbo(et al):
    I can't even bear to watch those animated animal
    films like Bambi, Dumbo and the rest....like the sorry
    old sap that I am I'll sit there balling my eyes out
    until they're red and bulging snorting into a box
    of kleenex.

    Let us know when the 'Welcome Home' banner gets
    hung.

    take good care of Sammy ol'boy....
    Denise
    ________________________________________
    springundfancy
    10-28-2003, 12:23 PM
    I've read all the posts about your Sammy and how he's doing...I'm SO glad to hear he got through the surgery and is on his way to recovery.
    I hope he ate his chicken like a good boy...sometimes they just need a little special treatment from "mom" and "dad".
    Hang in there...
    valerie
    ________________________________________
    chapmandou
    10-28-2003, 04:37 PM
    :rollin Yes -- Sammy's home! We left the hospital with a pretty clean bill of health (and a followup visit scheduled for Thursday already). The tumor was malignant, but they got it all out. They also removed a mass on his spleen that I didn't realize they had done -- and it was benign as well. The liver biopsy -- which concerned me most -- was normal, no spread! The lungs are fine. I couldn't ask for a better report.

    He's still on meds for the arrhythmias -- one pill for the atrial, another pill for the ventricular. He also gets antibiotics for another ten days. But the best thing? (besides being cured of course) -- after he'd had a long nap in his favorite sleeping place, I brought him some chicken and rice soup mixed with his Wellness Senior food. He immediately had three or four bites. The poor thing would not eat in the hospital, even if it was from me, so this is the first food he's taken in 7 days! Does a mother's heart such a world of good to see him eating at last. I've since offered him several bites of boiled chicken breast that he's also taken. We're going slowly, he doesn't want too much at a time after the long fast. But I just know he's going to start eating normally and get his strength back quickly now he's home.

    And he looks so good -- in spite of his new Halloween haircut -- he's just the cutest thing, our salt-n-pepper, bearded, mustached, floppy eared boy with the big hairy sprouting eyebrows.

    He's catching up on some uninterrupted sleep right now -- no more tests or 24/7 bright lights or the constant commotion of emergencies coming into ICU or wondering "what are they gonna do to me now???" Soon, I hope, it will just be a long-forgotten bad dream for him, and that he won't hold it against us .
    Hugs to you and yours,
    Sammy's Mom and Dad
    (completely broke, but blissfully happy!)
    ________________________________________
    mrluckieee
    10-28-2003, 04:39 PM
    He won't hold it against you. I am so releaved for you . I just got done telling my husband. I felt your pain believe me! Very glad your Sammy is home sweet home!
    ________________________________________
    mom2misty
    10-28-2003, 04:50 PM
    All I can say is WHOOPEE!!! and thank God.

    Sweet and blissful dreams to each of you.
    (Sammy, you are such a special boy!)

    Gigantic hugs
    Shelba and Misty
    ________________________________________
    acushdogsmom
    10-28-2003, 06:25 PM
    Carol and Lee (aka Sammy's Mom and Dad)

    I am so happy for you and for Sammy. I'm sure that tonight you will all sleep well for the first time in many days. (and we all will too!)

    Please give Sammy a big (but gentle) hug from me.

    And please promise to continue updating us on how Sammy is doing. Even after he's back to normal, we'll worry if we don't hear from you!

    You are just as much a part of this community as anyone else here, even though Sammy had his adrenal tumor removed and is now cured of that.

    (((big giant hugs all around!)))

    And sweet dreams tonight for sure.
    ________________________________________
    LoraineinPerth
    10-28-2003, 06:52 PM
    This is just the best news I am so pleased that Sammy is home in his own surroundings and even eating a bit here and there. I am sure he is on the road to a full recovery and that he will not hold this experience against you both

    Hugs and poodle peckd
    Loraine & Coco
    ________________________________________
    CairnTerrierMom
    10-29-2003, 04:25 AM
    We're doing the "happy dance" for you, too! I hope you all get some well-deserved rest and relaxation at home, finally. What an ordeal for you all and I am so happy your boy is recuperating at home. Take care.

    --Mary
    ________________________________________
    Audrey
    10-29-2003, 04:46 AM
    It's wonderful to hear that Sammy's home. Best wishes for a speedy recovery,

    Audrey
    ________________________________________
    chapmandou
    10-29-2003, 08:00 AM
    You guys are the best. Thank you so much for continuing to be there -- it has really sustained us through all this. Ever so slowly, we're recuperating. Trying to entice him with tiny little meals -- a few more bites of chicken breast, pimento cheese globs :eek (yes)... his stomach must have shrunken to a tiny little pouch this last week. But we're getting there.

    Breakfast was only a bite of chicken stuffed with his pills -- even that was difficult to get down him. I finally got him up to go outside at noon today (he hadn't been out since 11 last night -- this is the longest we've EVER gone, and certainly a change from taking him out every 2-4 hours prior to the surgery--you know the drill!). He peed (yellow, not clear! ) and perked up a little, sniffed around in the woods a bit, walked up the hill to see if his German Shepherd girlfriend Bodie was out (she wasn't), and he had actually had enough to eat to be able to poop a little as well. He even jumped up onto their little wooded 'traffic island,' sniffed around and then jumped down. A small jump, mind you, but he's so wobbly and weak, I thought this was all very, very good. The cooked egg (mostly egg white) with a little milk, followed by seven bites of chicken and a good drink of water went down nicely after the walk, and now he's sleeping again. So far, so good.

    I have to say I feel a bit like Shirley MacLaine in 'Terms of Endearment' -- at the very beginning? when she gets into her baby's crib to make sure she's still breathing? Know the feeling????
    Love, Sammy's Doting Mom
    ________________________________________
    sachimom
    10-29-2003, 09:19 AM
    Hi Carol, This is just such great news. My heart is bursting with happiness for you. Each little walk and each little bite of food is a major step toward full recovery. We can even celebrate the pee and poop!!! That means the kidneys and intestines are functioning properly. I have thanked the doG God that has helped Sammy through this and pray that his recovery will continue uneventful. I figure you may have a day or so more of this doting before you collapse from exhaustion. But really appreciate the updates, as Sammy has touched all our hearts. Perhaps, when things get a little more back to normal for you, you could write Sammy's story and post it in the Stories section. Under a heading something like Sammy's Adrenal Surgery. This would be a great help for others that come here who have adrenal cushings or adrenal tumors. It would be a more "permanent" posting as postings in this section eventually fall off the board because of the limited space. More hugs and tender ones for Sammy ~ Mary Ann
    ________________________________________
    acushdogsmom
    10-29-2003, 10:15 AM
    He peed (yellow, not clear! )
    LOL! Not too many places I know of where everyone would understand and appreciate a nice yellow pee. :rollin But of course, here we all do!

    Keep on doting and keep on updating too.

    Many hugs to you all, but especially hugs for Sammy the wonder (and wonder-ful) dog!
    ________________________________________
    lovemysage
    10-29-2003, 11:46 AM
    Oh what wonderful news. I bet you see Sammy perking up and healing even faster now that he is home with his mom and dad. Sammy is quite a miracle doggie, and he has truly amazing parents.
    God Bless,
    Cind
    Sage, Misty, Hunter and Oscar
    ________________________________________
    Buddys mom
    10-29-2003, 12:34 PM
    Welcome Home Sammy-Hope you get your appetite and strength back quickly. I know you ( and Mom and Dad) are sleeping sound now that you're home. Home isn't home if everyboby's not in it. Tell Mom to give you a good belly-scratchin from me. Love Angie and Buddy
    ________________________________________
    mom2misty
    10-29-2003, 01:30 PM
    Hey Shirley...er Carol

    Nothing like a good yellow pee! I've seen the times I greatly
    appreciated them too.
    Warms my old heart to hear of the progress Sammy is making.
    The jump, the bites of chicken, eggs, poop and definitely the
    pees. I know every little step forward is such a blessing to
    you guys (and us too). Sammy has lots of adoptive parents
    now who love him very much and are praying for continued
    improvement.
    Keep us posted and the story angle sounds great!

    Love and gentle hugs to Sammy

    Shelba and Misty
    ________________________________________
    mrluckieee
    11-02-2003, 03:06 AM
    I am so glad he is on his way to getting better. I really was concerned for you all, and praying. You must be on cloud 9!!!

    Diane , Sam (diabetes, cushings, & epilepsy) enough is enough!! & SugarBear <-----just a brat
    --------------------------------------------

    In 2006, we lost our sweet boy to what was believed to be a brain tumor. The vet came to our home to give him his rest on June 13. It was a very quiet, gentle and peaceful release from this world.... our beautiful boy knew just how much he was loved, every minute of his life with us. We were blessed to have found him.... he brought so much to our lives and taught us even more about love. RIP, son.
    Last edited by chapmandou; 08-04-2009 at 10:40 AM.

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