Maxwell has never been an "only" dog. Alivia was 2 years old when I got Max and she spoiled him rotten. She cleaned his ears every day and let him have whatever he wanted, even food she was eating! She was always very patient with him and if you didn't know any better, you would have though Max was the alpha. But, if he really pushed his luck and she lost her patience, one little snarl from Alivia would put Max right in his place. So, I know this is very hard on him, too. He is getting lots of extra snuggles and attention to help him (and me) get through the loss of Alivia.

Patti, there were times when Alivia had absolutely no symptoms of Cushing's. During those times, I had to back away from here and just forget about the disease and enjoy her just being a "normal" dog, without being reminded of her mortality. I also didn't want the disease to define Alivia and it never did. Cushing's may have contributed a little to Ali's death, but at age 16, it was not the cause.

We are in the midst of a snowstorm here. We've gotten about 4 inches so far today and it is still coming down. They are predicting 4" to 12" through tomorrow. At this point, I am hoping for the 12", so I have an excuse to stay home tomorrow and hang out with Max!