Mike seems to be doing better ... thank goodness. I've determined that since his whining is worse when he's really hungry that he's just not eating enough to satisfy him... which is why treats always make him feel better. Of course getting him to eat his kibble is a chore sometimes, so I continue to put "people" food on it to get him started. I'm not crazy about doing it like this... but it works.

He seems to be feeling pretty good today. Yesterday he slept a lot, but I'm thinking it was partially due to the weather. It was so very cold and damp... I think anyone would have wanted to sleep a day like that away.

Miss Gidget FINALLY had one complete day without peeing in the house yesterday... HOOORRRAYYYY!!! Of course we went outside about every 20 minutes or so, so she didn't have much of a chance. However, I can't tell you how many times (except for yesterday) that she'd go out and then come in and pee. I swear her bladder is about the size of a teaspoon... of course she's still very small, so I wouldn't expect it to be much bigger. But.. yesterday, she even went to the back door and barked to go out... I am sooooooo proud of her. :-)

When she's not peeing, she's jumping on my lap, bringing me her toys to play with her. Oh she could be a pain, but she's so darn cute. LOL She'll bring me her ring to pull with her, and when I do... Mike immediately wants to play with her, so if I'm lucky, she'll forget about playing with me and start up with Mike.

It's just so unbelievable to me how much life she's brought back to Mike. She's like a little miracle worker with him. Of course there are times he doesn't want to be bothered either, but (for now) those times are fewer and fewer. I pray it stays that way (although I know it won't).

The other day when I took her outside, I walked out with her (instead of just standing by the door), and boy was I glad I did. There were two hawks circling above us. I knew there was a hawks nest around here, but when I saw the two of them just soaring above us, I couldn't help but worry about her. She's about the size of a good sized rabbit, and I'm sure if I weren't out there that they wouldn't think twice about swooping down and grabbing her. I have to be so careful now. They were beautiful to watch though... soaring so gracefully. Their wing span had to be at least 3 feet wide. Scary but beautiful non-the-less.

As I write this, Mike and his sister are playing tug-o-war with Mike's westie baby. I love when they do this. However, Mike is such a push over... if she actually gets control of it, he'll just let her have it... he's just too nice.

One thing before I close this. Justice and Tucker still need sponsorship. Please if anyone out there is able... please help sponsor them. They need their medications... it's life or death for them, and I can tell that Cindy is at her wits end worrying about them (so are many of us). Cindy has done so much in supporting all of us at IMOM... please, if there are any angels out there who can drop even a dollar or two into their fund or maybe a one time donation.. it would be such a blessing and so appreciated.

Here's the link for the boys if you want to catch up with what's going on with them.... http://www.imom.org/community/index.php?showtopic=4049&st=930&gopid=72629&#entry72629

And here's the link to donate for them. Through this link you can make a one-time donation or become a monthly sponsor. Just make sure you put their name on your donation so it gets allocated properly http://www.imom.org/donation/

If you can't sponsor them financially, please keep them in your prayers... we totally believe in the power of prayer, and it is also very appreciated.

Ok.. goin' to get on the floor and play with the kids... oh wait.. no I'm not.. Mike wore out, and he's sleeping already (tee hee)... the young one is rolling around on the floor with the westie baby, so she's keeping herself busy (for a change)... I might take this opportunity to do something for myself (like grab a shower).

I pray everyone is having a wonderful day.

Sending lots of love and blessings to you all

The picture is of the original Katie. She was an awesome little Mini-Schnauzer I got from someone at work back in 1986... I called her my "Fifty-Seven Thousand Dog" because when I took her I lived in an apartment and wasn't allowed to have dogs, and I had to sneak her in and out in my laundry basket or my work-out bag. I bought a townhouse so I could keep her. The picture was taken on her first birthday. She was really tiny.

It's cold and damp today... yuck. It's not suppose to warm up until Thursday... guess we're back to bath robes and furnace.

Mike has been extremely whiny the past few days. He looks up at me and whines like crazy. It's like he want something, but for the life of me I still can't figure it out. Of course treats make him happy when he gets like this, but I make sure he's not getting treats all the time so he doesn't think that whining equal treats. Debs suggested maybe he has an ulcer and his stomach hurts him when it gets empty... and that's a possibility. There's not much information on line about it online. Sometimes I think he just wants more attention, so I sit on the floor and we cuddle for a long time... that seems to help calm him down and make him happy for awhile, so we do more of that than treats. It's odd because if he's whining at night, when we go to bed he stops right away... it's almost like the bedroom and the dark satisfies him as much as treats do. But.. I can't go to bed all day just to stop his whining.

Princess Gidget was suppose to go get spayed tomorrow, but, again, I have no transportation. Ugh... this is getting harder and harder every day. I got a ride to get her there but no way to pick her up. They will keep her overnight for an extra $10, but I couldn't get a guaranteed ride to pick her up. I've rescheduled it for May 13th... hopefully I'll be able to get her there and back at that time. She's going to be 8 months old on the 7th of May, and I'm surprised she still hasn't gone into heat, so unless she does before that time, we'll still be on schedule.

I've found two other companies that farm out work like I did with West... turning my home into a call center and answering calls for major companies. I've applied to both and am hoping to be accepted by one of them. God knows I could use the money.

Hi Michelle... I'm grateful that the fertilizer hasn't had an effect on the dogs. I was really concerned and made sure to wash their feet off every time they came in. It rained this morning so hopefully the threat is now over.
I can only imagine how tired you are. You're putting in so many hours, and I remember having a commute like you've got... by the time you get home, you've got to be exhausted. I'm so glad the girls are doing so well. Give them some belly rubs from me.

I hope everyone had a great weekend. Have a beautiful week.

Love & Blessings

No dogs in this picture.. but I wanted to share my philosophy with you. LOL

Bark, bark, bark, bark, bark. Oh I'm soooooo glad he feels good enough to bark, but I wish he'd slow it down a bit. My brother is outside on the riding mower and both dogs are going nuts... it's getting to be wayyyyy too much... and of course, they feel they have to protect me so all my efforts in trying to get them to stop are totally ignored.

I'm kind of concerned today, because my brother (who owns the house I live in) is putting fertilizer and weed killer down on both the front and back lawns today. I couldn't talk him into leaving an area close to where the dogs go potty without it, and I am really afraid it will hurt them. It hasn't been too bad when it was just Mike, since Mike just goes out a few times a day, and when he does.. he just goes and doesn't sniff around much... but Gidget/Katie goes out about once every hour and sniffs and eats grass every time she goes out. That, plus the fact that she's so low to the ground, just washing her feet off when she comes in (like I do for Mike), I'm afraid won't be enough. It's suppose to rain, and that "should" make it a bit safer for them... so I'm praying it rains soon.

Mike "seems" better today so far. He really drove me nuts with the whining all day yesterday.. I never did figure out what it was that he was needing. He only did it once today, so I put a little shredded cheese on his kibble (which I've had to do since I spoiled him after his surgery to get him to eat), and he is now eating happily. Hopefully, that will be enough for him and he won't start up again.

Hi Judy... It's great to see you here. Gee... instead of going away for the weekend, you could have come to help me clean "my" house when you finished yours. LOL I almost forgot about Deborah Walley. Wow.. just thinking about her and Sandra Dee and "Gidget" really brings back memories of wonderful, simpler times. Thanks for reminding me about her. I hope you have a fantastic weekend.


I'd better get going. I hope everyone is having a great weekend.

Take Care And God Bless

The Basset is my granddaughter, Bailey. My son and daughter-in-law decided that a basset would be much easier to raise than children (can't say that I disagree). Bailey is fifteen years old and healthier than any ten dogs (or people) I know. She's awesome, and everyone loves her.. you just can't help but love her. This picture was taken 2 years ago when I was in Missouri visiting them.

I'm getting mixed messages from Mike today. He doesn't seem quite right, but at the same time, it's nothing I could pinpoint. I guess we'll have days like this too. I just hope he doesn't get bad again today. He's quite whiny.. which he very seldom ever whines... just seems like he wants "something"... wish I could read his mind and figure out what it is. He doesn't have to go out, he's already eaten (a bit), and the only thing that will slow his whining is a treat.. and he has gotten a couple of them, but I can't give him treats all day... it's got to be something else. I'm giving him as much attention as he could handle, but that doesn't even satisfy him. I'm at a loss.

He's looking so thin. I know his haircut makes him look thinner every time he's trimmed, but even since his haircut, he seems to have lost some weight. God, I wish he was healthy.

I'm thinking I made a mistake changing Katie's name. Lately, she just seems so much more like a Gidget than a Katie. I'm going to change her name back to Gidget.. it just fits. To make it easier for her, I've been calling her by both names, and eventually, we'll just stick with Gidget. It's funny, because when I look at her, I keep remembering Sandra Dee playing Gidget in the movies (for those of you who are too young to know what I'm talking about... see if you can rent the movies... they're great). Anyway... I guess I'm gonna have to admit I made a mistake by changing it (thank goodness that's the only mistake I've ever made.. ;-) LOL).

The pups were playing yesterday, and I heard a yelp. I looked, and Mike was holding his leg up again. Poor guy looked so scared. I massaged it and gave him a Tramadol. Within an hour or so he was walking again on it fine. My guess is that he's always going to have problems with it. I sprained my ankle over 30 years ago, and it still acts up. I suppose he will have to put up with for the rest of his life (like he doesn't have enough problems, right).

Well... that's about it for now. If anything changes, I'll post later. Hopefully, he'll settle down or I'll figure out what he needs.

Hope everyone is having a wonderful day.

God Bless You.

Another beautiful day in Northeast Ohio... and Mike is doing great. He's already found nothing to bark at and barked at it, played with his sister and gone potty twice with no clots (thank You Lord). Now he's taking a break and napping until he hears nothing else to bark at. LOL

Little Miss Katie is being the puppy that she is. She's really exhausting, but I'm so glad she came to be part of our little family. She and Mike have become pretty inseparable. She follows him every place, and he watches out for her constantly.. especially when she's outside. If she goes out without him, he watches her from the door with me... what a good big brother he's gotten to be.

I can't wait until the first of the month so I could get the pictures developed. It's getting harder to find pictures to put on here without posting repeats.

I finally got a hold of Debbie yesterday. I know I was (and many of you were) really worried about her. The sliver in her leg is still imbedded in there and has been coming out in small pieces. It got really infected. She had a fever of over 103. My gosh.. this girl really needs a bout of good luck for a change... with Jack being sick, no car, no furnace (it broke when it was still cold out), school, and everything else she deals with, she really needs a break. Please keep her in your prayers.

Hey Cindy...

I know what you mean about the heat. These poor pups really have some heavy duty coats, and the heat can really get to them. Personally, I love to see Mike shaggy with a full coat, but even as warm as it's been here (and it's only been in the 60's and 70's) it's just too warm for them to keep that coat on. Summer is tough for them. I'll clip him even a bit shorter in the Summer.

You said...
Thanks for ur continued support for the boys. Justice still needs $41/month to be fully sponsired. Tuck needs $99/month.It seems unattainable--but I know the IMOM angels--it WILL happen!
I know it will happen. I'm just praying so hard that the boys get sponsored soon so you can give your mind a rest.


Ok.. I'm going to take advantage of the kids napping now so I could get some work done. I hope everyone has a beautiful and healthy day.

God Bless You All

Today was a great day for Mike. Sir Michael of Barks-A-Lot is back to true form.... couldn't shut him up. LOL As happy as I was to hear him bark... it was still a little grating on the nerves... but it's much better than the way he's been.

It was a beautiful day today, and he and Katie loved being outside. We went out four or five times for only about ten or fifteen minutes at a time though, because he was hot and wanted to come in the house. That was fine with me.

It was really funny tonight. I laughed out loud (literally)... Katie brought Mike's baby to me to play with, so we started playing tug-o-war. Mike wanted in on the game, so he joined us. It was so funny... Mike had the baby's head, Katie had it's back leg, and I had it's front leg.... a real family playtime. They wore me out so I let them go head to head and tug by themselves. From that time on, they played on and off all night until they wore out around 9:00. Princess Katie retired to her "room", and Sir Michael took his place next to my computer chair.... so the kingdom is now quiet and all is well.


Hi Jennifer... Emma is so beautiful the way she is... she doesn't need a haircut. I just can't picture her clipped.
Mike is just as handsome with or without a haircut, and actually, I love to see him shaggy... but since the weather is getting warmer, I figured he'd like to get rid of that heavy winter coat.
I can't wait to see pics of her and Justice.


This is going to be short tonight.. I'm kinda tired myself.
Just to let you know.. I still haven't heard from Debbie. Please keep her in your prayers.

Hope everyone's kingdom is as quiet as ours tonight.

Love and Blessings

Thank goodness Mike seems to be much better today. I just hate when things happen like yesterday to remind me of what's going on with him.

This morning was questionable, but as the day progressed, so did Mike. He was acting and feeling so much better, that I thought I'd take the opportunity to give him a much needed haircut. Oh my.. he is sooooooo handsome. He is so good for me when he gets groomed. He lays really still for me. The only problem I have is that once he gets comfortable on one side, I have a heck of a time getting him to lay on the other side so I could even him out. LOL But.. we managed, and he looks great. He didn't get a bath today... I figured I'd save that one for another time... but with all that old hair off, he "looks" a hundred percent cleaner and better (of course he always looks good so I don't really know if he could look better). The pictures I took were all with his winter coat. I guess I'll have to get another camera so you could see how awesome he looks now.

Katie wasn't neglected today. She had a bath.. and now she smells soooooo pretty. :-) She's not crazy about being in the laundry tub, but she is actually quite good in there for me. Of course when I went to brush her out, all she wanted to do was play with the brush.. silly puppy. After getting all squeaky clean, all she wanted to do was play... so that's what we did... all of us. She and Mike had a grand old time and we all played tug-o-war with a three-circled pull toy that I bought them.

My leg is feeling a bit better today, and my blood pressure seems to be a little more stable, so I'm hoping that by tomorrow I'll be able to take both of them for a short walk. The weather is so beautiful today and is suppose to be even better tomorrow.

I tried calling Debbie (Jack's Mom) twice last night, but all I got was her voice mail. I just pray she's ok. According to her last post, she had gotten a large sliver in her leg and couldn't get it out. By what she was saying, it sounds like it has gotten badly infected. I'm going to try her again in a little while. She's had so much bad luck lately... please say a prayer for her.

In the meantime, I'm gonna take my kids out for awhile and enjoy this gorgeous day. I pray everyone is healthy, happy and getting all of the support they need (which brings me to Cindy... please angels... Tucker and Justice still need sponsors... please do what you can to help them out). Ok.. gonna get going. By for now.

May God Extend His Blessings To Each And Every One Of You

Today has been a rather a strange day for my boy. I haven't seen any clots, and his breathing seems to be fine, but I know he just doesn't feel well.

He's been sleeping so much and doesn't care much about going out. He's ignored the puppy all together today, and the only time he seemed to have any energy at all was when he was barking. As aggravating as his loud and strong his bark is... I'm wishing now that he would bark again for me. He hasn't barked for almost three or four hours, and with the doors and windows open... that's not like him.

He was laying on his side for the longest time, and I sat down with him. He barely even opened his eyes while I was petting him.... and, as I pet him, Katie came up and licked him... he didn't budge. My poor guy. How I wish every day could be a good one for him. I just don't know how to handle all of this. I mean, I know (or at least I'm praying) that tomorrow will be a better day for him, but just getting through today is hell.

Poor Katie has been wanting to play... with anyone. Brandon spent the night here last night, and she was in her glory. After he went home though, the playing was cut down considerably since Mike isn't feeling well enough to play, and I've been having problems with my leg, and my blood pressure has been dropping dangerously low the last three days. That poor little girl... I owe her an entire day of play. I promised her I'd make it up to her.


Hey Jennifer... Thanks for posting. I don't think Katie has a uti... I think she just needs me to watch her a bit closer. She does tell me when she has to go, so that's no problem, but I think when she gets bored is when she decides to wander and pee. I think because she's so hyper, she just needs more exercise to wear her out some. I mean.. we play and she gets plenty of exercise, but she's got so much energy, she needs more than the average pup. She was 7 months old on the 7th of April. She's going to be spayed on the 29th, so I'm thinking that might make a difference too. I hope so, because other than that (and her relentless energy :-) she's a great pup.

Well.. I'm gonna get going. I pray everyone is doing well. By the way... I've taken pictures of both the kids. As soon as I get them developed, I'll put them up here.

God Bless You All

Good Morning All...

The picture is Mike in the paper on the day I got him. We will have been together 11 years on May 5th. We've had quite a journey, and I'm praying it lasts a lot longer.

It's a beautiful day in Northeast Ohio. It was 75 and sunny yesterday and will be going up to 78 today with very low humidity... perfect weather for everyone (like me) who hates winter and cold. I'm sure you won't hear me complaining about this.

The pups are doing well. Mr. Mike has been doing great the last couple of days, and I'm so happy about that. All these wonderful days help me to forget how sick he is, but it also makes the bad days seems so much worse. I try not to think of those days and just enjoy the time we have together.

Katie is doing her best to keep me on my toes. Although she (in reality) potty trained.. she insists on going potty in the house at least two or three times a day. It's not like she never goes out.. she tells me when she has to go, and she goes each time. I also take her out in between the times she tells me, but she still pees "after" being outside for any amount of time. Ohhhhh... it's so frustrating.

Hey Michelle... How weird that Dr. Blaha was your Mom's doctor. She really is very nice. I'm lucky to have found her. My daughter is going to use her for Scrappy too, and my brother might use her for Mikey. I have a feeling I could help her build her business up just with the people I know. Thanks so much for stopping in to check on the kids. Give the dorky butts some huge hugs from me and wet westie nose kisses from my little ones.

Praying everyone has a wonderful day and your weather is as great as ours.

Love and Blessings

Sorry it took so long to get back. It seems with the weather turning nice, I've been really busy... and that's a "good" thing.

I met Dr. Blaha yesterday. She came over and dropped off information about Artemisinin, an introduction letter about herself and some Frontline I asked her to bring for Mike and Katie. She got to meet my little ones, and they really liked her. We talked for a bit, and I found out if a surgery or x-rays are necessary for either one of the dogs, she would refer them to one of the other vets she has worked with, but for anything else, she will have no problem coming to the house. What a big relief this is.

In reading her letter of introduction, I knew her name was familiar, I found out she worked for one of the vets I use to take Mike to... although I had never met her there, I know the vet who owns the clinic and always took care of Mike was awesome (just too expensive to keep going to). Also, she has an incredible history... before attending veterinary school she was a supervisor, department head and program development specialist in the area of children's mental health and family services at the Cuyahoga County Mental Health Board, Cuyahoga County Children's Services and Cuyahoga County Board of Mental Retardation. She has a Masters in Psychology and was a Licensed Social Worker for the State of Ohio. In 1992 she became OSU's oldest vet school freshman. She's also interested in holistic medicine and is certified as an Animal Behavior Counselor through the San Francisco Institute of Dog Training. She's studied under some pretty impressive names. It looks like the forces of the universe have smiled on us sending her to us.

Mike seems to be doing really well. I'd love to believe he's going to stay this good, but I have to prepare myself for those "off" days. I'll never be prepared for those.

He and the puppy are sleeping now. We spent a long time outside this morning while I sat out and had my coffee, Katie sniffed around and hopped like a rabbit, and Mike just laid in the sun soaking up the rays. What a beautiful day it is. We went out again a little while ago, and I think it was enough to wear them out for awhile, because they've been napping ever since we came in.

Hoping and praying everyone is doing well. I'm sending out so much love to each and every one of you.

God Bless You All

The picture is of my dear sweet rabbit, Wannabe. He acted so much like a dog and seemed like a dog wannabe that we named him Wannabe. He had a stroke about five months after Mike joined our family and had to go to the Rainbow Bridge. He was such a sweetheart. It was hard to see him leave us. I came home from work one night and found Charlie laying on the floor just holding him and crying his eyes out. Wannabe was just laying there... I screamed.. couldn't stand to see him like that. The vet waited for us until we got there. I still feel guilty... as though it was my fault. After all, I brought Mike into the family, and Wannabe couldn't get out as often as he did. I don't know if I'll ever get over that feeling of guilt.

It's early, but so far so good. Of course, Mike is slow in waking up so we may not know until later how he really feels, but as of now... he seems fine. His breathing seems back to normal, he ate, went potty (twice) and right now wants Katie to leave him alone until he's fully awake (kind of like me until I've had my coffee).

Katie, of course, is a ball of dynamite when she wakes up... I don't remember any of my puppies ever having this kind of energy "ever".

Hi Cindy,

Yep.. Ohio weather, go figure. The tornado warnings around here were the next county over (which is only about 8 miles), but luckily there was no damage. We got lucky since the storm passed us by pretty quick. I did find out though that the young one is not afraid of high wind or thunder though, so that's a good thing. The little shit isn't afraid of "anything".... not even afraid of Mike showing his teeth when he doesn't want to be bothered... I think I told you, she licks his teeth when he's baring them.. silly puppy.

I don't think Mike's problem is fluid. When he's had these bouts, it sometimes sounds like it's coming from his nose... kind of like a reverse snore. It prevents enough oxygen from getting to his lungs. As far as doctor Kari, I think she's given up. The only thing she said can be done is more x-rays and possible ultrasound... but she also said the even if the cancer is there, there's nothing else to be done. I mentioned steroids, and she said if it gets to the point that it's more of a continuous thing, she "might" try it but doesn't want him to have them unless it's absolutely necessary. Go figure. Finances are tight, but I could manage x-rays if he needed them, but the way she said it, they'd be a waste anyway.

I'm going to call Dr. Blaha today and see what she thinks. I still haven't gotten the papers she was going to send me, so I'm waiting for the mail to come before I call her. Maybe it will be in there today. I will most probably have her come out to check him out anyway since I want her to be his new vet.

Give Justice and Tucker some squeezes from me. I haven't been to the threads in a couple of days.. I'll get there to check on them a bit later. I hope they're both doing better by now (and you too... I worry about you).

Well, gotta get going. I pray everyone is healthy today (and always).

Love & Blessings

It won't let me upload any pictures again. I'll try again next time. Sorry.

Today is just an "ok" day for Mike. I guess that's better than a bad day, so I should be grateful, but it's hard because he's having breathing problems when he's sleeping or at rest the past two days. Even now, as he's laying next to my chair, his breathing just doesn't sound right.

Plus, he's walking like a very old man today. He looks crooked. I'm thinking it could be because since it took so long for his leg to heal that maybe it didn't heal the way it should and possibly made his spine a bit crooked. It looks like his front leg are in perfect allignment, but from his shoulders back to his hips they just don't look right. I could tell he's lost a little more weight too, even though his appetite has been good... it's so sad to see my beautiful boy like this.

But.. I do have to say, he manages to get the energy to play with his sister a few times a day. I really think her energy and enthusiasm for life is helping him keep going. She really is good for him. And since the Pepcid has kicked in... he doesn't get an upset stomach, so I could let him play until he gets tired.

I just looked outside... oh my gosh... it's snowing... NOOOOOOOOOOOOO.... we don't need this anymore......... help!!!! They said it was coming, but I didn't want to believe them.. guess I don't have much of a choice now do I? Oh well... we've got June to look forward to.. I "dare" it to snow in June (better not say that too loud huh?).

I pray everyone is safe and healthy and all the wonderful pets out there are getting all the help they need.

Take Care and God Bless

Oh... by the way... I bought a disposable camera and started taking pictures of my two babies... when I finish the roll, I'll get them developed and post some new ones.

Hi All...

Well... things are back to normal.. well, as close to normal as we get. I'm so thankful that Mike is doing well today. He's not in much of a playful mood, but all the symptoms have subsided for now, so that's something to be happy about.

Miss Katie is still helping me to remember how old I am... boy she exhausts me sometimes. When she goes to her room (crate) at night, and Mike and I tuck her in before we go to bed, I look at her and think, "ok.. we'll do it all again tomorrow" ... LOL and then I laugh.

Hi Judy... I'm praying the things that Dr. Blaha suggests make a difference for Mike.. I'll never give up praying for a miracle for him. Thanks for stopping by and posting.

Hi Gabby... C Spine surgery??? Ouch!!! We'll be praying some huge prayers for you that you don't have to go through it. Thanks for being here.


I posted on Priss' thread that I'd tell the story here of how the dog was named. You may have heard or read it before, since I've written it a few places, but it's worth repeating and reading again. The story goes like this:


After Adam and Eve were created, God started creating the animals. He gave Adam the responsibility of naming all of the creatures He put on earth. As he was told, Adam named them one by one. When Adam got to the last animal to be named, he couldn't put a name to it... he was confused.

God looked down and said, "Adam, what is the problem?"

Adam replied, "Lord, I've done as you told me and named all of the animals you have placed before me... except this one."

God asked, "Why have you not named this one?"

Adam answered, "Father, this animal is different. He follows me everywhere. I am never without him. He answers me when I call. He loves me unconditionally and without question. He forgives even my deepest sins. He will never leave me. He understands me. When I am happy, he is happy with me. When I am sad, he comforts me. Lord, I just don't know what his name should be."

God smiled and replied, "Adam, you have seen traits in this animal that you have seen in no other. You are wise in recognizing that he is with you where ever you are, that he will never leave you, that he loves you for yourself, that he forgives you constantly, that he understands you, he is happy when you are happy and comforts you when you are sad, that he loves you with his entire being, unconditionally and without question. Adam, you will never find another animal like this one, which is why you have had such a difficult time giving him a name. The other animals are, indeed, my creatures, but this one... this one I made differently. Adam, I created you in my image. This animal, I created as a reflection of Myself and My love... therefore, his name shall also be a reflection of Myself, and his name shall be... Dog.


I love this story... it just tells it like it is. No wonder the love of a dog could never be replaced.

God Bless You All

Mike's been doing pretty good today. He hasn't passed any more clots ( thank You, Lord), and he's actually played with his sister a few times.

I called around this morning to try to find a vet to come to the house. One of them suggested Dr. Blaha. I have to tell you... this was probably the best lead I've ever had.

Dr. Blaha sounds like a wonderful lady... she will come to the house........ BUT... the good news is.... FIRST.. she's treating another dog with bladder cancer and has some supplements that might help Mike progress slower and possibly reverse "some" of his symptoms... I don't know if it would work, but it sure couldn't hurt... she said they are rather inexpensive and is sending me info on not only the supplements but also on her practice..... SECOND... and also awesome... she's RIGHT AROUND THE CORNER FROM ME... LITERALLY... I COULD WALK THERE!!!

She even said she has a small bottle of Artimazan??? (don't remember but that's what it sounded like) that I could get from her at no charge after I read all the info.. and to save costs... she will give me the website to order on line. Of course, she will have to see Mike at least once to be able to prescribe for him, but that would be fine because she would be coming here. :-D Now that is a good vet. One who knows how so save a little money but not at the expense of the patient

When it's time to help him go to the bridge, it would be $65... said she'd have to bring a tech with her cuz she'd want to run a cath in his vein (poor puppy .. that sounds painful), so she could only do it on a Mon or Tues when she has a tech... but I'm not ready for that anyway... but it's good to know.

If I needed her for something else, she only charges $30 for the house call and $20 for the exam!!! That's almost less than what I pay at any other vet!!!! Hell.. she lives right around the corner, and if I had to (and if she has an office in her home) I could walk there and save the $30 and pay only $20. I'm going to keep her for Katie too. It's great too, because until I get a car, I won't have to worry about finding a ride to take them to the vet.

I feel guilty feeling so excited about her, especially for the reason I contacted her, but it's so good to know that a vet who's never even met him can and would offer to help him get better if it's possible and not be concerned with marking up any remedies for her own gain. Maybe she can at least relieve some of his symptoms and maybe delay the spread of the cancer.

When we were talking, I said, "oh God Bless You... you are such an angel... where were you when Mike started getting sick?".. she said she's only been doing house calls for about a year... and I told her.. he started in August, so she should have been here for him.. LOL... would have saved him a hell of a lot of fear.

I'm so glad I have some (relatively) good news to post for a change. It would be amazing if some of the supplements would help Mike live longer and healthier... but even if not.. at least I feel comfortable and at peace knowing he will have a vet who really cares about him

I pray everyone is doing well today. Thank you all so much for keeping up with my handsome guy.

Love & Blessings

Well.. I'm not sure how it's going to go today. I'm hoping it will be ok, but Mike passed a clot this morning. Oh man... he was clot-free for almost three weeks... how I wish he could have stayed that way.

Hi Cindy... Thanks for stopping by and posting. Poor Justie... talk about a roller coaster... you guys have had a huge one going for so long ... I just pray you all start coasting smoothly too. I'll check the boy's thread a bit later.

I've got some things that have to get done this morning, so I'm not going to write much more right now, but I thought you might want to know. I'll be back later and let you know how the rest of the day goes. Please keep him in your prayers.

Love & Blessings

Again.. it won't allow a picture to be posted.. sorry, maybe next time.

Mike is doing well... and the only thing that could make me happier is if he wasn't sick at all. The Pepcid must be working, because he hasn't had anymore vomiting. We're still clot-free, and his leg is good again. The only qualm I have is his wanting to sleep so much and to be left alone by his little sister, but he must need the rest, so I'm keeping her away from him.

It's a beautiful day again today. It's only 60 degrees, but the sun is out and there's no wind, so it feels great. I'm finding out that little Miss Katie loves the great outdoors. She's not only telling me when she has to go potty, she's also tells me when she wants to just go out and enjoy the weather, leaves, smells and every single bird, rabbit and squirrel that catches her attention. Mike could care less if he's outside or inside, but he does enjoy laying in the sun when I'm out there. Unlike his sister he won't stay outside unless I'm out there with him. I don't leave Katie out without me, since she's always on the long leash, and we don't have a fenced yard. I don't want to take any chances of another dog coming around her. After I finish posting this, we're gonna take a book outside and let both of them enjoy the sun.

Hey Michelle, I'm glad the girls are doing so well. Thanks so much for posting. It means a lot to me. Give them some belly rubs from me and Westie nose kisses from the kids.

Just to let you know... I found out the vet who I thought would come to the house when the time comes won't come out here. They said it's "too far"... it's only 20 minutes from his office, but apparently, unless we are his patients, he won't make the effort. So much for his advertising.

I talked to Dr. Kari to get a referral from her since she told me months ago she knew someone who would come out. She gave me the name of a vet who I consider a monster. I wouldn't let her in my house. Here's a link to a newscast about her http://www.newsnet5.com/news/14674565/detail.html
not only were these things noted about her... there were reports from a vet tech who use to work for her saying all kinds of horrible things. At one time, she had a cat in surgery, and the cat woke up during the surgery. It was still groggy enough to work on, so she finished the surgery without more anesthetic. There are so many horrendous things that came up about her, that I wouldn't trust her with my baby... or anywhere near him. Now comes the task of finding someone else. I've been calling around, but it seems (so far) no one is willing to come to the house. I'm determined though that he will NOT go to the vet for this.

I felt so bad yesterday when I was making the phone calls. I didn't want him to hear me talk, so I went outside to make the calls. Of course, he wanted to be out there with me... so he was there during the conversations. I know it sounds silly, but it just felt like he knew what I was talking about. Maybe he just picked up on my emotions, but he got very sullen during and after the calls were made.

I also called a friend of mine who runs a funeral home. He said he's not allowed to cremate animals, but gave me the name of a company who does. I called them, and they will pick him up and cremate for $75. They were so nice on the phone. He said if I let them know when the vet will be here (praying I'll find one), they can make arrangements to pick him up a half hour or an hour after the vet leaves. I feel so guilty making plans for this. But.. I use to sell pre-planned funerals and cemetery property, and I've learned it is much better to pre-plan that to purchase anything at the time of need. And Mike is too damn important to me to leave things to chance. I just wish I didn't have to do this at all.

Enough of that depressing crap.... I'm going to make a sandwich and take my handsome man and my little girl outside to enjoy the rest of the afternoon (or at least until the neighbor comes home and goes outside for them to bark their tails off at and drive me nuts).

I'm sending lots of love to everyone and lots of big prayers that all of you and all of those wonderful pets are healthy and happy and (if needed) getting all the help you all need to become happy and healthy.

Love & Blessings

So far, so good. It's 7:45 and Mike has been doing fairly well today. I am so relieved. He's been kind of sleepy but not lethargic like he was. He's still eating good, and a little while ago, he and Katie were playing for awhile... I'm so glad he has her.

She seems to bring a spark to him when he feels good. They've become such good companions for each other, and you can tell they're growing to love each other. He watches over her constantly, and when she goes out to go potty, he stands by the door with me and watches her till she comes in, and when they go out together, she always wants to follow him, but I have to keep them apart... otherwise he wouldn't have room to do what he "has" to do out there. They are so good for each other.

Hey Michelle... Thanks for stopping in. We love to hear from our friends. You all make us feel so very loved. Give Syd and Charlie some big hugs from me.

I want to thank all of you... every single one who has shown so much love toward us. We couldn't get through any of this without you. Please know how loved you are. You are such blessings in our lives.

Sending Love & Blessings

For some reason, I can't post a picture on here today. I'll try again later.

I'm sorry I didn't get back to post last night like I said I would. I was completely spent.

Mike stayed pretty quiet all day yesterday until last night. He just didn't want to be bothered with anything, including his sister. It's just so sad to see him like that.

He had been constipated for a couple of days too. I'm sure that didn't help. I tried pumpkin for two days, and it didn't do a thing. So yesterday afternoon, I made him some Low Sodium Progresso Chicken Noodle soup and added two tablespoons of olive oil. He loved it and licked the bowl clean... eating every vegetable in the dish (he loves veggies). Online, it said to give him two teaspoons of mineral oil (which I didn't have) so I used olive oil, and I misread the directions.. instead of teaspoons I used tablespoons. When I realized my mistake I was thinking we'd have some messy problems. But apparently it was what he needed because about twenty minutes later.... we had success, and it was normal. Thank God!!! I never thought I'd be so happy to see anyone poop.

It was a beautiful day yesterday... 70 degrees and all the glorious sunshine we could handle, so I took the dogs out three or four times to enjoy the sunshine. The puppy, of course, was exploring everything, but Mike just sat at my feet or laid in the middle of the patio soaking in the freshness of a new season. It bothered me that he didn't want to go for a walk or do any moving around, but he looked so handsome my heart melted as I watched him.

However, he must have started feeling better and had a huge burst of energy the last time we sat outside. You would have died laughing. I had each of them on a leash and they ran around like crazy... puppy running and Mike running right at her heels (if she had heels) full speed as though his leg had never been hurt. They were bouncing off each other and jumping all over each other, rolling in the grass and having a ball. During one of their "chase me" races, Katie ran one way and Mike tried to cut her off at the pass and ran the other............ THEY HAD ME TOTALLY TIED UP!!!!

Oh what fun they had (and me too). Then when Mike decided it was enough, the puppy wanted to keep playing. Mike and I started heading in, and little one took hold of her leash and decided to play tug of war with me.... I WASN'T PLAYING.... oh my gosh... we had a ball, and I haven't laughed so hard in a very long time. I'm just so glad I saw some energy coming from him. He's got to rest his leg again for a day or two, so I'm hoping he won't try to run after her again too soon, but it's hard to keep them apart when he feels good. Last night was a breath of fresh air after the last couple days.

A dear IMOM friend reminded me there will be good days and bad days, and although I realize that it's true, I can't help but think he's 100% healthy when I see him play like that. But all too soon, that changes.

Today, he's back to being quiet and wanting nothing to do with Katie. I'm hoping this changes as the day goes on... and as much as his barking sometimes gets nerve-wracking, I love to hear him bark... it tells me that he is healthy enough and has the energy enough to do it.

So, that's what's going on in the life of Sir Michael and Princess Katie and me (their jester). I'm praying that the rest of the day allows him energy and health.

Jennifer, Cindy and Michelle... Thank you so much for checking on my sweet boy and especially for posting. It makes us feel so loved to hear from all of you. Please give Emma, Blue, Daisy, Justice and Tucker some hugs and belly rubs from us. I haven't been to the threads for a couple of days. I'm hoping to get to them today... but please know if I'm not there that it doesn't mean I don't think of and pray for all of you every day.


Love and Blessings To All

Mike had a decent night. His breathing seemed a little better and a bit more even. He slept all night without incident and has had no more vomiting since yesterday afternoon.

He's still a bit lethargic and trying to go potty (poop) seems to tire him out. My poor sweet boy. It seems the only happiness he's having in the past two days is when he finds something to bark at and has the energy to do it. He hasn't barked once today... when yesterday he barked at everything and nothing.

I noticed, yesterday, that he seems to have lost weight. He looks like he's slimmed down a bit. Funny that I never noticed it until yesterday. And yet, his appetite is fine. We all know what that means. I tried weighing myself and then picking him up to weigh myself with him to get an idea of how much he weighs... but he would have none of that. He just does not like being picked up and held, and he flounced almost out of my arms before I could get him to the scale.

Right now, he's laying under my computer chair with his head directly under my seat. He's watching Katie as she plays with an empty water bottle. It doesn't take much for her to find fun in everything. I'm sure he's wishing he could find that kind of joy. He watches her a lot. Last night as she raced around the living room like Speed Racer, doing circles around him and me and all of the furniture.. he just laid and watched. As much as I want to enjoy sweet Katie's antics, it breaks my heart that Mike feels he is losing out on so very much.

I'm going to go now. I'll stop back again later and post... praying there will be nothing negative to report. I'm sorry I'm such a downer right now (and yesterday).. but I know you all understand. Thank you all for being our friends.

Much Love & Blessings

Sunday Update

This is so unbelievably hard. Short of a real miracle, I think I'm getting to the end of my time with my best friend in the entire world. I'm having a hard time writing this because I'm crying so hard, and my heart breaks more and more every time I look at him.

The only good sign we've had today, and I don't know if it's really a "good" sign or not, is that he's been barking all day... at every little thing. I thank God he has the strength and determination to bark, and even though I thank him for protecting me from (whatever), my thoughts are that his barking is something he wants to leave behind for me. I've recorded it so I could never forget what he sounds like. He's got such a healthy, manly bark.. not like a "yip yip" dog as my son would call small dogs.

He vomited bile only one time more today. I'm praying it's over with now. But... worse... he lost his bladder in the house. He's still constipated and having a hard time going. He's been sleeping alot and is totally uninterested in the puppy.

I was watching a movie a while ago and caught him looking at me... so sad. I knew he wanted me to sit with him. I got on the floor and started loving him. He laid down on his side and nuzzled his nose under my knee. We sat there for the longest time... my telling him how much I love him and how he's been the best friend I've had in my entire life. I told him I don't want him to leave me, but we both know he will have to. I told him that soon he will be with Daddy, and if Daddy isn't with Jesus, please lead him to Him so I know they will both be together. I have no idea how long we stayed like that... him on his side, me petting him and crying over him.

During all this, Katie was playing with Mike's westie baby and never paid much attention to us until I started crying. Then she came and licked my face and nuzzled her nose behind his ear. He didn't even mind.

Judy, Paula, Cindy... thank you so very much for posting here. It makes me feel as though I'm still a part of everyone. I'll answer you all tomorrow.. I can't do it now.

I can't write anymore. I can't even look for a picture to put on here this time. I'm going to the store to get a camera... I can't let him leave me without more pictures.

Please Pray For Mike

Last night, Mike had a bit of labored breathing when we went to bed. It didn't sound as bad as it was last time, so I wasn't overly concerned... thought it could have been from being too warm in the bedroom, so I opened a window a bit. It seemed to help.

At 1:45 I heard him... he had vomited up bile. I comforted him and gave him a pepcid. At 4:13 and then again at 6 he did it again. My poor boy is starting to fail. I was up all night watching him and listening to him sleep. He didn't have a problem going back to sleep... but I did.

He woke up extremely hungry and acted fine, so I fed him, gave him a pepcid and put off calling the vet. A little while ago, I let him out. He's been a bit constipated the last couple of days but has still been able to pass some so that wasn't really a concern (I've given him some pumpkin to help him.. hoping that works). When he came in, he vomited bile again... no solid... just bile. I called the vet. Dr. Amy is there today. She said, "it's not a good sign", but there's nothing that can be done for him now. She said I could bring him in, but there is nothing she can do for him anyway. She said she will leave some anti-nausea meds at the front desk for me, but she also said, she wasn't sure if it would do any better than the pepcid does... so what's the use.

I look at him, and he looks so very sad. I'm thinking we're getting so close to the end... I don't want to believe this or even think of it... but it's happening. We were having such a wonderful time this past week or so when everything seemed so right. Maybe I jinxed it by marveling at his progress.

I'm going to sit with him now.. Please pray for him.

The picture is Mike opening Christmas presents. He loves it!!! He's worse than a kid. He will only open his own... never touches anyone else's unless you ask him for help. When he's finished opening his, we have to re-wrap them so he can open them again. He's soooooo much fun to watch.


Ohio weather... go figure. I just couldn't get warm at all yesterday... went around all day with sweats and a bathrobe on with the heat cranked up. It was 40 degrees and cold damp drizzle all day. I'll tell ya... this is making me realize I'm gonna have to get out of this state next winter. Hummmm.... anyone know of a cute, rich guy who has a house in Florida I can marry???? :-D It's suppose to be 55 today and 60 tomorrow and Monday. We'll see about that.

Mike's kind of whiny today... can't seem to satisfy him (except with endless treats.. which he is NOT going to get). He doesn't want to go out... he already ate... he doesn't want to cuddle... all he will agree on is treats. I thought maybe he was in the midst of getting another upset stomach (since he just finished eating) so I gave him a pepcid. So far, that doesn't seem to make a difference. I hope he relaxes soon.

The little one started her "let's go out game". I've chosen to ignore her on her insisting to go out every five minutes. She's all ready done #1 twice and #2, so there can't be much more in her to get rid of. I think she's just facinated with the robins out there... she thinks she's the world's greatest hunter. Yesterday, some geese flew over her head... oh my gosh, good thing she was on a leash. They were about 30 feet into the air, but she wanted to chase them anyway. Silly girl.

Hey Jen... Mike said to get that silly cone off Emma. He "promised" she would be fine (like he was after surgery). I told him that Emma may not like the cone, but it was good for her to wear it right now. He disagrees.

Hi Cindy... My pleasure putting a link to the boys thread here. I wish I could do more. I know how expensive the meds are, and it's so crucial that they both get the meds they need. My prayers are that both boys will be totally healed, but outside of that... my prayers are that they be sponsored. Thank you for all the healing thoughts.

Well... off to another Saturday of fun and fitness (LOL... yea right). I hope everyone has a fantastic weekend.

Sending prayers and love to all.

Sorry I'm so late in posting. I, again, have had quite a day, and it feels good to actually get moving again. The weather was just beautiful today.. sunny and 58. The pups and I spent quite a bit of time outside, and you could tell they were just as happy as I was to get out and get some "good" fresh air. I think Spring is finally here. It's drizzling tonight, but that's ok.. I love the rain, and it sounds beautiful. The Spring Peepers are out... you could hear them with the window cracked open even the slightest bit... a sure sign that Spring is here (by they way... in case you don't know... Spring Peepers are small frogs :-D )

Mike continues to do extremely well. It's almost miraculous. No clots, (almost) yellow pee all the time, great leg and able to run (a bit), no more breathing spasms, and since Dr. Kari said Pepcid was ok for him... no upset stomachs. How wonderful it is to look at my handsome guy and know he's finally having the wonderful, pain free days he deserves. I have to thank all of you for all your prayers and good wishes, because I'm sure that has been an extreme factor in his getting better.

Little Miss Katie is still doing things to make me laugh out loud. I forgot how much fun it is to watch a puppy playing.. so uninhibited... so happy to be alive... so interested in the least little thing that catches her attention. BUT... I also forgot how much work they are... well... at least yesterday... oh my gosh... yesterday, she had me ready to tear my hair out... we played the "go potty... fake" all day long. In and out all day... and if I "dared" not to let her out, she would show me... she'd pee in the hallway. Needless to say, she didn't go potty everytime I let her out.. instead she'd find rocks and leaves and things to bark at. I think I aged five years just yesterday alone.

I want to apologize for not getting to the threads today. I promise I'll check on everyone in the morning. I was going to visit all of you after my group left tonight, but I'm really exhausted, and Mike's bugging me to go to bed too... I guess all that fresh air (while it felt so wonderful) took a lot out of both of us (not the puppy though... she'd keep going as long as we let her LOL... but I just told her "bedtime, go to your room", and she politely went to her "room" and is now curled up sleeping soundly).

I pray all of you and all of the beautiful pets out there are having a wonderful night and that everyone is getting the care and funding necessary. Speaking of which... if any of you could please complete the sponsorship for Tucker... it would be so very appreciated. Cindy has so much on her plate, and with two babies who have so many health issues as well as having health issues herself, she could use all the help, love and support we can give her. Here is a link to their thread http://www.imom.org/community/index.php?showtopic=4049&st=780 .

Sending out big prayer and loads of love, hugs, belly rubs and wet Westie nose (and whisker) kisses to all.

Sorry I haven't posted in the past couple of days. I've had my daughter's car and have stayed away from home as much as possible.. of course Mike took a few rides with me too :-D

Michelle's mother-in-law passed away the other night, and she's needed me to pick Brandon up from school and get him to soccer practice... things like that. But when I wasn't busy with him, I did things "I" wanted to do. I have to say, it was quite liberating!! It was great... except.. twice in the past two days, more toward late afternoon and early evening, I started feeling really strange... headachy, dizzy, nauseated, ringing in the ears and a watery-type floaty in my left eye. I thought, at first, it was my blood pressure, but it seemed to be "close" to normal. When I laid down yesterday afternoon, I realized what it was. I was in the beginning stages of getting migraines again. Oh my gosh... it's been so long since I've gotten them (since I had experimental surgery on my temples 3 years ago) since I've had a full-fledged migraine, that I didn't realize the symptoms anymore... how in the world could anyone forget the symptoms when you've had them constantly since you were eight years old. Well... I took and ultram, and it took quite awhile, but it went away. I'm just praying these things aren't coming back again. They're horrible.

The pups are doing fine. Mike is still clot-free, and his leg is just like new. We haven't had any breathing episodes lately, so I'm hoping that problem doesn't return. The only thing that's been a problem with him lately is that he's been getting quite a few upset stomachs. I can't let him and the puppy play for too long a time or he gets sick. I've got a call in to Dr. Kari to see if he can take Pepcid. I bought some yesterday to be ready in case she says yes.

Katie is still being a PITA... but then again, that's what puppies do... right? She had a bout of diarrhea this morning and one the other day. God knows what she eats outside, and no matter how closely I watch her, she's always finding something. A little Pepto Bismol soaked on a small piece of bread always seems to do the trick though.

I've got to get going... no car today, so I guess it's time to play catch-up around here. I'm hoping to catch up on everyone's threads this afternoon. I hope everyone has been doing well.

Love and Blessings To You All,
Jo