It's 3:00, and so far.. it's been a great day! He's active again and actually played with Gidget for a short time. I had some turkey meatballs that I made awhile ago in the freezer and took them out and heated them up for him. I broke them into tiny pieces, and he ate them with (so far) no tummy problems.

Gidget was outgrowing her collar (doesn't surprise me she eats like a little oinker), so she got a new collar today... pretty in pink. I'm not really a "pink" person, but it's just so fitting, because she is "such a girl". LOL

Mike's barking right now.. what a sweet sound that is to my ears.

Sequia said...

Keep up the good work Mike! I am so very happy that you had a good! Do I hear one more?

Hugs and scritches to you and for Gidget too from your Auntie Cynthia!

Love all you guys!

May 31, 2008 1:47 PM

*****

Good news!! Mike did really well yesterday. He actually had enough energy to stay awake for awhile, go outside without coaxing and eat small amounts of chicken three or four times without his tummy being upset. It was a beautiful day out yesterday, and he even came outside to sit with his sister and me. He didn't want to go for a walk, but he was happy to be outside.

So, I guess all in all.. yesterday was a very good day. I'm hoping for another one today that will be even better.

Cynthia... Thanks for posting... I just know that Benji will get funded for his appointment.

If any of you didn't read yesterday's post. Please scroll down and read about Benji.

Hoping everyone has a wonderful weekend.
Love & Blessings

Sequia said...

Oh Joanna, I went from being so concerned about Mike to fits of laughter about Gidget to tears about what you said about CJ, and my bunnies! You are so supportive of others even though you ahve so much on your shoulders. Your words are so kind and touching.
Thank you from the bottom of my heart and I really hope that Mike has an uneventful night.
Cynthia

May 30, 2008 9:40 PM

This will most likely be a lengthy post. Besides updating you on Mike... I want to let you know what the Young One has been up to. I also want to post some about a little guy named Benji.

First Mike.... I was really grateful that I was wrong last night. He didn't have to purge, however, I'm sure it's because he hardly moved all afternoon and evening. I had to, literally, force him to get up to go outside. Before bed, he had been in the same spot and position for over three hours. He must really have been spent... but at least it gave his stomach a chance to settle.

I was able to give him his evening pills (Pepcid and Proin) before bed in a little bit of a peanut butter and jelly sandwich (he loves them), but I was careful not to give him too much so as to upset his stomach again.

He slept very sound all night... even through losing his bladder (a lot this time)... but thank goodness for Deb (Jake & Riley's Mom)... she had sent him some doggy diapers. We got them yesterday and used them last night. They really work great... but he still needed another bath this morning. Poor guy would be so embarrassed if he knew I was telling you that he needs puppy pampers now.

This morning, again, I had to force him to get up to go outside. Even the puppy running to him and giving him all the good morning kisses she could give him didn't rouse him. He finally went out and then went right back to sleep (until I woke him up for a bath). Of course, his going back to sleep at that time of the day was not unusual... Mike (as I've said before) is definitely not a morning person.... and the fact that the little one woke us up at 7:20 (which is early even for her) didn't help.

After letting him sleep in for awhile... I filled the laundry tub with water and then did a few things (cleaning the kitchen, starting dishwasher, etc) so he wouldn't know he was going to get a bath (all he needs to do is hear the water running in the tub and he wouldn't let me near him... this way.. he heard other stuff instead). I made him a half of a peanut butter and jelly sandwich, and when he heard the bread bag, he came out from behind the couch. Luckily, he was able to eat it (along with the pills hidden inside). Then he went outside and came in and got his bath. He wasn't happy about it, but he felt wonderful after it was over. He did the typically dog thing of rolling around all over the towels and the floor and carpet... doing a refreshing happy dance. It made me so happy to see this. He then laid back down and fell asleep for awhile. I'm sure he's still worn out.

Just now... he wanted to go out again... hooraayy.. this time it was "his" idea. This makes me so happy. He also ate a few "treats" (Beneful) when I gave some to Gidget. This told me he was hungry, so I just broke up a tiny bit of chicken (maybe three tablespoons) into small pieces and gave it to him. I pray this stays in his stomach now and doesn't upset it. Here's hoping.

Ok... now on to the Gidget. She had me laughing my ass off last night... it was just too much. First off... like I said in yesterday's post... Deb sent both the kids new toys... Gidge decided she wanted them BOTH... she was hilarious when she was playing with them. She'd grab one and then start racing around the house with it in her mouth. It's bigger than she is, and she reminded me of a plane trying to take off.... but the funniest thing was when she somehow managed to grasp both hers and Mike's in that tiny mouth of hers and tried jumping up on the couch with them... it was so funny... she was determined that they were both going up there at the same time. Everytime she tried, she'd get to the top of the sofa cushion, but the toys wouldn't... so... she'd flip over backwards... with the toys still in her mouth. She's a determined little thing.

Ok.. this is the one that made me almost pee my pants laughing. I was sitting on the floor with Mike, just giving him some love... he was so weak, and then Gidget starts barking at the water dish... barking like oh hell. I checked it out and find a couple teeny tiny pieces of food in it... I took one out, and she started attacking the water like a kid trying to bob for apples with her mouth open and trying to bite the water... over and over again... then she started barking at it again. OMG... I figured I'd have to go change the water to shut her up, so I did. When I put the clean water down...she was not only chomping at the water now but slapping it (the water) with her paw... water all over the place!!! What a mess... but I had to laugh (a lot). Just after that she wanted to go out, and when I put the leash on her.. she was soaked... but not as soaked as my floor was. ROFL I wish I had a video camera.. I've never seen anything like that before. There's been food in the water dish before, and she's never done anything like that. I have no idea what goes on in that pea brain of hers.

A little later, when I was able to get Mike outside, she didn't have to go, but of course, she has to follow him... but she just wanted to play this time........ sooooooo funny....... she grabbed hold of the leash. She pulled it far enough out so she had plenty to shake (retractible so she could do that),,,, and when she was shaking it....... and going from side to side... it was slapping her on both sides one at a time... it was like she was flogging herself. It was hitting her pretty hard too, but she didn't care.. she thought she was winning the tug. LOL If I had hit her like that, I would have been arrested.

I was so unprepared for her antics last night, but it was a huge comic relief at a very bad time after a very bad 24 hours.

I'm sure some of you know Cynthia in Canada. Cynthia's beautiful CJ went to the Rainbow Bridge a while ago, and she's been so lonely for him. She's on the list and waiting for a service dog to be allocated to her, but the wait has been long and difficult. In the meantime, she has opened her heart to two adorable rabbits... Bugsy and Benji. Benji is a beautiful lop-ear who desperately needs our help. His previous owners just gave him up knowing he needed medical attention but never even mentioned that point to Cynthia when she took him. When she had him neutered, she was told that sweet Benji has an ulcerated eye as well as anterior synechea. It is when the cornea is stuck to the lens. He may need surgery to have the eye removed at the cost of $800 (Canadian). However, she has made an appointment with a specialist on June 19th to find out if, prayerfully, there is another option. The cost of the specialist is $350. We're trying to get funds for this much needed appointment.

For those of you who have never had a rabbit... you may think... "it's just a rabbit"... but for those of us who have had rabbits, I can tell you... they are like dogs in disguise. They love you, follow you, play with you, do tricks, are house-trained (with litter boxes), and the biggest thing is... they know when they are loved. I had a beautiful little lop named "Wannabe"... he got his name because he acted like a dog, followed me like a dog, did tricks like a dog... anything a dog could do.. so could Wannabe... soooo... that's how he got his name... he was a Dog Wannabe. LOL

Here is Benji's blog site. So far there is a $35 donation and we are so grateful for it, but Cynthia needs much more than that. When you check the site... please make note to see that the famous artist, Bill Radawec has donated a beautiful painting for auction to help this wonderful lady and her little buddy out. Be the first one to start the bidding on it. Here's the site:
http://benjisjourney.blogspot.com/

Whoa... this really IS a long post. It's taken me forever to write it.. I hope you had time to read it all in one sitting. Thank you all for putting up with me. Oh by the way.. since I've been writing, Mike still shows no signs of an upset stomach and has gone out again... two very good signs. Thanks for all your love.

Love & Blessings

7:10 p.m.

I had to edit my previous posts. Mike was pretty lethargic all day, but I'm sure a lot of that had to do with the energy he expended last night trying to make himself feel better and being up so late.

He did perk up for about 15 minutes though when he and Gidget received new toys in the mail from Auntie Deb (thanks so much Deb). They are stuffed dogs with very long bodies. Mike saw his, and as I took the label off, he was ready... his first thought was MURDER. LOL Within the first 5 minutes I had to take the poor thing into surgery. He watched me carefully to make sure I'd give it back. Ten minutes after he got it back... it had to go back into surgery. He's so rough with his babies.

However, while I was stitching it the second time, he laid down and lost interest right away... he was not feeling good again. It was hours before he would let himself eat. Finally, he decided he was hungry, and I gave him just a little ground beef (very lean) and rice. Unfortunately, I don't think it set too well. Not only is he still lethargic, and I had to force him to get up to go out... he just has that look that he will start up with the stomach thing.. you know that look... staring, panting, making an occasional groaning noise. While we were outside, I tried to get him to go for a walk, but he just stood there... not wanting even to walk back into the house... he's tired... and weak.

I don't know how tonight is going to go... but I have a feeling we're in for another exhausting night. I'm hoping that since he's been resting all day (except for that 15 minutes or so) and he's still lying down, that the upset stomach will pass before it culminates.

Please say a prayer for my boy.

I'm really not up to writing more.. I'll tell you about all the silly things the Young One did with her toy (and Mike's) later or tomorrow. Thanks for understanding.

*****

Just a quick note to edit the post below. It's 10:00 now.. Mike still isn't feeling well. His stomach has settled, but now he's really spent from the night's misadventures. He didn't get to sleep until around 4 a.m., and I know he was totally exhausted. Hopefully, a good days rest is all he needs now. I'll update if anything changes.

Cynthia... Thanks so much for posting. I don't know if wrapping Gidge in a blanket would help, but I'll suggest it next time (of course if I were the vet, I wouldn't come back again to clip her nails). Give Benji and Bugsy some skritches for me.

Jennifer... With everything you've got going on, you still find time to stop in and post. I really appreciate it. Give sweet Emma a hug from me.

*****

It's 2 a.m. My poor boy has been so sick all night. He had a little diarrhea this morning (yesterday morning) before the vet came, but it was no big deal.

A few hours after I posted last he had a horrible upset stomach and vomited the chicken he ate just after she left (he had a good appetite). Afterward, he became very lethargic and slept heavily... so much so that I had to force him to go out. Around 10:30, I decided to go to bed to watch tv... he wouldn't move... literally. I got really scared wondering if he had passed away on me, but finally he lifted his head. It seemed like an eternity before he would actually get up and go outside and follow me to the bedroom.

Around 11, I heard him scratching at the carpet behind the bedroom door (between the door and the wall)... I knew what that sound meant.. he had another upset stomach... but.. he also had diarrhea again. He wouldn't take his Pepcid before bed, and now he needed both that and the Imodium. No way was he going to take it. I had to pry his mouth open to force them in. His jaws were as tight as a vice, and it took a long time.

As I sit here typing, I can hear his stomach still grumbling, and I feel so helpless. He's so worn out from being awake and searching for a spot to purge that he's finally laid down for a bit. I just wish he could get it all out so he could rest. When he went to one spot to scratch in hopes of it being the "place", I noticed that he wore himself out and laid down for a couple of minutes before getting up and repeating the scratching and then again another search.

He came in the living room a few minutes ago and is now laying by the door. That's the reason I'm on the computer... I'm only a few feet away from him and will be here every minute he needs me. I know he likes his privacy when he purges, so I try not to let him see me watch him. My poor boy is so miserable. He should be resting right now, not being so sick.

I'm going to go.. he just headed back to the bedroom and is scratching in the corner in there. Thanks for being here for me. I really needed an outlet right now.

Blessings

Anonymous said...

Joanna,
I am so sorry to hear that mike still isnt feeling well. I am glad the vet said he is good shape and hopefully the meds will work. That was nice of her to save you a little bit of money. Every little bit counts these days. I sure hope he is able to eat something and keep it down today. I have to get ready for school so I will check back later.
Lots of love and aussie hugs,
Jennifer and Emma

May 29, 2008 6:50 AM

Anonymous said...

Sending lots of hugs.
I am praying Mike starts feeling better. C'Mon Mike, Please feel better.
Big hugs!!

Cindy, and the boyz

May 30, 2008 12:28 AM

Dr. Blaha just left. I truly am blessed to have had her come to the house. She didn't even charge me full price for a house call which is normally $30.. she charged only $15 for the house call. The exam was $20 and the meds only $12... then she took another 10% off that!! How lucky could I be?

Well.. actually... I did have more good luck. After checking Mike, she said he looks awesome. Even his 12 year old teeth that have never been cleaned were perfect. She said he will never "not" drip anymore but she's hoping the Proin (PPA) will help him control it (no guarantees, but hope). I was wrong the other day when I posted about DES.. that's the hormone pill for females.. definitely not for Mike.

She comes fully prepared and brought her scale with her. Mike has lost 6 pounds and now weighs 22 pounds. She said even though he has lost weight that I shouldn't be concerned. He probably lost most of it since he has been refusing his kibble. He was overweight to start with, so this is almost a perfect weight for him. I just have to keep an eye on him if he starts losing too much more.

While she was here, she clipped his nails (which were desperately in need of trimming). Poor guy hates having his nails touched, but she had him lay on his side on the couch.. the vet tech was holding his back leg down and I held his front leg to keep him from snapping, but even though he was afraid, he took it like a trooper.

Gidget, on the other hand, was a different matter. I've been able to clip her front nails only twice since she came to live with me but could never get her back nails... she's such a worm. ANYWAY... the vet sat on the lazyboy thinking she could cradle Gidge in her arms and just clip away............. HA HA HA HA HA... WAS SHE MISTAKEN. That little girl squirmed and flailed and twisted and turned... she was impossible. The doc held her the best she could and the tech struggled to try to clip the nails. I tried petting the top of her head while they fought with her (well not really fighting) but she could care less about me petting her. She didn't keep her head still long enough to pet. OMG... what a treat that was. Dr. Blaha was so funny... she said, "well, we know this little one isn't afraid of anything... this isn't fear... this is because she's a girl"... I couldn't have said it better myself. What a putz she is.

If I were Dr. Blaha, I would have charged triple for cutting her nails (she charges $6)... but the way it turned out... I didn't notice until after she left... she didn't charge me for clipping either of the dogs nails. That wonderful vet saved me a total of $34 today (she even discounted 3 months of Frontline for both dogs). WOW!!!

So... as much as I know it's still going to kill me to watch my baby lose his bladder, drip and go in spurts of not wanting to eat... at least, for now, I know he's basically all right. She said he could have the bladder problem for years (I really hope the Proin works), and she wasn't as negative as the other vets ... even if the prognosis isn't good, she's a very positive influence on me (and Mike).

But even with all this going on... there's one thing for sure.... Gidgie Goo's abounding energy and mind of her own is definitely NOT my imagination. LOL

Thank you all for standing by us and taking this journey with us. I really couldn't have even gotten this far without all of you, and I know you will be with me till the end (a hundred years from now).

God Bless And Keep You All

Sequia said...

Oh Joanna I am so glad that overall it was good news for Mike!
She is a wonderful vet for even coming to your house. You wouldn't get that here!
Have you ever tried to wrap Gidget in a blanket first, with only one paw out at a time? It might help with the squirming.

Hugs ,Cynthia

May 28, 2008 8:04 PM

This picture is Gidget giving her big brother bunches of puppy whisker kisses. Mike's not too excited about them but tolerates her. :-D


Things aren't good today. Mike continues to lose his bladder and drips in between, and to top it off, he had diarrhea this morning too. He did manage to eat some chicken I made for him last night, so that's a good thing. Poor guy seems almost lethargic today.

Roberta suggested the possibility of PPA or DES that might be able to help him. I called Dr. Blaha and asked her about them. She said the PPA is a hormone and could make the cancer worse, however the DES (not sure what it is... she gave me a big long word for it) is a strong possibility and might help strengthen his bladder. She's going to come over tomorrow afternoon to check him out and (hopefully) give it to him. I pray it works. I'm also hoping she can give him a shot of it to start him off with so it will get in his system faster than a pill. I am so blessed to have found her. I can't imagine having to take him back to "that" place. LOL

I just wish he would feel better today. Gidget wanted to play with him so bad this morning. It took her a little while, but she finally realized he doesn't feel good and is pretty much letting him rest. Mike has no interest in playing right now. I'm glad he, at least, has the energy to go outside and eat... but I can definitely tell he's out of it... he hasn't barked once today... and (believe it or not) that really bothers me. He has such a strong, manly bark that when he barks, I can only believe he feels healthy and has enough energy to do it... but now, when he's so quiet... I hate it.

Hi Michelle... It's so nice to hear from you. I know how busy you are. I'm glad you like the pictures.. I love posting them. Give Blue and Daisy some belly rubs from me.

Hey Cynthia... Benji's blog looks great too... I hope and pray we could get funded for his surgery. Poor guy needs a break. Also, I'm so very sorry that Jacki deleted his thread on IMOM. I understand that it's against the rules to try to get donations outside of IMOM on a thread, but we really loved reading about you and Benji, Bugsy and Nathan on there. Give Benji and Bugsy some skritches from me.

Anyone wanting to learn about sweet little Benji.. here's a link to his blog... please check it out and pass it on http://www.benjisjourney.blogspot.com/

I have to apologize for not getting to anyone's thread lately. Since Jack's fundraiser has been over I've spent time recouping a bit and then trying to get some work done around here. Also, I've been trying to get the funds to the vet hospital and to Debbie... Western Union really messed up... that's a whole story in itself... so I've spent the last four days stressing out about that... it's finally working out. Whew!!!

I hope everyone is doing well. I promise to check on all of you very soon. Much love and blessings, hugs and nose kisses to all of you.

Sequia said...

Thank you so much for adding his URL to your site. That is very kind of you.

I love all the pictures on your site! You can so tell that Mike (and Widget) are truly loved!

Hugs to you all,
Cynthia

May 27, 2008 3:45 PM

Mike seems a bit better today... barking like crazy and ate almost an entire can of tuna (sans kibble). He lost his bladder only enough last night to stain himself and not the carpet... so it's not totally good news, but it's something.

I didn't go to church today because I want to be with him and watch how he does. My brother is having a picnic in a few hours, but he lives right next door so I can come home and check on him with no problems.

I feel as though I've been slighting the Little One lately on here. I don't mean to do it... it's just that so much has gone on with Mike that by the time I finish writing about him, these posts get to be pages long.

Gidget has been really good lately (almost like another dog LOL). She still wants tons of attention, but now seems quite content hanging over the arm of the sofa and watching the world go by outside the front door. I'll post a picture of her doing that on this post.

I do have to tell you... this is funny. Michelle was over the other day, and we were coloring each other's hair... mine blond to hide the gray and hers dark brown. Well, as I was coloring hers.. of course Miss Gidget decided she had to go out. Well.. dummy me... instead of bothering to take the gloves off, I wiped them good on some paper towel and put the leash on her. As I was doing it, she backed away from me... I never realized how bad they smelled and my poor little girl got a huge whiff of that awful ammonia smell. I felt so bad!!! But.. later, I had to laugh. After Michelle had gone, I put the leash on her again to let her out and saw... are you ready for this.... little Gidgee Goo had black tips on the hair around her collar. OMG.. it is soooo cute!!! Not funny the way she got them... but cute none-the-less. There must have been a little color left on the gloves when I leashed her the first time. I swear, if there was a way to do it safely.. I'd tip the rest of her... it is soooo adorable. I tried getting a picture of it, but she just tries to nose the camera when I get close. Oh well.. she's too young to color her hair anyway.

Hi Cindy... You have so much going on.. I don't know how you find time to read everything let alone post. I've kind of been doing the same thing lately though... reading but not posting much. I'm so sorry Tuck fell off the train.. but I know he'll get right back on.. after all, he's got to try to catch up with his brother. And HOW ABOUT THAT JUSTICE... 40 DAYS!!!! YIPPPEEEE!!! Keep a chuggin' Justie.

Before I go, I want to wish everyone a safe and happy Memorial Day weekend. A wonderful friend sent this to me... check it out... turn up the volume and have the Kleenex ready. It's a tribute to World War II and Korean War veterans.

The Song is "Before You Go"
http://www.managedmusic.com/php/BYGIndex.php?page=playBYG

I also just came across a tribute to our wonderful Viet Nam Veterans
http://www.managedmusic.com/php/BYGIndex.php?page=playBYGVN

Love and Blessings To All

Bluedazy said...

Hi Joanna,
Glad to hear that Mike seems to be feeling a bit better. He is such a sweet boy! Sorry I haven't stopped by for a while - just too tired to get on the computer after work. Anyway, I love all the picture of Mike and Katie on here! They are so adorable!!! Well, I hope that Mike continues to feel a little better each day and that you and Katie are getting your much needed rest too! Take care!
XOXOXO
Michelle, Daisy and Blue

May 26, 2008 8:27 PM

Anonymous said...

Joanna, I love what you have done on this blog. You are such an awesmoe mom to those furry, four legged kids of yours!
I had to laugh when I read about Gidget having black tips!!!
I hope that the picnic went well for you.
Cynthia

This is a picture of Mike shortly after he came to live with us... 11 years ago. My how young he looks there. Thank you so much Debbie for sending this to us... it's AWESOME!!!

Well, Mike lost his bladder again last night before we went to bed and again during the night. Poor guy doesn't even realize it's happening. His appetite has improved, thank God, and he's eating out of the dish again instead of my having to hand feed him. So for this, I am extremely grateful.

Last night he ate a half can of soup over kibble and did a wonderful job of "almost" finishing it. I could tell he was full, and he kept going back for that one last taste (like I do... "just one more bite for the flavor" lol). When he got to that point, I picked it up... didn't need another upset tummy.

I don't mean to have been slighting the Young One in the last few posts, but I've been so concerned about Mike that all of my comments have been about him. Gidget is really doing well on the house training... finally. She is, at least, holding it longer than ten minutes. LOL She goes to the door and barks, and if I don't come right away, she will sit and wait for me... HOOOORRRAAAYYYY!!!!

She's still as hyper as ever, and trying to get her to focus sometimes is really difficult, but she'll learn. I guess I was just spoiled by Mike being so good from the time he came to me. He was only about a year old and still played like a puppy, but was focused and obedient (which is a word that she just doesn't seem to grasp yet) lol.

The two of them are pretty inseparable. The first thing in the morning... as soon as she's out of her room, she has to go find Mike and just cover his face with puppy kisses. She won't even go out or even hear me call to her until she does this. He's not really happy with waking up that fast or in that fashion, but he tolerates it.

I gave Mike a much needed bath this morning. Gidge jumped on me and barked the entire time (I definately have to clip her nails again). She was happier when Mike got out of the sink than he was and just jumped all over him when he was rolling around all over the towel and the floor trying to dry off. She started jumping up by the sink showing me she wanted a bath too. However, once she got in there... she changed her mind. She's such a worm. It's going to be a real chore when I start grooming her... she's nothing like her brother.


Hi Judy... Thanks for stopping in. I read on one of the threads that you haven't been feeling well. I hope you're feeling better by now. As far as the blog for Jack... I really enjoyed doing it and am thrilled that it turned out like it did. I never thought in my wildest dreams that my creating a blog like that could have offered so much help. I'm just so grateful for everyone who contributed in so many ways.

Amy... You are so very sweet. I know I owe you an e-mail, and I promise to get one out as soon as possible. Thank you so much for being the wonderful, caring young lady that you are.

Hi Debbie... Thanks for all the food tips. Hopefully, he will keep up a decent appetite now. It did scare me there for awhile with the little amount that he would eat. And.. THANK YOU for the magazine!!! It's absolutely AWESOME!!!

Hugs to all the furkids out there and to their Moms,... you all so much and mean so much to me.

Love & Blessings

My poor Mike is still having such problems. This is so very hard to watch. He lost his bladder during the night again and again a little while ago. Sweet Deb offered and is going to send some doggy diapers for him to wear at night. I'm just praying so hard that this will pass, but trying to prepare myself if it doesn't.

I knew he wasn't feeling good yesterday. First thing in the morning, he vomited up clear liquid. About an hour and a half later, I made him some eggs and some toast for him in the morning and he ate it all up. A few hours later, he had an upset stomach, but thank God he was able to rest a bit, and it went away. He slept very deep the rest of the day... extremely deep. Around 6:30, I took a can of tuna and put it over some kibble... soaked the kibble in the tuna juice first with the tuna on top. THANK GOD he ate it. He didn't quite finish the kibble, but I was so glad to see that he ate all of the tuna and most of the kibble. I was hoping it would give him energy enough to play.. but it didn't. He went right back to sleep.

He didn't want to eat this morning so I just let him rest. A little while ago I mixed up some Progresso Beef and Baked Potato soup (it's all I had) with about a handful of kibble. I warmed it up for him, and he ate it very well... again, though, leaving some of the kibble. Unfortunately within seconds after he ate.. he lost his bladder again.. not much.. but it happened.

I know I've been so blessed that Mike has been doing so well... and I'm grateful for each and every day that he's felt good and played and eaten and been with me.... but that makes days like these even harder to grasp. I pray that he goes back to being able to be in control... but in reality, I know that might not happen. I think I have to start preparing myself... I hate to think of it, but now I'm wondering how long this will go on... how bad will he get before I have to make that final decision? I mean.. he's not in pain, and I don't mind cleaning him up or cleaning after him, and he has started eating a little again.... but still that thought is there... how much longer will he be able to eat... has the cancer spread so much that his bladder will never be strong enough... is he "really" "not" in pain ... how far should I let him go before I make the decision to let him go... will I be strong enough to make that decision???? So many questions.

I know everyone says that our pets will let us know when they are ready to leave... but what if he's not ready or doesn't tell me? What if the decision is totally up to me because I hate to see him going through all of this even if he's not in extreme pain? Is it wrong to even think this way right now? Am I jumping the gun? Is it wrong to let him go before he does feel pain? I feel like a horrible, horrible mom right now even thinking about this stuff. Please don't be upset with me for bringing all of this up. I know how much you all care for Mike, and I am so very grateful for all of you... but my baby is starting to fade on me, and I don't want him ever to hurt to the point where he says he's had enough... no one should ever hurt that bad. I guess I'm rambling now. I wasn't going to even mention all this stuff here right now... but I just felt the need to share my thoughts, concerns, fears and questions. I don't even want to "think" about this.. let alone write about it... and I certainly don't want to "ever" have to make that decision. This is just so very hard.

Amy, Im, Splight... Thank you for stopping and posting on Mike's thread. You all mean so very much to us. ... and Splight.. it's good to see you back again. Hugs to all the furkids.

I can't write anymore. I'll keep you all informed as to what's going on.

Love & Blessings

Anonymous said...

Joanna, I am hoping that Mike is feeling better this evening. I know how you are feeling and I wish I could help in some way. Try to be there for Mike this week end and enjoy your moments together. He's full of surprises. You know that he's been know to rally completely and act like nothings ever happened. Isn't it amazing how dogs can do that?? They are just so "for the moment" and they deal with things so much better than we humans do.

I will be checking in later to see how things are going for you both.

I want to thank you and commend you for what you all did for Debbie and Jack...what an amazing thing went on over last week end...Bravo to you all...

I haven't been feeling the best so I haven't had time to write but I am sure reading everything...

Sending great big hugs to you all, Judy

May 23, 2008 5:18 PM

Amy said...

There really isn't anything I can say to make you feel better, but know that you are in my prayers.

Love and Hugs,
Amy

May 23, 2008 10:02 PM

Anonymous said...

Jo,

I had no idea that Mike was having so many problems. My heart goes out to you, and of course my prayers are with both you and Mike.

You will know when it is time to let Mike go. It's not time yet. If you can, keep him on soft, non fatty foods - scrambled eggs, toast with a little peanut butter. It doesn't sound like he wants the kibles, so I wouldn't even bother with that. Maybe some rice and beef with the fat drained off of the beef, or even chicken with a little chicken broth added.

I know that chicken broth, rice, and canned chicken are really low priced in dollar stores.

Just keep loving Mike, and he will let you know when he is ready to go. It isn't an easy thing to do, but I have faith that you will know when that time comes.

Please let me know if there is anything that I can do. My prayers are with you both.

Debbie and Priss

p.s. Can you send me a copy of the picture of Mike sitting in the grass with the white boarder going around the picture? My email address is debbie.mcmurray@eds.com

May 23, 2008 11:40 PM

Anonymous said...

I am reading, but not posting much...but please know that U, Mike and Gidge are always in my heart.

Hugs!
Cindy, Tuck and Justie!

May 25, 2008 12:41 AM

There is an afternoon update at the bottom of this post. The first post was from this morning.


Please say a prayer for my sweet Mike today again. Yesterday, he was dripping on and off during the day. Last night and this morning he lost his bladder again, and just a little while ago he vomited clear fluid. I've given him his Pepcid, so that should calm his stomach, but it breaks my heart to know there is nothing I can do for his bladder.

Gidget has been very good lately. Other than stealing laundry from the basket and a couple of "accidents" (my fault because I didn't come to the door in time when she called), she has really seemed to understand how busy I've been with Jack's blog and has behaved herself more than usual.

I want to apologize for not visiting anyone's threads... I've been concentrating totally on Jack and Debbie the past six days. It has drained me mentally (and physically really since the adrenaline was pumping the entire time), and it was soooooo worth it!!! We raised enough money not only for Jack to have his surgery and aftercare but also just over $200 toward his next cat scan in six months... over $2500 in five days!! What a miraculous experience this has been for me. It's not only helped Jack but has given me a purpose and excitement that I have not felt in years. I just feel so very blessed to have been part of it all.


Thanks Im and Amy... for being so supportive of my efforts with Jack. You both have meant so much to me.... and thank you so much for being here for my dear boy.


I'm going to try to get to everyone's thread today. I know there's a ton of reading on each one, so if I don't post, please forgive me, but I will be reading.

I pray everyone has a wonderful day and you and all your fur-kids are happy and healthy.

Love & Blessings

Updated 3:52 p.m.

I'm updating the above post to add that Mike is not doing well. He's lost his bladder twice more since I posted this morning. He ate some scrambled eggs for breakfast and did quite well with it, but this afternoon had a tummy upset. Luckily (and thankfully) he didn't go in to the total "search" mode but instead has been able to lay down and let his stomach settle a bit. He's been sleeping for about an hour now, and I'm praying it's not still upset when he wakes up.

Sweet Gidget is taking a nap too. It helps so much that she's so comfortable in her room and doesn't give me grief when Mike's not feeling well and she has to be in there.

Please keep him in your prayers. I feel so helpless and just feel like crying.

Amy said...

Hi Jo,
Sorry that Mike is having a rough day. Maybe he can get some good rest. Glad that sweet Gidget is being such a good girl! Shoot me an e-mail if you just need to talk.

Amy

May 22, 2008 7:54 PM

Ibojka said...

Thanks Joanna for being our angel and please do not add any pressure on yourself if you cannot post on everybody's thread. Please remember you need a break too...However, I do appreciate the wonderful message and image you left on rt's thread!

How is our sweet boy, Mike doing today? Please give Gidget a hug for being such a good girl and helping her mom with all the laundry!!!

Thanks again for your support of raising all the funding for Debbie and Jack. Through your terrific organizational skills, energy, and blog all the angels were given the opportunity to help and support Jack to be healthy again. Hopefully, he is already a cancer surviver...

Much love to you, Mike, and Gidget from angel rt, eb, tra, Bill, and im.

May 23, 2008 10:25 AM

Anonymous said...

HI JOanna,

Sorry to hear MIke is struggling. THe good news is he may rebound again, you never know. Hope Gidgette continues to do well. The boys and I send Westie ear scritches to your two.

splight, Sunny and Buddy

May 23, 2008 11:13 AM

Just a quick post here this morning. Please.. everyone say a prayer for Mike. He lost his bladder twice.. once last nigh in his sleep and again this morning after he had gone out. I just feel so helpless.

The worst part is that I have to go out this morning and probably won't be back until around 1:30 or 2. I hate leaving him alone like this, but it's something I have no choice with and have to go.

When I walked in the living room and saw the stain, Gidget was standing there sniffing it. I immediately thought it was her (and she knew I thought it) and she ran to her room when I started to raise my voice. Immediately though I realized the size and color of the stain (had a reddish tinge) and knew it wasn't her, so I apologized to her and gave her some love.

Poor Mike though. He doesn't realize he did anything, and I'm not going to tell him. Please everyone... pray for my boy.

Love & Blessings

It was kind of stressful watching Mike today. I told you he hasn't wanted to eat. This morning, he told me he was hungry, so I made him some oatmeal. He snubbed it... wouldn't eat it out of the bowl or off of a spoon. So there I sat... on the floor... hand feeding him oatmeal. He didn't eat much, probably just enough to calm his stomach. About a half hour after he took his Pepcid, he decided he was hungry again, so I warmed up the rest of it, and this time was very relieved when he ate it out of his bowl... I had to start him eating it first with my hand though. This time it was on the kibble, and he did manage to eat a little bit of it. That's the first time he's eaten any in quite awhile. Tonight I made some fish, and thank God, he gobbled it up. Again with a little bit of kibble. I'm really concerned about him with this. One of our Craig's List friend who recently lost his beautiful Irish Setter wrote to me and said.... "Be cautious about him not eating, thats how Kelly started,not eating, only her treats and then nothing. When he is sure you have bonded with Gidget, he will say goodbye as Kelly did, when she was sure I was ok with Katie." Katie was a new Irish Setter puppy he had gotten before Kelly went to the Rainbow Bridge. His words make so much sense, and I'd be lying if I didn't say I was really concerned that this might be something warning me of what's ahead.

Gidget has been extremely good today. She hasn't been going out every ten minutes and driving me nuts. Instead... she's been keeping herself busy by raiding the laundry basket of everything and anything she can pull out and drag across the house. LOL She made me literally laugh out loud last night. I heard her in the laundry room and thought I heard a short bark, so I figured maybe she had to go out. When I went in there... she was standing in the middle of the room, looking at me with a dirty sock hanging out of her mouth. I wish I had the camera in my hand at that particular moment. When I came back in the living room, I saw she had been really busy... there were two pair of underwear and about six socks on the side of the couch. Oh my gosh... it was soooooo funny.

Jack's blog has created such wonderful activity. His surgery is on Wednesday, and I just know the funds will be there. I've been trying to keep updating it as often as I can with each new bit of information or each donation we've received. What a wonderful feeling to be able to help such a deserving team as Debbie and Jack. Here's the link again in case you missed it. http://jack-thekingofhearts-needsyourhelp.blogspot.com/

I'm going to be gone tomorrow from around 9:30 in the morning until maybe 2:30 in the afternoon, so I'll post on Jack's blog before and after those times. Hopefully, I'll be able to say we've got enough funds to cover the surgery. Keep praying. I know it will happen.

By the way... I want to apologize for not getting to anyone's IMOM thread this past few days. I've been on Jack's thread and trying to keep up with everything there almost constantly. I promise to get back to posting as soon as possible. For now though, I'm going to read the posts, and I'll comment when I'm not so pooped. LOL Love You All.

Love & Blessings

Again, thank goodness, it's been a relatively event-less day in our household. The only thing that's really bothering me is Mike's not wanting to eat. I think I mentioned before how he refuses kibble at all costs... but now... even treats. I have replaced normal treats with Purina Beneful Dog Food, and both dogs seem to love it. After all, it has more flavors than venison and rice. LOL I bought a big bag of it and fill their treat jar once a day so they "know" these are treats and not food (shhhhh don't tell them).

They've had these new "treats" for quite some time now, and although Mike really loves them... this is strange now... he won't eat them unless I sit on the floor with him or hold them in the palm of my hand to eat out of or give them to him one by one. This really has me wondering what's going on in that handsome little head of his. Yesterday, I didn't really have any "people" food to give him, and knowing he was hungry and had to eat... I offered him a handful of "treats"... well, he wouldn't eat them out of his dish or off the floor, but when I kept them in my hand to feed from, he ate heartily. He actually ate four big handfuls before he was full. Had I not hand fed him, he never would have eaten. He actually ate so much that he got an upset stomach (probably from not eating much the past few days and now eating like he should). Thankfully, the upset didn't last long, and we didn't have the pukey pukes.

Miss Gidget is doing well. She "might" be learning now that going potty is NOT an every ten minute procedure... sometimes we make it to "almost" 45 minutes. She's not quite there yet, but she's working on it.

She almost got bit yesterday. Mike was sound asleep... snoring like a lumberjack. Well, Miss Gidget decided she wanted to wake him up and play.... yep... you guess it. First, she stalked him like a cat and then pounced like a lioness. Welllllllllll.......... Mike is a lot like his Mom.. we don't take kindly to people (or puppies) jumping on us and waking us up from such a sound sleep (or any kind of sleep for that matter). He snapped and growled before he was even awake enough to know what happened. I seriously doubt that she'll do that again in the near future (at least I hope not).

I want to thank everyone who has visited Jack's thread. Debbie is an amazing lady, and Jack is the most awesome pup (except for Mike of course) that you'd ever want to meet. I have no doubt in my mind that we're going to be able to raise the funds needed for his surgery on Wednesday. If you haven't seen his thread or read the updates, here's the link again to check it out. http://jack-thekingofhearts-needsyourhelp.blogspot.com/
We've had two donors already, and I know more will come forward. Thank you to those who have visited the thread, have prayed for Jack and Debbie and have donated. You all mean so much to her and Jack (and me and everyone who knows them).

Until next time America. Take Care and God Bless.

Love & Blessings

All's quiet on the Western front.. and it's really a gift. Both pups are sleeping. We're all doing great, and there's not much to post here. But I did want to say that I've updated Jack's blog, so if you'd like to check it out, here's the link.
http://jack-thekingofhearts-needsyourhelp.blogspot.com/

I didn't realize we only have 4 days to raise the money for Jack's surgery, so time is of the essence. If anyone could help out, it would be so greatly appreciated.

Gotta go.. the puppy is waking up... time to potty..LOL

Love & Blessings

Before I start posting for Mike and Gidget, I want to mention sweet Debbie and her beautiful boy, Jack. Jack desperately needs surgery. I want to do everything I can do to help, so I've created this blog for him. Please go to it and check it out. http://jack-thekingofhearts-needsyourhelp.blogspot.com/

We Love You Jack (and you too Debbie)



Hi All...

Things are really good here. The only concern I have about Mike right now is that he's not eating anywhere near what he should be. I don't want him losing anymore weight. It's gotten to the point where he won't eat any of his Wellness kibble (or any other kibble that I've offered) at all... no matter what I put on top of it to get him started like I use to (shredded cheese, gravy, any other kind of people food), he'll eat the toppings off and leave the dish while he's still hungry. We're probably going to have to go to complete people food since that's the only thing he'll eat. The problem with that is that sometimes I can't afford food enough for me... but... I'm not going to let that stop me.. Mike will get whatever he needs (or wants ;-)

Other than his eating... Mike is really a miracle mutt. Who would ever have thought five or six months ago that he'd not only still be here with me but look and act as great as he does? You can tell by the pictures in the slide show how healthy he looks, and I am still amazed at the energy that he's found (on good days) to play with his sister. I just know that she's partly the reason for the spark that grows in him on a daily basis. I am so glad she came to live with us.

And... speaking of Miss Gidget... she's doing really well. Using her room in between potty times really did help. We had to do it for three or four days (keeping her in her room/cage until it was time to go out). She now will hold it for up to an hour (still not a long time but she's working on it) before she barks to go out. If she gets to the point where she starts barking more than every 30 minutes or so, I'll let her out and send her back to her room (she doesn't mind it). When she comes out of her room, she goes out to potty and then she's fine again. It'll take awhile, but she's getting it.

Other than that.. she's really a great little girl (shhhhh don't tell her I said that). LOL She is just so sweet, and those big eyes... oh my gosh... when she looks at me I can only think of those pictures of kids and animals that have the huge eyes... they are sooooooo cute.

Hi All...

I'm so excited... I finally got the new pictures of the kids. Ya know.. I didn't think Gidget was growing much, but when I see the difference in these pictures from the first ones... I can definitely see it. She still wears a 12" collar (now latched on the last notch), so she's not too big... but it will be time for a new collar soon. I don't remember if I told you, but she now weighs 14 pounds. She was only 6 pounds when she came to live with us on February 19th.

Mike is doing really well. He's not eating as much as I think he should, but I kind of sneak food to him by giving him Purina Beneful dog food in place of treats (they taste good, and since they're so much different from his Wellness food, he thinks they're treats). So, at least he's eating something.

Yesterday was such a beautiful day. All three of us went for a (semi) long walk. We would have walked further, but Mike was favoring his leg a little and mine was hurting a bit too, so I figured we'd play it safe and turn around and come home. They were both soooooooo happy to go. It was Gidget's first "real" walk. Up until yesterday we'd only walked back to the back of the property and back a few times for some exercise and to let her run off some energy. She did really well on the walk. Mike was in his glory.. taking over the sidewalk and marking "his" territory every fifteen feet or so. :-D It's been really cold and damp today, but as soon as the weather changes, we're going to make this a daily thing.

Hi Amy... Thanks for stopping in and posting. It's always great to hear from you. Congratulations (again) on graduation. I am so very proud of you!!!

Ok.. here's the link to all of the kid's pictures. I hope you enjoy them as much as I do. The two boys are my Grandson's Brandon and Chris.

http://s268.photobucket.com/albums/jj4/joanna930/Mike%20And%20Gidget%20April%202008/?albumview=slideshow

If any of you missed the original set of pictures I posted... here's a link to that one too... you'll be able to see how she's grown by comparison.

http://s268.photobucket.com/albums/jj4/joanna930/Mike%20And%20Katie%20March%202008/?albumview=slideshow

Love & Blessings

Mike's favorite thing to do is go for a R-I-D-E. He usually has the whole back seat to himself. Unfortunately, this day the back seat was full of kids.

HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY to all of you beautiful Mom's of skin and fur kids!!! We are all so blessed to have our kids.. and even though times may not always be the way we would have them... there is nothing that can replace the love we receive from our babies.

Mike is doing really well again. He and Gidget were playing tug-o-war with the westie baby for about 20 minutes this morning. I didn't think Mike had it in him to last that long... but he did. Of course now he's sleeping really sound and snoring away. :-D I love watching them play tug.. the young one shakes her head viciously while Mike just stands his ground and gives her a hearty tug once in awhile to let her know he's still (and always will be) the alpha, and he watches her make a fool of herself. LOL What's really funny though is when he releases for a split second to regroup and re-grab and hold tighter, and she takes that split second to get it away from him and runs like crazy. I end up being the mediator then because she'll run right to me wanting me to tug with her... silly girl should know by now that when I grab it... I give my end of it right back to Mike (tee hee).

She's doing well with the potty thing... but unless she's playing or eating, she still hasn't got the idea that she is NOT suppose to go out every ten minutes. At least now though, when she goes to the back door, she barks so I know she's there (which is "much" better than when she would just go back there and wait for me to know she's there... most of the time I didn't know she was there and she'd pee on the floor). BUT... if I don't listen to her and let her out each time she barks.. she will pee by the door. She's still having to stay in her room for a big part of the day (which I hate doing), but most of the time she's ok with it. I feel guilty for doing this to her, but I do have to admit... I'm relaxing a bit more since I have a bit more "quiet" time and don't have to get up and down every few minutes to let her out.

It was so funny yesterday. I planted my tomato plants and beens. I left her in her room while Mike and I were outside because it's just too hard to keep her busy and out of trouble out there if I can't watch her every minute. Well... when I had finished, I took her out, and she went crazy... barking... AT THE PLANT POTS!!! She's so funny. Everything is still new to her, and when she saw the round pots sitting next to the patio, you would have thought we had an evil intruder in the yard. They weren't even big pots.. just the pots the tomato plants had come in.

She has an appointment for the vet to be spayed again on Tuesday... but again... I'm going to have to postpone it. My brother (who was going to take us) is out of town and won't be back in time. Oh man.. this is getting old. The strange thing is.... she's 8 months old now and still hasn't gone into heat. I left a message today for the people at the rescue where I got her. I "thought" they got her directly from the puppy mill (they were going to put her down because she was the runt and not puppy store material)... anyway.. I want to find out if it's possible that she hasn't already been spayed (maybe they got her from someone else and not the mill). If this is the case, I certainly don't want to put her through that again. I guess I'll find out.

Well... gonna get going. I hope everyone is having a wonderful weekend.

Take Care and God Bless

The picture is of Mike trying to get to his stocking... he "always" knows exactly which one is his. He LOVES Christmas and opening presents.


Thank you all for all your prayers... I know you're praying because Mike was so much better yesterday, and today he's "almost" back to normal. I am so very grateful. I hate it when he's sick.

Little Gidget is doing better "my" quest to get her totally housebroken. She's staying out a little bit longer each time she gets out of her room to potty and play. However, after she's out and playing for a little while.. she still ends up back in the laundry room at the door long before she should have to go again, so we go out and potty and then go back in her room. One great thing that she has learned now though is to bark when she goes to the door... I'm grateful for any small thing she can give me LOL.... so at least she's not just standing there waiting for me to see her and peeing if I don't see her. So.. now we're ok with telling me she has to go. The hard part is getting her to realize that she doesn't "have" to go out so often. I swear... I think she rations it on purpose when she goes out and saves enough to go again in ten minutes time. LOL

I finally got to the store to drop off the camera. I don't have much money for prints, so I'm just having them put it on a cd. It will be ready on Monday, so if I get a ride, I'll pick it up and post some new pics here. I can't wait.

I've got to tell you... this is so horrendous. About a month ago, I was with Chris, my grandson, at one of the local malls. He wanted to go into the pet store and see the puppies. Well.. we went in, and I was really pissed. It was dirty... the cages were dirty (with shredded paper instead of a blanket or bedding), the water dishes were empty, and the poor dogs looked so lost. I complained to the clerk and she said, "I'll let the manager know, but he's not here right now". I asked her if she couldn't at least put some water in the dishes without the manager, and she said she would. I walked away from there really pissed off. Well... last night on the news, Carl Monday did an investigative report... guess where he was... yep... that same pet shop. Here's the link to it.... when you get to the link.. click on the "video".... people like this should be shot.

http://www.woio.com/Global/story.asp?S=8279952

Hey Amy... Thanks for stopping by. I've been meaning to e-mail you but haven't had a chance to turn around twice. How's school going? You should be about finished now. I am so very proud of you. :-D

Hi Cindy.... I am sooooooooo excited for Justice and Tucker. You have two wonderful boys there.. always trying to make Mom proud!
Mike's on Pepcid twice a day, and other than Thursday, he seems to be doing ok with it. She started him on the Pepcid when he was vomiting bile. He hasn't had that problem since I've started giving it to him daily. This time he brought up food. I honestly don't know how long it was after he had eaten that he had the problem. If it happens again though, I'll ask the vet about the Reglan and let you know. I really appreciate the offer... hopefully, we won't have an encore performance in the near future. Remember when I use to talk about his "possessed mode"... well, that's what this was. It's been a long time since he went through that... hopefully it won't happen for another long time... but I'll take you up on your offer if we need to.

I'm going to check on some of your threads now. I pray everyone is happy and healthy.

Take Care and God Bless

I've just spent the last couple of hours reading Mike's IMOM thread. http://www.imom.org/community/index.php?showtopic=3677
I couldn't help but go through the entire gammet of emotions (again) that I went through each and every day since finding IMOM. It's just so very unbelievable that we were able to find so much love in one place. From the first day there... we've been loved, supported and held up through good days and bad.

As I was reading, I realized how quickly our friends there became friends in the truest sense of the word. It seems as though Mike and I have known all of you forever... but in reality... (and this is the most unbelievable part)... we've only known you all since the end of October... not even seven months. How is that possible??? Could such strong relationships be created in such a short period of time? Even with the love we share for our pets... is this possible???

Face it.. in the "real" world.. things like this don't happen. In the "real" world... people come and go from our lives and leave no real lasting impression. In the "real" world... people honestly just don't care.

But... in this wonderful world of ours.. in our IMOM world, where things like this "do" happen... people "do" stay in our lives and create the miracles of friendship... people "do" truly care... the magic exists to create never ending relationships and love for one another. People and pets that we've never met in person... and probably never will... become such a huge part of our lives. They give us daily reminders that God does exist and creates an extension of His loving arms through faceless people and pets on the other side of a computer screen.

And to think that all this has culminated because of a little dog named Mike... a tiny creation that God put into my life to love with my entire being. Mike is the reason I found IMOM... and the reason I found so many wonderful friends (and you "are" friends... not aquaintances.. there is a huge difference). It just blows me away at the love we've found since day one... and re-reading his thread brings me to tears.

I want to first thank God for leading me to all of you. Then I want to thank Magic for being the wonderful inspiration you were and still are... Jacki, for following up on your dream of helping pets in need and the parents who couldn't do it without you... the Angel donors, who have kept Mike alive as long as he has been... Angel PIN parents, who have shared your love and pets with me... Angel friends, who have no PINs on IMOM but continue to support all of us with your love and compassion... and finally, to my beautiful boy Mike... who.. without him, I never would have known such love ever existed. Thank you, and God Bless you all.

Ok.. now.. about yesterday. I knew something was going on with Mike, even though I wasn't sure what it was. He was aloof and just didn't want to be bothered at all by his sister. Didn't want to play or even acknowledge that she was there (and actually snapped at her when she came too close... this is soooooo not like Mike). I knew he wasn't feeling well.. and Gidget learned that fact very quickly.

Around 4:00 he started whining. At first, I thought it was his "I'm hungry" whine (but he wouldn't even touch his food or even a treat)... very shortly after that... it became his "Mom, my stomach is upset" mode. He was whining, crying, panting and searching for almost an hour before he was finally able to vomit. I literally cried for him, because he kept looking to me to do something for him.. and there wasn't anything I could do. When I realized what was happening, I did manage to get another Pepcid in him with a drop of peanut butter... but apparently it didn't do anything to help.

When he finally was able to get it out.. he was so spent that he laid down and slept as though he had just run a 100 mile race. Unfortunately, when he woke up... it happened again. My poor boy... he was doing so well and now this.

During the night, he was breathing strange again... and again, he didn't move from the spot he laid in when he first went to bed. He was even in the same position next to my bed as he was when he fell asleep. This morning, he's quiet again. He hasn't asked for a treat or food... he just sleeps. Please keep him in your prayers.

Gidget is doing well with her being in her room in between potty breaks. I tried leaving her out for a little longer in between her "room" times to see if she got the idea yet that potty isn't every 10 minutes... she hasn't. So, today we try it again. She is so good in her room. She'll stay there for an hour or two before asking to get out. When she does ask, I let her outside to potty, leave her loose for a little while, and (ten minutes later) when she asks to go potty again, I take her out (again) and then back in her room.

She was so understanding yesterday when Mike was sick. She sat in her room and watched everything going on without making a sound. I know she understood that her brother just wasn't feeling good.

Hi Michelle.. It's so good to see you here. Thanks for stopping in and checking on my sweet boy. I was thinking, hopefully, some day this summer (after I get a car of course) we could get together and let the kids meet up too.... oh wouldn't that be fun??? Mike & Syd would have a blast... but between Gidget and Charlie, well.. we'd have to be prepared for trouble. :-D
Give those two some huge hugs and lots of treats from me and nose kisses from the westies.

Well.. I'm going to get going and let her out.. she's been so good this morning (shhhh.. don't want to say that too loud LOL). I hope everyone has a wonderful and healthy day.

Love and Blessings

I guess today can go either way for Mike. It's too soon to tell. Yesterday started out questionable too, but thankfully (other than being tired... which I attribute to a bit of labored breathing in the morning) he was ok. Chris (my grandson) came over last night.. we went out in back and he ran with the puppy.. Mike actually ran with them. He wanted to run as fast and far as they did, but he's a "little" bit older than they are and didn't last long... but at least he tried. I was so happy to see him run and be happy. It really wiped him out though... when he finished running, it was difficult for him to walk back to the house because he was winded. My poor baby wants to be a puppy again so badly.

I couldn't sleep at all last night and was up almost every hour. Everytime I woke up I listened to his breathing. It was deep at times and shallow at others. Then this morning I woke up to a strange sound... it was Mike (almost like he was doing it in his sleep) pushing part of the carpet where he had been laying and leaked a little. Like I said.. the sound he was making when he did it was (I don't know) kind of like a "puff" sound coming from his nose... like he was maybe doing it in his sleep. That was around 7:30... way too early for him to be awake. I let him know it was all right... he did nothing wrong and took him outside. When he came back in he slept for another hour and a half. He seems to be better now, but I'm watching him very closely.

Little Gidget did well yesterday in her room. I let her out to go potty and then let her run around the house for a little while... giving her a chance to use up some of that puppy energy and eat when she was hungry... then back to her room. She only had one "accident".. which really was my fault, since when she was loose she did go to the back door and barked.. but I was in the middle of something and couldn't get to her in time... so of course.. it was clean up time "again".

She doesn't mind being in her room... thank goodness. By the time she realizes she's been in there and starts begging to get out, it's usually about an hour or two since the last time she had gone out... so that's a good thing. Then I'll let her out and we start over again. I think it's going to take more than the couple of days I thought it would... but I have a feeling this is going to work. Keep your fingers crossed for us.

I felt so bad this morning after checking the IMOM threads. Poor RT lost the fight to live and has gone to the Rainbow Bridge. Im and Bill are having a really hard time, especially since RT had a heart attack and passed away in Im's arms. My heart goes out to them.

Hi Cindy... It's a gorgeous day here today. I hope you're having the same weather for your trip to Columbus. There's a 40% chance of thunderstorms today, but right now it's 70 degrees, sunny and a totally cloudless sky. I hope it's the same by you.

Dr. Blaha doesn't think Gidge has a uti. She has absolutely no problem holding it for hours at a time when she's in her room. She thinks the young one just wants more attention (is that possible?) and sometimes she's bored (again.... possible?). So I'm praying this works. It was so wonderfully peaceful yesterday as she spent so much time in her room. Today it's the same. I can't wait until I could leave her out and find some of this peace (without having to take her out everytime I blink).

I can't tell you how excited I was when I read that Tucker has gotten back on the train. Tucker is one day seizure free and Justice is at twenty-one!!! Wish I had icons here to express my joy and clapping in congratulations for them. I pray they will both keep up the good work.

Ok.. gonna go fix something to eat. I'm hungry. I pray everyone has a beautiful day. Take care of yourselves (and your fur-kids) and God Bless You.

Love & Blessings

Oh... by the way... Gidget is 8 months old today :-D

I'm not quite sure how today is going to go for sweet Mike. I woke up this morning and saw he had vomited a little during the night. I woke up quite a few times during the night (I always do.. guess it's part of getting old lol).. and each and every time, he was in the same exact spot he fell asleep in. This, by itself, is unusual for him. He normally moves to a different spot at least once every night. I've noticed he's been sleeping heavier and heavier lately. I pray this isn't a sign of anything.

This morning he went out and ate a bit.. but something is just not quite right with him. He's sleeping now (again very soundly), and I just can't put my finger on it... but something is wrong. I'll watch him like a hawk (of course) and just keep praying that the good days continue and that this is all in my head.

Dr. Blaha returned my call last night about Gidget's constantly going out. She said she is definitely hold enough to hold her bladder (which I knew because she stays in her cage for 8 or 9 hours each night and stays dry), but she said she is probably just doing it because she wants attention (well.. she definitely gets that... every 15 minutes). She suggested keeping her in her room (cage) for a few days ("when you need a break") to get her use to a schedule. She also said this will get her use to going out only a few times a day. BOY DO I NEED HER TO DO THAT!!! LOL

I told her I would definitely do it and told her I felt bad about having to leave her in her room so much, but she assured me that it's not cruel... just make sure she knows she's not being punished when she goes in there (which I don't punish her with it anyway, so that should be the easy part). So... this morning, she went out, ate a little bit, played "chase me"... went out again... and now she's sound asleep in her room. Oh how nice and quiet it is in here right now. LOL In the time it's taken to write this so far, she would have been out at least twice. It's only going to be for a couple of days, so I don't feel "too" bad right now. I hope just hope it works.

Hi Im... Thanks for stopping by and commenting on Mike's blog. To be honest with you... I actually had no choice as far as starting a blog for Mike. Since his thread was closed on IMOM, and I couldn't post there anymore.. I didn't want to leave all of our friends hanging as to what was going on with him. Everyone has been so wonderful to us and supportive and loving, that this was the least I could do to keep everyone informed. And I have to say it's wonderful for me too... just like on the threads... to be able to post here and let out my thoughts, feelings, fears and joys... without my friends here.. I'd be lost. Mike and I have found so much love from our IMOM friends and friends that we've met through Craig's List.. I thank God for each and every one of them (and you and rt too now that we've met you).
Give sweet RT some skritches from me and nose kisses from Mike and Gidget/Katie.

Ok.. I'm going to hit as many threads now as I can. It's a beautiful day here in Northeast Ohio.. I pray you are all are enjoying the same thing.

God Bless You All

I am soooooo glad I have a private backyard. You all would have laughed your butts off if you had seen this. I take the dogs out the back door, from the laundry room. Well, I put Miss Gidget's leash on first, and I wasn't watching her as I put Mike's on. After his was on, I opened the door, and here comes the Queen prancing outside with a pair of Mommies underwear!!! :-o She was literally prancing like a show horse... dangling her prize of prize and shaking her head for the whole kingdom to see her "wears". LOL It seems when I wasn't looking, she just reached right into the laundry basket and helped herself. I tried to get them from her, but of course, she thought I wanted to play tug-0-war. It was just too darn funny.

I put a call in to the vet on Friday night about possibly getting something to help hold her bladder. She's great at night or when she's in her room, but it seems like during the day she goes every 30 minutes or less. I was giving Mike Bladder Strength when he first got sick. I'm going to ask her about it for Gidge. In the meantime, about an hour or two ago, I'm trying something else (by the way, she only had one accident in the house yesterday). I've heard that you can hang a bell on the door as an aid to help with house training, and since she does manage to get to the door (if she doesn't tell me she has to go), I know she knows where to go. Well, I keep forgetting to look for a bell when I'm out, I took a cylindrical shaped cookie can, put some pennies in it and tied it to the back (laundry room) door. Of course, I knew this was going to double as a new toy for her (and I was right), but everytime I hear her play with it... we go out. She's actually started to bark at it as well as play with it.. and that's a good thing. So, needless to say, in the first fifteen minutes or so, we went out at least 8 or 9 times (even if she didn't have to go) so she learns that if she plays with it... she's going outside. Well.. so far so good. After the initial fascination of it, she's slowed down playing with it, and everytime she's gone to the door to play or bark at it since then... she's gone out and peed. HOORRAYYY!!! Maybe I don't need the vet and the Bladder Strength after all. (I wish there were icons on here so I could put a smiley face clapping on here.)

Oh.. before I forget... I weighed Gidget today... SHE WEIGHS FOURTEEN POUNDS!!! I guess she really is growing before my eyes. She was only six pounds when she came to live with us on February 19th... The little pigger is heavy. It's funny... she really doesn't look that heavy, but I'm glad to know she's healthy and growing.

Sir Michael is doing great. I had a little (tiny) concern this morning though. When he woke up, he was sniffing where he had been laying, and I saw that he leaked a little bit. I'm not concerned with it though.. he slept really heavy last night, and I'm thinking this was just a natural thing. It wasn't very much.

I was a bit concerned when he went to bed last night though. His breathing sounded kind of rough and labored. I listened until he was totally asleep and it finally evened out. It didn't take long, but I guess I'm just watching so closely because he's been doing so well lately, and I'm afraid it's going to change any minute. Right now, he's barking his head off at kids walking their bikes on the street....... ohhhhhhhh... how happy I am to hear him bark.. it's a loud, strong, healthy, (manly) bark.. and even though it can get on my nerves when he does it constantly... it's so good to know that he feels good enough to bark. Keep barking my love.

I still haven't gotten to the store to drop off the film. Hopefully in a day or two I'll get there.

I pray everyone had (and is still having) a beautiful weekend. Thank you all so much for all of your love and prayers. God Bless You All.

Love, Blessings and Belly Rubs (to all our fur friends)

Sorry I didn't get back here last night... by the time the storm ended, I was just too tired to think straight.

The kids are doing great! Sir Michael hasn't had any problems in the past week or so (shhh.. don't wanna say that too loud)... and Princess Gidget just thinks she owns the world (well.. except for what Mike claims, I guess she does LOL).

I was just reading the threads and saw that Justice is fully sponsored too... ohhhh what a great day this is for Cindy.. and for all of us. THANK YOU SWEET ANGEL(S) for getting both the boys sponsored. Thank God Cindy can get the medication "she" needs now for herself (did you know she has been putting off her own meds in case the boys weren't sponsored and she would have had to pay for it). So, Angels, you see.. not only are you helping Tucker and Justice, you're also helping Cindy get (stay) healthy. THANK YOU!!!

Now, if only RT and Cole can get enough sponsors we'd have even more to celebrate.
I have to apologize to some of the newer PINs on IMOM for not getting to your threads and posting. Things have been on the crazy side, and I've only been able to keep up with a few. HOWEVER, I have determined that today, I am going to catch up on all of you and offer you as much support as possible. I've learned about most of you from reading some of the other threads, and I feel horrible for being so lax in communicating with you.

It's been raining all day, but I don't mind. I love the rain. It could be a few degrees warmer (it's 64 right now), but hey... it's not snowing, so I'll take it. LOL

Oh... I've got to tell you. This is sooooooooo funny. Gidget is constantly bringing me her round, rope pull toy to play with her. She would pull with me all day if I'd play all day. Well, Mike is really funny.... he never seems to care if I'm playing with her or giving her the attention she needs, BUT........
Every time we start pulling and playing tug-o-war... he gets up from where ever he is (even out of a sound sleep), and comes over to her with his little rear end moving up and down. He never has mounted her, but he will nuzzle her neck and "move". It's so funny... she must be super attractive to him when she's being "athletic". LOL It's kind of like she's giving off some special aroma when she plays tug-o-war that really turns him on. ROFL When we stop pulling, Mike will go right back to whatever he was doing (or not doing) and could care less about her. It's just too funny.

Hi Amy... It's sooooooo nice to hear from you and to meet you. I'm sorry I haven't been to your thread to properly introduce myself, but I promise to get there today. I've seen your posts on other threads, and I have to tell you how wonderful it is that you support everyone so much.

I'm with you... without Christ in my life, I'd be absolutely nothing... and quite honestly, I probably wouldn't be here today. With all the trials I've had in my life (and over 32 surgeries.. some very major), and all the set backs I've been through, I probably would have gone off the deep end many times. But with His grace, love and healing.. I'm still here. I am so grateful that He is strong when I'm weak (Cor 12:9) because there have been so many times when my weakness could have taken over.

Thank you so much for sharing your faith and your Dad's story with me. Our God Is An Awesome God, and it's wonderful to be able to give Him the glory.

Ok all... I'm gonna get going and try to catch up with a few of you now. I want to thank all of you... old and new friends... for keeping up with my boy and not forgetting about him. Since we aren't on the IMOM thread anymore, it just makes your presence here all the more special to us.

God Bless You All and Have A Wonderful Weekend

By the way... as soon as I get a ride to the drug store, I'm going to take the camera in for developing, so I should have some new pictures soon. Love & Blessings