Saturday, August 21, 2010

A Dog Day

I'm getting behind, and I'd hoped to have a day to get caught up on things around the house and with my blog reading too. But it doesn't look like it's going to happen. At least not today.

Hamlet (pictured) has a vet appointment this morning. Unfortunately the huge lipoma that he had removed in April has returned. I'd hoped that it wouldn't and if it did, perhaps it wouldn't be as big. While it's not as big as it was, it is growing and with the tightness of the skin, it's bothering him. I don't want to put him through another surgery, so I'm going to discuss with my vet about Hamlet seeing a holistic vet. There's one in this practice that uses Chinese herbs. I've used them in the past and one in particular shrunk the tumor of a senior boy that I had at the time. We'll see. Tanner is also coming along for a check up as well. He's had a good week and no "senior moments" that I noticed.

Finally, I received a bit of a frantic phone call yesterday from the rescue. There is an 88 year old widowed lady named Doris that fell and broke her hip. She adopted a dog from the rescue in 2001 and is now unable to care for him. She has been in the hospital for 2 weeks and is now going to be moved to a senior care facility that doesn't allow pets. He has been left in her house alone, and of course she has missed him terribly and is very worried about him; so much so that she's been calling her home several times a day and leaving messages on the answering machine so he could hear her voice. (Someone has been coming to her home twice a day to let the dog out). No one in the family wants the dog and they all feel that he should be put down, but Doris doesn't want to do that. Doris and her vet think that he may have some quality of life left. Can you finish this story? Yes, we (or should I say "I") agreed to take him. I am going to be picking "Sam" up today after our vet appointments. There is no question and even I will admit that we are truly (!!) bursting apart at the seams, but I always have room for another...I called Doris and spoke with her. To say that she's heartbroken about giving up her precious Sam is an understatement. By the way, did I mention that her treasured Golden is 15 years old? The life expectancy of a Golden Retriever is 12-14 years. I know we won't have him for long. But this is so sad for Sam and Doris to lose one another at a time when they need each other most.

32 comments:

  1. That IS so sad! Bless you for stepping in and relieving Doris's worry about her beloved friend. To think that Sam's years of love and loyalty would have been 'rewarded' with euthanasia is just too sad to bear. He's a lucky dog to get to spend his final days with you and your Golden Family!

    I'm praying that the holistic vet can help reduce beautiful Hamlet's tumor. He is such a sweet, gentle looking boy. It breaks my heart to think that animals like him suffer every day.

    You inspire me to want to go into rescue work! Unfortunately, the only way that I could do it would be if a veterinarian would volunteer his/her services as I'm unemployed (laid off last November!) and couldn't afford vet bills. :-(

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  2. Kim your kindness and wonderful heart continue to awe me!
    I understand though that there is no question but that you would take Sam for whatever life he has left and what a fortunate boy he is that you are there!
    I am sure he will be happy with all your other "babies" to lounge with and play with. It is sad for Doris but how happy she must be that you jumped into the gap for her boy!
    Even though she is in a senior home do they allow visits of pets? Before they passed my aunt and uncle in Montreal lived in a facility that allowed pet visits. It might be too much for you with all the other things you have to do, but maybe you could send her pictures of her boy happy with your gang and that would give her some peace.
    Anyway bless your heart Kim, you do such good work!
    Tina xo

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  3. Sigh..... I know where you're at.... you can't NOT.....

    Good Luck with Hamlet, and Tanner, pretend you know everything!

    XXX

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  4. Hamlet is looking very patrician in this mornings picture. All I can say is thank heavens for people like you to look after the Doris and Sams of this world. Heartbreaking must be an understatement but at the same time there must be huge comfort for her in knowing he is going to a loving home with a huge heart.

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  5. Oh man, you're gonna make me cry!

    Thank you for going to get Sam. I don't understand that mentality. If something happened to my mom, I wouldn't be thinking "put down the dog". Man.

    Paws crossed for everyone - make that lipoma go!!

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  6. Mom is leaky now - in that bittersweet way -

    Please give Sam a hug from all of US!

    Hugz&Khysses,
    Khyra and Khousin Merdie
    PeeEssWoo: We hope the vet visit went well

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  7. Oh, what a heartbreaking story! At least you'll take good care of him....do you think he likes swimming? Does he want to learn???! xxx

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  8. You have a tender heart. I think you deserve Foster Parent of the Year award.

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  9. Kim - what a heartbreaking story. I[m so glad you are able to help Doris and Sam - it will make things easier for both of them when the inevitable comes.

    ((HUGS))
    Lynn

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  10. Sad news toady, except for the bright light that you and your welcoming home are for dogs and people in need. I understand the logistical difficulties around pets for a hospital or care facility, but how much quicker would people heal if they weren't separated from their beloved animals? What a precious gift you are giving both Sam and Doris: a loving, kind an safe home for Sam, and peace of mind for Doris knowing her Sam is being taken good care of.

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  11. Hi Kim,

    So sorry for Tanner. I love the idea of going to the Holistic vet. I hope that works! A friend of mine in North Carolina owns Goldens and rescues them like you do (shes got aout 15 now!) takes them all to a Holistic vet and swears by it. Almost all of hers have lived past their life expectency to about 15-16 years of age.
    Tanner is so precious in that photo. I want to just rap my arms around him and never let go. He looks like such a big sweetheart.

    I am sure that Sam will be a wonderful new addition in your home. I hope that someday I can be like you and rescue Goldens, and other dogs too that need the help. I am excited to hear about Tanners visit to the vet, aswell as Sams first day home.

    To answer your question about Simba, he has so many allergies I can't even name them all. I know that all gluten and corn he has a problem with, aswell as most fruits (especially berries), apples, and some other things too. I talked to the vet recently about getting allergy tested but she said that it wouldn't be smart to do it until he is atleast 2, and he is only 1 year and 5 months right now. His recent flare up, that caused the cone on his head, was an allergic reaction to the grass at the dog park. The vet decided that he will ned to be on an antihistamine for a while (a year or so) every day/twice aday to stop him from becoming allergic to everything. I am going to be switching his food to Eagle Pack Holistic Select brand because it is healthier, and that is what he was on as a puppy before lots of the problems started. I am also going to be giving him digestive supplements aswell as green tea and Omega 3 oils with every meal to help his skin, and immune system.
    The price of all the vet visits has gotten a bit unbarable for me at the moment, but we are getting by. I am just discouraged that the breeder was rude enough to breed dogs with genetic problems (who knows what he will get when he is older), sell him at a high price, and only give a 2 year health garentee for heart, hip, and cataracts (which won't even develope til after 2 years anyways). I guess that just proves what puppies will do to you - they make you loose your mind! LOL.

    If I ever get another Golden, I will rescue, for sure. There is a great rescue where I live that I have visited once or twice, and, if Simbas allergies calm down and I have some spare time, I may foster some of the Goldens that way I can do my part. If I decide to do this, I would love to talk to you about tips and stuff.

    Simba has got such a spirit. The cone on his head has actually embellished clownish personality and has caused us lots of laughs.

    Blessings,
    Paige

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  12. Hi Kim,

    So sorry for Tanner. I love the idea of going to the Holistic vet. I hope that works! A friend of mine in North Carolina owns Goldens and rescues them like you do (shes got aout 15 now!) takes them all to a Holistic vet and swears by it. Almost all of hers have lived past their life expectency to about 15-16 years of age.
    Tanner is so precious in that photo. I want to just rap my arms around him and never let go. He looks like such a big sweetheart.

    I am sure that Sam will be a wonderful new addition in your home. I hope that someday I can be like you and rescue Goldens, and other dogs too that need the help. I am excited to hear about Tanners visit to the vet, aswell as Sams first day home.

    To answer your question about Simba, he has so many allergies I can't even name them all. I know that all gluten and corn he has a problem with, aswell as most fruits (especially berries), apples, and some other things too. I talked to the vet recently about getting allergy tested but she said that it wouldn't be smart to do it until he is atleast 2, and he is only 1 year and 5 months right now. His recent flare up, that caused the cone on his head, was an allergic reaction to the grass at the dog park. The vet decided that he will ned to be on an antihistamine for a while (a year or so) every day/twice aday to stop him from becoming allergic to everything. I am going to be switching his food to Eagle Pack Holistic Select brand because it is healthier, and that is what he was on as a puppy before lots of the problems started. I am also going to be giving him digestive supplements aswell as green tea and Omega 3 oils with every meal to help his skin, and immune system.
    The price of all the vet visits has gotten a bit unbarable for me at the moment, but we are getting by. I am just discouraged that the breeder was rude enough to breed dogs with genetic problems (who knows what he will get when he is older), sell him at a high price, and only give a 2 year health garentee for heart, hip, and cataracts (which won't even develope til after 2 years anyways). I guess that just proves what puppies will do to you - they make you loose your mind! LOL.

    If I ever get another Golden, I will rescue, for sure. There is a great rescue where I live that I have visited once or twice, and, if Simbas allergies calm down and I have some spare time, I may foster some of the Goldens that way I can do my part. If I decide to do this, I would love to talk to you about tips and stuff.

    Simba has got such a spirit. The cone on his head has actually embellished clownish personality and has caused us lots of laughs.

    Blessings,
    Paige

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  13. I just typed a huge long comment, and now it has all just left this text box and I don't even know why!

    I'll try again. :-)

    Hi Kim,

    Best of luck with Tanner. I am so sorry and will have him in my thoughts and prayers. I have a friend that, like you, rescues Goldens and lives with about 15 of them and takes them all to a Holistic vet and swears by it. I hope the vet you find will help Tanner!

    How exciting to get a 15 year old Golden in your house. I am sure that Sam will be a blessing, even if its in a small way. I am excited to hear about his first day home and see pictures. I cannot imagine how poor Doris must feel. I hope she knows how great of a home Sam is going to!

    To answer your question about Simba, he is allergic to just about everything. Glutens, corn, berries, some veggies, lots of flowers, dust, certain fertilizers, the list goes on and on. I brought up to the vet the idea of getting allergy tested, but she said it wouldn't be worth it until he is 2 years old+ and he is only 1 year and 5 months. I will definetly test him in about a year or so if the allergies continues.
    After going to the vet and spending another few hundred dollars, I am going to take every precaution possible to keeping him healthy. The vet is putting him on a antihistimine for a year to see how that helps, so he will take that every day, twice aday for some time. Then, I am going to be switching to a holistic, trusted brand of food that will be healthier for him than the kind he is on. I will also be buying a powder to put on his food that will have digestive enzymes, probiotics, prebiotics, Omega 3 oils, and green tea extracts to help with his immune system. I am hoping that starting all of this ( probably in 2 weeks - once he gets the cone off his head) will hopefully help his allergies, and make him a healthier dog.
    His recent flare up actually was caused by the grass at the dog park and his hind paws got as big as softballs, his genital area was red and shot with hives, and his ears were itching him like crazy. All from the dog park grass! I am thinking it was treated in something...who knows. Thats what the antihistamine will hopfully help, though.

    I wish I could foster and save Golden Retrievers like you do. I have a great rescue by my house that I visit time and time again and someday, when Simbas allergies are under control, I would like to foster some of the dogs to help out.

    Anyways, before I take up your whole blog with this comment, I hope you have a wonderful day.

    ~Paige

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  14. Sam has found his angels to see him through the rest of his life. He is one lucky boy; Doris and now you guys.

    Paws crossed for Tanner and Hamlet. We always have them in our minds and in our hearts.

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  15. Hope the appointments go well!
    Have I told you lately that you are an angel?
    Or maybe just a bit crazy?! :)
    can't wait to see pics of the old guy....
    xoxo

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  16. That breaks my heart, so sad for both of them. But it also gives me hope I will be able to care for dogs for a while yet (I'm 70). Do you think you can take Sam to visit Doris once she gets settled?--Inger

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  17. What a good person you are. I can't wait to meet Sam!

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  18. Anxiously awaiting news....

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  19. Kim,
    We can only say Thank You for taking in this senior boy.
    We can only imagine the hurt that Dories is going through.
    We pray that her knowing he will be in a loving home with people who will love and care for him will give her some comfort.
    Hamlet & Tanner are also in our prayers.
    Kim, we can only say you are a true Angel for what you are doing.
    Some day we sure hope to meet you.
    Sheila & Bob

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  20. Kim, You really do have a heart of gold. Poor Hamlet, Bless him. Fingers crossed for the alternative medicine hun. S x x x

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  21. Kim,
    I know Doris has to be happier that Sam is going to a loving, caring home than being put down, simply because he was inconvenient for others.

    He will be a blessing, I'm sure.

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  22. you are a big pudding
    and Iloveyou for it
    x

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  23. Hugs to Hamlet and Tanner!
    We're crying for Doris and Sam! Such a sweetie to phone and let Sam hear her voice :) You all are gems to take him! So wish we were closer to help. If you need a few doggie beds (seriously) please let us know.
    Greetings to new member, Sam and hugs for health to Hamlet and Tanner, and blessings to YOU!!!

    Hugs and snaggle-tooth kisses,
    Sierra Rose

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  24. My heart breaks for Doris. Sam is going to be well cared for and while he will be bewildered he will find love in your home. Doris obviously cherishes this dog--the talking on the answering machine says it all--Again, my heart just breaks for her. I hope there will be a way that 'visits' can be arranged. Heres hoping that you find a good solution for Tanner as well.
    Tammy

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  25. Hi Kim
    What a bundle of problems that came swirling down like a tornado in the sky,,,, and there you are to offer kindness and love to precious Sam. I imagine that when you called Doris, her heart felt relief for her blessed Sam. But, I know how sad her heart is, to be without Sam. Its hard enough to age and need to be removed from your home. And then the things that mean the world to you - you can't have anymore.
    What a responsibility that you and Carl share with all these precious loves,,,,, thank goodness for both of you.
    I hope you got some answers for Hamlet and Tanner today.
    You must have been going all day long!
    love
    tweedles

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  26. Kim.
    Sorry to hear the news requarding Hamlet's lump. I also agree with your thinking that another operation may just be too much for him.
    How also very sad about Doris and Sam. Pets are wonderful companions for seniors and this will have a huge impact even on her recovery and mind set.
    I'm glad you are taking Sam, but then again I new you would. You have such a heart of gold and Doris and Sam are very fortunate.

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  27. God bless you Kim and your husband for rescuing doggies like Sam - you help make the world be a better place. We need more folks like you.

    My heart breaks for Doris - I can imagine her pain knowing that she can't have Sam - but may she find comfort that he's in GReat hands - yours! Hopefully some visits can be arranged?

    May Tanner have many more GReat days and may the incidents be behind him. Hopefully Hamlet isn't in too much discomfort - fingers crossed that the holistic vet will be able to provide some help.

    Neeli & Apples are sending extra licks to Sam, Hamlet & Tanner and the rest of your gang.

    Woofs
    Nadine Apples & Neeli

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  28. you are lucky to have a holistic vet in your area,no such thing here in the boonies. I hope this helps.
    Thank you for sharing Sam's story...two years ago a friend of mine had a terrible wreck and had to end up going into a nursing home where pets were not allowed. For months I drove an extra hour to go take care of her cat, then got him certified and carried him to her daily-he was allowed in as a therapy pet. Luckily she recovered enough to be able to go back home and was reunited with her cat...
    Sam is fortunate to be loved by his human, and by you. So glad he is with you.

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  29. Oh, how sad! I get teary-eyed when I hear those kind of stories. Yes, Sam has lived more than the expected life span of a Golden Retriever. But he might still live long because I read from http://www.trainpetdog.com/Golden-Retriever/about-golden-retriever.html, there are reports of some dogs living up to the age of 20 to 25 years with healthy breeding and lifestyle. Who knows until when will Sam live.

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  30. Guess we haven't been keeping us with Life at Golden Pines! Just read about Sam coming to live with you and we're all teary-eyed for probably all the same reasons everyone who reads this is. Heartbreaking and heartwarming at the same time. Just so grateful to know that there are people out there like you! Sam is a lucky dog and we hope he and Doris get to see each other on occasion.

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  31. I love lifeatgoldenpines.blogspot.com! Here I always find a lot of helpful information for myself. Thanks you for your work.
    Webmaster of http://loveepicentre.com and http://movieszone.eu
    Best regards

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