Well, we all know that Snowy has pulled miraculous recoveries out of the hat in the past and while I wouldn’t say that we’re at that point right now, he is certainly doing better than anyone could ever have expected.
One of the big concerns yesterday was that he wasn’t able to move his bowels. Well, he has done that three times in the past twelve hours with no straining or discomfort whatsoever. The new meds have made a big difference in keeping him comfortable through that process.
This morning, he only urinated a teeny little bit after 18 hours of not going at all. That was one of the huge things that was pushing us for making a decision to put him to sleep today which caused me to weep even more rivers of tears. Around noon however, he started urinating regularly, passing relatively large amounts of urine. I was downright shocked the first time I saw him to do it because I had pretty much given up all hope in that area.
Yesterday, he had no interest in eating. Today he actually attempted his little happy dance when I put some watermelon in his dish; he has eaten a couple dozen chunks of it so far. He’s still not interested in drinking any water but the vet said the watermelon is a great alternative because it’s loaded with water and it’s a natural diuretic.
This new medication regimen is keeping him largely comfortable—no more tremors of pain running through his body, no more yelps of discomfort, no more miserable eyes of a suffering canine.
So that’s all great news. Since I spent the morning crying, I was beyond happy when he started turning the corner a little around lunch time.
On the negative side of the equation, however, is the fact that what’s allowing him to do so well and feel so much more comfortable are meds that are known to be extremely hard on a dog’s liver; since he was in liver failure 18 months ago, the vet is justifiably concerned about leaving him on these meds for more than a couple of days. After that point, our only choice will be to revert back to the milder pain killer and anti-inflammatory and see if those will keep him comfortable.
The goal is to keep him quiet (no climbing steps or jumping or running—which he doesn’t feel much like doing anyway) for two weeks, do everything possible to make the inflammation in his spine and joints go down and then see how well he is able to function at that point. The vet said she has seen dogs make great recoveries with this line of treatment; the only drawback with Snowy is that he can’t take the heavy-duty stuff a long time (which would give better results) and he has other multiple health issues he’s dealing with at the same time.
But having said all that, we have definitely stepped away from making The Decision today. We’ll see how he’s doing in the morning, see if he’s using the bathroom consistently, and make sure he’s not experiencing pain. As long as that is the case, we’ll keep taking it day by day.
Thanks once again for your comments, and prayers, and tears. So many of you wisely said in the comments that we would know when the time was right; that he would let us know. And I really believe that is true. And at this point in the journey, the little spark of spirit I see coming back into his sweet eyes makes me feel like the time isn’t here yet.
My heart goes out to those of you who commented that you have gone through this experience with your pet and that some of you are facing it right now. It’s amazing how people who love their pets can form such an instant, amazing connection, even across the miles, even after having never even met each other. We love our fur babies!
Snowy is lying beside me in the chair as I write and he said to tell you that he is glad that all the blog friends that he’s made over the years have written in to say how special he is.
He just said, “I would have to concur. I really am sorta wonderful.” Then he went back to sleep.
In closing, Jodi said she would love to see some pictures of Snowy from way back when Sarah was going through her cancer treatment; I don’t have a whole lot of those on this computer but I’ve posted the ones I have along with a couple extras.
So many sweet, sweet memories of a loyal friend, companion, cancer buddy and reading pal.
My hope and prayer is that his days aren’t over yet.
Oh, I love the picture of Sarah curled up in a blanket on the couch with Snowy flipped upside down near her. It’s so funny, sad and sweet at once.
I’m so glad to hear that he’s doing better! Sometimes if you can get them calmed down and out of the pain cycle the milder meds will work wonders! Praying that he continues to improve and you have much more time together!! 🙂
Gayle in AL
I’m really happy to hear that Snowy is making progress. Hoping and praying he continues to get better. Sending you guys love.
I’m so glad to hear Snowy is doing a little better. I hope every day gets a little more peaceful and comfortable for all of you.
So happy to hear that Snowy was so much more comfortable; I’m praying fervently that he will keep on improving.
So glad Snowy is a little better. Still praying for his healing and freedom from pain. God be with you all each moment of each day as you travel this road none of us wish to take. We know God can heal if it is in His will. Praying it is this another time for Snowy as He has pulled him through before. Snowy is like a part of our family, too.
Oh Becky, Steve, Nathan and Sarah,
I am so sorry that you are dealing with this with Snowy. I have a female Maltese, and must say, she is one of the sweetest dogs, I have ever had. Your family as well as Snowy, is in my prayers. I pray for no pain for Snowy, and whatever happens, peace and love for your family. Keep us posted and I also love to see pics of him. He’s quite the handsome little fellow. It’s obvious the pain he is in and the pain y’all are in. Enjoy the time you have left.
God Bless~
Debbie
PS> Isn’t it funny when we are happy to see poop? LOL
I’m so sorry to read that Snowy is unwell. It’s always a heartbreak to see a beloved pet–a true member of the family, a close friend and a companion who provides unconditional love–when they are ill or declining in any way. I remember that when I had to make The Decision for my cat, who was almost 17 and suffering from heart failure and cancer–I honestly thought my heart was broken into a million pieces and I’d never smile again. I empathize completely.
I hope that you won’t even need to think about that decision for a while, and that all of Snowy’s time with you all is happy, pain-free and peaceful.
So so happy to hear that Snowy is feeling comfortable. Every day is a gift.
lesley
Atta Boy Snowy, you can do it!! So glad you’re feeling better today and praying for a MUCH better day tomorrow! Hi and love from Molly and Rowf!!
Hugs and Blessings,
Judy
I’m so glad to hear that Snowy is doing a bit better.. Crying tears with you, I know how horribly difficult being faced with this sort of decision is.. It is one that breaks your heart, even though you know that your furry loved one deserves to leave this world with as much dignity and grace as he has lived with all these years. Each day is a gift, treasure each moment as THAT is what you will remember and cherish – eventually the sorrow will pass and those memories will bring smiles instead of tears.
Oh, Becky, I’m so sorry about your sweet pup not feeling well … but thrilled he’s doing a little better today. 🙂 I will still keep sending prayers his way. Snowy has fans from all around that have grown to love and care about him … but none quite like his family. Prayers are being sent your way, as well. 🙂 Thanks for keeping us posted!
On a different note, I am just curious … our daughters are about the same age. Is Sarah driving yet? Our daughter just got a car, and now keeps our roads hot. lol! This adds a whole new level of worry and concern, though. Nausea overwhelms me everytime I see her drive away … and I’m like a giddy child when she’s home again. Will this get easier? :/ I’m convinced we all have guardian angels watching over us – but I sure hope my daughter’s angel doesn’t mind working overtime. 😉
Lizzi, no Sarah has decided to postpone getting her license for a little while which I have to say we are thrilled about. As you said, thinking about your “little girl” out on the roads is such a scary thing. And I know your daughter’s angel is working overtime! 🙂
Haha, it took me a minute for this to sink in, “LizziLou” is OUR little white pup! I’ve always used her name instead of mine online. lol She’s a Bichon, but looks so much like your Snowy. 🙂 Please, call me Michelle. 😉
I completely understand where you’re coming from. Our daughter, Haley, was 16 last December. Truthfully, delaying her driving til she was 30 would have been fine with me. 😉 Our children grow up way too fast!
Anxious to hear how Mr. Snowy is today. Hoping and praying he continues to do well.
Have a good day.
MICHELLE
So happy to hear Snowy is doing better. I was teary eyed reading your earlier post. He appears to be such a sweet loving fellow. We have 2 sweet dogs ourselves and would be beside ourselves if something happened to them. They are part of our family and have provided so much love to us. Thinking of you all and praying for Snowy’s health to improve.
Becky – Steve and Sarah
i am so glad that Snowy is doing better. I am a long time Maltese owner (two over the last 23 years). He will let you know when it is time. My first one let me know – he was 16 and had been diabetic for 12 years.
When the time does come – you will find peace – not guilt.
Please know that you are in my prayers. My 7 year old Maltese (Cookkie) Sends his love too.
Love you all
I too have a 5 yr old female maltese, and her name is Cookie!!!!
joining you in your hope and prayer.
actually, Snowy was the first person I prayed for this morning!
Snowy, I’m glad that you enjoy your watermelon chunks!woof and love!
So happy that Snowy is doing better 🙂 Thanks for posting the photos – they are a wonderful reminder of his years of faithful service as nurse/bodyguard/confidant/blog-buddy… I too love the one of he and Sarah sleeping – Snowy flaked out in that upside down/inside out way that only a pet can! When our Shadow sleeps like that, I know he is really relaxed!!!
Snowy: You have been such a great RN to Sarah all these years; now it is time for your family to do some nursing with YOU as the patient. Keep up the improvement, Big Guy!!
Thanks, Becky! I recall some of those and some seem new. Thanks. Nothing says love like Sarah in her Vomit Girl Cape and Snowy in her arms. And I love the one with Sarah on the couch (third from the top) asleep on her side and Snowy asleep on his back/side in between the crack of the cushion. TOO FUNNY! But in all the pictures he’s always standing guard over those he loves the most. Snowy is also a friendly and loving friend to all; look at he and Victoria? Priceless! What an awesome pup you have! Much love, Jodi
I am so glad to hear some news before I had to leave work. Snowy is remarkable and you are correct on all counts – his spirit and spark is still there and he will let you know when it is time to go – he is far too connected to all of you and intelligent for that not to happen.
My daughter has helped horses ease to the ground or held their heads in her lap as they were given the ultimate relief and release to Heaven. She knew her beloved Greyhound, Millie, was ready to go when she left early one morning for the barn almost 7 years ago. As Stephanie walked towards the door, Millie struggled to sit up on the end of the couch by the door and looked at her and lifted her paw and laid it in Stephanie’s hand, ever so gently. I had never seen that gesture from Milllie to Stephanie or anyone before. Stephanie and Millie shared a birthday – September 12. They both have huge brown eyes and very long legs. She couldn’t be there for the end but my other daughter and I were. Then there was our silly grey cat – Kuda – I was with him – the only way I knew he was gone was that his tail was finally still – it never stopped moving – even in his sleep – all these animals are together – waiting for us. The horses are especially cared for by our Angel on Horseback, Jessica – my daughter’s friend who lost her battle with cancer at 18 years of age. Jessica has them all and they are tacked up and groomed and racing through Heaven.
So, Becky, you will know when, Snowy will know when – he just gave you all one more gift – time with the most special little puppy I have ever known.
May God Be With you all. Prayers and thoughts for a peaceful, gentle night.
P.S. Thanks for “listening” to my animal angel stories.