Hard to believe, but it has been one year since Ray relinquished his right front leg to a nerve sheath tumor.
I have said it many times, but we feel so fortunate that Ray was cured of his illness because of the amputation. When the option of removing the leg was initially presented to us as the best answer, we immediately balked, believing there had to be a better, alternative solution. Well, there wasn’t. Life isn’t always tidy, and now we know it was the only option for him. And he has done so remarkably well. The happy spirit of a Golden cannot be denied!
Over this past year, I have read many – too many – stories of other beloved dogs who could not beat their sickness, even after surgery, chemo, etc. If any creature deserves to live forever without pain or sickness, it is a dog. Sadly, the actuality is that their time with us is painfully short. They are like shooting stars, burning so brilliantly while they’re here, then fading far too quickly. Everyone who is a caring pet parent feels the light and love of a beloved dog long after their earthly light has diminished, however. The memories are all we have, and they are all as unique as each dog that has nuzzled its way into our heart.
I dread the day Ray leaves us. Yesterday morning, he refused to eat his breakfast, and I was terrified. (Ray eating is scary in itself. Ray not eating is something to be terrified of, believe me.) I eventually got him to eat a bit of chicken and rice, which he threw up an hour later while looking terribly ashamed, bless his heart. Diarrhea and lethargy ensued. A visit to the vet resulted in a bowel-slowing injection plus antibiotics and probiotics. Today he is his normal, ravenous, drooly, snuffling, three-legged self. Blood test results are pending, but I couldn’t be happier.
One year?! Wow, Happy Ampuversary Ray!! You look very content in your photo! Not sure why you wouldn’t eat, though. Hopefully just a bit of an upset tummy. It’s great to hear you’re doing well, otherwise! Hope you get to scarfing down your meals again real soon! We’ll send positive thoughts your way!
Happy one year Ray!! Way to show everyone how it’s done! Keep it up!
Luanne and Shooter
Ray my man, you are one handsome pup! You look so comfy sleeping there on the floor. Makes me want tto come over and snuggle up next to you!
CO GRATULATIONS on your one year ampuversary Now that yiur tummyis all settled, maybe you’ll get a steak tonight s as a congratulatory “treat”!
Love the great update Ray. Your mom writes a very nice blog! When you’re that handsome we need more photos though!
Good job Ray!
Sally and Happy Hannah
Wow! Seriously, one year already? Ray, you are simply amazing, congratulations.
We are deeply appreciative of all the time you and your people take to share your life with the community. For it’s stories like yours that give people hope when their own dogs are in the early stages of this nasty disease. Thank you!
Hoppy ampuversary!!!
Happy Ampuversary Ray! You look so cute just cuddled up catching up on sleep. I hope you had a special day!