Doodle Needs Heart Surgery. Any Advice?

[Jason]

My 4 month old English Mini - Goldendoodle puppy needs heart surgery (Serious PDA). The doctor said it was one of the worse ever. We initially received the dog for free because of some genetic defects in the mouth and eyes but we were unaware of the heart. I paid about $500 today for the initial exam and the surgery is about $2200. Way out of my range. Anyone know of a surgeon who could do a cheaper surgery? I am in the Chicago area but would be willing to travel. I have already contacted several universities like Madison, Purdue, TN, Auburn and Miss. Most are very expensive. Any Advice?

[LINDA & TEDDY]

Jason,

My heart breaks for you and your family. Losing a loving family pet is devastating and with young children it is even harder to watch them deal with the loss of their beloved puppy. As I remember, Lucy was born with several congenital problems. You and your family gave her the love that filled her 4 short months here on earth. She had a family of her own and was joyful and happy. She was very lucky to be in your family. Hopefully she will lead you to another healthy doodle baby and know that it was Lucy that paved the way.

Linda

[Adina P]

I'm so sorry Jason. I know you and your family will miss her greatly. She was well loved.

[Deena Womack]

Jason,

My thoughts are with you and your family through this difficult time. I am so sorry to hear the news that she didn't make it. She was very well loved.

[Janie]

My heart is aching for you all.

[Tamara & Giada]

I just read your news. So sorry you lost Lucy. I know she will remain in your hearts forever. Such a sad loss :( What a wonderful memorial you are having for her!!!

[Adrianne Matzkin]

Jason,
The show 'Dogtown' on NatGeo sent this to me at my request. The service I saw on their show was beautiful. I am sending it to you in case you might want to use it at Lucy's service. I am devastated for you and your family but you know that you did everything humanly possible for her. I share in your sorrow.

The following Prayer for a Pet’s Memorial Service was written by Suzanne C. Cole and appears in the book Animal Blessings by June Cotner and published by HarperSanFrancisco.  All placement readings at Best Friends are personalized and adapted, so each is unique.  The National Geographic show Dogtown showed a portion of the following reading adapted by Uncle Lenny for Bruno’s placement:


Prayer for a Pet’s Memorial Service

God of all creatures, ease our grief today as we bid farewell to Lucy, whose passing leaves a gap in our family circle.  She demanded so little of us – fresh water, food, a patch of sunlight for sun-bathing, our presence – and gave so much in return – uncritical, undemanding, unlimited affection and devotion for all of us.  Greeting each day, each moment, happily on its own terms, she showed us how to live in the present rather than regret the past or worry about the future.  Her easy forgiveness of our flaws, her inability to hold a grudge, gave us an example of grace.  Creator, we’re grateful for being allowed to share her life for our allotted time.  We will miss her bounding through our family life, but she will always be present in our hearts.  Amen.

The Chimes at Angels Rest

According to “Uncle Lenny,” in all the years that he has been here, he has never presided at a placement at Angels Rest without at least one chime ringing.

When he wondered why this happens, the answer came to him this way:

When an animal crosses over Rainbow Bridge, they are whole and happy and healthy again, in need of nothing.  They run around and greet their friends already there.  As they run around, their running stirs up the wind.  That wind crosses over Rainbow Bridge, finds its way into Angel Canyon and strikes a chime at Angels Rest.  It has never failed.

Even on the stillest day, with no breeze at all, at least one chime will ring, near the placement site, either during or immediately after our friend has been “tucked in.”

It’s a signal from our departed friend that they are at the Bridge, safe and sound, and letting us know that they are OK and waiting for us to join them someday.     

[Marianne *OZZY & ZOEY]

O Jason I am so sorry for you and your family, I know that words can't take away any pain but, you did all you could for Lucy and in time the pain will ease. You did give her 4 months of happiness that she would have never gotten anywhere else.

[Nancy, Ned, Clancy, and Charlie]

Jason, I am so sorry for you and your family. Please take comfort in the fact that you gave Lucy such a loving and happy life and she gave you all such joy. Your doodle kisses family is mourning with you and we send our love and support.

[Kathy (Ellie & Oliver)]

I'm at a loss for just the right words! Huge doodle hugs are being sent to you and your family!! You were excellent dog parents to your little angel!! You did everything humanely possible. That being said, it is still extremely hard. Having a funeral and planting a flower in her honor is such a wonderful tribute to your beloved puppy. Will keep you and your family in my prayers.

[Karen & Lucy]

BIG {{{{{{{{{{HUGS}}}}}}}}}}} coming your families way from us.

[Kim Williams]

Jason,
So, so sad. I want you to know I send my heart felt sympathy to you and your family. The flower is such a touching memorial to your beloved Lucy. I cried when I read that she dug the hole. I will be thinking of you on Sunday.

[Karen, Jasper and Jackdoodle]

Jason, I am so terribly sorry for your loss. I hope you can find some comfort in the knowledge that you did everything humanly possible for Lucy. She is at the Rainbow Bridge, happy, healthy, having fun, and so grateful to you for the love you gave her. Hugs to you & your family.