Rusty celebrated his two year ampuversary!

[Chuck Holliman]

January 25th was Rusty’s 2nd anniversary of his amputation! Every day that we have with him is a blessing. Two years ago we had almost no hope that he would still be with us; that he is, is a testament to the fight that he has put up against this terrible disease, two outstanding Dr.’s and the love and support from dozens of his supporters. He thrives on the love of his human friends as much as seeing his doggie friends. He has maintained a great attitude throughout his ordeal; even on the days when he is sick he doesn’t complain and seems apologetic that we have to clean up after him. It has been challenging at times for us, we are both in our 70’s, but extremely rewarding seeing how he deals with his cancer, amputation and all of the related issues; we have learned a lot about life from him which we will be forever grateful.

The past two months have been relatively quiet medically for Rusty; we saw Dr. Macy on the 5th and he was pleased with the improvements in Rusty’s liver and kidney functions. Between the medications and four meals a day, all of his test results were in normal ranges, with the exception of the liver ATL which has been elevated since his chemo treatments. He also gained almost two pounds. Dr. Macy has been checking with his colleagues around the country regarding the treatment of “Fanconi Syndrome”. So far he has not found anyone who has treated this condition; he is still optimistic that with treatment this will not have a long term impact on Rusty’s liver and kidneys.

Dr. Macy had us up the dosage of the potassium citrate which immediately put Rusty into intestinal distress with vomiting and diarrhea; Dr. Macy said I guess we have pushed the limits of what his stomach can handle. After “resetting” his stomach and resuming the regular dosage of meds Rusty has been doing very well and his weight is holding steady.

We had several parties over the holidays and a lot of company the past couple of months which Rusty has enjoyed immensely. However, he tires more quickly and has to grab an occasional nap to keep going. With the winter migration of water fowl, we have had more ducks and Mudhens in our lakes and green belts than normal. Rusty enjoys chasing the Mudhens back into the water; they are so messy on resident’s patios, furniture & pools and they are also very aggressive to the “local” ducks.

Chuck & Rusty

[Jane, Guinness and Murphy]

Thanks for the update....I think of Rusty often.  This is great news!

[Laurie, Fudge, and Vern]

I love to hear about Rusty. He is an inspiration to all of us, as are you! I will continue to keep him in my thoughts and prayers. Keep chasing those Mudhens, Rusty!!!

[Nicky, Riley & Boris]

Always great to hear how Rusty is doing and from what you say there are lots of challenges but the fact that he is still here and is living a happy life is wonderful news.  A testament to his wonderful parents and some great Vets.

[Lucy & AnnaBelle's Mom]

Always love to see you updates on Rusty as I think of him often and what wonderful doodle parents you have been to him.  He is an amazing little guy and is so lucky to have had you and his amazing doctors taking such wonderful care of him these last two years. 

[Jennifer,Chloe & Myla]

Good to hear Rusty is doing better. He is such a trooper! You are blessed and Rusty as well.

[F, Calla & Luca]

I am glad that Rusty is relatively stable and I continue to root for you all. Did you mean liver ALT?