Rusty's Birthday Party & 18 Month Checkup

[Chuck Holliman]

We celebrated Rusty's 3rd birthday last Friday the 5th; Dr. Macy was not in town on Rusty's actual date, July 30th, and he wanted to attend the party.  Dr. Huber and Dr. Yee were also attended the party; Dr. Huber performed Rusty's amputation. Several of Rusty's dog owner parents also helped him celebrate his special day.  Jan decorated the dining tables in a doggy theme and made cupcakes with dog picks & liners.  We ordered a new bandanna for his party and he received several toys and gifts from his supporters.

Rusty had his 18 month follow-up with Dr. Macy on the 4th; his 18 month amputation anniversary was July 25th.  Dr. Macy took X-Rays of his chest, abdomen and pelvis and they were all clear of any Mets!!; Dr. Huber did an rectal exam and everything seemed normal!  His blood work was normal except for the liver functions; he is continuing to have elevated levels, up again since three months ago.  Dr. Macy said that he is getting concerned about the continued rise in enzymes and performed some additional tests to see if any cancer was present; the tests were negative for cancer. 

The liver issues started when Rusty consumed some meds when a friend left her open purse on the floor at Christmas; she claims that he only ate some ant-acids.  However, she had several meds in her purse including heart pills; we will never know if that was the cause of his problems.  Dr. Macy started  him on milk thistle, which is not agreeing with his stomach; Dr. Macy said to stop the milk thistle until Monday and try it again to see if he can tolerate it.  He really needs it for his liver.

Dr.'s Macy & Huber were very pleased with Rusty's 18th month checkup; Dr. Huber has been optimistic that Rusty would make 18 months or longer, but Dr. Macy was not as confident because of the very aggressive form of cancer that Rusty has.  Rusty continues to make new friends and they are amazed when they hear his story; as I have said we don't know how long Rusty will be with us but are very grateful that he continues to do so well.  Were are not making any plans for his 4th birthday but we are keeping the decorations just in case the miracle continues.  He continues to enjoy his swimming, socializing at the lake and riding around in his golf cart.

 

Chuck & Rusty

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[Kyoko]

Happy Birthday! Rusty!! It is to good to hear the great news!!!

[Barbie]

Happy Birthday, Rusty! It really touched my heart to hear his update and progress. My dog, Hercules, is fighting the same battle right now and I would really love to read Rusty's story on the amputation, but cannot seem to find it. Would someone please link me up? :-)

[Jennifer,Chloe & Myla]

Happy Birthday Rusty! Glad you had an incredible celebration. Sending doodle hugs for good health and many more birthdays.

[Lucy & AnnaBelle's Mom]

Every time I see a new post on Rusty I always take a deep breath before I start reading, then a big relief when I hear he continues to do well.  Happy birthday little fellow.  I hope you continue to live each day to the fullest with all those people who love you so much.

[Ricki and Tara (doodle)]

Happy Birthday Rusty and many, many more! Keep up the good work everyone!

[Allyson, Peri & Taquito]

Happy birthday. Thank you for the update.  You do so much for sweet doodle Rusty!  He must be quite amazing :)

[Rose]

Happy Birthday, Rusty! Glad to hear you're doing so well! :-)

[Laurie, Fudge, and Vern]

Happy Birthday, Rusty and sounds like you had an encouraging follow-up. I hope you have to bring those decorations out year after year for many more to come.

[Clifford, Cloud, Jake..and Kim]

Great news!  Rusty is never far from my mind when I'm on DK and I love the happy updates.  I'm glad you're keeping the decorations - I really hope you use them repeatedly for Rusty.

[Nicky, Riley & Boris]

Wishing Rusty an especially Happy Birthday.  May you have a happy and healthy long life.