When hearts are breaking

[Maryann,Roo and Tigger]

Roo has congestive heart failure.  He is only eight years old.  His heart is breaking and so is mine. I can tell you that  Roo has an excellent vet, so good in fact that the vet cardiologist is willing to turn Roo's care over to him.  Something which she said she never does.  I could tell you that it is not connected to his Addison's.  I could tell you he had an excellent check up in July. I could tell you that this sometimes happens in labs and poodles.  

But none of that matters.  Roo is in congestive heart failure with severe atrial fibrillation.  Both heart valves are failing (leaking).  Roo has been his joyful self until about a week ago when he began to breath hard from time to time and cough until he retched.  Still eating and pooping and playing though.  So what's too worry about?  I finally gave in to "being a worrywort" and took him to the vet yesterday, after x-rays, an EKG and blood work (Addison's check), we were hustled off to a cardiologist in Tustin.  One echocardiogram and kind, thoughtful, complete explanation from a young woman (well, young to me - which puts her somewhere between 30 and 60) and Roo is on four medications which will give he and I more time, between 6 months and 2 years, to love each other.

Roo is taking this all in stride, as is Tigger.  Me, not so much.  My darling daughter went with me to the cardiologist and drove us there and back.  My husband is a rock.  My heart is still breaking, splintering and gluing itself back together for an hour or so and then crumbling again.

Thank you to Adina for starting DK a community where I can truly pour out my feelings without being judged.  I know you will truly understand my grief and take a little bit of it unto yourself.  It will help.  I thank you all so much. 

[Sherri, Sophie, Winston, & Kitty]

Hi Maryann, I'm so sorry to hear about Roo. Hope he's doing a bit better. I wish out doodles could stay healthy and strong with us forever. Take Care.

[charlotte bednarsh]

Hi Maryann, just checking in to see how things are going.  We are all thinking of you and hoping things are going well.  You are in our prayers.

[Laurie, Wally & Charlotte]

Maryann, I just learned about Roo's cardiac condition on the main discussion forum - I guess I missed it earlier. Anyway . . . I am so sorry that you are faced with such a difficult diagnosis, but it sounds like Roo is getting the best care possible. Please know that your friends here are thinking about you both and sending wishes of support and caring.

[Andrea, Belle and Honey]

Hi Maryann, Hope Roo is doing well on the meds.  If he is on Enalopril (Vasotec), Salix (Furosemide) and/or Vetmedin (Pimobendan), I have unopened bottles of all three which I would be happy to give you.  If you want them, just send me a friend request so you can give me your address cccccccmmmmmmmmmm,,,,,////`/ccxxx Oops - that's a message from Belle who loves to type with her chin I think it means Roo, I'm sorry you're sick take your meds and be well.

[charlotte bednarsh]

Hi Maryann, just checking in to see how you and your beloved Roo are doing.  Hoping all is going well.  

[Colleen, Jake & Baxter]

Just saw this and will be praying for Roo.  I know he is a beloved member of your family and He knows it too! May the meds keep him comfortable for a long time.

[Deeann Roesser]

So sorry to hear about Roo. You are both in my thoughts and prayers.

[Ricki and Tara (doodle)]

Thinking of you and Roo today. Hope you're having a good one.

[Linda, Charlie Brown and Beau]

Hi Maryann - I was just wondering how Roo is doing and hoping the meds are helping.  Positive thoughts and many prayers coming your way.

[charlotte bednarsh]

Hi, Just checking in to see how you are doing.  You are always in my thoughts and prayers.