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. 

[Ginny Nightingale]

Just saw this--I am so sorry and I am hoping that the meds give you your cheerful dog back for as long as possible...he is so young.

[Joanne ~ Spud*]

Thinking of you, still.  Hoping all is well 

[Leslie, Yogi & Maci Bear]

Maryann, I'm just now reading this. I wanted to let you know how very sorry I am that you have to go through this, and I hope Roo has the best possible outcome.
We had a rag doll cat who had the same problems. Once she was on her meds, she seemed to be back to her normal self for a long time. It's never easy, they are our family.

[charlotte bednarsh]

Hi Maryann, Just checking in to see how you and Roo are doing?  My prayers are with you.

[Robin and Libby Louise]

Heartbreaking - fingers crossed for the best possible outcome for you and your baby.

[Julie, Eloise & Beasley]

I'm so sorry to hear this.  Sending positive thoughts and prayers that you have many more happy years with your sweet Roo. 

[Laurie, Fudge, and Vern]

Oh Maryann, I am so sorry about what is happening with Roo. I will add Roo to my prayers and pray he responds to his medicines and you have many, many more years with him. Hugs to you!

[Nicky, Riley & Boris]

Maryann this is very hard as I know too well. I had a darling Maltese, Jasper who had the same condition. He was diagnosed at 9 years and lived until he was 12. Hopefully whatever time you do have with Roo will be only the best of times.

[Camilla and Darwin]

I am so sorry Maryann. I am thinking of all of you and sending positive thoughts that he will continue to respond well to the medication. 

[DJ & Chance]

Prayers and hugs for you and Roo.