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. 

[Stella]

So sorry to see your sad news about Roo. Hopefully the medications are effective and you have lots of time left together. Cherish every moment. Hugs.

[Joanne ~ Spud*]

Maryann,

I am so sad to hear this news.  Crushed for you and our very own DK Roo.  

Know, we had similar incidents with these exact symptoms a few months ago and Spud is now being watched.  Please know we are thinking of you and our hearts hurt right along with you. Love you, Roo

[Kaitlin and Ludo]

Maryanne, my heart is breaking for you and Roo.  I am so sorry to hear this and I am hoping that the medicine gives you years. I'll keep you in my thoughts.

[Leslie and Halas]

I was so sad to hear your news about Roo. I hope your time left with him is more than the 2 years. It sounds like he's getting excellent care, and I know you'll make the most of whatever time you have left.

[cheryl & oliver]

I am so sorry to hear the news about Roo...Like others have said, just love him every minute of every day, and make his life and your life the best it can be for both of you...I guess most of us have been thru things like this with our beloved animals, but it just hurts so much when these things happen.  I know that you know that everyone here is here for you, and we always will be...Here on Doddlekisses we are not just a site for info, we are a family that will be here in times of need, in times of joy, whenever one of us needs to talk, to cry, or whatever, we are here...Hugs, and good prayers are being sad for you & Roo....

[charlotte bednarsh]

I am so sorry to hear this.  I totally understand how you feel.  My beloved doodle Paz was diagnosed last week with lymphoma; he started chemotherapy last week, and is receiving treatment from a renowned oncologist.  He seems to be responding to the chemo, but needless to say, the road ahead is unpredictable.  I totally understand the emotions you are experiencing and will pray for your wonderful Roo.  My heart is breaking with you, and please know you are not alone.  I value the support of my DK extended family, who have and continue to be amazing throughout this difficult time; I too, pour my feelings out to them, because I know they understand and truly care.  

[Linda, Charlie Brown and Beau]

Maryann ~ this is heart-wrenching news.  I hope and pray the meds will help Roo feel better and that you are able to take each day as it comes and enjoy every minute.  Sometimes just living in the moment can be peaceful.  Whatever comes your way, know you will have our support - that is one of the things I love about this site and doodle lovers - they just get it when we spill out our feelings and it is comforting. Hang in there.

[Deanna & Desi & Cori]

Maryann - I am so sorry to hear this.  I don't know you and Roo, but I do know what it's like to love a doodle!!  Doodle love is immense, so heartbreak is also immense.  Just last week, we lost Sedona - only six and wonderfully healthy until two days before she died.  Our pain was intense, but eased a great deal by the love and support of some incredible DK friends.  Here's hoping that you have Roo for a couple more years and when the time comes, know that we doodle lovers are with you 100%  

[BG and Gavin]

Maryann I am very sad for your news. I hope and pray that the medications brings the two of you more than the predicted time of quality life. Hugs.

[Charlotte and Bo]

I'm so sorry to hear this news.  I hope you and Roo can enjoy your time together for the maximum time the meds can provide.  This is always something we have to face as animal lovers, but it never gets any easier.