Heartbroken loss

[Bren & Reagan]

Hi everyone,

Three weeks ago my sweet Bindi succumbed to masticatory muscle myositis, an autoimmune disease that affects the head muscles.  It is such a rare disease that my vet did not catch it in time.  I had never heard of it.  Bindi was a 5 year old labradoodle who filled my life with unconditional love and loyalty everyday.  She was a blessing that came into my life for such a brief period of time.  I originally took Bindi to her vet before Christmas with what was diagnosed as an eye infection.  We returned to the vet in late January for another "eye infection" and was prescribed the same eye medication.  Each time it cleared up the infection, however it came back again.  In Feb when it returned I took Bindi to an eye specialist and was given several meds to clear it up, however at this point her right eyeball was starting to drop in the socket.  It was suggested that I see an internist as she was also not able to open her mouth more then an inch.  The internist diagnosed her with MMM.  She was treated with steroids and to continue the eye meds.  In April the eye had started to drop even more and I brought her to a different eye specialist who said that she had gone blind in the right eye and was partially blind in the left eye. Unfortunately Bindi could not receive surgery to remove her eye because they could not put the necessary tube through her mouth.  (Her mouth could not be forced open.)  This is one of the most horrible diseases for a dog to get.  She had little muscle in her head towards the end and could not open her mouth more then 1/2 inch.  I took her to one more new vet to assure everything I could possible do was done for my precious dog.  My hope is that by explaining this it may help someone else's dog in the early stages.  The internist said that this was the first time he had seen a dogs eyes affected the way Bindi's were.  Usually it is the mouth and muscle loss in the top of the head.  He said that it can affect any dog, but very rare.  My sweet Bindi definitely took a part of my heart with her.  Bren

[Mari Bezanson]

That is such a sad sorry.  I am so sorry for your loss, please accept my condolences .

[Danni & Jedi]

Wow, I am so sorry to read this. Rest in Peace over the rainbow bridge, Bindi. Bren, I am sorry for your loss and thanks for the message about MMM. 

[Cheryl and Finnegan]

This is heartbreaking.  I am so so sorry. But thank you for sharing what has to have been a very painful story. Sending hugs and prayers and a few tears your way. Rest in peace sweet Bindi.    

[Katie & Roo]

I'm so sorry for your loss. I can't even imagine. Prayers for you, your family, and Bindi <3

[Laurie, Wally & Charlotte]

Dear Bren, I don't know what to say. I, too, lost a precious doodle when he was much too young. It's devastating - plain and simple. I felt like my heart was ripped out, so it is with empathy and sadness that I am responding to your post about the loss of your beautiful girl. Getting Wally, eight months after losing our sweet Simon, was the best medicine for mending our broken hearts. The intensity of your pain will ease over time, and you will know when it's time to bring another pal into your life. How thoughtful and selfless of you to be thinking about your DK friends at such an awful time. Warmly, Laurie

[Dana Larason]

This breaks my heart to hear of Bindi's passing from this rare but horrible disease.  I'm so sorry for your loss.   My Duke is being treated for masticatory myositis and it has been difficult to see him go from an active puppy to a sedate, often lethargic boy.  In December 2013 I noticed Duke wouldn't open his mouth and lacked interest in chasing his favorite toys.  My boy didn't have eye issues so much.   The prednisone dose was high at first but has tapered over the past 5+ months.  He was born 9/11/12 and is young according to the information I have read regarding this disease.  My heart goes out to you and your family.

[Minda and Callie]

So sorry for you loss.  My heart aches for you  :(

[Robin and Libby Louise]

I didn't read about Bindi until today, when you posted about the Craigs List doodle.  I am so sad for you - thank you for sharing your story so that others might be spared.  I think it's great that you were willing to open your heart for a doodle in need so quickly - it's a good sign, and Bindi will send you the right pup when the time is right!

[Allyson, Peri & Taquito]

Bren, I was out of town and missed this post when you originally posted it. Thinking of you - I know you miss your sweet Bindi greatly. 

[Miss Ellie]

Bren...I am so very sorry...I missed this post and am just seeing it now...my heart is just broken upon reading this...I am so very, very sorry...losing a beloved pet is one of the hardest parts of life...we lost our golden retriever last year and still to this day my heart aches...you are most correct...they take a part of our hearts with them...hopefully someday you will be ready to get another dog...they will never replace sweet Bindi...but they will fill the huge hole in your heart and help you to make new memories.  I am sending big hugs your way...XO

[Nancy, Ned, Clancy, and Charlie]

I have been gone and missed this post earlier.  I am so sorry for your loss.  Sending hugs to your family.