Huskies Domain

Happy Easter

2009-04-12T20:08:00.003-05:00

It's that time of year again....and this isn't even a fraction of what came out or is left to come out!!

Hope everyone had a Happy Easter!

Flat Broke!

2009-04-05T01:09:00.002-05:00

We took both pets in Friday for their shots and yearly stuff.
Breakdown:

Bailey -
Fecal - $20.00
Heartworm Panel $49.00
Geriatric Screening - 72.00
Drop off fee - $8.40
(which we weren't suppose to get charged for because the vet was not there)
Soft Food - $24.36
Hard Food - $82.22 (Holy Crap...I need to check that out)
Heartworm tablets $76.00
Frontline - $89.18
Expressed Anal Glands $22.00

Total for Bailey $443.16

* * * * *
Simba -
6 Glucose readings at $19.00 each (and we even take our own insulin and syringes)
Hospitalization - $31.50
Frontline - $76.23
THEN they didn't even give him is vaccinations and were ready to send him home
Rabies - $25.00
Feline Virus - $24.00
Total for Simba - $271.00

My checkbook is on "E" and I am sobbing because this all came due at once!
However...Baileys levels that have been so high went down about 400 points and as long as her liver levels stay in the normal range...that is good! :o) Some good news out of the whole situation.

Finding the Right One

2009-02-22T12:30:00.003-06:00

My humans have been busy looking for a new siberian husky member for our family for a long time. We have talked to many people, but we just can't find the right one. My humans have been getting tired of hearing some of the same reasons these dogs seem to need a new home. We are not a rescue....but when I saw this today....I just had to post it. *Author Unknown*

Pet Rescuers Voicemail

Hello, You have reached 123-4567, Tender Hearts
Rescue. Due to the high volume of calls we have been receiving, please listen closely to the following options and choose the one that best describes you or your situation:

Press 1 if you think we are veterinarians and want free medical advice.

Press 2 if you know we are a rescue organization but want to save money and have us give you free, untrained medical advice anyway.

Press 3 if you make $200,000 a year but still want us to pay to spay the "stray" in your yard (house).

Press 4 if you have a 10-year-old dog and your 15-year-old son has suddenly become allergic and you need to find the dog a new home right away.

Press 5 if you have three dogs, had a baby and want to get rid of your dogs because you are the only person in the world to have a baby and dogs at the same time.

Press 6 if your dog is sick and needs a vet but you need the money for your vacation.

Press 7 if you just got a brand new puppy and your old dog is having problems adjusting so you want to get rid of the old one right away.

Press 8 if your little puppy has grown up and is no longer small and cute and you want to trade it in for a new model.

Press 9 if you are elderly and want to adopt a cute puppy who is not active and is going to outlive you.

Press 10 if your relative has died and you don't want to care for their elderly dog because it doesn't fit your lifestyle.

Press 11 if you are moving today and need to immediately place your 150 pound, 8-year-old, unneutured, aggressive dog.

Press 12 if you want an unpaid volunteer to come to your home today and pick up the dog you no longer want.

Press 13 if you have been feeding and caring for a "stray" for the last three years, are moving and suddenly determine it's not your dog.

Press 14 if you are calling at 6 a.m. to make sure you wake me up before I have to go to work so you can drop a dog off on your way to work.

Press 15 to leave us an anonymous garbled message, letting us know you have left a dog in our yard in the middle of January, which is in fact, better than just leaving the dog with no message.

Press 16 if you are going to get angry because we are not going to take your dog that you have had for fifteen years, because it is not our responsibility.

Press 17 if you are going to threaten to take your ten year old dog to be euthanized because we can't get to your house in the next hour.

Press 18 if you're going to get angry because the volunteers had the audacity to go on vacation and leave the dogs in care of a trusted volunteer who is not authorized to take your personal pet.

Press 19 if you want one of our perfectly trained, housebroken, kid and cat friendly purebred tiny dogs that we have an abundance of.

Press 20 if you want us to take your dog that has a slight aggression problem, i.e. has only bitten a few people and killed your neighbor's cats.

Press 21 if you have already called once and been told we don't take personal surrenders but thought you would get a different person this time with a different answer.

Press 22 if you want us to use space that would go to a stray to board your personal dog while you are on vacation, free of charge, of course.

Press 23 if it is Christmas Eve or Easter morning and you want me to deliver an eight week old puppy to your house by 6:30 am before your kids wake up.

Press 24 if you have bought your children a duckling, chick or baby bunny for Easter and it is now Christmas and no longer cute.

Press 25 if you want us to take your female dog who has already had ten litters, but we can't spay her because she is pregnant again and it is against your religion.

Press 26 if you're lying to make one of our younger volunteers feel bad and take your personal pet off your hands.

Press 27 if your cat is biting and not using the litter box because it is declawed, but are not willing to accept the responsibility that the cat's behavior is altered because of your nice furniture.

Press 28 if your two year old male dog is marking all over your house but you just haven't gotten around to having him neutered.

Press 29 if you previously had an outdoor only dog and are calling because she is suddenly pregnant.

Press 30 if you have done "everything" to housebreak your dog and have had no success but you don't want to crate the dog because it is cruel.

Press 31 if you didn't listen to the message asking for an evening phone number and you left your work number when all volunteers are also working and you are angry because no one called you back.

Press 32 if you need a puppy immediately and cannot wait because today is your daughter's birthday and you forgot when she was born.

Press 33 if your dog's coat doesn't match your new furniture and you need a different color or breed.

Press 34 if your new love doesn't like your dog and you are too stupid to get rid of the new friend (who will dump you in the next month anyway) instead of the dog.

Press 35 if you went through all these 'presses' and didn't hear enough. This press will connect you to the sounds of tears being shed by one of our volunteers who is holding a discarded old dog/pig/cat while the
vet mercifully frees him from of the grief of missing his family.

WE SALUTE YOU RESCUERS, VOLUNTEERS and SUPPORTERS!!!

Birthday Week

2009-02-07T18:32:00.004-06:00

Monday was my birthday. I turned 13 years old. In human years...that makes me a teenager. In dog years...well, I am no spring chicken.

I got LOTS of treats!!! In case you didn't know...my nickname is 'Treat Monster'. My huMom was going to make me a doggie cake but she got home late, so I just pigged out on treats insted. Worked for ME! The one thing I didn't like was her taking all those pictures of me. I just don't like that black things she holds in front of her face with that BRIGHT light. So...I just hung out around dad and she finally left me alone.

Just wanted to say Thanks to all those that left Happy Birthday wishes in my huMom's mailbox. You all are the best!

Bailey

Happy New Year!

2009-01-04T18:46:00.003-06:00

I just wanted to jump on here and wish you all a Happy New Year. May this year be the best year of your life.

(No..I refused to look at the camera! Especially after my huMom put some silly antlers on me at Christmas time.)

Did someone say SNOW?

2008-12-29T19:00:00.005-06:00

We have been hit hard here in Wisconsin...but us huskies sure don't mind it one bit. Being a petite husky....I sure had a hard time getting around. My legs sure don't spring like they used to.

They are calling for more this week. My dad isn't happy but I can't wait! Hope you all have a safe and Happy New Year!

Rocco the Robber????

2008-12-27T10:59:00.004-06:00

Hope everyone had a Merry Christmas.

Friday my humom had to work. She had the tv on and always tries to sneak a peek at it while making herself beautiful. Of course, her attention was grabbed when she heard the word 'dog' mentioned and she ran into the room. She actually scared me awake! We proceeded to watch this video and what transpired of a HUKSY robbing a store!

WAIT!!!! That looked like my Cousin Rocco! Do they have a crime stopper number that I can call? I wonder what the reward is???? Maybe a rawhide bone a day for a year? Wow....that would be a huge reward, if you ask me. I can't pick up the phone and call myself...and my humom won't because she says she knows it isn't Rocco....but I feel it in my bones it's him! He's such a sneeky husky that I woundn't put it past him to do something like that.

I am off to investigate this some more. Going to try and find a mug shot of Rocco and compare the two. Some investigation work...then maybe someone will believe me.

Holiday Hazards

2008-12-11T11:32:00.003-06:00

My humom would like me to post some information she thinks would be benificial to all us doggies (and kitties too)!

All humans should pay attention to what is feed to your dog. An occasional treat for him is okay, but significant departures from your dog;s usual diet can easily trigger indigestion. Avoid feeding anything spicy or fatty food. Poutlry bones should be completely avoided as they can easily splinter and break apart and lead to serious problems. While some beef bones can be safe enough for your dog to enjoy, try to be around to supervise. Also, do NOT give your dog chocolate, no matter how much he begs!!!

Make sure to chose dog friendly decoration materials and put them out of reach. Remember that holly and mistletoe are toxic to dogs. Poinsettias, though not as toxic as once thought, can still give your dog's mouth and stomach plenty of trouble. Make sure your Christmas tree is solidly upright and won't tumble down if your dog or kitty tries to climb it. In extreme cases, you may want to attach the tree to the ceiling or a nearby wall. Also make sure you dog cannot drink from the stand. Always make sure to disconnect the tree lights if your dog will be in the room without supervision.

Hope you all have a good Howlidays!

Yummy Recipe

2008-11-15T19:55:00.000-06:00

I haven't posted in awhile...so I thought I would share one of my favorite recipes!

Cheesy Dog Biscuits

1 1/2 cups whole wheat flour
1 1/4 cups grated cheddar cheese
1/4 pound margarine -- corn oil
1 clove garlic -- crushed
1 pinch salt
1/4 cup Milk -- or as needed

Grate the cheese into a bowl and let stand until it reaches room temperature. Cream the cheese with the softened margarine, garlic, salt and flour. Add enough milk to form into a ball. Chill for 1/2 hour. Roll onto floured board. Cut into shapes and bake at 375 degrees for 15 minutes or until slightly brown, and firm. Makes 2 to 3 dozen, depending on size. Yield: "24 biscuits"

Hope you enjoy them as much as I do! I didn't get my nickname "The Treat Monster" for nothing.

Bailey

Help Find Coda

2008-11-14T20:30:00.008-06:00

http://www.codaismissing.com/

Our Siberian Husky Ticoda, "Coda", has been missing since 4/29/08 from Higganum/Durham, CT.Under unfortunate circumstances, he escaped out of the yard with our younger female husky "Foxy". They are escape artists and ran away on several occasions.However, they have ALWAYS made it back home together, they NEVER separated. On this day, something went terribly wrong. Foxy made it back home, but Coda did not. This was very odd.We've spent allot of money in newspaper ads, pet detectives, pet search sites, online ads, fliers, gas, pet psychics..We have had him on our high school public t.v. station HK-TV, WFSB Channel 3 with Scot Haney and Liz Bennett's "Bandits Place". We have sent fliers to animal control offices across the State, animal rescues, animal hospitals.... We have done EVERYTHING that we could think of and are still coming up with new ways to reach out to the world to help us find Coda or get any information on his disappearance.We did have 2 people threaten to shoot our "kids" previous to this day and had a call from a breeder down the street from us stating that our neighbor has shot 3 of her dogs, killing one. We had the State Police question 2 of the people and they denied any wrong doing. But..who would admit to such a horrible crime? Our female Siberian, Foxy, has gone through separation anxiety, depression and an overall change in behavior since Coda went missing. She misses him dearly...when we go for rides in the car, she hangs her head out of the window and I know..she is looking for him.As for myself, there is not one minute that goes by that I do not wonder if he is dead, alive, safe, in danger...it's the most heart wrenching feeling in the world. Every night I go to bed asking why he isn't lying next to me. My house has a empty feeling. I'm lost and miserable without him. We need this nightmare to end. We need closure. We need to get Coda home.

Please help Coda's family in finding him.
Bailey

Where does the time go?

2008-10-19T11:59:00.004-05:00

Here we are....the middle of October already. Where did FALL go? We went out driving around last weekend...my huMom was looking for something called 'colors'. It's a good thing we did...because she made us do that again yesterday and everything was completely changed.

My huMom is so depressed that she missed all these 'colors' because of her job keeping her indoors all day....and she is complaining about what is now behind this season. Shesh...I can't wait.....SNOW!!!!!!!!!

Then...there is my huMom's niece who is here this weekend keeping me company. The thing is...she isn't doing such a good job at it. She is building a CATHOUSE with my dad. What the heck is that all about?

Gosh..I sure hope my head can fit in that hole. :o) Oh...I guess it isn't staying here anyhow. She babysits for a little girl who has a cat that lives outside because their other cat does not get along with it. So..they are building it something to keep warm this winter. That kitty needs a warm husky coat if you ask me!

And for those who asked....I am doing good. I will be going back next month for some more labs. I promise I will make sure my huMom keeps you updated on if they find anything.

Hope all you doggies are out enjoying the wonderful weather this weekend!

Curse of their Beauty

2008-08-26T21:14:00.002-05:00

I work at a medical clinic and have pictures of my pets on my desk. I get so many comments on our huskies. Most of those comments are of how beautiful they are and how they want to get one. I alway try to throw in a comment about how energetic they are and how much time they require as they get easily bored. Today...I had one lady said she used to own one. She also went on to say how the guy who they got her from had given her coke. I immediately felt so ill for that dog. But then I got to thinking after she was explaining how hyper the dog was (well, yeah...huskies are high energy)that maybe she just didn't know the breed at all.

It sure makes me want to take my photos down. I just don't want to be the cause of someone going out and buying one because they saw a pretty husky picture on someones desk.

Holy Cow

2008-08-13T20:59:00.002-05:00

I guess I should be yelling at my humom for not updating my blog. I have been doing fine and want to thank you all for the doggie well wishes! They must be working.

My humom still is upset because they can't seem to find out what is going on with me. So, she is now looking to all of YOU for some guidance. If any of you have any ideas what or who my humom can contact, please let us know.

Other then that, I have been enjoying my summer helping planting flowers, chasing squirrels and butterflies, terrorizing the cat and spending lazy evenings laying in the grass with my dad.

Hope everyone else is having a great summer.
Bay

Complex....

2008-06-30T21:43:00.003-05:00

Update on Bailey:

Last week, we got a call from our vet telling us that the biopsy sample that was taken showed no signs of cancer. That was good news to hear...but we still didn't have any answers on why her bloodwork was so 'off the charts'. Our vet recommended doing another Ultrasound and Hisopathology 1-2 Specimens (a deeper tissue sample), we just don't know what to do here. Makes me a little mad to see them charging another $200 for an ultrasound we just went through when they could have taken more samples at that time. I don't know...maybe they can't. Anyone know?

I think she is taking after her HuMom as the doctors and dentists always say Mom is a 'puzzle'. She seems to be feeling more spunky these days, but we still would like everyone to keep sending good doggie vibes her way!

Hope everyone has a Happy and Safe 4th of July!

Ultra sound Results

2008-06-21T23:43:00.003-05:00

Bailey had her ultra sound last week and there were no tumors. A needle biopsy was taken on her liver as our vet said it is a 'different texture". The results need to be sent off to Marshfield here in WI and we will know sometime this coming week what is going on. We are keeping our fingers crossed that it is nothing serious.

Bailey had to have her tummy shaved for the ultra sound. Poor girl, as she got a bad bruise off of them shaving her. I noticed today that she has gotten a little pink coloring to her skin. We have been trying to keep her out of the sun, but it is kind of hard when we have her out with us and it does hit that area on both sidees.

Does anyone have any ideas for anything that can be put on her? I'm afraid to use anything as she must be licking and scratching that area as well.

Quick Update

2008-06-18T08:20:00.006-05:00

I am sorry I have not updated everyone on Bailey. We have had major flooding here in WI and our phone lines were down for about a week as well. Bailey went in this morning to have her ultrasound done and a biopsy on her liver. We are crossing our fingers on this all.

The Glyco-flex has kicked in for her and she is acting like a puppy again. Springing around and running around. She still is stiff when she gets up from laying down because of her spine, but we are so happy to see that she doesn't want to stop running around.

I promise I will update everyone as soon as we get any information from the vet. Please continue to keep Bay in your thoughts and prayers!

Bailey's HuMom - Lisa

Prayers for Bailey

2008-06-01T11:38:00.004-05:00

Please keep Bailey in your thoughs and prayers. She has not been well.

Last month, we took her in for her senior wellness exam. They did a CBC and all looked well...except for her Alk.Ptase. The average range is suppose to be somewhere between 13-289....Bailey's was 1,227. Our vet put her on a medication for a month to see if she would do better.

Thursday was Bailey's one month checkup with her medication. Her blood count was taken again and is now at 1,334. Radiographs were taken and her liver looked fine from one view...but from a top view, there was some area that wasn't shaped right. Bailey also showed signs of extreme athritis. We knew she had some because of her two acl surgeries...but we also have begun to notice she was humping up a bit after laying down for awhile. Three of her vertibraes are inverted on her spine now. Our vet explained that they do that to protect itself. Poor girl...we are just so upset for her.

Blood work has been sent off to Marshfield and will be back on Monday or Tuesday and will tell us what might be going on with her. I am trying to think possitive, but we just went through this same senerio in January with Nala, and we lost her. I cannot imagine anything happening to our Bailey as she is the world to us.

Please keep her in your thoughts and send lots of good husky vibes her way.

Lisa

Kita is still missing

2008-04-27T16:29:00.003-05:00

Kita, a siberian husky that my humans were going to have come live with me is still missing. Below is a post from her human.

Hi, can you please help me? My dog Kita ran away on 3/27/08 when she was in the backyard on the leash and her collar broke. She has no tags, but she is microchipped. She is about 5 years old, I rescued her from a humane society 4 years ago and I really miss her. She is very friendly with people, but not so much with other dogs or cats. She loves to run so she could be anywhere by now, I just hope that she's ok. If you have her please contact me ASAP, my son asks where his doggie is everyday! Can call Amy @ 608-798-4996 with any info.

Kita has bery distintive markings, so she should be easy to identify if seen. She lives in Cross Plains, WI...which is in Dane County, just outside of Madison. If you have seen Kita anywhere, please contact her owner, Amy.

Husky Hair...Everywhere!

2008-04-26T22:04:00.003-05:00

What beautiful days we had last weekend. It was in the 70's and perfect. Well, that is for everyone but me. My humans decided it was a good day to give me a bath. I love water, but I just hate baths.

Before giving me my bath, my humans decided that I needed some serious brushing. Well, Yeah, I am a husky and I DO shed. There was hair everywhere...and I mean EVERYWHERE! My humans both had on dark pants, but by the time they were done....they were completely coordinating with my attire. :) My huMom just had to get that darn camera out again and take a photo of hair laying on the ground. I mean, seriously, who wants to look at a pile of hair??? The only thing I can see appreciating a pile of my hair sitting around are the birdies that just got free nesting materials from ME!

I Have Returned

2008-03-30T21:18:00.004-05:00

WOW...I cannot believe how long it has been since I posted in my blog. A lot has been happening with my humans, so they don't let me on here as much as they should.

My mom got a new job in early November...so she has been really stressed. She worked at her old job for 23 years and when she went back after her hand surgery, was promised her hours back and didn't get them after a year...it was time for a change. She really has to adjust (and so do I!) with her new hours...which means less time for her and I to spend together in the afternoons. I really miss the time that my mom and I used to have every afternoon. Now she doesn't get home until after5 pm.

My dad hasn't been feeling well and my mom is really worried about him. He has a lump in his throat that the doctor told them was something called a goiter. He was on medication to see if it helped but it didn't so now he has to go in and have biopsy. They have been waiting a long time to get in....and he finally goes this Tuesday to get that done. I sure hope my dad is okay...because he is my BEST friend. I love my dad, but I am a daddy's girl and he is really special to me.

Then, at the end of January, we had to say goodbye to my kitty sister, Nala. She started eating the artifical Christmas tree in December and they notice her getting sick a lot with the artifical branch stuff in it. So they took her to the vet, but there was no blockage. She continued to get sick and they couldn't find anything, so they did an endoscopy and found seven leisons in her. They sent them off, and in the meantime...she ended up going to another clinic to have an ultrasound. The ultrasound and the endoscopy both showed some sort of cancer that had started to affect other organs. My mom was devistated (dad was too) but Nala was a Momma's kitty. They started her on Prednisone that Sunday and by Monday evening, she had litterally given up. My parents were very sad and took Nala away in the Jeep. She laid in the blanket all the way to the clinic on Mom's lap. Mom said their vet cried right along with them the whole time they said goodbye. We all miss her very much.

We had a very long, cold winter with lots of snow here in Wisconsin....not that I minded being a husky...but the snow is just about all melted and the days are getting longer and I get lots of extra time outside in the evenings. My human's niece was out this past weekend and we had a blast. Although, I got tired pretty fast, she wore me out. Teenagers!

I should also mention that we never got the other husky. My mom was worried about her aggressiveness and didn't want anything to happen to me. Mom still wants a friend for me to spend time with during the day as she feels guilty that she is not home as early for me anymore.

Anyhow...that's been what has going on at our end. I'll be catching up with all my husky pals soon!

Woo whoo's,
Bailey

What Are They Thinking?

2007-09-29T15:56:00.000-05:00

Yikes...another month has past since I have posted a new blog post. I have really been meaning to write, but we had a vacation in that time and then some other stuff has been going on.

I have been noticing my humans bringing a lot of stuff out. One of those things has been an older crate. I have also been hearing them doing a lot of talking about...another HUSKY????? Dad has been talking about a puppy and then I hear mom saying she wants to rescue. There has been so much talk that I have no clue what they are up to. Mom wants me to have another dog to keep me company during the day...she says I am lonely now that she has gone back to work again. Then in the next sentence...she keeps asking me if I like being the only dog. Of course I do...I get ALL the treats!

So, one day my dad comes home and she says there is a lady in the next town over who rescued a siberian from our humane society three and a half years ago but now her husband wants the dog out of the house. My mom was all excited...until she talked to the lady. This dog has never been socialized with other dogs, except for a male husky next door to their house. Her mom says that she gets very aggressive towards other dogs when they are out walking. That part got my mom really worried. Bringing another female into the house who is bossy, and only five years old. I'm 11 1/2 and no spring chicken anymore, ya know! Other then that issue, she is very loving I hear.

Here is a picture of the "Princess Kita" that thinks she is going to come and live at MY house. They are going to meet her and her owner tomorrow and then set up a date for Kita to come and meet ME.

Does anyone have any suggestions on our first meeting for my Mom?

Rain...rain...go away

2007-08-21T17:46:00.000-05:00

Thought I would check in and see how everyone is doing in the other parts of the country. We have had SO much rain here in WI. First we were having a drought and then it turned around and dumped buckets and buckets of rain on us. We are soaked now. My humans are a tad worried as we live along the WI River and it is getting pretty high.

The one good thing is the weather has cooled way down...and being a Siberian Husky...I am loving every minute of it!!! I feel just like a puppy again with lots of energy! The heat was making me really blah...but not now! I'm a new dog! lol

Hope everyone is having a good week and that you are all having a bit of a cool down too!

I am still here

2007-08-18T21:00:00.000-05:00

Hello Husky Friends!

I know it has been awhile since I have posted to my blog and many of my friends have been worried about me. I'm fine and doing great! I wasn't liking all that hot weather we had been having..and I hear a lot of you other huskies have had a lot of that as well! We have finally gotten a cool down and I hope you all have too!

I have to tell you about a beautiful husky that my human mom fell in love with, His name is Bandit. She first learned about him a few weeks back when he was featured on our local news station at noon. They have a segment on the show where they feature pets that are available for adoption at the humane society. Bandit was featured just after he had surgery to have his eyes removed because they were so badly infected and he was in such pain. My human mom said he reminded her so much of my late brother, Bon, only with a red coat.

A week later...an internet friend sent her the link of his at the humane society and that night again...he was featured on the 5 o'clock news program. My mom kept checking the humane society site and every time she did...it said, 'pending adoption' yet she kept hearing all this stuff on the news. So...she sent messages out to all our husky friends, the siberL list, blind dog, etc. Then, Thursday rolled around and she heard them announce that Bandit had gotten a new home. She was so excited.

Video link for those who would like to see the story.

http://www.c3ktogo.com/mymadisontv/if-video.php?id=11346

Bandit...we are so happy for you!!!

Recalled pet food brands

2007-04-05T15:06:00.000-05:00

My mom has been pretty worried about all this pet food being recalled. The brand I have to eat because of my pancretitis has not been listed, but she is still worried sick.

Here is the most up-to-date list that she has found:

Dog Food

Americas Choice, Preferred Pets
Authority
Award
Best Choice
Big Bet
Big Red
Bloom
Cadillac
Companion
Demoulas Market Basket
Eukanuba
Food Lion
Giant Companion
Great Choice
Hannaford
Hill Country Fare
Hy-Vee
Iams
Laura Lynn
Loving Meals
Meijers Main Choice
Mighty Dog (The recall affects only 5.3 pouch products that were produced from Dec. 3, 2006 through March 14, 2007.)
Mixables
Nutriplan
Nutro Max
Nutro Natural Choice
Nutro Ultra
Nutro
Ol’Roy Canada
Ol’Roy U.S.
Paws
Pet Essentials
Pet Pride - Good ’n Meaty
Presidents Choice
Price Chopper
Priority Canada
Priority U.S.
Publix
Roche Brothers
Save-A-Lot Choice Morsels
Schnucks
Shep Dog
Springfield Prize
Sprout
Stater Brothers
Stop & Shop Companion
Tops Companion
Wegmans Bruiser
Weis Total Pet
Western Family U.S.
White Rose
Winn Dixie
Your Pet

Cat Food

Americas Choice, Preferred Pets
Authority
Best Choice
Companion
Compliments
Demoulas Market Basket
Eukanuba
Fine Feline Cat
Food Lion
Foodtown
Giant Companion
Hannaford
Hill Country Fare
Hy-Vee
Iams
Laura Lynn
Li’l Red
Loving Meals
Meijers Main Choice
Nutriplan
Nutro Max Gourmet Classics
Nutro Natural Choice
Paws
Pet Pride
Presidents Choice
Price Chopper
Priority U.S.
Save-A-Lot Special Blend
Schnucks
Science Diet (The recall affects only 3-ounce and 5.5-ounce cans of Kitten Savory Cuts Ocean Fish; 5.5-ounce cans of Feline Adult Savory Cuts Beef, Chicken and Ocean Fish, and 5.5-ounce cans of Feline Senior Savory Cuts Chicken.)
Sophisticat
Special Kitty Canada
Special Kitty U.S.
Springfield Prize
Sprout
Stop & Shop Companion
Tops Companion
Wegmans
Western Family U.S.
White Rose
Winn Dixie

Help Harness to Hope Norther Breed Rescue get a grant!

2007-03-18T21:37:00.000-05:00

Help us get a $10,000 grant!

Harnessed to Hope Northern Breed Rescue registered with Kevin Bacon's
www.sixdegrees.org foundation.

Just go to:

http://www.networkforgood.org/pca/PersonalCharityBadge.aspx?PcaId=103895

and donate any amount to us. The 6 organizations who get the most
donations (not the highest amount, but the most individual donations)
gets a $10,000 grant. It has a $10 minimum, but if you can spare it, we'd
really appreciate it.

Harnessed to Hope is a 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to rescuing and
rehoming Northern Breeds, run entirely by volunteers.
Please help us. All the money we raise goes directly to our foster dogs.
We've had a few sick dogs lately, so this would really come in handy.

1 Year Anniversary

2007-02-08T17:56:00.000-06:00

Yesterday, February 7th, was the one year anniversary of our having to say goodbye to our boy, Yukon. Not a day goes by that I wish he and Bon were still here with us...especially
this time of year that they both so loved.

He was the sweetest, most gentle dog and he made us laugh with his silly character. We will always have a special place in our hearts and will never forget the love and joy he brought into our lives.

We miss you, Little Boy!

It's My Birthday!

2007-02-03T14:36:00.000-06:00

Yesterday was my birthday. I turned 11 years old. I was not able to have too many treats because I am on a new diet with my Pancreatitis. It sucks. Then..to make things even worse....my mom tried to put one of those hats on my head. I would have nothing to do with it but....you know my mom...she just HAD to get a picture of me with it on so dad had to try and hold it on. Shesh! Anyhow...it was a good day! I just would have liked lots and lots more treats!

For those who are wondering...I am feeling much better. I was still on some medications as I was having some dark stools and they thought maybe I had some ulcers going on. My meds stopped on Thursday morning and we will see how I continue to feel.

Anyhow....I am off to see if there are any treats hiding someplace.

2 Year Anniversary

2007-01-25T22:29:00.000-06:00

Tuesday, January 23, was the 2 year anniversary that we all had to say good-bye to Bon. My parents were so sad. At times...it seems like Bon has been gone forever but other days ... it's like he was just here ... gracing us with his regal presence.

He was the kindest dog who everyone loved. He made us laugh with his silly ways. He was everything a companion should be.

We all loved you and you will be forever missed....and forever in our hearts!!! Run free, Big Boy!

Snow!

2007-01-22T17:48:00.000-06:00

Well...it finally snowed and my mom took some photos of me playing around the other day. She is so happy that I was bouncing and playing around again.

My mom has been concerned about me since I am done taking my antibiotics. I have been having an occassional dark (almost black) and shiny stool. My mom is worried because that is a sign of blood being absorbed back into the system. So she called the vet and they now have me on pepsid and something else that I don't like that I have to take every night. They are treating me for ulcers. All are hoping that is all it is otherwise the vet is concerned it may be something down lower. Wish me luck. I've had way too much going on in the last six months and don't need any more stuff going on. I'm just happy to be out here running through the snow!!!! Yippee!

Sure wish I had another puppy to play tag with...I miss my brothers. This is the first year without either one of them and it's lonely with no one to tackle. Oh wait! Mom said her niece is coming out to play with me tomorrow! I love to help her build stuff. Well...I try to help but she thinks I destroy her snowmen and angels and all!

Stop back soon to see Anna and I playing in the snow!

Wooo wooo!

Bay~

Bailey is Home!

2007-01-06T15:50:00.000-06:00

Another update from Bailey's Mom -

Bailey came home on Thursday night. She is doing SO much better. Is eating, running around with that spring back in her step, rolling in the grass (yes...we have NO snow) and finally went number two after almost a week. Her diet has been changed to Hills i/d ... for now and we both would like to hear if anyone has any other low-fat food or recipes to share with us.

I also wanted to write a bit about Pancreatitis for those (like myself) never have had a dog go through something like this. Bailey's was diagnosised as acute pancreatitis so this is the information I am supplying.

Most of you know that the pancreas is a gland in the abdominal cavity near the stomach and liver that produces enzymes which aid in the digestion of food. The gland also secrete insulin, a hormone that helps to regulate the blood sugar levels. A lack of adequae insulin results in diabetes, although most pets with pancreatitis do not develop diabetes. When the pancreas becomes diseased it will often release its digestive enzymes into itself rather than into the intestine where they normally go. The resultant tissue destruction is because the gland is inadvertently digesting itself.

Acute pancreatitis is a sudden inflammation of the pancreas. It is a serious condition that occurs most frequently in overweight, middle-aged, female dogs but it may occur in any individual. The disorder causes pain, vomiting, depression and occasionally shock and death.

Symptoms for acute pancreatitis are:

Poor appetite
Fever
Pain/reluctance to walk or move
Vomiting
Diarrhea
Weakness/Dehydration

There are many different causes of pancreatitis. Excessive levels of fat or cholesterol in the blood can contribute to the problem. Ovesity (overweight condition) and also predisposes the dog or pet to pancreas disorders. Infectious diseases can be teh cause of the problem. Ingestion fo rich or fatty foods is the most common cause of pancreatitis in pet animals. When pets are fed from the table (leftovers, etc.), get into the garbage, or are given numerous foods by well emaning house guest pancreatitis may be the result. Bailey was never fed table scraps...BUT she did get beef soup bones that were boiled once a week that sometimes did have beef with some fat on it and there were times we would put bread out for the birds if we had a loaf of bread left over and she would always find her way over to that. Our vet does not think these were her causes and she is not an overweight dog...so we do not have any answers as to why it happened to her.

I must say ... now looking back, I had noticed she did seem to strain when going to the bathroom. I had thought she was a little constipated and had noticed a couple of dark stools but we...as humans also have these problems and she never once showed signs of feeling ill. She had gotten sick a few times, but she had eaten some grass and we all know that dogs do this on occasion so we weren't that alarmed with that either.

Your vet will make a diagnosis of pancreatitis based on the following: Presence of the above symptoms, blood tests, radiographs (x-rays) of the abdomen and possibly exploratory surgery for sever or chronic cases). Bailey had to have blood drawn for a CBC and they also did a CPL (serum) test that needed to be sent out to confirm that she had pancreatitis. Our vet told us that anything over 400 was an indication that she had pancratitis and hers were over 1,000. Her liver and white blood counts were also both very high.

Because anything going into the mouth (including water) is going directly to the pancreas, Bailey immediatly had to be hooked up to IV's for three days to keep her hydrated while she was given antibiotics and nothing by mouth so everything could settle down and heal itself. After 32 hours, she was finally given a small helping of food to make sure she could keep it down. She had another light lunch later that evening and then again on the morning she was to come home. She was able to keep everything down and so our vet gave her the okay to come home.

It has been so wonderful to see Bailey feeling back to her old self again...but she will have to remain on a new diet for the rest of her life. Many sibe owners that I have conversed with have said they, too have had pancreatitis...some went on to never have another episode, while others are dealing with it reoccuring again....and again. We are crossing our fingers that she is one of the lucky ones to only have to go through this once.

We would like to say thank you to all of our siberian husky friends online for the advice and well-wishes you all sent to Bailey and us during this time. I was very upset reading some of the things I had read online doing research on this...but you all made me feel better by telling me your stories and giving me positive information!

Bailey's Mom - Lisa

Bailey has Pancreatitis

2007-01-03T20:09:00.000-06:00

I am here with news on Bailey. Friday night she seemed perfectly fine...but by Saturday, she didn't seem herself. She was not her usual 'flying around all over the place' and begging for treats. She had gotten sick and we figured she was just not feeling well. But by the afternoon, we became very concerned. She did not want to go out or even get up. So...we called the vet. He told us she might have a blockage and to take her food away for 24 hours. By the next morning...she seemed worse. We put another call into the vet and this time were advised to boil some hamburger and rice and give it to her and call on Monday if she wasn't doing any better. She would pick it up...but then immediately set it down. Right there...I knew something was not good. I tried to coax her into eating some and she finally ate a couple but that was it. We then got her out and walking...hoping that she would gets things moving as she hadn't had a stool since Friday night yet either. When she was back in...she drank water like there was no tomorrow.

I had to work on Monday (New Years Day) early am ... so hubby promised me he would call. He put a call in and they said there was no dr. on call because of New Years. He told them the dr. told him to call but they could not reach him by his pager. Now... I did not know this and hubby made it seem to me that he HAD talked to the dr. and they said to bring her in right away the next morning. He did not, and if I had known that...she would have been heading into an emergency clinic that night. She did seem to feel a little better and was investigating things and wagging her tail a little bit more by that late afternoon...but still did not want to eat.

Tuesday rolled around and we finally got her in right away that morning. By 9:30 am, she was hooked up to IV's and started on antibiotics. Her Liver count and white blood counts were extremely high...one was so high it was off their charts. They suggested we do a serum test as they thought she may have Pancreatitis. Xrays were then taken to make sure there was no blockage.

With Pancreatitis...and we did not know this and were following our vets instructions to keep her well hydrated by offering water .... nothing is to go in through their mouth. Not even water!! I was feeling awful from trying to coax her to eat and was telling her she was such a good girl for doing so.

So...Bailey had been hooked up to IV's for two days and another yet tomorrow. We went to see her tonight and she barely noticed we were there on her run to get outside to pee! Once done with that..she seemed SO happy to see us, as we were happy to see her as well! She looked much brighter eyed and wanted to GO! on the short leash they had provided. We then went back in and were talking with two of the doctors and they told us the serum test had come back. Anything over 400 tells them she has Pancreatitis and hers were well over 1,000. She had just gotten her first meal at 1:00 pm and was able to keep that down, but they wanted to keep her one more day to make sure she was doing well. So, tomorrow morning they will be calling with an update and I will probably pick her up on my way home after work.

Advice from vet is NO table scraps! We never feed them...but Bailey would get beef soup bones that had been boiled with some meat (and probably fat) on it once a week. I have always given these to all three of the dogs for years and we never had a problem...until now. They will no longer be part of her weekly routine. We were also advised to change to another dog food. We feed SD Senior right now but they want to put her on a new kind that is lower in fat. Marily, from the sibeList, offered to send me some great recipes for this that she makes for her dog, Max, who also has Pancreatitis. I have gotten some great information from a lot of people on the list and I was so thankful for that as I was reading a lot of stuff and it really had me scared.

Tomorrow, Bailey will hopefully get to come home and I will post more information then. Thanks to all those who said prayers for her!

Bailey's Mom

Donations for Bear through SOS

2006-12-13T20:41:00.000-06:00

My mom received an email from Maureen Lamb from Save Our Siberian Husky's tonight. Here is the email she sent:

Hi Lisa

At our board meeting this week we agreed to match donations sent through us up to $400 for donations made before 6 PM PST on December 17. This might encourage more people to donate.

Maureen Lamb
www.sos-srf.org

I am hoping any husky lover (or dog lover, for that matter!) who reads this will drop over to their website and click on the paypal button under Bears name. This poor boy has been through a lot already.

www.sos-srf.org

December Already!

2006-12-10T16:38:00.000-06:00

Wow... I missed a whole month of posting somewhere along the line. November was a boring month.

My cousin husky's family had their house burn to the ground on Thursday. They were able to rescue her but not their three cats. It makes me very sad to know that they lost everything.

Then, I was off reading the other husky blogs and I ran across Bears story and it just broke my moms and my heart. My mom instantly sent an email off to find out what she could do for Bear. She is waiting to hear back on whatever monetary donations they need that will go directly and ONLY to Bears recovery. She misses my brothers and they do eventually want to get me a new brother...but until then...she is making it her mission to help other huskies in need!

Bear...we wish you a speedy recovery!

Happy Halloween

2006-10-31T08:07:00.000-06:00

It's been awhile since I have posted to you other huskies and humans. I thought today would be a good day to tell you want has been going on in my life.

Do any of your humans dress you up on Halloween? I have heard the stories from my humans how they dressed up Bon on Halloween his first year. He was a Ninja Turtle and got to go to all the relatives house. He even got a pack of gum. What would a husky do with gum! Hmmmmmmmmm...don't ask!

(Bon on Halloween 1991 as a Ninja Turtle)

The reason I ask if any of you dress up is because everyone is telling me I should be a skunk this year! You might all think that is because of my beautiful black and white coat, but there is another story behind it and I dread reliving it to tell you....but here goes!

On Friday night, the 20th of October, my dad and I were outside around 7:30 pm. It was dark and we were finishing up doing all the chores outside. My mom wasn't feeling well and was inside laying down. My mom said she smelled the strongest, burning skunk smell she had ever smelled and came to the door to find us. The second she got there and heard dads voice...she knew I had gotten sprayed!

Oh my...it was awful! And it made my beautiful coat all yellow. There was nothing close by open so my mom and dad took wet whips over my coat until they were able to get products the next day. It didn't get my face but it sure got my chest...and my nose burned like the daylights.

The whole house smelled awful! It was seeping in the basement and the vehicles and just smelled bad! Dad made the mistake of giving me my expensive bed mom just bought me and now she can't get it out of that!

The next morning...I got the worst bath of my life! If it wasn't bad enough that my coat turned yellow...now they were making it red! And they made me keep it on for what seemed forever and a day! FINALLY! They washed it off but then they gave me a bath again with shampoo! I am so happy mom was busy bathing me or she would have had that darn camera taking pictures of me which I would not have wanted any of you to see!!! Anyhow....I had to stay in the utility room for what seemed like hours to dry and it still smelled skunky! Mom got her doggie perfume out and sprayed me as if I were a French Poodle going out on a date! That helped but...it was still there. By Sunday morning I smelled much getter...I just need a new collar as mine is leather and they can't get it cleaned.

So I ask....what are you dressing up for Halloween this year? Send me pictures or send a link in the comments so I can see all your pretty costumes.

Whoooooo whoooooooo's,
Bailey

44 Huskies Rescued in WI NEED your help!

2006-09-21T14:50:00.000-05:00

Tuesday night I heard the dreadful story on the 10:00 o'clock news that 77 Siberian Huskies had been rescued from a couples home in Rock County. They claimed that they were a rescue operation...but the dogs were covered in filth! Many of them had to be shaved down completely because the mats in their coats were so bad. To read the full story and find out more information...click the link below.

Rescued Huskies in WI

If you know of any organzation (IL has taken about 20 of them from the intial total) or person who can help foster these beautiful animals...please contact the Rock County Humane Society in WI.

I'm Free!

2006-09-21T12:26:00.000-05:00

That's right...I no longer had to walk on the leash!

Last Thursday was my first day off-leash after my ACL surgery and it was sooooo wonderful! I got to chase butterflies....roll in the lush grass....and roll in some other stuff that my human wasn't too happy about.

I still have a hard time getting up from laying down...my humans say that will probably bother me for awhile...especially with the colder weather on its way.

Now before you other husky owners start howling about me being off-leash...I'll have you know that my humans spent a great deal of time training ALL their huskies to be off-leash. We have always immediately done an about face when they called our name. It takes a lot of time but is very rewarding for everyone. They always tell me that I was a very fast learner and that I should win an award. So.....

I would like to thank the academy, my humans and especially Bon and Yukon...who are no longer with us...they were the best teachers I could have had. I followed their lead and learned so much through them! Thank you! Thank you , one and all for this truly amazing award!

Bailey

Prescription Diet Treat Recipes

2006-08-24T21:46:00.000-05:00

My vet gave these recipes to my mom so I thought I would share them with all you other huskies!

The following recipes will allow your pet to stay strictly on his/her prescribed det and still feel special and spoiled.

Bite Sized Canned Treats
Simply cut up some bite sized pices of canned Prescription Diet and bake in your microwave oven for 2 1/2 to 3 minutes.

Prescription Diet Cookies (canned)
Slice the canned product into 1/4 to 1/2 inch thick pieces. Place 3 cookies on a microwave safe plate. Bake on high for 3 minutes. Turn cookies over and bake for an additional 1 to 3 minutes.
(For conventional oven bake 20 minutes at 350 degrees.)

Prescription Diet Cookies (Using dry form diets)
Grind the kibbles into flour using a blender and mix with enough water to form a dough. Shape cookies and bake them on a cookie sheet for apporximately half an hour at 350 degrees until crispy.

Three important points to remember...
1. It is very important for your pets to remain strictly on his/her prescribed diet.

2. Treats should not exceed 5% of your pets total daily intake.

3. Making these treats for your pet will change the texture but not damage the nutrients...giving an excellent treat, while still feeding the necessary diet.

ATTN: BLOGGERS 9-11 Tribute

2006-08-23T09:54:00.000-05:00

My mom thought this was very important and thought others should know about it too!

Please pass this along to any and all bloggers that you may know, I think it's one of the greatest things that we can use the internet for.

2,996 is a tribute to the victims of 9/11.
On September 11, 2006, 2,996 volunteer bloggers
will join together for a tribute to the victims of 9/11.
Each person will pay tribute to a single victim.
We will honor them by remembering their lives,
and not by remembering their murderers.

Go to: http://www.dcroe.com/2996/?page_id=34 for more information!

A Little Setback

2006-08-23T09:43:00.000-05:00

Haven't posted an update for awhile...here's what's been going on.

On Thursday, April 17th...my mom took me out for my five minute walk in the afternoon. I was all hyper and happy to be out. We walked down our property line and decided to go straight instead of turning. Ohhhhhhhh...all those new scents. I kept stopping and smelling and mom kept trying to keep me going. I was walking in circles around her and she went to get the leash in the other hand when I stopped and the leash came around me. I immediately went straight down and then let out the post painful yowl! My mom was trying to talk me out of it saying "It's okay...It's okay." but I looked up at her and she could see the intense pain in my eyes. She got me rolled on my side and then I stopped with the yowling. I got up but would not walk on my leg. We turned back and went back to the house.

After giving me pain meds and waiting until the next day, I was still not walking on it so they called the vet. He said to keep the pain meds in and bring me in on Monday.

Monday I was loaded up in the Jeep again and was not happy to be going back. They made me spend the whole day there. I got to go on a couple short walks with my new friend in the white coat and things were fine. He called my dad and told him that I had just tore some scar tissue that had built up...which can be very painful when torn. It has set me back a few days (almost a week) and what a shame because I was feeling so good and walking on my leg pretty well.

So, that's what has been happening!
Bailey

Staples Removed - Post Op Day 11

2006-08-12T12:28:00.000-05:00

I am happy to report back after a few days of inactivity...that my staples have been removed and I no longer have to wear that awful collar!

Yesterday my dad took me to the vet...and the only protest I made was when I walked in the door. Other then that ... I calmed down real fast. Everyone thought that my owners switched dogs because I didn't have a care in the world. My tail was wagging the whole time, I got to sniff a kitty and it didn't try to swat at me like the cats do at home, a little boy came over and pet me and I was just all happy as a lark.

Came time for them to take me in a room...I was fine. A lady in a white coat came in to see me....stretched my leg out and then she was gone and dad and I were back out the door. Wondered all the way out the door why I had to go to that place...then my dad said. "You were such a good girl when they took your staples out! Good Girl!" What staples out? Hmmmmmm...I didn't notice a thing.

My dad got worried because when he put me in his truck I slipped and knocked my good leg. I had it up in the air when he got home and he thought oh no! But when we went outside...I was walking on it fine.

This morning my mom took me out and I had my nose to the ground the whole time. Mom was getting irritated with me because I wasn't doing my business, but I sure had the scent of something....and then I stopped. Mom screamed as a little dark grey thing came shooting out at her. Hee hee hee...she just hates mice, moles and anything that moves fast. It was a mole and if she hadn't had me on a leash...I could have gotten rid of it for her. Don't they know I am only trying to help????

Anyhow...I am feeling so much better and life is good now that I have that darn helmet thingy off my head. Will post some pictures soon and more updates to follow.

Bailey's Surgery - Day Five Post Op

2006-08-06T20:52:00.000-05:00

I am happy to inform you that Bailey is doing SO much better. Since yesterday morning...she has stopped any signs of her crying and non-stop whimpering. I do believe she is out of the worst pain.

We had rain this morning when we went out for our morning potty break and she wanted right back in...tail wagging and all. This afternoon...she wanted to just stand, feel and smell the breeze that was blowing. It was so nice to see her actually acting happy again. She even had a little spring in her step. We have also been taking the Elizbethan collar off now when taking her out and she seems to be happy about that...until we come back in and it has to go on. She lays her head on the floor and protests as much as she can.

I got an email from a friend today asking if I was giving Bailey any Glucosamine/Chondroitin to help rebuild the weakened cartilage. I am going to stop and pick up a bottle tomorrow but was wondering if anyone else has also used this with good results? She had mentioned that her vet tried to sell her some that had higher doses but she found this to be working great! I do need to check with the vet first though as I would hate to cause any other issues with her. We also feed Science Diet Senior which also has this in it so I think I had better do a little more homework on line tonight and see if too much might be a bad thing.

I'd love to hear from anyone who has given this so please comment.

ACL Surgery - Day Four Post Op

2006-08-05T11:17:00.000-05:00

Before giving you Bailey's update, I would like to tell you a little bit more about ACL (Anterior cruciate ligament).

The most commonly seen injury in active dogs is a torn ligament in the knee. Dogs have the same bones and ligaments forming their knee joint as people do and they can suffer the same type of injuries. One of these ligaments, the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) is the structure that is most frequently damaged. This is a common injury in football players, skiers, and other human athletes. Damage to the ligament occurs when the knee is twisted during weight-bearing or when the knee is hyper extended. In sporting dogs, the mechanism of injury is similar and this can occur in the field during strenuous activity. Dogs may also suffer a torn ligament during routine activities such as retrieving. An injured dog may, or may not, cry out at the time of injury. They will usually hold up the affected hind leg. Inability to use the leg is typical of a complete tear of the ligament. A partial ACL injury can also occur. In this chronic condition, the ligament becomes damaged over a prolonged time without a major traumatic event. These dogs tend to experience episodes of lameness that worsens after exercise. The result of traumatic or chronic lagament injury, is instability within the knee joint. This instability results in pain and lameness, with the possibility of arthritis in the future. The longer the unstable knee goes untreated, the more irreversible arthritic changes occurr, and less satisfactory outcomes result from the delay of surgery.

Veterinary examination of a dog with a torn ACL will usually reveal a swollen, painful knee joint. Dogs with chronic knee instability tend to develop scar tissue, which appears as a firm swelling on the inside of the affected knee. It is important for the vet to determine a chronic vs traumatic condition, as often this will determine which type of surgical repair he/she will employ. X-rays are used to support the diagnosis and to document any arthritic changes in the joint. The most reliable means of diagnosing this injury is to move the femur and tibia in a certain way to demonstrate the instability. This movement is called a "drawer sign." When a veterinarian elicits a positive drawer sign, the lower bone of the knee joint (tibia) is moved forward relative to the upper bone (femur). Simply said, the femur slides backwards on the tibia.

When Bailey had her first tear in 2004...it was in February and she was romping around with Bon and Yukon in the snow. It was very icy and they were all enjoying the snow (like huskies do) when I noticed she had her paw up. We checked it out and nothing seemed to be wrong so we though she had just pulled something. A week later we noticed she would stand back from the boys playing and that was not like her and then she started completely holding it off the ground a few days later. Into the vet we went...and she was diagnosed with ACL. This veterinarian had a specialist who came in once a month to do surgeries so we had to wait a whole month yet to get her in. She assured me it was fine so we waited.

Bailey went through the first surgery very well and recoperated nicely. We had a hard time keeping her calm in the house when she knew the boys were outside, running around without her. But all went well and she had a full recovery. We do think she has arthritis already setting in that leg. She has adapted to sitting differently and has to twist around to get up. That is why I think she is having a hard time with getting up now on that leg for all her rear support with this new surgery.

Now onto Bailey's update.

What a week we have had. As I had mentioned they put a patch (Fentanyl) on Bailey that was a slow release patch for the pain. She was whining and howling and whimpering all day and night... practically 24 hours. I called the vet yesterday morning (Friday) and explained her condition and he thought maybe the patch was irritating her because the dog should be pretty much drugged and drowzy. She was aggitated and wide awake. So after much discussion...he finally said to take it off. As the day went on...she became even more aggitated and developed diarrhea...BAD! Her pupils were dialated and she was continueing salivatating. I called to tell them her condition and they said to bring her in. Once there, they gave her a shot of Buprenorphine, checked her over and sent her home. We have been putting her in the landry room as it is the smallest and most confined so she has to pretty much rest and when we brought her home...she went straight in there and laid down and we didn't hear a peep from her...until 10:30 PM. Then she started all back up again. I took her out to do her job...came back in and gave her a Rimadyl and within 20 minutes...she was out!

Today...she seems less energetic but has not shown any of the signs she has been displaying since the surgery. I am so glad as she seems to be in no pain ... or at least to a tolerable level. Below is a close up of her incision and the staples.

I'm in PAIN! - - Day Two Post Op

2006-08-03T23:44:00.000-05:00

...Because I am in so much pain, my mom is going to post.....

Bailey is so sad since her ACL surgery...and in tons of pain. She has been whimpering all last night, today and yet tonight. I, myself, have just had a second hand surgery a couple weeks ago so it's been pretty hard for me during the day to tend to getting her outside with the stairs. She also is having a terrible time trying to stand up. Not sure if that is because her other leg (the first one she had done two years ago) is bothering her. We put some carpet down so she can get a better grip but it still takes her forever.

Tonight, hubby built a ramp so she is able to get out without either one of us getting hurt...her leg or my arm trying to lift her.

Tonight we sat and put more ice on but it seemed to make her more stressed and uncomfortable. Poor girl...I'm just feeling so bad for her.

She did perk up a bit when I had the camera in taking a picture...but I think she seriously thought it was a treat in my hand.

Hope tomorrow goes better. If she is not better by Saturday morning when we take the slow release pain patch off...she is going back in because she was never like this during the last surgery.

I don't feel so good - - Day One Post Op

2006-08-02T22:15:00.000-05:00

Oh...the whole world must hate me! That's how I feel.

My people took me to the vet on Monday night because I had to have my knee fixed. They had to take me in early so they could put a pain patch on me ... but I would have none of that! They weren't able to get it on me until the next morning and ONLY after they tranquilized me. I was a complete mess.

Next thing you know...I am waking up and in such pain. My leg hurts worse now, people. I had to spend the whole day there until my people came and picked me up on Wednesday evening. When my mom came in she noticed a dog laying there talking to the vet with his owner. The doggie had two large wounds on his face and looked so sad. My mom noticed the blue eyes and a husky tail so she went over to talk to the lady. She said he had a tumor removed and was 12...almost 13. Also said she was shocked when she came to pick him up because it didn't look like her dog. He was completely shaved from head to that tip of husky tail. He also has arthritis REALLY bad. My mom and the lady went on to talking about Bon's tumor and my mom sort of got sad. I am glad I wasn't there because I hate to see mom so sad over losing the boys.

But...back to me. In spite of ALL my pain, I was so happy to see my people. However...I've been crying ALL night. I still have that patch on that is suppose to help the pain and for the last 10 minutes I have been pretty quiet. Ahhhh...the drugs finally kicked in.

My mom just had her second hand surgery in a year so I guess we will be recoperating together. She keeps petting me and telling me she knows how I feel. At least SOMEONE feels sorry for me.

Off to catch some Zzzzz's while the meds let me.

My New Friend

2006-07-28T10:11:00.000-05:00

WOW! Have all you other huskies been experiencing the hot weather we have been? This weekend is going to be terrible here in WI all throughout the weekend! And it doesn't look like there is any end to it until later next week. Looks like everyone will have to spend time in the pool!

I am updating you all on my leg that has been hurting. I went to the vet on Tuesday morning and had to spend the WHOLE day there. You all know I absolutely hate the vets office. My dad turned around to leave and I didn't want him too...tried to stay glued to his leg but some girl started to take me away.

They put me in a kennel where I felt much better. Later, they wanted me to come out of the kennel but I was NOT going to...NO WAY! Later this nice guy came over to me and I was really scared but he got me out. He started talking to someone else and then I decided that I had better stayed glued to HIS leg. Guess he was the next best thing to my dad. Yup... my new friend in the 'white coat'!

He put me up on the table and started moving my leg around. Ouch!!! Be easy my new friend! He pretty much did that...checked a couple other things and let me back down. That wasn't so bad. Then a nice girl came over and put a pretty bandana on me and put me back in the safe kennel.

Later...my mom and dad came back to the vet to get me. They met with my friend in 'the white coat' who told them that if was a torn ACL in my good leg. He also told them that I have been lucky my good leg lasted this long but we needed to have the surgery done soon as my bad leg was also getting sore now because I was using it for all my weight.

So, Monday night I have to go back to that place. They were nice so I guess it isn't so bad but I still get so scared! I can't have anything to eat after 6:00 pm. What???? No treats???? C'mon people...I NEED my treats!

My mom and dad keep saying they wonder if I will still like my new friend in 'the white coat' after Tuesday. Of course I will....I just don't like vets! :)

Busy Summer

2006-07-23T12:32:00.000-05:00

It's been awhile since I have posted in my blog! My humans have been keeping me busy. Actually, their little niece has been staying here because my mom had her second hand surgery in a year and it is her right hand so she can't do much of anything.

Speaking of surgery...I might have to have one also. Two years ago in February, I slipped on some ice while playing with the boys and tore a tendon in my leg and they had to build me a new one. The other day...I let out a big yelp after trying to race across the retaining wall and I almost fell off. I started limping a bit and so they put me on rest...however, tomorrow I have to go and see the vet as they think it may have tore the new one now. I HATE the vet. My new vet is very nice but I do not trust them. I got very afraid at the last vet and I thought if I snarled and showed my teeth they would leave me alone. Nope...they just put a darn muzzle on me instead and did that awful surgery to my leg.

Wish me luck that it is just sore and I don't have to have more surgery. Someone will post back soon my results. Below is a picture of me when I had the last surgery in 2004. See how sad I was. Oh no...mom just looked at that photo and guess what???? I am limping on the opposite leg.. I was so tramatized over the last surgery that I even forgot which one it was.

Later,
Bailey

Easter Sunday

2006-04-16T18:33:00.000-05:00

A great earthquake shakes a stone loose from a tomb.
It is bare, the robes are empty,
And Mary cries out in fear.

The Night is dark and lonely and the day long and flat.
A life is numb; a heart is empty.
I cry out in fear.

O God, where is my center, my soul, my being?
O God, my God, why hast thou forsaken me?

And the disciples went to a mountain in Galilee.
They worshiped and were commanded
To go, To teach, To know....
for lo, I am with you always, to the close of the age.
And fear and trembling shook the earth with joy.
- Joan Hemenway

Happy Easter

2006-04-15T12:51:00.000-05:00

Just stopping to wish everyone a Happy Easter! This is my first Easter as the only husky...so I am wondering if I will get more eggs or less eggs?! My niece is over today helping color eggs so I know she will make sure I get lots with my name on them...even if I am not really allowed to eat that many. Anyhow....just a quick post and I will update next week when the holiday is over and everyone is less stressed.