My foster mom visited with Auntie Margie last night and brought home a whole stack of books on dogs with cancer. That's a scary word but glad that I have a bunch of people who love me and care what happens to me so we going to learn all about this tumor they took out of me. When my surgery spot heals up all the way, we'll go see Dr. C and he'll teach my foster parents how to check my lymph nodes to be sure I'm not getting any more lumps.
Friday, May 22, 2009
Monday, May 18, 2009
Bear Surgery Spot Update
Look at Bear's surgery spot! It's healing well and no more seeping now. We have also started our walks back up again and Bear is very happy about that :) Still waiting to hear from Dr. C on our plan for Bear. Dr. C was consulting with the lab to discuss the results a little more in depth.
Saturday, May 16, 2009
Bear does Research (or does he really nap?)
So we got the news my tumor was stage 2; my foster parents were bummed but hopeful we can beat this and the surgery a success. Dr. C did aggressive surgery on me to take out the tumor and outer tissues too just to be sure. My foster mom has been non-stop on the internet reading on mass cell tumors. She's even got me reading up on it. When she's not looking (well I thought she wasn't) I take naps. She also suggested we use my blog to keep track of my recovery and to educate folks on mass cell tumors.
Thursday, May 14, 2009
Bear's Lab Results
Received Bear's lab results from the mass cell tumor he has. It's been diagnosed as a Stage 2 (fair and guarded). What does all this mean? I'm not really sure but the tumor did have some malignant behavior. So I'm bummed and scared. I have no idea what's next and will keep everyone posted. I'm glad we found and got the tumor out though for sure. Paws crossed everything will be ok down the road. We hope to be getting an appointment with Dr. C soon to discuss. I love this picture of Bear I took yesterday at the Vet visit. He's a happy goofy boy.
Wednesday, May 13, 2009
Bear Visits the Vet Part II
Bear had to go visit Dr. C today to make sure he hasn't done any damage to his stitches because of the 'running wild' incident on the stairs. Dr. C reports that the surgery area looks great and Bear is on his way to a full recovery. Happy to report there were no ripped stitches and what I was looking at was the the pocket Dr. C had made in surgery to allow seepage through. I had it backwards and thought the pocket was on the other end. Bad news is we still have no results from the lab yet on the stage of the tumor so still paws crossed. We weighed him too and he's lost another 7th of a pound. Ok not alot but it's been less than a week when he weighed in at 103 lbs. Today he was 102.2. Look below for pictures of Bear at the Vet!
Monday, May 11, 2009
Bear Rips his Stitches? (Note: Graphic)
Well I get home today to find someone has forgot to put the babygate back up to block the stairs and I find Bear and Miki running up and down the stairs. I got a little concerned because of his stitches so I checked him out. It looked like he possibly tore a stitch or two so I took some pictures, texted Auntie Margie, and sent her the pictures to get her opinion. She will ask Dr. C about it tomorrow when she goes to work to make sure he doesn't have to come in.
Saturday, May 9, 2009
Bear's Surgery Spot
Took a picture of Bear's surgery spot while he was sleeping on his back this morning. Kind of graphic so sorry! He has done well today. Had alot of energy for a boy that just had major surgery! I've about to take him and Buck outside in front for a few. It's still sooooo hot. Miki will go on the regular walk while I chill with the boys.
Bear's First Night Post Surgery - 5/8/09
Bear had a good night last night. He slept pretty much all night moving just a couple times to a new spot. No crying and he seemed to sleep peacefully. He got to see Miki and Buck leave for the park this morning so he was rather upset over that. Even taking him outside in front didn't satisfy him; he kept looking for his buddies. Then he cried until they got home! He ate all his breakfast and took his meds so hopefully we will have a good day :)
Friday, May 8, 2009
Bear Post-Surgery 5/8/09
I picked up Bear today from the Vet's. He had major surgery this morning to remove the mass cell tumor he has. Bear wouldn't come out of the kennel; scared, in pain, a combination of things so they had to come get me to try. I think he was relieved to see me and did get up and come out of the kennel for me. He was weak and uncomfortable :( We got him home and he crashed. Bear finally ate some dinner and was hungry for more so we went ahead and gave him a little extra. He took all his meds so hopefully he will keep everything down at this point. Bear is crying alot and you can tell he's having some discomfort so we hope the painkillers kick in soon. He is laying down in his kennel now which is good; no one can bother him. Miki and Buck were happy to see him back at the house especially Miki. She even gave him a couple kisses! Bear was able to wag the tip of his tail to signify it was good to be home.
Tuesday, May 5, 2009
Bear Visits the Vet - Part 1
Bear got to go in for his checkup yesterday. The big moment was getting weighed to see how he's doing on his weight loss. Bear's lost 19 pounds!!! Woo Hoo!
We did get some scary news at the vet though. Bear has a lump and it was aspirated to check it out. It is a Mass Cell Tumor. He is now scheduled for surgery this Friday to remove it and send off to determine what stage it is. Paws crossed for our Bear. There are 3 stages of Mass Cell Tumors. We are hoping for Stage 1. Please keep Bear in your thoughts and prayers.
We did get some scary news at the vet though. Bear has a lump and it was aspirated to check it out. It is a Mass Cell Tumor. He is now scheduled for surgery this Friday to remove it and send off to determine what stage it is. Paws crossed for our Bear. There are 3 stages of Mass Cell Tumors. We are hoping for Stage 1. Please keep Bear in your thoughts and prayers.
Thursday, April 30, 2009
Bear's Safe Haven
Bear likes his crate. We really don't crate Bear except at feeding and treat times. Other times we'll leave the door open because he likes to go in and just hang out in there or take a nap. I think he sees it as 'his' own domain and no one will intrude on him while he's in because I can guarantee neither of my dogs will go in a crate!!
Monday, April 27, 2009
Bear Learns how to Walk on Leash AGAIN!
Bear's it seems has gradually gotten worse with the pulling on the leash while on walks. We decided this past weekend it's time to make some changes! So....Bear now has a new collar and we've gone back to some basic training on the leash. He's done GREAT since much to the relief of his foster mom so we'll keep you all posted on his progress ;)
Tuesday, April 21, 2009
Exterminator Comes!
The bug exterminator man came today for regular house visit. Miki had to be crated and the others put outside. It was a pretty interesting site for the exterminator man to see such big dogs and 3 of them! But he was familiar with the breed and really liked them :)
Sunday, April 19, 2009
Wet Day at the Park!
Sunday we took Bear out to the dog park although it was flooded to meet some folks who were interested in meeting him. We took Miki along to keep him company. They loved running in the mini ponds the rain made in the park. Needless to say I was glad I didn't take my car! They were so wet on the ride home. Bear had a good meet and greet with the nice folks who came to visit. Bear and Miki got to play for almost 2 hours and they slept for hours when we came home. So did I!!
Saturday, April 18, 2009
Spring Flooding!
We had a downpour of rain on Saturday in the whole Houston area. Our main street flooded and we took Miki and Bear out to do some exploring. Check out the pictures below!
Friday, April 17, 2009
Bear Behaves!
The whole family had to be gone tonight for about '5' hours. Typically there is always someone at home 24/7 and the dogs are only left for a hour or less if that. I am so proud of Bear because tonight was a true test on how he really does uncrated. He did GREAT. We didn't find no surprises when we got home and all the dogs were so happy to see us :)
Tuesday, April 14, 2009
Those Eyes!!
See those 'eyes' looking at ya! Bear gets fixated at times on things and his eyes in this picture is best way to describe what it looks like when he's fixated!! Snap out of it bud :)
Saturday, April 11, 2009
Bear Attends Happy Tails Hike & BBQ
Bear got to attend the 2nd Annual Happy Tails Hike & BBQ this year at Lake Park Houston. There were a bunch of furry ones there with their human families. The rain held off and it was cool and overcast so we had great weather for our event!! We went on a leisurely 3 mile hike in the morning and then afterwards the humans enjoyed a BBQ lunch of grilled hot dogs and sausages, sides, chips and dessert. Bear got a hotdog when no one was looking :) I think everyone and dog had a great time. Look below for a bunch of pictures from the event and see if you can find Bear!
Sunday, April 5, 2009
Bear goes shopping!
We needed to go stock up on doggie treats so we took a trip to the local Petsmart. Bear and Miki got to browse around while I picked out some treats. They were a hit in the store and Bear even got a few phone numbers ;)
Friday, April 3, 2009
Squirrel Watching
Squirrels are starting to appear more frequently in the trees in the backyard. Could be that squirrel feeder I bought last year is paying off! It provides the dogs entertainment :) Bear, Buck, and Miki were determined to get them a squirrel today! Bear even stood up on his hind legs one time but I couldn't get the camera fast enough. They were cute to watch.
Tuesday, March 31, 2009
New Fans
I bought new fans and the dogs love them. Had to take this photo op moment of Bear enjoying the fan after our walk tonight. I can sit here all night and take pictures of these hooligans and their body positions since I bought the new fans. The fans are high velocity and I put it on high after walks. I find the dogs laying on their backs with legs up in the air :)
Happy Bear
Yes, Bear is always a happy boy when he goes to the park. We think he's losing weight too so we'll be planning a trip to the Vet soon for a weigh in! Click here for some videos with Bear in them at the park. We did discover he didn't like a frisbee being thrown at him so a little "scary" Bear came out. We showed him the frisbee and let him sniff to let him know it's ok.
Saturday, March 28, 2009
Bear does Paws in the Park at Pearland
Bear came out today and braved the cold and wind! Yes horrendous winds which stayed with us all day and it didn't warm up until later in the day but still burrrr! Bear had a great time. He got to do the doggie parade and take picture with the Paws in the Park mascot :) See a few pics here.
Wednesday, March 25, 2009
Park Day Again!
Bear loves the park. He loves to run and explore. On days that we're able to, we take all the dogs to the park right after work. It's great exercise for them and Bear always has a great time. Click here to view the latest pictures of Bear and buddies at the park.
Sunday, March 22, 2009
Saturday, March 14, 2009
Bear Goes to Yappy Hour! 3-12-09
Bear attended Yappy Hour at Barker Street Pet Bakery in the Woodlands. Texas Alaskan Malamute Rescue was the host and all proceeds from raffle and 10% of store sales went to the rescue. Bear had a good time and met lots of folks. He dressed up for the big night. I think purple looks good on him ;) See other pictures from the event here.
Monday, March 9, 2009
Bear does SPCA Mutt Strutt! March 7, 2009
A few of us got up early Saturday to participate in the 2nd annual Mutt Strut at Bush Intercontinental Airport! Ms. Delilah, Buck, and Bear strutted 1 mile down an inactive runway and saw a few planes land while walking. I wonder what the passengers were thinking as they saw us out their windows while landing!! LOL! We had a fun time and the fur ones crashed when we got home! Click here to view pics.
Wednesday, February 25, 2009
Bear Update
Bear has gotten to go to the dog park every day this week! He loves the dog park and does well with other dogs. Bear is doing good. He's great in the house and doesn't get into anything; listens well; goes in the crate when needed without a fuss but does great uncrated if left alone; gets along great with my Mals and Arnold the cat! His weight management program is going well and we even think he's lost a pound or two already? We're going to go for a weigh in soon. Bear does love to sleep on the couch so he'll need someone that doesn't mind that :) Check out his sleeping pictures below! He's a really good boy and is fast becoming a favorite of mine. Bear has always been shy of some men and there isn't a pattern like I thought so it's pretty much random with him. He's finally picked up on my dog's routines and has fit right in with them. I couldn't had asked for a more perfect foster. See all pictures in Bear's album here!
Sunday, February 22, 2009
Bear does Mardi Paws!
Bear went to Mardi Paws down in Galveston and was in the Mardi Paws Parade! He had lots of fun and was wore out when it was over!
Saturday, February 21, 2009
Sleepy Bear
Bear likes to sleep alot on the couch so he is definately a couch potato when it's time to relax and take a nap! See other pictures of sleepy Bear here.
Thursday, February 19, 2009
Bear Starts Weight Management Program
Bear is 35lbs overweight! Rick and Delilah started him on weight management food and reduced him down to 2 cups per day. So far he is doing well with it and not raiding the kitchen cabinets or fridge so we think he’s not starving? He is getting 2 walks a day during the week. On weekends, Bear gets 2 walks a day and a visit to the dog park to run and play off leash. He seems to really enjoy his walks and the dog park. In addition to that, the WWF matches are back so we’re hoping a few extra calories are also being burned there too!! So I guess you can call this Bear’s Weight Management Program and he’s got his own personal trainers too! See some of Bear taking a walk below:
Saturday, February 14, 2009
Bear's Foster Homecoming
Bear was reaquainted with Miki, Buck, Bessie, and Arnold the cat today. It seems they have picked up where they left off and are doing good with each other. They went on a walk together and then later to the dog park. Woo Hoo! They all love going to the dog park. WWF matches have even picked up again.
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