Thursday, October 15, 2009

What I learned today...

I learned a lot about myself this morning. Well, I guess I already knew, but it was re-confirmed today.
First thing I learned: You all know that I love my dog, but, apparently I love him a whole heck of a lot more than I thought (only having had him for 3 months..)
Second thing: I have no idea how I will ever be able to have children. Scary, I know.
Third thing: I have an amazingly supportive husband.
And fourth...
The need to pray and fast.
Harley is currently in the hospital and will be there for about 3 days. After reading some articles, I found that breeds with his type of body (long with stumpy legs) tend to have back problems. I knew something was wrong when Harley lost the use of his back legs starting yesterday. We took him to the vet and found out that his condition is serious. It is called Intervertebral Disc Disease. He was in excruciating pain. It broke my heart. I lost all my composure in the room. Jon had to calm me down. And After I left I asked myself "How will I ever be able to have children??" They needed to give Harley a shot with pain medication and I wanted to leave the room. I ended up staying, but what will I do when my brand new baby is having to get poked all over with needles???
Needless to say, today has been an awful day. I am so heart broken. He may be able to come home Saturday. I hated leaving him there, but knew it was best for his health.
Apparently we are going to have to change his lifestyle, which will be tough. For the next month: no jumping on bed, couches etc, has to be carried up and down stairs, no jumping in/out of car, no jumping on laps, has to spend most of his time is his kennel resting.
Everyone thought I babied him before?? Just wait!!! It will be hard to watch his every move constantly, and I am hoping that he will be able to recover fully. Until then...I am just sick about it. The silence in the house, and not having a constant companion at my feet, is very depressing. I will update when I find out how he is doing. Keep fingers crossed (and prayers).

7 comments:

Jessica, McKay, Riley & Kayden said...

This same thing happened to Buster. He would just cry and cry because he could not walk. I took him to the dr and he gave him a shot in his back. We brought him back the same day it took like 2 days until he was better. It happened again a year later. They did the same thing and he has been good after the 2 time. I hope it is the same for your dog. I know how hard it is for you. I love Buster and they are always there with you. Keep us updated!

Erica Yates said...

I'm so sorry Michelle! I hope he recovers well... Let us know if there's something we can do, we'd still love to see you!

ashleydox said...

Oh my gosh - I'm so sorry! We'll keep cute Harley in our prayers! Keep us updated - and you baby that dog as much as you can! They are our children... :o)

Natalie said...

My sister is a vet asst. i can ask her for some info on his recovery if you want. I hope he recovers well.

Anonymous said...

You'll be amazed at the strength you actually have, Shell...you have a world of friends and family who love you; hang in there!
love,
mom

Kristie said...

I know what you mean about missing them when they are away. When mine get groomed they are only gone for 2-4 hours and I miss them like crazy. When I would go out on the road with Shane I'd miss them terribly while they were being boarded at their vet clinic.

I hope Harley will be ok. Give him lots of gentle cuddles when you see him tomorrow (well today - Saturday).

Jen Meecham said...

I'm sorry to hear that cutie. I think it's so sweet how much you love your little dog. I hope he recovers quickly.