Jack and brother Roscoe in the pool
Monday, June 30, 2008
Sunday, June 29, 2008
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Sequia said... Debbie,
Thanks for your concern about Nathan. He seems to have bouced back pretty quickly!
I miss talking to you. You need to get that phone!
Monday, Nathan and I are leaving for 5 days to go to a singles mom camp. We will be back Friday mid afternoon so don't worry if I haven't posted.
So glad that Jack is doing well.
hugs to you both,
Cynthia
Friday, June 27, 2008
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Debbie and Jack said... OH thank goodness Cynthia, that Nathan is all right, at least physically. It will probably be a while before he feels back to normal. I just hope they can catch those creepies. I know about being a single mom and worrying about where your kids are. They are 24 and 28 and I am still worrying.
Jack continues to improve but is a little tired. Really hates his nose being messed with. I never knew a dog could get into so many different positions to avoid me. The good thing about my Jack is he never gets the least annoyed, just squirmy.
I know that without the kindness and support of all of you, I would be facing the fact of losing Jack very soon. Now we have many more years to spend together, I just know it.
I am constantly amazed by Jack. He seems to draw a crowd wherever he goes. He is so magnetic. I guess that is why I love him so. He is one special dog and you all have given him back to me.
I was telling a new friend about this blog(I love you, Jo) and the story of my dear friends who banded together to help Jack and me in our time of need. She burst into tears as I told her about all of you. And that is the way I feel every time I think of you all.
Thanks so much,
Love and Husky hugs,
Debbie and Jack
Thursday, June 26, 2008
- Sequia said...
Hey Debbie! I am so glad that Jack is doing well. I hope that you are remembering to take care of yourself too.
Saying that moms worry rings so loud with me. Monday i almost experienced every parents' worst nightmare....their child being abducted. Nathan was with a friend of his on their bikes in the park right next to the complex and two men tried to lure them away with money. You always wonder if what you teach your kids sinks in but I never wanted to find out this way! They took off from these guys and went to his friend's mom and then they all came here and I called the police. Nathan is ok but ws very shaken up by this. I can't tell you how thankful I was that God protected them from any harm. The police have their finger prints and can get a DNA sample because they left a beer bottle where they were sitting at the park. There is an investigation going on. Needless to say i am even more protective of where and when NAthan is out and about.
Hope to hear from you soon. I miss you.
Cynthia
Wednesday, June 25, 2008
- Debbie and Jack said...
Oh Jo, I am so glad you got the pictures. I am hopeless you know at doing anything on the computer. I was so wanting to share the progress with everyone who has meant so much to Jack and me on this journey. I got another camera and am taking some more pix today, so everyone can see how wonderful he looks now. Most of these pictures were in the two weeks just after his surgery.
Now Mr. Jack and I are fighting the battle of the Kerasolv lotion. I still have to remove obstructions (nice way to say boogers) from his nose a couple of times a day. He really fights me on the lotion to remove the crusty skin on his nose. It won't work unless he lets me get it rubbed in real well. Alas, he doesn't seem to understand that fine point and I feel like I am in a WWF match with him twice a day. But I am just grateful that he has the strength and stamina to resist me so intensely. If he would just relax I think it might feel good. Come on Jack, give Mama a break.
The heat and sunshine have returned today. It is pretty miserable here, so all you Ohioans and points east get ready for a heat wave if it is not already there.
Amy will be home this weekend for a wedding, only for one day, she has mega finals for her blocks next week. Today she is doing a cranial cruciate repair in surgery. It is her final graded surgery, I believe. She has done so well and I am so proud.
Ryan, my baby, is returning to school in the fall. Ultimate goal Osteopathic School, first goal chiropractic. He has eyes set on radiology or orthopedics. I am in hopes that he will stay in Lawrence. He is comfortable there and the crime is so much less than in KC. We moms worry you know.
Have to run. Jack and I thank again all his wonderful friends here who have made possible his continued good health. You saved our lives.
Love and Husky hugs,
Debbie and Jack
Tuesday, June 24, 2008
This picture is of three generations of love for animals and mankind.
Debbie (left) - Amy (center) - Debbie's Mom (right)
Debbie (left) - Amy (center) - Debbie's Mom (right)
I received some pictures of Jack taken after his surgery. This poor boy must have gone through hell.. and Debbie had to have gone through the same thing just looking at him. BUT... thanks to all of you and your love, donations and prayers... Jack is alive with a wonderful prognosis.. and that's what counts. The incision is now just a scar... a badge of honor.... but the opportunity to have the surgery is priceless!! And we have all of you to thank for it.
THANK YOU... GOD BLESS EACH AND EVERY ONE OF YOU!!
Joanna
Joanna
Monday, June 23, 2008
- Debbie and Jack said...
Well here I am back after a 5 day absence. Still spinning my wheels, but I believe I am catching up slowly but surely. Have had lots of things going on the last few days and the economy around here is just getting worse and worse. Don't know how it will all turn out, but I am just not even driving anymore. Have to save to get back in school this summer. Still hoping to get hired somewhere this summer, but so far no luck. I think my age works against me in any case, although of course they don't say that when I see the 22 year old they hire, I know why I don't work there.
Jack is a dear. The heat of the summer is finally starting, but he seems to be holding up. The hyperkeratosis at the end of his nose which is a side effect of the radiation he received last fall is slowly but surely getting smaller. I believe the end of his nose will eventually smooth out. I still am not putting the lotion on it. I just hate messing with him. I still have to clean his nose out about three times a day and I just think enough is enough.
Amy's Mollydog has been with us this weekend while she attended a wedding in Colorado. And now we get to keep her until Friday when Amy comes in town to be in another wedding. I had forgotten how your twenties are filled with weddings. Anyway Mollydog is getting lots of treats and loves the visit. Amy is the food police so she loves to come to Grandma's.I think she and Paul miss her very much so they will be very glad to see her on Friday and I am sure she will be ecstatic to see them. By then she will have gained 5 pounds though. HA!
Glad I got to get somewhere to let you know how Jack is doing. He does after all belong to all of you have helped him so generously.
Love and big Husky hugs,
Debbie and Jack
Wednesday, June 18, 2008
- Debbie and Jack said...
And still working and not getting anough done. So much piled by while I have been concentrating on Jack, that I really don't know which way to turn. I feel like I am spinning my wheels. Way too much work to get done in a day, so it is ongoing.
Also have the horses, who are not liking being penned, but it is for their own good. Especially with this cool wet weather, founder is a big concern. Little Giza foundered last year and Kate and Darby also look iffy this year, so what we need and I hate to say it is HOT WEATHER! I can't believe I said that since I have no AC, but tis true.
Jack continues to improve, although he is still sluggish and not quite himself. His eating is on again off again, but getting better. He is eating larger amounts. Still drinking copious amounts of water, so I may take him for a kidney function. Was trying to wait and see if it just takes a while to improve. I am giving him until the 26th and if it is not better, then he goes to the vet. So everyone say a prayer that he improves. Still owe my vet a huge whopping bill from the days leading up to Jack's diagnosis, so hate to add more charges. He is way too nice to me. I will be paying that bill when I am 100.
Lots of work to do but wanted to check in and let everyone know that Jack is improving. Now if the cancer is just gone... Keep those prayers rolling.
Love and Husky hugs,
Debbie and Jack
- Debbie and Jack said...
Taffy Geary is back at the vet.
Here is a link to her blog
http://donnr11.blogspot.com/
Thanks for forwarding this, she really needs help urgently.
Debbie and Jack
Monday, June 16, 2008
- Debbie and Jack said...
Didn't get nearly enough done today, including penning the horses. Hope it stays cool tomorrow, so the flies will be held at bay. Jack wants to come with me, but I am wary of the heat with him until he feels better.
Wanted to tell you a story tonight. Amy's good friend Kacie from vet school got a new puppy, a yellow lab named Maggie. She is just now six months old and Jack had never met her until this weekend when she came to stay overnight on Saturday while her mom went on a float trip. She is all lab. A tail-waggin', paw-stompin' bundle of fun with a giant smile on her face all the time. Every time I look at her I want to break into the "Ain't no bugs on me" song from the commercial. Anyway she came over to Amy's late Sat. nite. Jack spent t he next hour trying to help her escape from her kennel. He actually pulled the tray out and then she dug a hole in Amy's carpet to escape! Whoops! :rolleyes: :rolleyes:
Finally around midnight, I decided to let them out. Well, it was too cute. They loved each other immediately. Jack would swat her across the yard and then she would bite his front legs and take them out from under him. This went on for about forty five minutes and then they both crashed. And man did they sleep. I woke up at about 6 am and peeked over at Maggie, who was sitting quietly just staring at me as if she was willing me to wake up. I got up to let her out and Mr. Jack the Sleepyhead, looked at me as if I had lost my mind. He grudgingly got up when she looked at him with those doe eyes of hers. He just melted. Anyway, she found this stick. Now this stick was about 24 inches long, so it was quite a stick for her to handle. Of course she tried to walk through several narrow spaces and got knocked on her tush. Too funny! All I could think of was MR. Charlie and his big tree limbs dragging about the yard. Well Maggie kept running by Jack who was trying to act disinterested but every once in awhile he would lunge for the end of the stick, but she would speed away and he would just sit. Finally out of desperation Maggie came and sat down beside Jack. She held the stick in front of his nose until he got a good grip and away they would go. Around and around and around until they both got dizzy. It was hysterical. She is so small and he is so big! He was bent in such an odd position so she could run with him and she was so careful not to turn too sharp and lose Jack. It was like those precision skaters who do those wheels and the guy on the end can go flying off into space if they go too fast. That was Jack and she would have to adjust her speed as they went around. TOO CUTE!!! Jack wore out but not as soon as I thought he would. he also gave her some good lessons in big dog/little dog heirarchy. I guess her brother Petie who got to go on the float trip (Maggie is too young for the river) gives in to everything. Well Jack let her have all the toys but when she got rough with his baby orange monkey :wub: , he barked a sharp reprimand and took the toy. That was a good lesson for Maggie and she learned it well. of course then she rolled over on her back and batted her front legs at Jack and the next thing you know he gave her the monkey. I could have watched them all day. It is so right that a new puppy can breathe life into a senior. I saw Jack play like I hadn't seen him play in a long time.
Now this has taken such a long time and the purpose was to let you all know how grateful I am for what you have given to me and Jack. The joy of watching him play again is indescribable. It is very inadequate to say, but thanks again from the bottom of my heart to all of you, friend, family or complete stranger who has stepped up to give the gift of life to Jack.
Love and big Husky hugs,
Debbie and Jack
- Debbie and Jack said...
Well made it home last night after two false starts. The weather was just not cooperating, tornadoes, thunderstorms, hail, high winds. It was everywhere. We waited until 430 and took a chance and ran the gauntlet, pretty well. Ran into about 4 or 5 storms which gave torrential downpours for about 5 to 10 minutes each. Our timing was perfect and we made it safely by around 8 pm. We were tired however, driving white-knuckled is never relaxing. Jack on the other hand was snoring so loud we could barely hear ourselves think. Ah, a dog's life!
Today I can tell how glad he is to be home. However, I will say that he seemed to relax at Amy's after we never went near the hospital. I even left him home with Paul, if I went to school to pick Amy up. That is not ususal, but I did not want to create any anxiety.
Today there are lots of little errands that Jack and I have to do. Also pen the horses up again, at least until Thursday when they are predicting more storms. Hope I can spray weeds in the driveway soon or I will need a machete to get up to the gate. So much rain has made it difficult. At least the horses are on high ground.
Jack is into multiple sneezing the last two days. I thought at first it was voluntary, but now realize it is not. he will sneeze 4-5 times in a row, really violently with his head shaking side to side at the same time. I am sure that while I am cleaning out the ends of his nose, there is probably lots of stuff way up that needs to be cleared. Hopefully the sneezing is moving it down where I can get it. He continues to look better every day. I have some sequential pictures which if I can figure out how to send them to anyone, I will post here soon.
Hope you all have a great day. Thanks again for caring and helping my boy Jack.
Love and Husky hugs,
Debbie and jack
- Debbie and jack said...
https://www.fundable.com/groupactions/groupaction.2008-06-05.7999854591/groupaction_view
the above address is for a dear friend whose dog is in very critical condition and she is trying to fund her surgery. The dog's name is Taffy and she needs help. Donna has been able to raise a good bit of money but need help to raise the rest. If you all would be so kind as to forward to any people you know to spread the word. This is urgent.
Also, Margaret is endeavoring to raise money for Sally the Wonderdog. Another cancer patient, Margaret has already used all her resources for surgery, and treatment, but needs help for continuing care and cancer treatments over the next two years.
https://www.fundable.com/groupactions/groupaction.2008-06-09.8540856204/groupaction_view?
If all of you forward this to everyone you know, perhaps these wonderful companions will find help just like my boy Jack did.
Thanks so much
Love and Husky hugs,
Debbie and jack
Saturday, June 14, 2008
- Debbie and Jack said...
Today is a beautiful day and I am itching to get outside with my boy. Pehaps Twin Lakes where he can take a swim. He loves that. But we have my mom's car instead of my old klunker this trip, so perhaps a swim in the lake is just not in the cards. I will take several old towels just in case. He just loves swimming that lake especially when the geese are out and luring him to the center. I know he thinks they look easy to catch and of course they let him get within a few feet and paddle away.
He ate a big breakfast this morning, so that makes two good meals within twelve hours. That is unusual for him anymore, so he is in his eating cycle now I guess. Today we will have to go get a pup cup of custard. Some for Mom too, I think I am addicted. Good thing we have no custard places at home. Just ice cream and it's just no the same, so it is easily avoided.
Before dinner last night, we zpent the late afternoon and evening at Rocheport at Les Bougeois Winery. A beautiful little A-frame sits among the trees on the bluffs with several levels of decks heading down a shady hillside. We stayed to watch the sunset which is always a wonderful sight from the bluffs. Got a little humid, but after two days of heavy rain, it was welcome just to see the sun.
Today it is back to work in the yard. Jack can help me dig. He is very good at that and if I start digging, he will join in. He actually does pretty well and will dig where I point. Sometimes it is not perfect, but it is too much fun not to work together.
And because of you all, I can enjoy that gardening with Jack. I owe you all so much.
Love and Husky hugs,
Debbie and Jack
Debbie posted the following post on another forum at 2:45 this morning... thought you might enjoy reading it:
Well, Jack went squirrel hunting today. He really loves to stalk the little beggars. I just wish they were smarter. I always stay out there in case a mentally challenged squirrel decides to try to outrun Jack. Fun to stalk, but would not like if Jack caught one. He also brought his monkey to me today and we played fetch in the yard for awhile. It was good to see him acting a little more normal again.
Amy was able to clean out his nose which has been really gunked up the last couple of days. She did a really good job, but he was not happy. I think he is breathing much easier now that she is done, but I don't think he associates that with Amy. After all that has been done to his nose, he is understandably reluctant to go through anything else. I am going to try to begin putting the Kerasolv lotion they gave me for his hyperkeratosis at the end of his nose, which is just a side effect of the radiation. Previously I had been hesitant to put him through the lotion applying process, but I think he is feeling well enough now to start it. I actually think some of the hyperkeratosis has resolved itself since surgery. It seems to have grown smaller or could be I am imagining things.
Tomorrow there is a golf tournament to benefit the vet school which Amy is working. Mom and I had only planned to be here until this afternoon, but we are staying another night, in fact my mom wants to stay until Sunday. I didn't bring any clothes, so I am doing laundry every day. I am really wanting to get home, so I am hoping I can convince Mom to leave tomorrow. I guess it will be the last time we get to visit this summer, so if she wants to stay longer, I guess I will just go along.
I am just so far behind.
going to bed am getting really tired and want to check on several of you. Thanks for hanging in there and always being here for me. I appreciated you all more than you know.
Love and big Husky hugs,
Debbie and Jack
- Debbie and Jack said...
Cynthia,
Thanks so much for posting. I probably haven't been clear about Jack's cancer, so thanks for asking. Yes they did find living cancer in his tissue biopsy. So what that means are there could be stray cells left behind by the surgeon which could begin to grow again, or there may be none left, it was ll removed by the surgeon. Won't know until he has his recheck in 3 months, so it will be a long 3 months. Am trying my best to believe that it is all gone.
Today we did a lot of work around the house and then spent the evening with some of Amy's friends who were here celebrating their eighth anniversary. It was pretty much just a lazy day. Jack played a little more today, in fact wanted to play a little game of throw the monkey. He also stalked a squirrel which he hasn't done for awhile. All in all, I saw more signs of his recovery. Amy was able to clean out his nose which had become pretty plugged up with mucus. I am sure he is breathing easier, however he is giving Amy a wide berth. He had a good dinner just a while ago, so I am sure I will be up with him in a few hours.
Thanks again for all your help and support. It has been a long last 30 days and we wouldn't be where we are without your generosity.
Love and Husky hugs,
Debbie and Jack- Sequia said...
Debbie, I am so glad that Jack is getting better every day. I am abit confused though. Was there cancer present or none at all?
Have you gotten your phone working yet?
I am glad that you had a good day with Amy and that Jack got to go there without having to go to the vet's!
Call me when you can.
hugs to the both of you,
Cynthia
Friday, June 13, 2008
- Debbie and Jack said...
another late posting. It has been such a busy day with Amy's birthday. She got out at noon today, so Grams and I had to hurry to get things ready. Then we had lunch got some homemade ice cream and came home to spend the afternoon. Paul cooked out and then tonight some of amy's friends came over .
As for me and Jack, we watched the Celtics beat the Lakers. Then we both fell sound asleep. I think i mostly slept through the game. I am so tired and Jack is too. So we are both looking forward to a great night's sleep. The storms are hading out wa y, some severe, so it should be a good night for sleeping. Jack is not afraid of storms, in fact my guy is not afraid of anything.
Every day I see him doing little things that let me know he is feeling better. today he was chewing on his baby monkeys. Now that is a very good sign. I did buy him a new monkey right after surgery and today he went and got it out to play with it.
Dr. Bommarito did let me know today that while he was hoping that there would be no cancer present in the biopsy, he was expecting there to be some, so Jack's results are not out of line. He suggested a recheck in three months from surgery, so that would be the last week of August. Dr. B will be out of clinic all summer studying for his boards, so I am going to wait until Sept, so I will not have to deal with another clinician. I really like Dr Bommarito and so does Jack. We trust him.
So grateful to you all your help.
Love and big Husky hugs,
Debbie and jack
Thursday, June 12, 2008
- Debbie and Jack said...
So sorry I am so late with posting. At the last minute my mom and I jumped in the car and headed to Columbia for Amy's birthday. Kind of a spur of the moment suprise for Amy. Brought Jack with me of course and it will be a good experience coming to see Amy and NOT going to the hospital and having something done. We had a pretty full day trying to get ready to leave at such short notice but finally made it here tonight. Of course on the way in we had to stop at Jason's Custard and pick up 3 pup cups, one each for Kaya, Molly and Jack. Jack got so excited to see everyone. Now he is pretty sleepy. He got pretty playful outside and picked up a long stick and started to chew it. I took that as a very good sign. He hasn't done that in a long time. He almost looked like a puppy chewing on his stick. A favorite pasttime from his youth.
Can just tell he is getting better every day. Thanks to all of you
Love and big Husky hugs,
Debbie and Jack
Tuesday, June 10, 2008
- Debbie and Jack said...
Good morning all. Jack is a little lethargic today. I think the schedule he has been keeping has left him feeling a bit tired, just like I feel. So I think he is beginning to relax and just wants to recuperate. His breathing is quite loud when he stands, like he is breathing through his nose with a really bad cold. However he is laying down on his side and you cannot even hear his breathing while he is sleeping. I have checked several times to see that he is all right. Don't understand why, but it is normal regular breathing. Last night he kept wanting to go outside on the deck and sleep. I think he was hot on my bed, so I finally turned the fan on and he slept the rest of the night. It was so cold pulling the outside air and blowing it right on the bed, so I woke up really congested and my eyes more gunky than it had been. Oh well, can't have Jack being hot! I will have to break out my flannel nightgown tonight.
Hoping to hear from Dr. Bommarito today. Sent him an email. That is the best way for us to communicate. Don't know why I called yesterday. Force of habit I guess.
Will let you know what I hear. So appreciate all you have done and your continued support and prayers for us. God bless
Love and Husky hugs,
Debbie and Jack
Monday, June 9, 2008
- Debbie and Jack said...
Jack's appetite is really picking up. He is even eating his DRY DOG FOOD Lordy, I never thought he would touch that stuff again after all his treats since surgery.
Feeling a little better about the biopsy report. Have got a call into Dr. Bommarito and I will be sure to let you all know what he says. Hopefully he puts a more positive spin on things.
Last night Jack reclaimed his place on my bed. For several weeks before surgery, he slept downstairs on "his" green velvet chair. But last night when we stayed at home for the first night, he moved Lily to the floor, where the poor little thing remained. So Jack is feeling better and getting into his old routines.
And for that I have all of you to thank.
Love and Huksy hugs,
Debbie and Jack
Sunday, June 8, 2008
- Debbie and Jack said...
Got a call from the surgeon yesterday, which is the first I have spoken to her since the surgery. I had inquired about the biopsy before I left. My phone actually rang, but it cut off befoe I could ask any questions. She wanted to tell me they had found live active cancer cells in the biopsy and how disappointed she was. I have found her to be a really pessimistic person so since the phone was cutting out, I could not really hear what she was saying except that Dr. Bommarito was disappointed too. I will have to call the hospital Monday and talk to him. He had told me the tumor looked dead, but probably there were live cells in the center, but the perimeters were all dead. Now I don't know whether they sound live cells on the perimeter. I am trying ot keep a positive thought, but I have been imagining all the cells gone and now I am scared again. Wish she hadn't called. Ignorance is bliss they say.
Today my favorite cousins are coming through town and I am looking forward to seeing them. Hardly ever get to see them anymore since Amy left Colorado State. So this will be a treat for me and mom. Her cat Bomber just went to the Rainbow Bridge last week, so I know she is sad. We can cheer each other up. They are the most fun people I know. I have another set of cousins on my dad's side who live in Atlanta, that I feel the same way about. It is nice to have such wonderful family.
Please all pray for Jack. Help me visualize that cancer away. You are so wonderful to care for Jack and me. God bless you.
Love and Husky hugs,
Debbie and Jack
- Debbie and Jack said...
You know I don't think I have stated strongly enough how I feel about all of you have come to Jack's rescue through this blog. He would be dead by the end of summer without you all stepping in to save him. I had exhausted any resouces I had. Without this blog and the kindness of complete strangers, I would have been desolate. So please remember how much you all mean to me. I know many of you are friends of family members, some old friends from childhood, others people who have no connection to me whatsoever. I can't tell you how much this has meant. And I know many of you have been supporting Jack and me since last fall. God bless you each and every one. Please pray for us.
On another note, my dear friend Joanna who started this blog to help me and Jack, needs some prayers, too. When she started this blog, I was totally unaware of what she was doing. Many of you know me and I don't even understand the least little thing about computers. It is a miracle I can post here! (Seriously!) Back to Jo. She has a wonderful little Westie with bladder cancer named Mike. He was diagnosed about the same time as Jack last fall. Mike's treatment plan was not as fortunate as Jack's, but Jo is caring for him every day. Some days are good and some days are not so good. But please everyone pray for her and Mike. She so unselfishly spent so much time helping me and Jack even through bad days with Mike. I love her so much and only wish I could be there with her and give her a big hug. Unfortunately she lives 3 states away. You see I have never met Joanna in person, but look what she has given me and Jack. May the Good Lord, care for her and Mike and I am personally praying for a miracle.
Love and Husky hugs,
Debbie and jack
Saturday, June 7, 2008
- Debbie and Jack said...
Well Grandma came through for Jack this morning. She got him to eat some of his dry dog food with his favorite Grandma food, bacon. He has an upset stomach, so I am going to try Pepcid and also some pumpkin. I think he is a bit sluggish since the surgery because he is not eating enough. Hopefully the pumpkin, which he hates, will help.
My housesitter again just sat in my house, so last night I did a sinkful of dishes. Today, I am going to the horses to check the pen and then to yard work for the rest of the day, mowing, trimming, pruning, weeding. Normally I love this but when it hasn't been touched for so long, it becomes more of a chore than a pleasure. It will be a pleasure when I catch up and can sit back and enjoy the yard. Tomorrow is supposed to rain, so I can play catch up inside tomorrow. No rest for the weary.
Didn't mean to sound complaining. I am just about all in and things are just piling up on me. I have been gone too much and no one to help when I am gone. Just sweeping the floor which I did before I left last week would have been helpful. I think I am just overwhelmed right now and tired to boot, so it seems impossible to catch up. This time next week hopefully things will be looking up. Then I can start painting the house. Oh boy, don't even think about that! HA! I just love climbing on ladders.
The one thing that makes all this stuff seem so insignificant is that I have Jack with me by some miracle. And he is getting better every day and that is all because of you.
Love and big Husky hugs,
Debbie and Jack- Debbie and Jack said...
Had an uneventful ride home today. Jack is very excited to be here. The closer we got the more excited he got. The smells change as we get closer to home. Of course we did not go directly home, but to the horses. Had to rebuild the pen and pen up three horses. They are just too fat and we worry about founder. That took until around 8:30 pm. Went to the store and got essentials, like dog food, and just now got over to my mom's. Thought the AC would be good for Jack. However, I think it was cooler at my house with the fans, since my mom has it set on nearly 80. She must be cold! Oh well, we are here for the night and early to rise to check the penned horses. Then Jack and I will spend the day doing yard work. I tell you it is a jungle out there in my yard. Too much rain and too little time in the yard.
Jack ate a little today. Nothing good for him. I stopped and got him a hot dog at a convenience store. YUCK! But at least he did eat it. Then I got him to eat a few pieces of pork chop I pulled off a bone. Would not touch anything else I tried to feed him Hopefully in the morning Grandma will fix him something he likes.
I am sure now that he is home, he will perk up and begin to get better. I swear he is almost completely healed. It is amazing.
And all because of you. Love you all
Debbie and Jack
Friday, June 6, 2008
- Debbie and Jack said...
Well my server went down last night as I was posting, so I went to bed and thought I would try again this morning.
Jack was quietly sleeping all night last night. Only got up once. By this morning his nose was pretty blocked up by mucus on the left, so there is a whistling sound as he breathes. He actually is being pretty good about letting me try to clean it out, but it is pretty gross and not my favorite job. What's that old rhyme? I've changed it up a bit. "You can pick your dog and your can pick your nose, but you can't pick your dog's nose." Well I am here to say, yes you can! YUCK! One thing I do know is that his nose is not painful, because he does not mind me grabbing it. I am sure he wonders what the heck I am doing to him now!
Today we head home. Amy gets off School at 1, so we will leave after that. I am hoping he will eat, since it has been two days since he ate anything with any substance. If I can't get anything down him, I will steam some hamburger for him and of course we will got the custard place and get the proverbial pup cup which never fails to please my boy. I wonder if I will ever get him back to eating dog food again. When we get home, no AC, so his appetite is always low in the summer. We can't do that this summer, so he may be on mom's home cooking just to keep his weight and strength up. You can tell that he is weak. He hasn't even gone out yet today, just sleeping. I need to get more water in him, too for the trip.
Will let you know when we get home. We still don't have a phone. Sprint says I qualify for a free phone upgrade and all I have to do to get the "free" phone is pay this much money. There is no such thing as free anymore. I will tackle that problem when I get home. My posting may become a bit spotty when I get home since I have to leave home to post, but I will endeavor to post at least once a day and let all of Jack's new family know what is happening with the big guy. I am sure when he gets home he will be very busy remarking the yard. I hope my trees and bushes are up to it.
God bless you all and thank you for all you have done to help Jack.
Love and Husky hugs,
Debbie and Jack
ps. Got word last night that I received another $140 toward Jack's aftercare. To those donors who so generously gave, thank you and God bless you.
Thursday, June 5, 2008
- Debbie and Jack said...
Jack slept like a log last night. Was a bit congested. Doesn't seem interested in eating, but did get a little yogurt down him. His stomach is still not normal, so someone suggested yogurt for his intestinal flora. I hope they were right. He seemed to like it and maybe that will help.
Hoping to get the phone fixed today so I can leave for home. Really worrying about Sassy who was brought home on Tuesday. Have not been able to get hold of the neighbors to check on the horses and don't have anyone at home who would help, so I am very worried about them.
Jack and I are off for a walk. Shorter today. I don't think he is as strong as he seems to think. Yesterday really wiped him out.
Thinking of you all and wishing you all the best things life has to offer. You have given me my Jack back.
Love and Husky hugs,
Debbie and Jack
- Debbie and Jack said...
Jack is still sleeping. After the long hot walk this afternoon and his swim in the lake. Hasn't eaten yet, but did perk up for a little frozen custard in a pup cup. I think I will put him to bed early and me too. Hopefully tomorrow I will get the phone sorted out. Don't want to drive home without a phone.
Looking at my Jack sleep so peacefully, right now, I want to send blessing to all of you.
Love and Husky hugs,
Debbie and Jack
Wednesday, June 4, 2008
- Debbie and Jack said...
Well my phone was at the phone store most of the day, but they cannot fix it. I am working to get it turned on so I can get some important numbers off. I will go in Thursday and decide whether to order another one like it or get a new one. Whatever is cheaper, I never use any thing ont he phone by calling, so these new ones are too complicated for me.
Jack, Mollydog and I went for a long walk at Twin Lakes. Then we went into the dog park where we met two really nice boxers named Sugar Ray and Layla. Also there was the Jack Russell named Biff who wanted to tear everyone's face off. And last but not least, the Golden Retriever, Riley (just like one of our good friends). Riley and Jack spent some good times retrieving balls from the pond. Riley got the balls and Jack just swam along beside him. It was great exercise and he has been snoozing for the past 3 hours. It was so hot outside that I thought about jumping in the lake with him. I certainly didn't complain when he shook all over me.
Will check in later and let you know what the big guy is up to if he ever wakes up that is.
Love and Husky hugs,
Debbie and Jack
- Debbie and Jack said...
That is the cutest pic ever. Those husky hugs made us feel sooooo good.
Everyone that knows and loves Jack should be smiling today. He is feeling so good without all the staples, that he is jumping all over the house. We have taken two small walks around the neighborhood. Now I just packed water and we are going to the woods. It is so muggy here today, that will be the only cool place. First we are spraying ourselves with cedar oil hopefully to discourage ticks and mosquitoes from making us their mid afternoon snack. Jack usually does not get them--his hair is just too thick. I have only even found one. Now Mollydog is a nother story, she is full of them always, so she will get extra spray. They are hard to find in her black hair, exp. those seed ticks so prevalent around here. Kaya will have to msis this walk, she can't get up in the car anymore and Paul is not home to help me. I think she has about had it for the heat today anyway.
Going to take more pix in the woods.
Love you all and thanks for giving me my Jack back.
Love and Husky hugs,
Debbie and Jack
- Debbie and Jack said...
Jack had a bit of a rough night due to the latenesss of the hour when he finally ate. So a bit of stomach upset and up and down until about 4 am Finally felt better. Does not want to get up this morning, but I made him. We have to get back into our early to bed early to rise schedule somehow.
As I was posting, I heard clanging pans and he was in the back bedroom eating the kitten chow. That is the closest interval between two meals since he had surgery. Took him in the kitchen and he ate 2 cups of dry and some canned. Hopefully I can get him ba ck on his regular all dry diet. It has gotten him this far with good teeth. I forgot to go to the food store at the vet school with Amy and get some cheap food yesterday, so unless I stay until Thursday pm, I will have to go home without it.
Going to get Jack back on his physical exercise schedule today, so a small walk through the woods. in awhile before it gets hot. Every time I look at him I am so grateful for all you have done to help us. We are truly blessed by wonderful friends.
Love and Husky hugs,
Debbie and Jack
- Debbie and Jack said...
I apologize for the lateness of the hour. I know I have worried you all. My phone stopped working today and Amy took her computer to school this evening to study for her surgery tomorrow. Paul left, too with my car, so I was in the house with no phone, no computer and no car. I had logged on earlierand then the computer just left. I wasn't fast enough. I don't think anyone expected to be this late. I am sooooo sorry.
I love the Husky smile. That is just what I needed to see. Jack got everything out today and they "couldn't be more pleased with his progress." They did have to sedate him a little to remove the staples, but I was glad. I think getting 10 staples out of your muzzle would be a traumatic event. They tried doing it first but he was so agitated. He just didn't want to be touched. So it was for the best. He was back with Mom in ten minutes and he looks like nothing has happened.
I got pictures, but I will have to get them put on a CD tomorrow. I even got a coupon for half price development, so hopefully I will be able to get some on. I took a few so you can see before and after.
My eye is still very painful It is some conjuctivitis of some sort and seems to be localizing with the hotpacks. It is not a stye. I think I have just missed too much sleep and gotten my immune system a little down. Hopefully with some good rest and less worry over my sweet boy, I can get myself back into good health. I swear I could have gone to bed tonite at 9, but had to wait to let you all know, so maybe I can sleep a little later in the am.
It is storming outside so I have opened the windows and Jack and I will sleep under the cool breezes with the smell of a spring rain surrounding us. Sounds like the recipe for a great night's sleep.
Thank you all for caring about us and waiting to hear the good news.
Love and Husky hugs,
Debbie and Jack
Tuesday, June 3, 2008
We're Sending A Happy Husky Smile To Help Jack And Debbie Feel BetterWe Love You Jack!!
Along with the comment below that Debbie left here, I have copied and am pasting a post she placed on another forum. This explains more about what is wrong with her eyes and what she's been through the past 24 hours. She posted:
I can barely see to type this. My eyes are swollen and itchy. I was havinga bit of trouble seeing today but thought it was the crazy storms I was driving through. Then I thought oh I am getting a cold in my eyes, but now I am thinking I got into some trumpet vine doing yard work. That would explain the scratch throat and congestion, too. So now I wait, if that is what it is, by tomorrow I will be swollen shut. Hope Paul can get us to the hospital tomorrow.
Had to drive real slow today. I was in between two severe thunderstorms the whole way. Every once in awhile I would catch up with the fron one and have to slow down. Jack loved it though because we stopped at his favorite roadside park and took a nice long walk. We even saw some deer over the fence. It was some fun. It was good to see him get excited.
Tonight he is breathing through his nose, but expelling a lot of snotty bloody looking things. He ate this afternoon but won't tonight and looks so sad. Has mostly slept since we got here. Amy checked his resp and heartrate. Both a little fast, but she thinks he gets anxious when she comes toward him to check him.
I finally got some batteries for Amy's camera to see if it will work. If not, I found a digital disposable on sale which I will get to take some pictures of my dear "Frankendog" before he changes back to dear old Jack. I still prefer the gingham dog for a moniker, but even strangers come up and call him
Frankendog.
Going to go soak my eyes with some salt packs. That won't help if it is trumpet vine but if it is something viral, it should improve by morning. I washed with oil removing soap yesterday, but not my eyes. I am usually so careful not to touch my eyes and that soap is so hard on your eyelids. I am not a pretty sight. Perhaps a picture of Frankendog and Frankenme.
Love you all, will let you know what goes on tomorrow. If we are lucky, the staples may come out too. He is healing so quickly.
Love and Husky hugs,
Debbie and Jack
*****
- Debbie and Jack said...
Jack does not go in until 2 pm CST, so until then no food. They may have to sedate him if they decide to take the staples out. He is feeling poorly today. I think heis depressed. When we get to Amy's he expects to go to the hospital. Poor baby. Amy hates it too. He has always loved to be with amy. After all, she picked him out when we got him in Colorado while she was in undergrad. He is her puppy, too.
I have spent the day hotpacking my eye. Today Jack and I are quite the pair. I am sure people will cross the street when they see us coming. HA!
Will let you know when we are done. Watch for a picture soon. Got a disposable digital. Am hoping Jack will perk up for a picture. The first two he looks like he is in pain. What we need is a Husky smile for the picture.
Thanks again for helping us get to this point in our journey. We could not have gotten here without you all.
Love and Husky hugs,
Debbie and Jack
- Debbie and Jack said...
We made the trip to Columbia and travelled between two severe storms. It worked out nicely and I got to drive with no rain. Jack and I stopped at his favorite roadside park and had a wonderful time up on the hill watching the storms move across the horizon. He got to see some deer over the fence and it was good to see him get so excited. He looked like the old Jack for a moment.
Tonight he is a little sedate. Has a lot of clots dropping from his nose tonight which I think is a little uncomfortable. I am hoping he will sleep through tonight. We could both use some uninterrupted sleep
Will keep you posted on what happens tomorrow at the hospital. If we are lucky, the staples may come out tomorrow too.
Hopefully will have a picture to post by tomorrow.
Thanks again for all your support and interest in my sweet boy.
Love and big Husky hugs,
Debbie and Jack
Monday, June 2, 2008
- Debbie & Jack said...
Good morning all. It is a dark and soon to be stormy day here in MO. I am heading to Columbia with Jack for suture removal tomorrow and staple removal on Friday. It seemed silly to come home but I am so glad I did. I think his progress since we got home has been amazing. I am still trying to get you a picture so you can see "Frankendog" before he is no more.
Jack spent a restless night last night, sneezing to get rid of some sticky clots. So now "we" are catching up on our beauty sleep, at least one of us is. He is the better looking of the two of us. Until we leave, I will work in the yard and head out when the rains come.
Spent some time this morning visiting some different cancer sites for animals and was even more grateful to you all for your help. There are so many animals and their owners out there desperate for help. The economic times are so hard and so many are hurting. I want to include a link to a dear friend of mine in Canada. She has rescued a rabbit named Benji from a bad situation and poor Benji needs some help for an eye condition which the previous owners chose not to treat. Now poor Benji needs help and Cynthia is trying to find some. She has set up a blog for Benji, so I am hoping that some of you good people who keep up with Jack can help spread the word about Cynthia and Benji. Cynthia has supported me and Jack with her care and concern since day 1 of Jack's diagnosis, so I am hoping I can help her, too. Pay it forward as they say. The link is http://www.benjisjourney.blogspot.com/ .
Thank you again for all you have given so unselfishly to me and my sweet darling Jack. I wish each one of you could meet my Jack and see how special he is. It is my fervent hope that through this blog, you all feel as if you do know him.
Love and Husky hugs,
Debbie and Jack- Debbie and Jack said...
Boy, am I tired and nowhere near done. Gone are the days when I could take one day and get all the yard done. Jack kept me company and had a great time, although I do think he was glad to get back in the AC at my mom's tonight. I made him a little gauze cap to keep the flies off his head while I worked.
The humidity was dreadful as it could possibly be for this time of year. So Jack and I were glad to call it quits at sunset and get the heck out of Dodge.
He is snoring as I write. What a beautiful sound, Really catching up on his zzzzzzs. Everything seems to be healing nicely and he has almost no drainage at all from his nose. Every once in awhile he will sneeze out a clot. I could not be more pleased with his progress. it seems like just yesterday, I was so worried. What a difference a day makes.
What a difference you all have made in our lives. God bless you all
Love and Husky hugs,
Debbie and Jack
Sunday, June 1, 2008
- Debbie and Jack said...
Wanted to let you know that we had an uneventful night other than getting up to go out every two hours. But I did not get stuck in any showers. Jack is lying on his side and breathing through his nose right now, so things are looking up. His student from the hospital called this morning to check on him and his tech Melody called last night. They are amazing. It is Sunday. No rest for the weary I guess.
I have a big day of work catching up from my lengthy stay in Columbia. I wish I had someone to truly housesit instead of just sitting in the house if you get my gist. So things just pile up while I am gone. It is hard to believe how dirty the floor can get in a week and a half with no one to sweep it. So I have bird cages, litter boxes, floors, a sinkful of dishes not to mention scads of yardwork to do before I leave again tomorrow for Columbia.
At least you all will know what I am doing today.
Have decided to stop in Kearney to take care of Sassy on the way to Columbia tomorrow. That will save on gas. It will mean I have to drive thru KC. I usually take the scenic route and miss the traffic and the smell. Just hate that part.
Nothing can really bother me now though since Jack is on the road to recovery. All because of you all.
love and Husky hugs,
Debbie and Jack
- Debbie and Jack said...
Well Jack is sleeping peacefully after spending the last 3 hours on my lap. He was so close to me with his front feet on my lap and his head on my chest. He kept kissing me on the chin. Don't know what was up with him? Perhaps he was trying to let me know that tonight I should take a bath and not a shower. HA
Will update you more tomorrow. Good night and God bless to everyone of you.
Love and big Husky hugs,
Debbie and Jack
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Today Jack is having the itches. He always gets this when he is shedding and sweating. I brush him every morning and some evenings, but when he is in the middle of a big blow, it is never enough. I would love to give him a bath, but the bathtub cannot be used at home. I guess the dogwash place here in town has closed. His skin is so itchy and it is so hard to keep him dry. He keeps jumping in the pool Probably makes his skin feel better and then he is alive with itching. He just does not understand the connection, so Mom gets out the hair dryer. I just wish he could catch a break, what with me picking his nose, putting lotion on his nose, brushing him continuously, blowdrying his fur, this guy needs a spa day to recover from being with me! LOL
But it is all right, because at least he is here with me. And that is due to all of you.
Cynthia, Have fun with Nathan. Wish I could have done that with my kids. We made our own camping trips and I guess it worked.
Love and Husky hugs,
Debbie and Jack
ps. Sent Jo pix to post of Jack
June 29, 2008 7:48:00 PM EDT