Fergus, my 5 yo Irish Wolfhound, was schedule for blood work this morning in anticpation of his third chemo session next week.  During the past week I have noticed a swelling on this front left leg.  I suspected bad news but I am devasted after the xray results.  He has osteosarcoma in this leg too.  He has had a rough 2 months between pulled staples, being opened back up again and limited freedom, I thought he was finally due a break.  It is not meant to be.  We are trying to decide when to set him free as the bone is approx. 50% compromised.  My whole family is coming today for the holdiay.  So, we will let everyone say their goodbyes and then send him to the Rainbow Bridge either on Saturday or Monday. 

When Fergus was diagnosed in September, I promised my college Freshman son I would get him home to say goodbye to Fergus if things became dire.  Well, Fergus has been a real trooper and has been snuggling with my son since he got home for the holiday on Saturday.  We are going to let him decide if he wants to go with us for a final goodbye on Saturday or if he would rather see Fergus smiling when he leaves on Sunday to return to school.

This is brutally hard.  I was hoping and praying with the amputation and the chemo we would get more time.  We have made the best of the time we have had though.  Fergus (and the monkeybutt brothers Shamus and Rufus), will be getting tons of turkey this holiday.

Thank you to all of you during this difficult journey.  You have helped us get through the surgery, recovery and I am sure will help us get through this part of the journey too.

Love,

Tara & Fergus

Oh Tara, I'm so sorry….what horrible news.  Please know you have our thoughts with you to give you strength.  I hope it gives you special comfort that all your family will be with you to make these last few days special.  I'm so glad your son is able to spend good snuggle time with him this week.  Please hang in there and know we're all here supporting you during this difficult week.  xoxo Sue and Sammy

Tara,

I'm so very sad to read about Fergus. Like Jackie said, there's never enough time with our pups, but it's especially sad when their lives are cut short by this horrible disease.

We'll be thinking of you and sending you lots of Rio loves during this difficult time.

Micki and Rio

I am tearful reading your entry and admiring Fergus' adorable picture!  It is obvious that he is soooooo loved as I'm sure he knows!  We'll be thinking of you!

Charlie & Family

Wishing you the strength and serenity you need to get through this!

So Sorry to hear this diagnosis!

I believe there is no greater love than the one it takes to make this decision. Cuddle your boy and know he is doggie thankful for the life you gave him. Big hugs from our family to yours!

I am so sorry to hear that you have to go through this so soon.  I know how you feel.  Smother your boy with love and take lots of pictures together.  This last gift is the hardest of all to give, but know that we will be here for you to help in any way possible.

Jenna & Spirit Chili Dawg