Tshuvah has adapted very well to being in Chicago.  She finds the squirrels and chipmunks endlessly fascinating, and has treed quite a few although hasn't caught any.  She's staked out her spot on our front porch and enjoys all the local smells.  I take her to one of the local parks almost every day and she has a huge fan base among the kids.  They crowd around her, love on her, ask about her, and pet her; she soaks it up. She has cured more than one kid of dog-fear. She would have been such an amazing therapy dog for sick kids.

That's the good stuff. 

On the other side of things, she has developed a lump under the skin behind her right shoulderblade, and a few skin "blisters". Hemangiosarcoma can present as dermal, hypodermal, or internal, and soshe might be showing both dermal types…of course, we don't know about her internal condition.  We had a vet come look at her last week, she felt Tshuvah was doing great under the circumstances and that's there's really nothing to do but keep her happy.  Tshuvah's on gabapentin and seems not to be in any pain; we're so thankful for that. 

Tshuvah's limp started 3 months ago and her diagnosis and amputation was 7 weeks ago; prognosis for hemangiosarcoma is 1-2 months post-diagnosis so I know we are in our final weeks. 

Her joy, every time she makes a new friend, eats turkey jerky or roast chicken or ice cream, or enjoys massage, makes me happy.  But its a bit like chinese water torture, knowing that she could bleed out and drop literally any moment.  I try to focus on the blessings she has brought and cotinues to bring, every single day.  I've never known a dog that brought so much joy to so many people.

Beth

Hi Beth,

I'm happy to hear that Tshuvah is enjoying the dog days of summer.

Keeping those squirrels and chipmonks in line, while still being quite the social girl.

That's so wonderful.

You have such a special girl.

Yes, I know what you mean with feeling the impending future, but your girl is here now, happy, loving life and you.

Hold her close. Love her big. Treasure it all.

I know you are.

                  big hugs,

                    Denise

Beth and Tshuvah,

It's nice to hear that Tshuvah is enjoying herself in Chicago… I know that you're worried, thinking about what her future holds… but remember, she doesn't know or think about things like that. She's just enjoying her life minute to minute… and you should do the same. So just love her and spoil her for as long as you can!

Sending you and Tshuvah a big fat hug!!!

Angel Jake and Wolfie's Mom