We celebrated Rusty's 3rd birthday last Friday the 5th; Dr. Macy was not in town on Rusty's actual date, July 30th, and he wanted to attend the party.  Dr. Huber and Dr. Yee were also included in the party; Dr. Huber performed Rusty's amputation. Several of Rusty's dog friends parents also helped him celebrate his special day.  Jan decorated the dining tables in a doggy theme and made cupcakes with dog picks & liners.  We ordered a new bandanna for his party and he received several toys and gifts from his supporters.

Rusty had his 18 month follow-up with Dr. Macy on the 4th; his 18 month amputation anniversary was July 25th.  Dr. Macy took X-Rays of his chest, abdomen and pelvis and they were all clear of any Mets!!; Dr. Huber did an rectal exam and everything seemed normal!  His blood work was normal except for the liver functions; he is continuing to have elevated levels, up again since three months ago.  Dr. Macy said that he is getting concerned about the continued rise in enzymes and performed some additional tests to see if any cancer was present; the tests were negative for cancer. 

The liver issues started when Rusty consumed some meds when a friend left her open purse on the floor at Christmas; she claims that he only ate some ant-acids.  However, she had several meds in her purse including heart pills; we will never know if that was the cause of his problems.  Dr. Macy started  him on milk thistle, which is not agreeing with his stomach; we are taking him off the milk thistle for a few days and will try it again on Monday.  He needs it for his liver.

Dr.'s Macy & Huber were very pleased with Rusty's 18th month checkup; Dr. Huber had been optimistic that Rusty would make 18 months or longer, but Dr. Macy was not as confident because of the very aggressive form of cancer than Rusty has.  Rusty continues to make new friends and they are amazed when they hear his story; as I have said we don't know how long Rusty will be with us but are very grateful that he continues to do so well.  Were are not making any plans for his 4th birthday but we are keeping the decorations just in case the miracle continues.  He continues to enjoy his swimming, socializing at the lake and riding around in his golf cart.

Chuck & Rusty

What a great post!!!!  Happy Birthday, and congrats on an excellent check-up!!  Keep rockin' dude!!!