Caring for a Three Legged Dog or Cat
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WOW... who would have thought it would be the 11 month marker that has rendered me a sobbing fool(AGAIN)... Today is rough. Shelby passed on April 8 so today marks her 11 month angelversary. I acknowledge each one on my Facebook page and will do so until one year has passed. It is my way to honor her and the life she led ... and then I will keep my grief and sadness private and mourn alone. It is the way I chose to honor her. I read somewhere that a woman who lost her spouse and spent a year mourning and then, after a new year, it was a rebirth of sorts ... that is how I look at it. April 8, 2015 will be my "new year" and I will truly try and move forward (easier said than done).
I found a nickle yesterday ... Shelby usually sends pennies but maybe she was feeling rich.
And then I just got home from the grocery store and Jasper had shredded a protein bar wrapper. She has NEVER ever done this. In fact, that was Shelby's 'thing'. Shelby would get into the trash if I forgot to close the door and I still remember during her treatment and coming home to a mess. I had never been SO happy to see coffee grounds all over the floor. 
But that's never been Jasper's thing. She's a pretty good girl. But today - shredded to pieces ... As I picked it up, I couldn't help but think she was guided by my best girl ....
I miss Shelby so much and it's hard because I do love Jasper (a lot). I hope that one day I can truly accept the new love for what it is and move forward and not feel so guilty about loving this new little dog. Not to be morbid but since it takes me years to get over pain/grief, it will probably be around when I have to say goodbye to little Jasper Lily.
The next month will be a tough one. I know me - I know I will live in the past despite the fact that there is nothing to be gained by that.... but I'll hang tough, drink lots of wine and eat chocolate. And I'm going to Seattle again this month and plan to bring some of Shelby's ashes w/me to release on the beach up there where we loved to go.
This was us ONE year ago - today. I couldn't have possibly known it was about to be our last month together. I am glad I didn't know. I am glad we spent time at the beach and snuggled and cuddled like always ... we were definitely in the moment. It is also so weird... she was smaller w/out her leg and with her chemo but she looks so big here. Maybe because Jasper is so tiny (18 pounds). Shelby was about 22 - 23 pounds here. But somehow, even with her size, she fits WAY better in my arms than Jasper does ...Our bond was and will always be unlike any other ...
Shelby Lynne; Jack Russell/Shiba Inu mix. Proud member of the April Angels of 2014.
October 15, 2000 to April 8, 2014
Our story: Broke rear leg in June 2013 - non-conclusive results for cancer so leg was plated and pinned. Enlarged spleen in September 2013 and had it removed and was diagnosed with Hemangiosarcoma and started chemotherapy. Became a Tripawd January 8th, 2014 and definitive Hemangiosarcoma diagnosis. Three major surgeries in 7 months and Shelby took them all like a champ only to lose her battle to cancer in her brain. We had 8 amazing extra months together and no regrets. #shelbystrong #loveofmylife
She definitely is guiding JL. I love all of these pictures. You can see the love radiating through each one. I can't believe it has been 11 months. Thinking of you
Hugs
Michelle & Angel Sassy
Sassy is a proud member of the Winter Warriors. Live long, & strong Winter Warriors.
sassysugarbear.tripawds.com
07/26/2006 - Sassy earned her wings 08/20/2013
05/04/2006 - Bosch, Sassy's pal, earned his wings 03/29/19 fought cancer for 4 months.
"You aren't doing it TO her, you are doing it FOR her. Give her a chance at life."
You know, I think it is better that we do not always know what is coming. You would not have been able to enjoy those special extra cuddles with your Shelby girl if you knew. The grief is such a peculiar thing, just when you think you have it under control, something will trigger it. The guilt, non founded, but we all feel it to some degree. I think our Angels would want us to love again. I am going to a paint night at a local winery in a few weeks. It is a paint your pet night. I was not sure who to paint, but they think they can incorporate all 3 into my picture. Now I am feeling guilty for not painting TY. I know I need to live in the present and he doesn't care whether I paint him or not, but I feel guilty and sad anyway. I think Shelby is extra happy that you found JL. She is guiding her and letting you know she is still there by the little things such as , shredded protein wrappers. For me this week, it has been Lucy dragging off our shoes and eating Popsicle sticks out of the trash. They will always be here. It is just very hard to not have the physical. The everyday routine with them. It is hard to begin a new routine, but it is worth it. Thinking of you, Lori, Ty and Gang
TY GUY, Best Black Lab ever! Diagnosed and had amp in January, 2014. Kicked MRSA's butt. Earned his angel wings on April 16, 2014. Run Free my boy and don't forget a shoe. Ty is a proud member of the " April Angels". Ty sent us Daryl, a Tripawd rescue in Sept. of 2016. Daryl is 5 +or -. We are also Pawrents to Chandler, a Border Collie mix who is 15 and 1/2, Lucy, a Corgi who is 7, 2 minis, 2 horses, and a feisty cat named Zoe. Zoe had a non skeletal Osteosarcoma removed in July 2015. No Chemo, she was at least 16. She is going strong although she is now completely blind. She is now close to 20 and her hobbies are eating and sleeping in front of her personal heater.
Alison,
I do know everything you are feeling......the pain of grief, the unending tears, and the knowing that no pup will ever come close to the bond we shared with both Shelby and Polly. However, since I just passed my one year loss of Polly a few weeks ago, it's as if the clouds lifted a bit, and my days have gotten a little brighter. And it is not that I have ceased thinking about Polly on a day-to-day basis, or have stopped grieving her, or crying over her loss still, just that getting past all the "firsts" of initial heartbreaking memories of her loss, and firsts without her here with me. Time does have a way of easing the gut-wrenching heartache, and I find myself being able to remember her with more joy and less crying......I hold those memories so close to me, right in the center of my heart. I am hoping this will somehow comfort you, as you are looking ahead to your own 1 year closing of your loss of Shelby.
Our new pups definitely help the healing, and just look how far you have come with Jasper......you found each other, and Shelby definitely helped out with that. Each day will bring new joys with Jasper, and more easing of your heart, of this I am sure.
Thinking of you tonight, and {{{hugs}}}
Much Love,
Bonnie, Angel Polly, and new crew
Thanks all.....
Lori - I went to one of those paint with wine things for a final bday celebration Friday; super fun. I am a horrible painter though. LOL
I would agree ... my Shelby wants me to smile and be happy. She was definitely an only child but she wouldn't want me to be sad. She hated tears. Jasper saw me crying yesterday and crawled up next to me to lick me. Jasper is indeed trying to be a good little comfort girl (I still remember the first several months I had her, I would cry and it would be like Jasper had no clue that I was crying and seemed aloof and non-caring).
This a.m. when I was leaving for work, I saw Jasper sneak off and get that "sparkle" in her eye that could only mean trouble. Shelby was the QUEEN of that ... I would see her slinking into the kitchen. Well Jasper was slinking into the bedroom which means she was going for socks! I call it "channeling her inner Shelby".
I feel hopeful that after the final one year passes ... I do feel fresh and anew and able to move forward. I will be at work on the 8th of next month but I will come up with a special way to honor my best girl.
Shelby did visit a lot in my dreams yesterday and last night... I know that is her way of telling me, it's ok, mommy, I am still here. I still watch over you.
Much love to my tripawds family ...
Shelby Lynne; Jack Russell/Shiba Inu mix. Proud member of the April Angels of 2014.
October 15, 2000 to April 8, 2014
Our story: Broke rear leg in June 2013 - non-conclusive results for cancer so leg was plated and pinned. Enlarged spleen in September 2013 and had it removed and was diagnosed with Hemangiosarcoma and started chemotherapy. Became a Tripawd January 8th, 2014 and definitive Hemangiosarcoma diagnosis. Three major surgeries in 7 months and Shelby took them all like a champ only to lose her battle to cancer in her brain. We had 8 amazing extra months together and no regrets. #shelbystrong #loveofmylife
Love the pictures. They just ooze all kinds of love.
I've been watching this date (4/8) as well and will definitely be thinking of you, JL and sweet Shelby.
xoxo
Harmony became a Tripawd on 10/21/14 (MCT). She left us way too soon on 11/1/14.
"We miss you so much; our love, our heart, our Harmony."
- Pam, Ron and Melody, Meesha, Doublestuff and Mariah Carey
Those photos are so great and speak volumes about your bond with her.
Wine and chocolate, I'm with ya on that. You can lean on us Alison, we know this will be a hard one. Allow yourself to feel the grief, it's the only way to get through it.
{{{hugs}}}
Tripawds Founders Jim and Rene
tripawds.com | tripawds.org | bemoredog.net | triday.pet
Allison, you will have many more episodes of the random tears. You don't make this journey without a huge emotional toll. As time goes on it gets easier, but believe me, we are facing Trouble's 4 year anniversary of departing for the bridge, and I am right on the edge.
You, or anyone, who is fighting to understand or accept this very natural grief cycle can reach out to me. I'll be happy to help you through those dark days.
Shanna & Spirit Trouble ~ Trouble gained her wings 3/16/2011, a 27 1/2 month cancer survivor, tail wagging. RIP sweetheart, you are my heart and soul. Run free at Rainbow Bridge.
The November Five - Spirits Max, Cherry, Tika, Trouble & Nova. 11/2008 - 3/2013 An era ends as Queen Nova crossed the Bridge.
Alison, you come up with special ways to honor your sweet Shelby every single time you post here...with every word, with every picture, with every funny story, with every word of hope and encouragement, with every jnspiratiinal forward step you and Shelby took on this courageous journey you two shared.
Soooooo glad she came to you in your dreams. For me, that form of communication is proof of the ongoing connection you and Shelby have...a connection of energy. 
I'm really bummed that I haven't had some form of "communication" from my Happy Hannah yet. For somebody so "open to that sort of thing"......just don't get it.
Hugs and love all the time!
Happy Hannah had a glorious additional bonus time of over one yr & two months after amp for osteo! She made me laugh everyday! Joined April's Angels after send off meal of steak, ice cream, M&Ms & deer poop!
Thank you so much .... Shelby visited briefly last night... I think. I don't recall the dream but I have a strong sense that I felt her presence. Does that make sense? I even looked for her this a.m. and was a bit off until I fully woke up and remembered she isn't physically here.
I know there is no statute of limitations on grief and when it is your heart dog, the pain never really stops ... I just have to ride this roller coaster and let the emotions fall where they may and stay connected here. Shelby's legacy lives on through me and if I can help one new tripawd pawrent .. then Shelby's work is being done.
Today I feel almost peaceful ... probably because I felt her by my side last night. I always thank her for visiting ... even if it means Jasper has extra growlies!
Shelby Lynne; Jack Russell/Shiba Inu mix. Proud member of the April Angels of 2014.
October 15, 2000 to April 8, 2014
Our story: Broke rear leg in June 2013 - non-conclusive results for cancer so leg was plated and pinned. Enlarged spleen in September 2013 and had it removed and was diagnosed with Hemangiosarcoma and started chemotherapy. Became a Tripawd January 8th, 2014 and definitive Hemangiosarcoma diagnosis. Three major surgeries in 7 months and Shelby took them all like a champ only to lose her battle to cancer in her brain. We had 8 amazing extra months together and no regrets. #shelbystrong #loveofmylife
Totally makes sense Alison. I totally believe our loved ones visit us and sometimes we know it, sometimes we just have a sense like you did. My Dad tells me that Jerry, who he loved very much, visits him too! So no doubt she was there.
That's a great feeling to know they are still around isn't it?
Tripawds Founders Jim and Rene
tripawds.com | tripawds.org | bemoredog.net | triday.pet
i love love love these photos....I think we all miss Shelby and can feel how much you miss her. She will always have a special place in your heart as well as everyone here!!!
Jill is a 9-year-old tuxedo kitty. She was diagnosed with Osteosarcoma in June 2012 on her toe in her right hind leg. Her leg was amputated on 12/12/12 and she completed four rounds of chemo (2 of Carbo, 2 of Doxy) in April 2013. "Like" Jill's facebook page: https://www.fac.....tty?ref=hl Proud member of the WINTER WARRIORS!!!! Her blog can be read at http://jillsjou.....ipawds.com. xoxo
Such beautiful memories and keepsakes of your precious Shelby. I love looking at the pictures...simply stunning.
There will never be any replacing of Shelby but as you've seen your heart has grown to love Jasper too. I'm so glad you have her to help you through the tough days.
Hugs
Sahana and her Angel Leland
November 17, 2009 - June 30, 2014
May you finally be healthy and running free at the Rainbow Bridge. Until we meet again my sweet boy!
Thank you all (again)... she was indeed a pretty girl. I know Jasper gets a lot of compliments on her striking (aka dumbo ears) features but in my mind, Shelby was beautiful ALL the time. That smile. Those eyes. Those ears!
I never - in my wildest dreams - thought that at month 11, I would be rendered completely despondent and depressed. I thought those days had passed me and I was strong now. But I am so sorry, you guys, for being a ridiculously weepy and weak girl but I am having a super tough time. IT feels like it was just yesterday that I lost her and my world shattered. I cannot shake that 'dread' feeling when I wake up in the morning and realize my Shelby isn't in my bed.
I do love Jasper and the cuddles she gives and the comfort she tries to give (she doesn't respond as well to my cues when I am crying). But I don't know if it is work stress, Shelby stress, life stress but all I want to do is quit my job and curl up on my bed and cry for hours on end.
I am excited for the weekend so I can stay in bed ALL weekend and see and talk to no one. I am back to being clinically depressed. I need to shake this off. I am stronger than that !!!
Thank you all for listening... I promise to try and get better and be strong again! This community needs "strong Alison"!
XO
Shelby Lynne; Jack Russell/Shiba Inu mix. Proud member of the April Angels of 2014.
October 15, 2000 to April 8, 2014
Our story: Broke rear leg in June 2013 - non-conclusive results for cancer so leg was plated and pinned. Enlarged spleen in September 2013 and had it removed and was diagnosed with Hemangiosarcoma and started chemotherapy. Became a Tripawd January 8th, 2014 and definitive Hemangiosarcoma diagnosis. Three major surgeries in 7 months and Shelby took them all like a champ only to lose her battle to cancer in her brain. We had 8 amazing extra months together and no regrets. #shelbystrong #loveofmylife
Alison, stope beating our friend up! We ALL understand!! I'm glad you know you can "talk" :with us...with those who get it!
Thissjourney lends itself to the "feels like it was just yesterday" like no other. The intensity of it is...well...loke no other.
You ARE strong! You've endured s very, very difficult journey and you're still standing!! Sure, some days are less strong than others...waaaaay less stron! You get your "ShelbyStrong" back on everytime though!
Sometimes these "less strong" days are just our human way of recharging our batteries. Heck, a stay in bed day just plain feels decadently delightful sometimes...as long as you surround yourself with junk food and let Jasper Lily eat up all the crumbs!!
One thing ihope you will do for all of us "Artic Winter Survivors" is take Jasper Lily to the beach over the week end. Take lots of pictures of you two soaking nup the sun and maybe we'll be able to channel the warmth and sun!
Sending lots of hugs and some ice cream, chocolate, cupcakes, popcorn, potato chips,and champagne!!
Sally and Alumni Happy Hannah and Merry Myrtle too!
Happy Hannah had a glorious additional bonus time of over one yr & two months after amp for osteo! She made me laugh everyday! Joined April's Angels after send off meal of steak, ice cream, M&Ms & deer poop!
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