Hi all:

 Just before Thanksgiving we brought our 4 1/2 year old Malamute (yes, 4 1/2 yrs, not a typo) to the vet because of a limp. After thinking a ACL tear, the Xrays have shown bad news. Dec. 2, it was confirmed. Definite CHONDROsarcoma with possible osteosarcoma. 

By the way, Malamute Extradonaire's name is Nordiclight's Tikaani Spirit--aka Tika. (Tikaani is Athabascan Alakan for Wolf)

Amputation is necessary, rear hind leg, and will happen next week. Since our girl has already proven herself to be off the charts, we want to share our progresss.

 I give a big salute to Rene & Jim and Spirit Jerry for keeping this site going, I hope I can do my best to you by sharing our experiences.

 Tika's 'sister' is a German Shepherd (Caya) with EPI (exocrine pancreatic insufficiency) diagnosed at 1 1/2 yrs and going strong at 4 1/2 years, but that's another story.

 The majority of the heartache and crying is done for now (note, I said, for now!), and we are 'let's get into business mode'. I'm struggling with emotional vs rational right now. Dad's doing better, we both are trying to be strong for Tika girl.

So far, she has made it easy for us, she loves everybody and thinks vet trips are the next great adventure.

I will keep you posted on her progress, next week will be ruff, er rough.

Tika told me to keep my sense of humor.

 My heart goes out to all of our four-legged kids and pawrents who bravely go day to day living the best.

 --Kim (as dictated by Tika-dog)