If life gives you lemons, make Limoncello!
As the start of our 2018 Dock Diving season quickly approaches, we wanted to share the following with our family, friends and followers:
After some recent testing, Limoncello was diagnosed with dilated cardiomyopathy (a heart disease that causes dilation and poor contractility of the heart muscle). It was also discovered that Cello also has two leaky heart valves. After a long and difficult discussion with our veterinarian, it was determined that the best choice for Cello at this time is to retire her from dock diving.
Although we are disappointed that Cello’s dock diving career has come to an end, we are focusing our energy on celebrating her dock diving journey and how it has positively impacted our lives: her many notable accomplishments, the abundance of joy it has brought us, the amazing people we have met, the incredible dogs we have seen, the spectacular places we have visited, and the unforgettable memories we will continue to cherish. …We have SO MUCH to be grateful for because of Cello!
Without Cello on the dock this year, it will be an emotional dock diving season for sure. However, we are so thankful that because of the knowledge, expertise, and advice of Cello’s veterinarian and cardiologist, we were made aware of her condition before the season began. We are also looking at this unfortunate news as a positive opportunity to explore less intense bonding activities with Cello such as Barn Hunt, Nose Work, and Rally. We fondly anticipate learning new things, setting new goals, overcoming new challenges, traveling to new places, meeting more wonderful people, and building additional priceless memories. But above of all – we look forward to the many years of love and companionship we will treasure with Cello.
Even if we don’t understand why at this point, we are firm believers in “change is good” and “all things happen for a reason.” We are hopeful and eager to discover what new adventures will be had as Cello once again broadens our path. However, if Cello decides that in her early retirement she’d rather just relax, we welcome that change-of-pace as well.
Hooch and Lager will still be on the dock this year. We look forward to seeing our dock diving family this season.
The Dock Diving Diva’s Personal Bests:
•Big Air (on camera): 25’0”
•Extreme Vertical: 5’6”
•Speed Retrieve: 7.371 seconds
•Iron Dog: 2869.62 points
*2016 DockDogs #1 Warrior Iron Dog in the World
Photo credit: Precise Video Productions
Oh my heart goes out to you!! Years ago my kitty was diagnosed with something similar (he was about 16 when he was diagnosed) not sure how old Cello is……your attitude and the way you are handling it is amazing. I know it has to be so hard. Keeping you all in my thoughts and prayers and I am sending (((hugs)))
Thank you so SO much! Cello is only 7 – – we are trying to just remain thankful that we found out early – and attempt to find other things to keep her happy. It has been tough hearing the news – and we truly appreciate your kind words and support! Thank you from the bottom of our hearts!
I am so thankful you discovered Cello’s problem prior to the season so she wasn’t putting too much stress on herself. She went out as a fabulous example of Dock Diving excellence and we have enjoyed watching her. We will be rootin’ for Hooch and Lager. Give Cello extra kisses from the Bayou Boys.
Thank you so much – you are so kind – we VERY much appreciate your support and friendship!