This may be the most fun I’ve ever had doing while exercising!
This event challenged us to collect points for the distance we walked every day in the month of August. The farther you walked (or ran), the more points you earned. We walked a total of 69.9 miles together for the month…But that wasn’t all! Each weekend in August, The Troubled Raccoon sent out the challenges for the following week and we had until midnight on Sunday to complete them!
A portion of each registration was donated to the Evelyn Alexander Wildlife Rescue Center to support its mission to save and protect Long Island’s native wildlife.
Within this park is a canoe that is wrapped around a tree. This canoe is from the flood of 2004 … when several dams broke and the lake water was this high running through the town, flooding houses, knocking buildings off foundations, and causing other severe damage.
A portion of all proceeds from this event went to K9s For Warriors , an organization that provides service dogs to military veterans suffering from PTSD, traumatic brain injury and more.
Auscultation: Grade 2/6 left apical blowing quality murmur. Heart rate 100bpm and regular and occasionally with respiratory variation. Lungs clear.
Thrill: none
PMI: left
Femoral Artery: good quality bilaterally
Other Physical Exam Findings: Bright, alert, and responsive, friendly and relaxed
Release Notes:
Limoncello’s heart disease is stable on the current supplements. There has been a slight increase in the heart size from July 2019 and a trivial amount of mitral valve insufficiency as noted previously.
Supplements will continue with no changes and tracking the sleeping respiratory rates (SRRs) will also continue.
Limoncello will see Dr. Bossbaly again in May 2021
Never underestimate the healing power of dogs (especially now during Covid times)!
Rita and I participated in the Paws FUR Pink 5K while raising funds to beat human and canine cancer! A portion of our race fee went to Suzan G Komen, Keep A Breast, Be Well, and canine cancer education research at Clear!
You know what really helps with running? Water… Especially when it’s frozen into ice cubes, and blended with lime and tequila!
This week Margarita also completed the “I Run 4 Margaritas” Virtual 5K! This Challenge was hosted by I Run 4 Movement and supports Stand Up To Cancer in an effort to help SU2C get one step closer to its mission of making everyone diagnosed with cancer a survivor… just like our very own Señorita Margarita! 💖🐶
2020 has been one of the most challenging years ever. The global pandemic of COVID-19 has been difficult for everyone to handle. To combat the stress Rita and I hit the pavement in support of COVID-19 relief. This was a challenge hosted by Will Run For Bling and Charity to cover 20 miles between July 26th to August 8th.
A percentage of our registration fees went to the National Association of Free & Charitable Clinics (NAFC) . The mission of the NAFC is to ensure that the medically underserved have access to affordable quality health care especially during the COVID-19 pandemic.
This is a log of Porter’s Seizure activity to provide a summary of how often his seizures occur, what types of seizures he has, and how long it has been since the last seizure.
Every dog’s seizures may look different, especially depending on what kind of seizure your dog has. Porter has had Grand Mal, clustering Grand Mal, Focal, and clustering Focal seizures. During Porter’s Grand Mal seizures, he has violent convulsions, and often foams at the mouth, clenches his jaw down on an object, urinates, defecates, or vomits. He is unaware during his this type of seizure. During Porter’s Focal seizures, he is very much aware, and looks to us for comfort. Porter’s Focal seizures cause him to have facial and ear twitching, full body twitching, and balance issues during or immediately following the Focal seizure.
I highly recommend using a camera that offers movement/sound notifications and constant record/play-back to monitor your dog while you are not home. There are many brands of cameras out there. However, after researching, we chose to use Google Nest cameras in our home and on our camper. This will allow you to get notified that your dog may be in danger, and also will enable you to save clips of your dog’s seizures to share with your dog’s medical team. I also encourage others to video the seizure when safely possible if the seizure happens while you are home so that you have actual footage to share with your dog’s doctors.
Seizure Log:
1/2/2019
3 am / Grand Mal
1st observed seizure
CBC
Full Chem
Urinalysis
fecal
2/26/2019 (55 days from last seizure)
1:50 am / Grand Mal / 30 seconds
5:10 am / Grand Mal /50 seconds
3 hours, 20 minutes from last seizure
Hospitalization required
started medication: Levetiracetam (Keppra)
5/8/2019 (71 days from last seizure)
1:48 am / Grand Mal / 5 minutes
1:57am / Grand Mal / 1 minute, 45 seconds
Hospitalization required
Porter was prescribed Midazolam injections for us to have on-hand for emergencies when Porter cannot come out of seizures on his own
5/26/2019 (18 days from last seizure)
2:30 am / Grand Mal / 30 seconds
Midazolam injection required
Medicine Change: Added Zonisamide
6/15/2019 (20 days from last seizure)
9:55 am / Grand Mal / 40 seconds
Midazolam injection required
7/9/2019 (24 days from last seizure)
2:15am / Grand Mal / 45 seconds
2:16 am / 30 seconds
2:17 am / 45 seconds
Medication change: Weaned off of Keppra / Started Phenobarbital
7/28/2019 (19 days from last seizure)
6 am / Grand Mal / 50 seconds
Medication Adjustment: Increased Phenobarbital
Started Melatonin at night
8/11/2019 (14 days from last seizure)
9:44 pm / Grand Mal / 32 seconds
8/13/2019 (30 hours since last seizure)
4:11 am / Grand Mal / 32 seconds
Medicine Change: Added Potassium Bromide
8/28/2019 (15 days since last seizure)
7:46 am / Grand Mal / 30 seconds
9/17/2019 (20 days since last seizure)
8:15 am / Grand Mal / 31 seconds
8:17 am / Grand Mal / 46 seconds
8:18 am / Grand Mal / 40 seconds
8:19 am / Grand Mal / 1 minute, 4 seconds
Midazolam injection required
8: 22 am / Grand Mal
8:23 am / Grand Mal
Hospitalization required
Medicine adjustment: Reduced Potassium Bromide
10/1/19
MRI
no abnormalities found
10/11/19 Medicine change: Added Gabapentin in evening
used as anti convulsant and also to help Porter sleep since he was not sleeping much through the night
10/14/2019 (27 days since last seizure)
1:04 pm / Grand Mal / 40 seconds
1:06 pm / Grand Mal / 49 seconds
1:20 pm / Grand Mal / 41 seconds
Midazolam injection required
11/1/2019 (18 days since last seizure)
11:14 pm / Grand Mal / 30 seconds
Medicine Change: Weaned-off Potassium Bromide and Phenobarbital. Reintroduced Keppra
Porter’s neurologist expressed that despite the medication changes, Porter is still having the same or similar cycles of seizures. However, due to the increased and severe anxiety that we observed, he feels it is best if we backed him off of both the phenobarbital and potassium bromide. He also feels that re-introducing Keppra again may be the best alternative since the anxiety and behaviors were not noted while he was on this medication.
11/11/2019 (10 days since last seizure)
8:49am / Grand Mal / 30 seconds
8:51 am / Grand Mal / 40 seconds
Medicine Change: stopped Gabapentin at night and started Trazadone
11/23/19
began CBD oil (Charlotte’s Web brand)
12/5/19 (24 days since last seizure)
10:51 am / Grand Mal / 30 seconds
10: 52 am / Grand Mal / 30 seconds
12/30/19 (25 days since last seizure)
9:58 am / Grand Mal / 38 seconds
9:59 am / Grand Mal / 10 seconds
10:00 am / Grand Mal / 51 seconds
1/28/20 (29 days since last seizure)
1:15 am / Grand Mal / 20 seconds
1:17 am / Grand Mal / 30 seconds
1:18 am First observation of what we thought was Focal seizures
1/29/20 (43 hours, 25 minutes since last seizure)
8:40pm clustering focal seizures / Clustering until 10pm
We had taken ourselves “off the market” for fostering, but this guy found himself in a bit of a predicament and needed a spur-of-the-moment place to go, so……Meet Jäger!
(He came to us with this name, I swear!) This handsome root beer head is a 3 year old German Shorthaired Pointer. He is an owner-surrender because his family could no longer take care of him with his special needs. Unfortunately Jäger suffers from seizures due to Epilepsy. Jäger has a dominant personality and from what we know at this point will most likely need to be adopted into an only-dog household. He is be available through GSP Rescue of New Jersey to approved adopters in NJ and NY. Further medical and behavioral details about Jäger will be shared privately with approved potential adopters.
“A smile will go the mile, while a frown will take you down.” ~ Anthony Liccione
This July we have smiles …literally for miles… 32.68 to be exact! Once we got the go-ahead from Margarita’s medical team a few months back, I have been slowly increasing her activity level while continually checking in with the doctors to make sure Margarita is exercising at a safe level. Margarita now walks on any good-weather / safe-temperature days. Some of these miles also involved participation in 5K events that benefit different non-profit organizations to help others in need. I don’t focus on recording a fast time on our walks – in fact – I make it a point to let Margarita set the pace, and to let her enjoy every second of the walk, sniffing whatever she pleases. We take water breaks, take selfies, and most of all, take our time – something I am grateful to still have with this angel. Our walks have already created some pretty amazing adventures…and yes, I truly smile every mile! I am looking forward to logging more miles and memories with Rita in August!
Cardiology Check Up
Margarita saw her cardiologist, Dr. Bossbaly, at VSEC on July 29th for her scheduled echocardiogram and bloodwork recheck for her chemotherapy-induced Dilated Cardiomyopathy. Dr. Bossbally reported that she was able to detect a 2/6 whispy band shaped holosystolic murmur at the left apex. This is a great improvement from her original diagnosis. Margarita’s heart rate was 118 BPM and regular. Her lungs are also still clear, and she is breathing normally.
Margarita’s bloodwork did show some elevated liver enzyme levels once again, as she has had in the past.
Overall, Dr. Bossbaly said that Margarita’s heart disease is stable on her current medications, and added that there was no arrhythmia recorded during the entire echocardiogram. Dr. Bossbaly wants us to continue Margarita’s heart medication. She would also like us to continue tracking Margarita’s sleep respiratory rate (SRR). This is extremely important in anticipating fluid shifts and onset of congestive heart failure. Dr. Bossbaly added that she would like Margarita to be on her cardiac medication for the rest of her life in order to maintain her progress. Margarita will have another cardiology re-check in 6 to 8 months.
Monthly Check-Up with Primary Veterinarian
Margarita’s primary veterinarian, Dr. Campbell, at Old York Veterinary Hospitalalso examined Rita on July 29th. She was pleased with Margarita’s overall health and her cardiology report. Dr. Campbell also did a full exam, and checked Rita’s mammary tumors, which have had no significant changes. Margarita does not have any signs of a Lymphoma recurrence at this time. However, Dr. Campbell was not happy with the elevated liver enzymes, and would like to re-test Rita’s levels in 3 months.
Adventure List
Margarita also checked-off another adventure list item and enjoyed a picnic with her 2-legged cousin, James! Click HERE to see the full picnic post.
Margarita completed the Summer SoleMate Sunshine Chaser Fun Run hosted by Flex It Pink .
Margarita walked at Strawbridge Lake Park. This 70 acre park was built as part of Roosevelt’s New Deal initiatives and the Works Progress Administration efforts from 1931-1941. The lake was built by employing local residents during the Great Depression and by securing donations of parcels of land. The Strawbridge Family donated the largest parcel thereby the name, Strawbridge Lake.
Through our entry fee, a donation was made to Love Water Org . This is a 501c3 organization that exists to provide access to clean water in order to restore health and create opportunity in developing communities.
When Limoncello was 3 years old, she was diagnosed with follicular dysplasia. Follicular dysplasia is a condition caused by an abnormality in the hair follicle. In Cello’s case, she was diagnosed with a non-coat-color-linked follicular dysplasia that is due to actual fracture of the hair. It typically manifests as hair loss that may or may not progresses over a dog’s lifetime. We have learned that follicular dysplasia is presumed to be genetic.
Limoncello, age 3, with Follicular Dysplasia (top view)
Limoncello displayed hair loss that was progressively worsening. After we ruled out other possibilities (such as demodectic mange) with our primary veterinarian, we took Limoncello to Dr. Spiegel, a dermatologist at VSEC.
Dr. Speigel did a skin biopsy in order to obtain a definitive diagnosis. Dr. Spiegel informed us that along with follicular dysplasia, hair loss, scaling/flaking of the skin, and secondary skin infections would be likely throughout Limoncello’s life.
Limoncello with Follicular Dysplasia (Side View)
Unfortunately, there is not a cure for this disease, and in some dogs, it can spiral out of control if the condition is not closely monitored. However, so far, we have been able to manage Limoncello’s condition even though she continues to have flare-ups of hair loss, as well as skin infections.
Limoncello after treatment with no visible signs of the follicular dysplasia (top View)
Under the direction of Limoncello’s dermatologist and our primary veterinarian, we have treated her scaling skin and secondary infections with supplements, shampoos, topical antimicrobials, and antibiotics when necessary. We also can only pet, brush, and dry Limoncello in the direction of hair growth to minimize fracturing her hair.
Limoncello after treatment with no visible signs of the follicular dysplasia (side View)
We have used the following off-and-on when needed with Limoncello:
Antibiotics as needed / when skin infections occur
Grizzly Salmon oil daily (Flaxseed Oil is also an option)
Before and Afters
At time of diagnosis (LEFT) and after learning how to manage Follicular Dysplasia (RIGHT)
At time of diagnosis (LEFT) and after learning how to manage Follicular Dysplasia (RIGHT)
We’d love to hear what helped your pup’s follicular dysplasia. Please leave a comment if you have any suggestions for others dealing with the same disease.
15% of our team’s registration was donated to OpenBiome , a nonprofit stool bank, expanding safe access to fecal transplants and accelerating research on the human microbiome.
Margarita walked this 5K in 2 parts in close vicinity to our house because of the extreme heat wave we had in our area.
Acupuncture, an ancient Chinese practice of inserting thin sterile needles into specific points in the body, has been known to be effective in treating dogs with epilepsy. After numerous unsuccessful drug trials, we decided to give acupuncture a try for Porter, along with supportive Chinese herbs. In July of 2020, we were referred to Dr. Karen Collins, VMD.
I despise needles and will pass out if I need to have blood taken, so I was extremely nervous to try acupuncture with Porter. A phone call with Dr. Collins’ nurse set my mind at ease. I learned that there is no pain when the needles are placed in the dog’s skin, and that most dogs will even become very relaxed during the session.
Porter’s First Acupuncture Treatment
During the initial visit, Dr. Collins reviewed Porter’s history, performed a physical examination and a discussed Porter’s individual needs. She created an individualized treatment plan which included acupuncture, Tui-Na and Chinese herbs. Porter also had his first acupuncture treatment.
Herbal Medicine
Porter’s plan included incorporating:
Di Tan Tang
Tian Ma Bai Zhu
In addition to the above Chinese herbs, Porter also began taking Neurotrophin PMG supplement. Neurotrophin PMG helps to support healthy central nervous system function. We did not discontinue or alter his traditional anti-seizure drugs during this time.
Dr. Collins also provided me with the following information about Chinese herbal medicine:
Chinese herbal medicine uses herbal formulas, which are groups of herbs that work together synergistically. Many of the herbal formulas have been in use for hundreds and even thousands of years. The many constituents in the herbal formula are present in small amounts, but work together. Side effects are possible, but happen uncommonly, especially when the herbal formulas are prescribed by a trained herbalist. If adverse events occur, they are generally very mild and limited to gastrointestinal upset. I tend to start all herbal medicines at a low dose and slowly increase the dose and this avoids almost all GI problems. Herbal formulas work physiologically, not pharmacologically. The appropriate herbal formula is chosen based on a Chinese medical diagnosis. We now also have large amounts of information about the biochemistry of the individual herbs and formulas and their mechanisms of action. Depending on the formula, it may increase blood flow to particular tissues or organs, have anti-inflammatory effects, help resolve chronic inflammation, relieve pain, slow and prevent degenerative processes, support digestion, normalize smooth muscle contraction, act as an immune modulator, have anti-microbial effects, and/or control cancer growth. When herbal medicines are used to help treat patients with cancer, the herbal medicines act through many possible mechanisms and most individual herbs act in several places in the cascade of events that allows cancer cells to thrive. Herbal medicines can be integrated into a western medical protocol or used on their own.
Therapeutic Massage
Tui-Na (Chinese healing massage) was also introduced and the following directions were given:
For this particular massage, use gentle touch. Think of yourself as only touching your pet’s fur and skin. This is not a deep tissue massage.
Use your pointer finger on their midline (spine), thumb and middle finger on either side.
Start at the top of their head at the little smart bump.
Slide your hand from the top of their head, down their back, to the base of their tail. Allow your pointer finger to follow the midline or spine, your thumb and middle finger on either side.
Repeat 5 or 10 times.
Then, continue down the back of one or both hind legs. Work on the leg that is easier to reach.
Find the back of their knee (stifle) and massage right where the knee bends.
From there, you will find their ankle. There is a fleshy area located between a bone and a tendon. Massage that area above the ankle (hock) with your pointer finger on one side and your thumb on the other side, gently.
For the last leg point, you will simply slide down and rub up against the large pad.
Porter is not the typical case for sure. He has trialed many things that have been reported to help dogs with epilepsy. Almost everything we have tried has not made a difference for out boy. Although we learned so much from Dr. Collins, the acupuncture was not beneficial in reducing Porter’s seizure frequency or severity, so we stopped treatment in October of 2020.
Recommended Books
Chinese medicine had many benefits for illnesses and ailments of all kinds. Want to learn more? Below are two great books recommended by Dr. Collins that I very much enjoyed:
During this 5K, our miles were completed (earlier this week before the heat wave hit) at Island Beach State Park in Berkeley Township / Ocean County, NJ… one of the few remaining undeveloped barrier beaches on the north Atlantic coast. It’s one of my favorite places in NJ!
Margarita also loves it here as there are many birds for her to point, and one of the only places where she will go in the water on her own!
For this 5K, a donation was made and split evenly among the following organizations:
A percentage of our race fee was donated to Virginia Beach SPCA , whose mission is to create a more humane and responsible community by eliminating animal suffering while increasing human compassion.
Here’s hoping every dog finds their forever running/walking partner!
The pups visited Vermont for the first time and competed at the Splashes -N-Wags facility in Bennington, VT. It wasn’t their best showing, but after being cooped up with the Covid-19 quarantine, we were thrilled to see our friends (at a safe distance) and have fun with our pups! We were also happy to be able to camp onsite!
Limoncello
Big Air
18’7″
Extreme Vertical
4’6″
Speed Retrieve
8.375 seconds
Iron Dog
2619.13 points
Hooch
Big Air
20’10”
20’9″
21’6″
Semi-Pro Finals: 20’8″
Extreme Vertical
5’8″
Speed Retrieve
6.696 seconds
Iron Dog
2906.85 points
Lager
Big Air
18’4″
18’8″
19’1″
Extreme Vertical
5’8″
Speed Retrieve
6.786 seconds
Iron Dog
2872.53 Points / 2nd Place Overall Titan Division
Margarita
Margarita enjoyed taking walks around the facility and afternoon naps in the camper!
Whiskey
Big Air
5’9″
7’8″
7’0″
4’7″
4’8″
YES! She jumped!!!!!!
Porter
Porter enjoyed snoozing in the shade under the team canopy.
Dock Diving a little differently with Covid-19 restrictions in place
“I Run for the Dogs 4th of July 5k” was Hosted by RunSignup .
A portion of our race fee was donated to 25 awesome Animal Shelters across the country that support adoption services, education in our community, and the health and well being of animals! ✌🏼❤️🐾 🇺🇸
We headed out for our 5K but it got too hot too quickly. I decided it was best to stop and do this one in 2 segments to be safe for Sweet Reet. It worked out because our race swag showed up before our second segment photos!
We hope everyone had a safe and enjoyable 4th of July!
The Bennington Battle Monument is 306 feet 4 and 1/2 inches tall and was completed and dedicated in 1891.
The Monument was built to commemorate the Battle of Bennington which occurred on August 16, 1777, and is considered to be the turning point in the Revolutionary War.
Such a cool location and building! Only the outdoor seating area was open due to Covid-19 restrictions. Porter and Margarita enjoyed the shady area. Porter
Outdoor seating areaMargarita had one too many bowls of water … haha!
It was time for Margarita to have an abdominal ultrasound re-check. Margarita may have these periodically due to her Lymphoma originating in her spleen. This was the first visit back to VSEC since Covid, so I was not able to go inside with Margarita.
Ultrasound Findings:
Liver: mild generalized hyperechoic enlargement (consistent with steroid hepatopathy), two small (4-5mm) hypo echo with nodules identified in the left medial lube. ( The doctor was not concerned with these). The previously noted 1-2cm nodule seen in December 2019 is no longer present.
Bladder: Non-dependent gas bubble noted in the bladder lumen
Due to the gas being consistent with Emphysematous cystitis, an ultrasound-guided cystocentesis was done in order to obtain a sterile sample of the bladder. The sample came back showing signs of E. coli. Margarita treated with enrofloxacin for this.
There were no abnormalities found in her gallbladder and biliary Tree, kidneys, adrenal glands, stomach, Intestines, colon, pancreas, peritoneum, mesentery, and lymph nodes!
The Dog Days of Summer are here! Margarita is signed up to participate in a 3-part Summer virtual 5k series! The 2020 Dog Days of Summer is hosted by j&a racing . Rita completed the June part of this series on June 27, 2020.
Margarita and I walked around our local golf course and on a trail through the woods to cover our 3.1 miles.
There are 3 medals (June/July/August) that when fitted together will form a dog bone! June’s medal features Retrievers.
A portion of our registration fee each month is donated to the Virginia Beach SPCA , who believes that the animal-human bond creates healthier, happier, more connected communities. VBSPCA delivers their compassion by providing pet adoption and sheltering, low-cost public veterinary clinic services, humane education programs, wildlife triage and canine pet training. ✌🏼❤️🐾
Here’s to hoping that every dog finds their forever running/walking partner! 🐶🏃🏼♀️
The “Best Friends” virtual race was hosted by Gone For a RUN .
A portion of the registration fees for each team was donated to the Animal Hope and Wellness Foundation, whose mission is to focus on rescuing abused and neglected animals – locally, internationally and throughout the Asian Dog Meat Trade – by rehabilitating them and finding them their forever homes.✌🏼❤️🐾
Margarita walked this race as she enjoyed beautiful weather and special 1-on-1 time with her Mama! 💖🐶
Margarita’s mammary mass has been changing increasing and decreasing in size, and also producing a clear discharge. This has been watched closely both daily by me, and monthly at her primary veterinarian and oncology visits. Due to the continued changes, our primary veterinarian, Dr. Campbell wanted to check Rita’s estrogen levels. An estrogen level blood test would indicate if perhaps during her spay, something was missed, causing her to have partial cycles. On May 4th we received the results. Rita’s estrogen level was 64.3, which is within the normal range for a female with no cycling. Although this provided a sigh of relief, it also does not provide an answer to why that mammary mass is acting the way it is. We do not want to put Margarita through any other stressful procedures, so we will be monitoring the mass and its changes along with continued communication with Dr. Campbell. Rita had blood work done as well. Dr. Campbell reported that the results showed that Margarita’s liver values continue to improve.
Monthly Activities
This month Rita continued to increase her activity and has been more vibrant than ever!
Agility
Rita enjoyed the homemade Agility course in our yard:
5K Races
Coronavirus Relief 5k
Those of you that have known Rita from the start know that she used to run 5k races prior to her Lymphoma diagnosis. For the first time since her diagnosis, Margarita completed a 5k! Rita participated in the Coronavirus Relief virtual race hosted by Virtual Strides . We walked this 5k, but it was just as fun as all the others we’ve completed together!
Run of the Pets
Margarita participated in “Run of the Pets” which was hosted by Virtual Strides .
A portion of the entry fee was donated to Best Friends Animal Society. The mission of Best Friends Animal Society is to bring about a time when there are No More Homeless Pets. They do this by helping end the killing in America’s animal shelters through building community programs and partnerships all across the nation.
Monthly Treat
This month we had to once again skip our monthly-treat dues to Covid-19. Although some restaurants are now offering take-out, Brian and I have decided to not do anything outside our home to be extra safe.
We hosted a little gal named Anna for 1 day and 1 night as she made a pitstop here on her way from Georgia to her her foster home in PA!
Anna was found as a stray along a back road in Georgia which is unfortunately known as a “popular” road for people dumping dogs. She had just recently had puppies and had pyometra – which if left untreated could have taken her life. She is lucky she was found in time. A good samaritan found her, took her in, and paid to have her pyometra and spay completed.
She loved the lake and even took a swim!
She is a beautiful girl who is full of spunk!
We wish Anna the best in her foster home and pray that she finds her forever family soon! Welcome to your new life, Anna!
Margarita participated in “Run of the Pets” which was hosted by Virtual Strides.
A portion of the entry fee was donated to Best Friends Animal Society. The mission of Best Friends Animal Society is to bring about a time when there are No More Homeless Pets. They do this by helping end the killing in America’s animal shelters through building community programs and partnerships all across the nation. ✌🏼❤️🐾.
Virtual Strides hosted this event is in memory of Cooper, Virtual Strides’ very first shipping assistant, and an all around good boy. ❤️🌈🐾.
Studies have shown that thermal properties of foods can have in impact on seizure activity. We were told to avoid foods with hot and warming thermal properties for Porter. Below is the list we were provided with. The cooling and neutral foods are best for dogs with epilepsy.
VSH of the Carolinas (**Now BluePearl Pet Hospital) offers nutritional services that may benefit dogs with epilepsy. We decided to try a dietary change in hopes that this would reduce the severity and frequency of Porter’s seizures. VSH provided us with a diet and nutrition support plan that was recommended based on Porter’s medical records, diagnostic results, and dietary history. Consultations can be done online or by making an in-person visit.
We are not sharing the dietary suggestions that we received for Porter, as we truly believe that every dog’s dietary needs are unique and should be discussed with your dog’s medical team.
Nutrition Services Offered by VSH of the Carolinas:
Courtesy pDVM/ colleague commercial recommendations: Based on patients’ clinical problems and diagnostic results, a list of appropriate commercial options is provided via phone or email.
Voluntary commercial consultations: A list of appropriate commercial options are provided to the client with specific feeding guidelines and monitoring parameters.
Weight loss consultation: Individualized weight loss plan provided to the client. Includes bi-monthly weights and check-ins to monitor progress, in addition to addressing any nutrition-related concerns or questions.
Assisted feeding consultation (any type of feeding tube/ port): Based on patients’ disease processes, appropriate liquid diets/ liquid diet blends (for nasoenteric or jejunostomy tubes) or slurried diet blends (esophagostomy or gastrostomy tubes), feeding guidelines, and monitoring parameters are provided. Additionally, commercial options for volitional intake will also be provided (if applicable). If/ when the patient goes home, at-home guidelines will be provided to the client. Direct follow up with the client for any nutrition-related concerns or questions it available.
Homemade diet consultation: Two patient-specific homemade diet recipes are formulated and provided to the client based on the patient’s individual disease states. Specific cooking directions, feeding guidelines, and monitoring parameters are provided. Use of human supplements.
Combination Homemade diet + commercial
Homemade diet analysis: Technical analysis of client’s homemade diet using recipe/ information supplied by the client. Often needed to demonstrate nutritional deficiencies/ excesses in online recipes. Does not include “fixing” the diet to make it appropriate.
Combination homemade diet analysis and reformulation of up to 2 recipes: See option 5+7.
Homemade diet reformulation: In the event that an existing patient with a VSH homemade diet develops new medical problems and a reformulation is required. Ex. Renal disease and then develops pancreatitis; use of human supplements.
Supplement/ nutraceutical evaluation: Using existing medical records and product information, recommendations are made regarding dosing, continuation, and/or discontinuation of supplements.
Commercial diet evaluation: Based on the patient’s medical problems and diagnostic results, evaluation of the appropriateness of current / potential diet is provided.
In person appointment: Discussion of client concerns and goals, nutritional physical exam, etc.
Recommended Commercial Kibble:
Purina Canine NC NeuroCare
Purina Canine Bright Mind Adult 7+ Large Breed
Royal Canin Canine Mobility Support JS Large Breed
Recommended Commercial Wet Foods:
Purina Canine Bright Minds Adult 7+ Turkey and Brown Rice Entrée
Although we learned invaluable information with this nutrition consult, unfortunately, just like many other options we tried, this did not change Porter’s seizure frequency or severity. He was also not a fan of the food. He was transitioned back to his normal diet in October 2020.
Those of you that have known Rita from the start know that she used to run 5k races prior to her Lymphoma diagnosis. For the first time since her diagnosis, Margarita completed a 5k! Rita participated in the Coronavirus Relief virtual race hosted by Virtual Strides . We walked this 5k, but it was just as fun as all the others we’ve completed together!
Rita earned herself a 3D coronavirus molecule medal, featuring a toilet paper patterned ribbon
And I get to use the attached hand sanitizer keychain and a forehead thermometer !
A portion of the race entry fee was donated to Direct Relief – a charity that is responding to the coronavirus pandemic by providing PPE to health workers, bolstering critical care capacity, and strengthening general medical support.
🎂Happy 8th Birthday to the bounciest, happiest, most vibrant and insane-in-the-membrane dog we know! At 8 years old, he’s still tons of fun and keeps us laughing each and every day! We love you buddy! 🎈
8 Years Old
Lager was born in The Netherlands, so Brian made him traditional meals from that region:
Breakfast: Pannenkoek (a style of pancake with origins in the Netherlands. They are usually larger and much thinner than their American or Scotch pancake counterparts, but not as thin as crêpes. They may incorporate slices of bacon, apples, cheese, or raisins).
Pannenkoek
Dinner: Slavinken (a meat dish consisting of ground meat, wrapped in bacon)… with a side of green beans and potatoes
Slavinken
Dessert: Dutch Apple Cake
Dutch Apple Cake
Lager’s birthday was the first birthday celebration during our quarantine at home due to the Covid-19 Pandemic.
If you have a fur-kid there may come a time when you will need to pay for a pretty hefty veterinary medical bill. If you have insurance for your 4-legged child, it can help cover some of the costs. But there may come a time when a a fur-child’s medical emergency or illness will exceed your financial resources. When this type of situation arises, often PAWrents are faced with a difficult choice. If you find yourself in a tough financial predicament, here are some resources you can reach out to for help.
Boo tiki fund : Aims to keep animals in their forever homes by providing crisis medical care when owners are unable to pay
Credit Cards for Veterinary Care: Many veterinary hospitals do not take payment plans. One of these cards may be a solution if you are not able to afford the whole cost of treatment. Please note that your veterinarian must offer the service of accepting this type of payment.
RedRover.org : provides support to help care for animals in life-threatening situations . They also provide assistance to victims of domestic violence to help them escape abusive environments with their pets. Additionally, they have a program that helps with disaster relief, criminal seizures, and hoarding cases.
The Pet Fund : a national nonprofit dedicated to funding veterinary care for those who could not afford it.
Harley’s Hope Foundation : Financial assistance is offered to assist with major or emergency veterinary care and behavioral or specialty training.
Brown Dog Foundation : This organization is dedicated to helping families who find themselves in a temporary financial crisis at the same time their pet requires life-saving treatment or life-sustaining medications. They work with the clinic and the family to find the best, most affordable path to saving the animal and help bridge the gap of the veterinary bill.
Shakespeare Animal Fund : helps elderly, disabled and those whose total income does not exceed the current poverty guidelines to obtain emergency pet care.
The Onyx & Breezy Foundation : privately run nonprofit that started in memory of the founder’s dogs. This foundation helps to provide emergency medical care to animals whose owners have fallen on hard times.
Handicapped Pets Foundation : a 501(c)3 non-profit corporation dedicated to the health and well-being of elderly, disabled, and injured pets. They also donate mobility equipment to pets in need.
Dog-Breed Specific Support : There are many associations that support specific dog breeds. Reach out to your local breed clubs for information on local, state and national groups involved in dog breed-specific veterinary care assistance programs. Below are a couple of examples:
Dogs and Other Unsolicited Advice Foundation : a non-profit that was created to support and guide qualified applicants through emotional times with financial relief in the form of partial or complete payment of covered services.
Keep in mind the groups listed in this post are just suggested starting points to help PAWrents who find themselves in an emergency medical situation. There are many other local and national groups or organizations that may be able to assist, or who may be able to point you in the right direction. Even if the group or organization you contact cannot help, they may know of a low-cost vet clinic and/or possible solutions for financial assistance.
If you are looking for low-cost general veterinary care, Veterinary associations, veterinary schools, rescue organizations, and local animal shelters may be able to help you locate facilities and groups who offer low cost-spay/neuter and vaccinations.
Being a mother doesn’t mean being related to someone by blood. It means loving someone unconditionally and with all of your heart. 🐾💛💚❤️💖💜💙🐾 To all the dog moms out there who traded beauty sleep for dark circles, salon cuts for ponytails, long showers for quick clean-ups, late night parties for late night potty walks, sleeping-in for early morning face-licking-wake-ups, pedicures for PAWdicures, and designer bags for poop bags …
Margarita has been doing wonderfully, and added another month of remission to her journey!
This month during the Covid-19 Quarantine, Margarita has been increasing her activity level to help boost her immune system and further increase her quality of life. We have also made sure her schedule allows time for relaxing activities out on the lake.
Rita loves agility!
Enjoying a canoe ride
Margarita loves taking in all the smells and scenery on her canoe rides.
Enjoying the warm sun and soft grass!
Enjoying a relaxing day out on the dock
Rita goes on a daily walk
Easter 2020
Easter… the only time of of the year when it’s perfectly safe to put all of your eggs in one basket. ~Margarita
Monthly Oncology Check-Up
Rita’s monthly check up with her oncologist, Dr. Baez, at C.A.RE.S has been postponed to May due to the Covid-19 outbreak. Both Dr. Baez and Dr. Campbell, our veterinarian, agreed this would be safe and appropriate since Margarita is showing no clinical signs of Lymphoma.
Monthly Veterinarian Check-Up
Margarita saw Dr. Campbell at Old York Veterinary Hospital for her monthly check-up. Dr. Campbell was thrilled with Rita’s progress. Rita’s mammary masses were reported to have little-to-no changes. Margarita’s heart murmur also sounded to have no change. Her liver values were re-checked through blood work, and all of her values continue to improve! Margarita will stay on her current regimen of medications and supplements:
Pimobendan for her heart disease caused by the chemotherapy
Prednisone for her liver disease (hepatitis)
CAS Options – an antioxidant and immune support supplement
As students and staff in my school district deal with the effects of COVID-19 and social distancing, those who have enjoyed seeing Rita around school in the past now can “visit” with Rita via her very own Google Classroom, called Rita’s Barkroom. During this time it can be helpful to keep established connections (or make new ones) for those who don’t have access to this type of “therapy” at home.
Rita’s Barkroom has photos and videos of Rita posted daily, keeping a positive and upbeat tone. Rita’s Barkroom will hopefully help students and staff stay connected with Rita, bring a smile to others’ faces, and offer the benefits of therapy dog visits to the greatest extent possible right now.
Rita’s Barkroom is private and only able to be viewed by staff and students of my school district.
First and foremost I hope that everyone is staying healthy during this uncertain time with the Covid-19 outbreak. All schools in the state of New Jersey have been shut down at this point and I am teaching remotely from home. Due to the statewide quarantine measures that are in place, I did not take Margarita to any special stores or restaurants to celebrate this day. Once it is deemed safe to do so, I definitely plan to make it up to her!
1 Year in Remission
Margarita reached a major milestone: Officially a SURVIVOR at 1 Year in Remission as of March 19, 2020!
When Margarita began chemotherapy one year ago today, the oncologist told us that without treatment, Lymphoma patients such as Rita usually have a survival time of less than 2 months. The doctor also told us that with chemotherapy treatment, the survival times for patients with Margarita’s type and stage of Lymphoma is 1 year to 18 months, with many patients not surviving the 16 weeks of chemo. I am overjoyed and overwhelmed with tears at the same time as I type this post. Margarita’s bravery, strength, resilience, and demeanor through her Journey has been extremely inspirational and astounding. She is a SURVIVOR!
Remission
What does “remission” really mean? In Rita’s case, it means that tests, physical exams, and scans show there is no evidence of cancer. However, this does not mean she’s cured. What it does mean is that the chemotherapy knocked down the cancer cells to a level undetectable by tests or microscopes. Margarita’s next milestone will be in October 2020 (the 18-Month Mark). I would be lying if I said I wasn’t worried about recurrence, and the unknowns that lie ahead. However, I am choosing to focus on Rita’s accomplishments and the positive choices and mindset that helped carry her through the last year with hope-filled days. Moving forward I will do my best to have optimistic thoughts only – there’s no time to waste worrying about the things I cannot control… so onward we go on this Journey together.
Lessons from Lymphoma
Rita is a SURVIVOR – there are far too many who weren’t fortunate enough to celebrate this – so CELEBRATE!
In my opinion, one year ago today when Margarita was fully diagnosed, she became a cancer survivor. She conquered each day with such grace.
Each day with her is a gift, so I made sure to do fun, meaningful, and memorable things with her such as her Adventure List. I made sure we celebrated in some way each and every day so that I didn’t remain focussed on the past, or on the disease itself, as I knew my negativity would effect Margarita.
Don’t be afraid to share your pup’s Journey – and your feelings about their story! Cancer is a part their history, but don’t let it define their future, or your emotional state. Have faith that God has a plan, and will guide you and your pup through this. I truly believe His plan was for Margarita’s Journey to help others.
Keep a journal or start a blog about your pup’s journey. Each post that was written after Rita’s weekly chemo treatment included uplifting things that happened to Rita including nice gestures from others and special food treats she had that week. Doing happy activities and sharing those moments helped me celebrate all things big and small with Margarita.
Embrace help from others and pay it forward when you can.
It takes a great deal of strength, positivity, and resilience to support your fur-kid through cancer and not have a daily major melt-down. Let others help you when they offer – accepting assistance or gifts is not a sign of weakness. People who care about you and your pup are upset about the diagnosis and may find it healing to offer their help, or to give meaningful gifts.
At the same time, don’t be angry with those who can’t be there for you. Not everyone is capable of sharing their emotions, and not everyone feels the way you do about your 4-legged child.
Use your knowledge and experiences to help others who are on a similar Journey by sharing your story. If you hear of others on the same Journey as you and your pup – reach out and let them know you are there for them.
Be grateful!
By no means am I grateful that Margarita has Lymphoma. I am, however, beyond appreciative for the people and pups that were brought into my life as a result. Both my life and Margarita’s have been enhanced by these amazing people in our extended family.
Be thankful for EVERY day and for EVERY moment you have with your pup. Feelings are contagious and dogs are sensitive to your emotions. A positive attitude and a happy heart transfers to your fur-kid. Choose to be happy for every second your pup is alive!
Let your faith win over your fear.
Some days were very difficult – both for Rita and for me. Having faith instead of worrying about what was out of my control helped me get through the toughest of days.
I needed something to keep me occupied and focussed and that made me feel like Rita and I were helping others who were on the same journey, so I started this blog! Each chemo treatment post referenced a powerful and meaningful quote or mantra. These words gave me the strength to help Rita through that week.
You can’t take care of your pup if you don’t take care of yourself !
Mental and physical health is important on this journey for both you and your pup. A healthy canine body has a better chance of taking a bite out of cancer. A healthy human body has more strength to carry a canine cancer patient on their Journey. Good nutrition and healthy exercise (to whatever level is appropriate for you and your fur-kid) helps keep the mind and body alert and strong. Stay optimistic and keep moving!
Never, EVER give up!
Research and explore all doable options
Educate yourself
Stay focussed
Stay positive
Monthly Primary Veterinarian Visit
On March 3 Margarita had her liver values tested again – and we are thrilled to report that all values are continuing to decrease and get closer to normal levels! Margarita will have her liver enzyme levels tested again on May 4, 2020. Because her liver is doing well, Rita’s current doses of Prednisone and Denamarin will remain the same for now.
I am currently exploring changing Rita’s probiotics from Fortiflora to Visbiome, as our primary Veterinarian, Dr. Campbell suggested Visbiome may be a better choice for Margarita’s Irritable Bowl Disorder. In addition, I am actively researching a Holistic Doctor and Nutritionist in hopes when all calms down from the Covid-19 virus, we can explore those further options with intentions to support Margarita in the most well-rounded methods possible.
Things of Note This Month
March 4
Double Digit Birthday!
Click HERE to see the post of her birthday activities
March 13
One year since the detailed results came back that told us:
the type of Lymphoma Rita had (Diffuse Large B Cell Lymphoma)
Rita’s liver showed inflammation patterns that represented chronic hepatitis.
Rita had a severe degree of inflammatory bowel disease, causing loss of proteins
March 17
St. Patrick’s Day
March 19
One year since we were told the details of Rita’s Diffuse Large B Cell Lymphoma
“May your troubles be less, your blessings be more, and nothing but happiness come through your door” ~Irish Blessing
When I count my blessings I count you twice. ~Margarita and Lager There are good ships and wood ships, ships that sail the sea, but the best ships are friendships…may they always be. ~Whiskey and HoochA good friend is like a four leaf clover…hard to find and lucky to have. ~Limoncello and PorterWhat do you get when you cross poison ivy with a four leaf clover? A rash of good luck. ~PorterErin Go Bark. ~WhiskeyGet your Irish on! ~MargaritaNever iron a four leaf clover… you never want to press your luck. ~LimoncelloWarning! May be prone to shenanigans, hooliganism, and malarky! ~HoochWho needs luck… I have charm. ~Lager
We’d like to wish a very happy th birthday to the Big Cheese…The Leader of Our Pack… Tommy D’s Limoncello !!The last decade has been packed with happiness and wonderful experiences. Limoncello sparked our love for bird dogs which began our passion for rescue. She ushered us into a whirlwind of amazing experiences with travel, fun, and great friends by introducing us to the sport of dock diving.Limoncello changed our lives completely and led us on many other grand adventures…My favorites were: a 7/8 mile walk out to sea (literally!) on a granite jetty to visit a lighthouse in Maine, spelunking in Virginia, a ferry ride to visit Martha’s Vineyard and Nantucket, hiking to the highest point on Skyline Drive in Shenandoah, walking over the Hudson River, dressing like a lobster at Rockland Maine’s Lobsterfest, and many unique wineries and breweries up and down the East Coast….JUST to name a few! Check out some the places this Diva has taken us over the last decade: https://celloscorner.com/category/cello-has-been-there/
Kicking off her birthday celebration was a Big Poppa breakfast of a cheese omelette with a side of sausage and bacon. Stuffed peppers on a bed of baked cheese made for a yummy birthday dinner. Click the link for this dog-friendly recipe created in Cello’s Cucina : https://celloscorner.com/2021/03/13/stuffed-peppers/
For Limoncello’s 9th birthday, she visited an iconic old-time custard stand in Maple Shade that is open year-round. Maple Shade Custard Stand has some of the best custard in South Jersey!
Limoncello enjoyed a few licks of a vanilla custard cone.
Two years after her original Dilated Cardiomyopathy diagnosis, Limoncello had her routine cardiology check up at VSEC with Dr. Bossbaly. I reported to Dr. Bossbaly that Cello is doing well and back to normal activity with no complications. Although Limoncello was never put on medication for her DCM, she is still on the following supplements:
L-Carnetine
1 gram twice daily
Taurine
1000 mg twice daily
Coenzyme Q10
30 mg tablet once daily
Dr. Bossbaly informed me that Limoncello’s heart disease is stable on the current supplements. There as been a slight increase in Cello’s heart size from July 2019 and a trivial amount of mitral valve insufficiency as noted previously. During her cardiovascular examination, it was noted that her heart murmur remains a 2/6 left apical blowing quality murmur wit ha high pitch component. Her heart rate is 100-120 bpm and regular with occasional respiratory variation. Her lungs are clear.
Dr. Bossbaly was pleased with Cello’s condition overall. Her recommendation is to continue the current supplements with no changes and to continue tracking Cello’s sleeping respiratory rate (SRR).
Limoncello will see Dr. Bossbaly again in August of 2020.
Meet Jäger!
th birthday to the Big Cheese…The Leader of Our Pack… 
Tommy D’s Limoncello
!!The last decade has been packed with happiness and wonderful experiences. Limoncello sparked our love for bird dogs which began our passion for rescue. She ushered us into a whirlwind of amazing experiences with travel, fun, and great friends by introducing us to the sport of dock diving.Limoncello changed our lives completely and led us on many other grand adventures…My favorites were: a 7/8 mile walk out to sea (literally!) on a granite jetty to visit a lighthouse in Maine, spelunking in Virginia, a ferry ride to visit Martha’s Vineyard and Nantucket, hiking to the highest point on Skyline Drive in Shenandoah, walking over the Hudson River, dressing like a lobster at Rockland Maine’s Lobsterfest, and many unique wineries and breweries up and down the East Coast….JUST to name a few! Check out some the places this Diva has taken us over the last decade: 
