It is no secret that I have lived my life as "not a dog person". I claimed it, I owned it and then........I owned a dog. Today I took said "furball" to the vet to get the appropriate shots, check up, etc. only to find out that she has a hernia. I will not bore you with the medical stuff however it is not your typical hernia and in a small dog such as Penny is very serious. The veterinarian I visited was methodical in her medical descriptions but her people and emotional skills were seriously lacking. But what did I know because "I am not a dog person". So I had my furball and listened to the authority figure all the while thinking I would not let this person talk to my child like that but yet it was ok for the dog. I had no idea.
Dr. Death-wish as I think of her gave me bummer news and I had tears welling up in my eyes yet no words to express it. At one point the "Dr" said "How attached are your kids to the dog?" I was dumbfounded. I wanted to be a smart ass and say "Well, about as attached as we were to the twins after one week". Who asks that? Then it hit me...............I was attached to the furball.
And I cannot imagine her not being a member of our family. So what is the diagnosis and prognosis? Don't know yet, need that second opinion tomorrow and hopefully one that brings some compassion and understanding. Can I undergo the financial responsibility that this condition brings, most likely not. Can I handle the emotional issues, yes! Tomorrow is a another day and another opinion.
So maybe this furball gave me the ability to be more emotional and to show I am a bit vulnerable. She gave me a connection......who knew. What a gift. She also gave me the ability to not mop my floor every 2 minutes (extended it to 4 as I am exhausted by her little paw prints). So if you are are the praying type can you please include our Lucky Penny. and if you are "not a dog person" like me...just some positive mojo will do. So while Penny and the kids have no clue (no need to worry them), tomorrow is another day and hopefully a better one. You are only given what you can handle, right? She came along for a reason and I am thankful.
As we express our gratitude, we must never forget that the highest appreciation is not to utter words, but to live by them. ~John Fitzgerald Kennedy
I am saying a little prayer for Penny and your family too!!! All my love sweet friend.
Posted by: Lolly | Tuesday, October 05, 2010 at 07:46 PM
I am leaving you with these thoughts (and lots of prayers!):
"I think dogs are the most amazing creatures; they give unconditional love. For me they are the role model for being alive."
- Gilda Radner
"No matter how little money and how few possesions you own, having a dog makes you rich."
- Louis Sabin
Posted by: Shelly | Tuesday, October 05, 2010 at 07:46 PM
Oh no, not Penny! The girls and I will say a little prayer for her tonight. Hannah has her head bowed as I type.:)
Posted by: Katie Watson | Tuesday, October 05, 2010 at 08:08 PM
Thoughts and prayers go out to "said furball"
Love ya
Erika
Posted by: Erika Taylor | Tuesday, October 05, 2010 at 08:35 PM
Wow, thank you everyone from the bottom of my heart.
Posted by: Tracy Weinzapfel | Tuesday, October 05, 2010 at 09:18 PM
Definitely get a second opinion and then weigh your options. We have had to make some pretty tough pet decisions over the years. It doesn't take those little critters long to make themselves right at home, especially in our hearts. Bottom line for us was always quality of life. Good luck Tracy with your decisions. I'm thinking about you.
Posted by: Cindy K | Tuesday, October 05, 2010 at 11:09 PM
Thank you Cindy!
Posted by: Tracy Weinzapfel | Tuesday, October 05, 2010 at 11:12 PM
OH NO!!!! Tracy, I can't believe this news. I have begun my prayers for Penny, for you and for the kids if indeed nothing can be done to help that sweet little dog. I will continue with the prayers and wait for the second opinion news on your newest addition. It is something, though, how that little furball, as you call her, has truly found her way into your heart! I think that is something pretty special!
Posted by: Jeri | Tuesday, October 05, 2010 at 11:28 PM
Oh Trac, that's terrible news. The kids will be heartbroken. You have figured out what I have known all along - ALL people are dog people, you just have to meet the dog that touches your heart and you're a goner. I hope that you get better news today and that there will be something that you can do....and I agree with your opinion of the vet, she shouldn't have any "people" contact.
Posted by: Marci | Wednesday, October 06, 2010 at 08:19 AM
Can you imagine this. There are 7 dogs at my house... all outside. We are all barking and praying for you! Since about 6am no less (to my displeasure-I'm not a morning person). So Lucky Penny will be very strong.
And what a DUMB question... How attached to her are you?... just look at that face.
Lots of puppy breath and love- Gayle
Posted by: gayle martin | Wednesday, October 06, 2010 at 08:38 AM
Sorry. Doggie financial issues (and emotional issues, you know) are no fun!!!
Posted by: allison | Wednesday, October 06, 2010 at 11:40 AM
Trace - this rotweiler sized POOP! Poor little Penny and Mikey doo and Jo JO and Ty Guy and well you. Things work out. They just do. Penny is so lucky she got you. You found out the problem and your taking care of it. A lesser person (dog person or not) would have simply taken her back where they got her or worse. You love her and are doing the right thing. Bless Ya Buddy!!
Posted by: Julie Hanosn | Wednesday, October 06, 2010 at 11:49 AM