Tuesday, February 16, 2010

Love and Commitment


For several days now my husband and I have been consumed with the health issues of our 5 1/2 year old dog, Bruschi. We haven't had much sleep and have been at wit's end with strange behaviors, constant pacing, and other such things. Bruschi's been having seizures since October of 2008, and last August he had his first cluster seizure... meaning more than one in a short period of time. He's had a few of those since then, and he can't seem to go more than three weeks without having at least one seizure. The meds he's been on have been very, very hard on him. He stays fairly stoned, which is something I was strongly opposed to last August when we had such a very long and stress-filled day with those 6 seizures in several hours. We do not like seeing our wonderful dog in such a state, unable to get up without flailing and struggling or without help, walking into things, falling down. Which is worse... that type of condition or the seizures? In my mind one is as bad as the other.

We have ordered online a new medicine recommended by our vet, but it seems to be taking forever to get here. So today we will pick a local ten-day supply, at a much much higher cost, in hopes that this medicine will help control the seizures without the other side effects. Research shows that it has a 70% success rate, but each dog is different, so we can only keep our fingers crossed and send up prayers that this will work for our dog. We know that something has to give. We do not believe that Bruschi is living a happy dog life right now and interaction with him is not the same as it used to be. He looks frustrated and confused, and can you blame him? He must somehow understand that he is not the dog he used to be. I have always said that I will not live my life on medicines that keep me from functioning and being who I am, and I surely don't want my dog living that way.

So we will try this new drug for a couple weeks, watching closely for improvements and hoping for the best. If you don't see me online much during that time, you will know why, so please keep us in your thoughts and prayers.




20 comments:

  1. So sorry, I know how hard it is when a furbaby is sick. We just lost one of our cats last week and it is heartbreaking, hoping that the new medication works!!

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  2. Sending good thoughts and prayers your way! So sorry to hear about all your struggles. Hopefully you will see a positive difference within days. hugs...Cat

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  3. I hope he gets well soon. I will be praying for him :(

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  4. I will definitely keep you all in my prayers and send positive thoughts your way.

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  5. so sorry about your dog Rebecca, praying that you find the right medication. Hang in. :)
    laura

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  6. My heart goes out for you--when an animal is suffering, it's heartbreaking. He can only benefit from your love, and I hope the medicine helps!

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  7. SO sorry, honey! I just hate that you guys are going through so much with this baby... I'll definitely be sending all kinds of love your way. Fingers crossed that this does help!
    XOXO ~
    sn

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  8. Thinking good and happy thoughts for you and Bruschi and hoping the new medicine is 100% effective so you get your loved one back as good as new.

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  9. Hoping and praying that Bruschi responds to treatment :)

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  10. Poor Bruschi... It is sad when a pet is ill. Hopefully the new meds will help.

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  11. sending hugs and more of the positive energy your way! it's heartbreaking to see anyone (human or otherwise) suffer. here's to hoping the new meds work and allow the poor fella to be the dog he should be.

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  12. Rebecca, Mollie and I are sending positive energy your way. We'll be praying this new medication will work for your beautiful Bruschi.

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  13. Oh Rebecca! So sorry. Bruschi is so sweet, with a kind face, and a cute wee bed hog too.
    I'm so sorry he isn't himself and not feeling 100 percent. I really hope the meds cause the symptoms to disappear, sounds like you've done your homework and they're a good option. How lucky to be in your pack.
    Hugs & prayers,
    Jo

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  14. BIG LOVE and POWERFUL HEALING PRAYERS for your sweet Bruschi...and for you and your husband...
    Thank You for your courage and strength in this heartfelt post....
    kristin

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  15. Wishing you the best for your doggie....hugs to you both.

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  16. Thinking of you Rebecca, and hoping the medication helps Bruschi. ((hugs))

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  17. Sending my love and best wishes to you & your puppy! So sorry that you are struggling like this. I feel your pain and conflict surrounding the meds. and I sincerely hope you find a resolution with the new meds. They do always seem to take forever coming when you really need them.
    I wish we could speak their language- that would make it all a little easier.
    From my own experience, it is important to stay calm when your animal is sick. So take it easy, Rebecca, and know that you are doing your best. xoxo kendra

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  18. rebecca - sending love and hope that the new meds are helping. He's a handsome fellow! and i love your painting - hugs, karon

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  19. Hope your puppy gets well soon. Sending happy thoughts.

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  20. thinking good thoughts about Bruschi Rebecca! I understand the frustration and sadness. So glad he has you to care for him and give him so much love and understanding, warm wishes, Annette xxx

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