Meant to be.

Melvin and I have been through a lot.  So many issues, way before this blog was even a thought in my mind.  Many tough decisions were made and most of them were decided on a wing and a prayer.  I had no idea what I was doing, I had to have faith in veterinary medicine to offer us the right options and I had to have faith in myself to make decisions for Melvin’s well-being.  I have said this before and I’ll say it again, when asked if I wanted Melvin’s life to be measured in time or quality my response was, is and always will be:  I want his life to be measured in joy.

My approach with Jake is no different.

Jake has always (in the year I’ve had him anyway) had wonky legs.  They don’t bend when he moves, in fact when he runs they remain straight and go in a circular pattern.  Sometimes he throws in some hops, using only three legs.  Up to last week, that was his norm.  Then, suddenly,  his hind legs began to give out.  It’s not cool.   So we went to the vet, and then to a specialist. I have to remind myself to be brave. For example, when we went to our emergency Neurologist appointment and I saw this sign, I started crying. The appointment hadn’t even started yet!  Pull it together woman, that little nugget needs you!!

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Maybe when we rescue dogs we assume a little of the ‘they’ve been through enough already, I want to show them how good life can be’ and when health issues get in the way it thwarts that grand master plan.  But then I’m reminded that whatever they face, whatever happens to us in this magnificent life is in fact the plan, the path, as it is meant to be.   What rescue is really about is showing them that no matter what, you are staying put. You two are forever.  Decisions, bring them on.  You wanna show me some scans, hell yeah, let’s do this.  We shall stand solidly (or in Jake’s case slightly wobbly) next to one another.   If need be, I will carry you. 

I will update on Jake’s appointments in my next post.  We are currently trying some medications and his response to those will greatly help in figuring out exactly what is going on so hopefully I can report on that too!  For now he is snuggled up, wanting for nothing (well maybe wishing Melvin would let him be top dog just once) and feeling the love. Pretty much just a typical Sunday.

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18 thoughts on “Meant to be.

  1. I too choked up at the welcome sign! I’ve been thinking of you and Jake all weekend. Hoping the meds give you the answers you are looking for.
    I know all too well the feelings you are having. We rescued Lainey and between the ages of 9 months to 2 years, she had 5 surgeries on her legs. Like you, we had to have faith in the specialists and in ourselves to know that what we were doing was always in her best interest. Hang in there and know you have a support system in all of us

    • I love our virtual club of support! Just you tearing up at the sign makes me think you should be president! Thanks so much for always being here with us!

  2. Well, Jake. One day at a time. I hope they come up with some satisfactory answers for you both. I have wobbly back legs too. For a year or so now. It slows me down some, but I don’t let it get in the way too much. Acupuncture helps a lot. My Dr Bruton is magic. Thinking about you!
    Rhythm

  3. Love LOVE you guys. Sending thoughts and prayers for you all — and heck, he’ll be the cutest pooch on 2 wheels if it comes to that! I cannot get past how lucky it is that Jake found you and Melvin — he fits right in! Keep us posted!

  4. I’m just getting caught up on you and Jake and your recent “adventures”–starting at the beginning and working my way to the present. I must say that I absolutely love what you say about wanting Jake and Melvin’s lives to be measure in joy. Harper Lee was diagnosed with hip and elbow dysplasia (and a bunch of other scary but less serious things) when she was less than a year old. My goal ever since has been to fill each and every one of her days (almost five years worth now) with joy.

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