Not counting the days, making the days count

Sadly we have just found out that our beautiful Buffy has a tumor in her abdomen, it is at a very bad place and is putting pressure on both major arteries and nerves. She has Cushing's disease, which  the vet believes is unrelated, but that complication added to her age (9) leaves an extremely poor prognosis.

He said she probably only has weeks left.

We are needless to say overwhelmed and heartbroken.

Luckily our vet is willing to do whatever it takes to keep Buffy comfortable. When I asked him what we should watch out for to signify that she was worsening he replied with one word... Collapse.

People who are dog lovers will understand the agony I am feeling. We are going to lose a family member. One who has been faithful, and who has brought great joy to our lives.

We are trying to make whatever time is left wonderful for her. She is having pancakes/syrup daily, getting lots of extra attention, going on car rides, all of the things she loves.

You can learn a lot from a dog; patience, loyalty, an enjoyment of the little things in life. The following pretty much sums it up:

Everything I Need to Know
I Learned From My Dog

Author Unknown.
Taken from the Web.

When loved ones come home, always run to greet them.

Never pass up the opportunity to go for a joyride.

Allow the experience of fresh air and the wind in your face to be pure ecstasy.

When it's in your interest, practice obedience.

Let others know when they've invaded your territory.

Take naps and stretch before rising.

Run, romp, and play daily.

Thrive on attention and let people touch you.

Avoid biting, when a simple growl will do.

On warm days, stop to lie on your back on the grass.

On hot days, drink lots of water and lay under a shady tree.

When you're happy, dance around and wag your entire body.

No matter how often you're scolded, don't buy into the guilt thing and pout ... run right back and make friends.

Delight in the simple joy of a long walk.

Eat with gusto and enthusiasm. Stop when you have had enough.

Be loyal.

Never pretend to be something you're not.

If what you want lies buried, dig until you find it.

When someone is having a bad day, be silent, sit close by and nuzzle them gently.