December 03rd, 2016

 As I sit down to write this it is after a long emotional day.  So forgive me if my thoughts are a bit scattered.  I will do my best to keep them organized.

The day began at 3:30 am to the sounds of our dear sweet Rocky having a seizure.  After awaking and realizing what was happening, I comforted him and placed him on the dogbed at my bedside.  He rested comfortably for a bit longer.  At 6:30 am another followed.  I gathered him up and took him to the vet.  As we were driving to the vet, he wanted me to touch and caress him.  I could tell by his body language he wanted the physical contact.  So I, of course, honored his wishes.  

The diagnosis for Rocky was grimm.  You see, Rocky came to us in January of this year from Craigslist.  His human daddy had passed away and the gentleman who was in charge of going through and liquidating his estate could not take on Rocky.   So he was looking for a home for Rocky.   But Rocky was not an ordinary dog.  Rocky had a huge growth on his snout.  Rocky was released to me and in coordination with Angels Left Behind Animal Rescue funds were raised to have the delicate surgery to remove what was actually a malignant tumor.  Rocky was a fighter through it all.  He prevailed to the wonderful vet care of Dr. Brenin at Crest Animal Hospital.  But over the last few months his health has declined.  He has gone blind, not eating as well and generally sleeping most of the day.  Today we discovered he  has an abdominal tumor.  So most likely the cancer has returned.  The decision was made to ease his transition to the Rainbow Bridge.  That is never an easy decision.

However, I take great joy in knowing Rocky.  This little guy has taught me alot about myself.  I loved that he was able to explore the Colorado mountains with me and the Grand Canyon before his life on this earth ended.  It wasn't long after that trip he lost his eyesight.  I loved  the little growling noise he made every time I would go to pet him.  I always wondered what that growl meant to him.  I loved his little wiggle butt when he would lean up against me and beg to be loved!  I loved that on his final day on this earth he wanted physical contact with me and I was able to provide it for him.  I am so very grateful I was able to love a little dog named Rocky!

As I continue on my day...Final plans are being made to place our dear Luna with her forever family, a home visit for our sweet Tucker, and I place our precious pup Snickers, now Gatsby, with his forever family.  I am so very happy for each of these pups.  They are about to begin their new life...a life of love and care which they previously have not known.  I am so very grateful for the families who have opened their hearts and homes to these precious souls.  I know they are in for the love of their lives...for a companion through thick and thin...the love only a dog can give.  What a blessing!

What an emotional day at Missouri Puppy Mill Rescue!  But as I lay here with 2 dogs at my side and two on the floor below, I wouldn't have it any other way.  It's all a part of the circle of life.  It's all about doing what you can, where you can, when you can and helping others on the journey!