A little about me...

Bad Blogger...

2009-11-22T12:44:00.000-08:00

I have been a bad blogger -if anyone even reads this, I apologize. I guess no news -is good news!!
I am doing well. Last check at this nice doctor went great. Nothing new - she just wants me to come back every 3-4 months. What a relief! I am still on my chemo, vits and herbs. Loving my food - my Mom does such a great job keeping me well fed! I think she spends more time on my food than her own!
Spend 2 weeks with my cousins and grandma Ingrid while Mom and Dad went to Hawaii! I did great -so grandma says. I really am calming in my old age. I enjoyed her backyard and almost caught a rabbit! I was oh-so-close! Yummy! Grandma Ingrid almost had a heartattack as I was not listening to anything she had to say to get me inside! I am a hunter by nature!
Getting ready for Thanksgiving and Christmas. I have alot to be thankful for this year, including anyone who keeps up with my journey - for that, I say THANKS! Woof - Woof!!!
Love and licks
Nikki

It's all Chinese to me!!

2009-09-29T17:52:00.001-07:00

All is well with me these days-hope you all can say the same!
I am finally feeling back to myself -eating well, playing, running, barking a squirrels, barking at anything that resembles an animal on TV, chasing my Mom around the house, begging for treats, loving cheese (even though I just know there is medicine burried in there)!
The nice holostic vet called my Mom - she has decided to start me on some Chinese herbs called "Wei Qi Booster" with something called a statis (?sp) to come in a few weeks. I am game - what ever it takes! My Mom emailed the Vet in california that makes my super duper immune stimulators and he gave to go ahead to start on the herbs - no forseeable contraindications!
Whatever it takes - besides - more cheese!!!!
Looking back - I have had more Dr.'s care for my over the past 3 monthts than most people do in a lifetime! I guess I am pretty lucky - so many nice, knowledgable professionals! Here is the run down =
1. Mean Dr. @ Banfield - I will never forget that one (take back the above comment on NICE people)
2. Somewhat nicer Greek Dr. @ Banfiled
3. Awesome surgeon at Tampabay Vet Specialist - she was the one who did such a great job on my surgery and found the other cancer of the anal gland - Thank-you Dr. Cox - I will never forget what you have done for me
4. My favorite Oncologist - Dr. Weaver - at Tampabay Vet Specialist. She is my fav. - I know she loves me as much as I love her. I am sad that she lost her baby to cancer.
5. Dr. Weaver turned us on the Dr. Ramaeker - he makes the special Vetitabs and he lives in California. He responded quickly to my Mom's questions and is available for phone consultation when needed.
6. Dr. Boston is the holostic vet. She is AWESOME. She spent 1 1/2 hours with me during my initial visist. She will be my new vet when all is said and done.
7. Dr. "SHAE" - that is not how you spell is - he is the Chinese med guru who consults with Dr. Boston regarding my herbs. He runs the renowned school for Alternative meds for Vets in Tallahasee. What an awesome resource.
8. Accupuncture tech - Susan. She works with Dr. Boston. She did my inital intake and was great - very informed on her stuff!!
9. My Mom - the obsessive googler -who, without all her research - I would not be doing as well as I am today.

Thanks to everyone who has played a part in my life over the past 4 months. I will be forever greatful.

Love and licks - more to come
Nikki XOXO

Loved it! I was pampered!!!

2009-09-16T08:08:00.000-07:00

Last night was great - I went to see a Holostic Vet for her opinion. When I arrived I was taken to an accupuncture suite for assessment - it was nicer that my living room at home!!! Tons of big comfy couhes - chairs and soft music playing - very zen-like!!! Not "clinical" at all. I met with the accupuncuture tech who asked a ton of questions before the Dr. came in - her name was Dr. Boston. She was fantastic - she spent 1 hour and 30 min with me and my Mom (Dad even came too!!!!) She looked me over from head to toe and then some! She was surprised to see me doing so well - given all that I have been through. She did a personality profile on me - very intersting as I fit directly into the category she had said from the sec she met me!
She talked to my Mom about alot of stuff -food, meds, herbs, vits, treats etc.... She was rather impressed with all the research that my Mom had done and asked my Mom to tell her something she did not know about Mast Cell Tumors!! (Mom gave her some information that she had found and printed out from her obsessive googling!)
Bottom line from last nights outing -
1. I can swtich to a high quality food - grain free - she gave some suggestions
2. Continue with chemo and tummy pill
3. Dr. is going to call my Mom back re: herbs that might help with tumor growth
4. I can have accupunture if I hurt my leg again - apparently it really helps
5. No vaccines other that rabies (yeah for me!)
6. Loose a few pounds - like I did not know that one. It is going to be tough- but, I will try my best!

Now - to process all that info! Thanks for reading - and caring.
Love and licks
Nikki
(forgot to mention - everyone thought I was a girl due to my androgenous name. I am thinking of changing my name to "Nick" - a tad more manly)

Finally - some good news!

2009-09-13T17:20:00.000-07:00

Well, it is about time! I went to the Vet on Friday and I am pleased to announce that the BB has gone down and has almost disappeared. The nice Vet is not concerned and said I am doing great! She did not even charge me for the violation. She said that if I am not happy with the Hill's diet - I can just eat a good high quality kibble (no grains) and some homemade food. Yummy!! I have been eating brussell sprouts for the past 2 days. Kinda good as stinky as they are. I have a month free from the nice Vet. I have an appt with a holostic vet on Tues. I am going to go talk to her for some suggestions on food and vit. etc.. I sure hope she is nice! I will keep you posted on what she has to say!
So - thanks for all the prayers and positive thoughts - they are definately helping!!
Love and licks
Nikki

Tomorrow - hope for good news.

2009-09-09T18:41:00.000-07:00

Well - seems like time has flown by. I go back to the nice Dr. tomorrow for another examination. I am hoping all goes well. I am feeling ok - for the most part. Leg is getting better too!
I had some asparagus tonight for dinner - did not agree with my belly. No more of that thanks.
I will post tomorrow to let anyone who cares know how my appt. goes!
Good night for now,
Love and licks -
Nikki

Grab a tissue.......

2009-09-05T20:28:00.000-07:00

For all the dog lovers out there - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H17edn_RZoY

Now that you have stopped crying - just wanted to say hello. Things are going well - still limping but it seems to be slowly healing. I have been without much energy lately - kinda strange for a Jack Russell, I know. I did get about 3 mins in the backyard - had to christen the new grass that was just re-installed.

Thursday is my follow up apt. Paws crossed for a good report.

Getting kinda late - gotta go make the folks go to bed. I need my beauty rest!!

Love and licks -
Nikki

Beginning of another week...

2009-08-31T16:48:00.000-07:00

Monday is almost over...it was rather uneventful but good, none the less! I think my leg is getting a little better. I am still limited on running and jumping but, I can not control my jumping off/on "my furniture".
My Mom, as superstitious as she is, changed my follow up appt. with the nice Dr. It was scheduled for 9/11 but she decided that was not a good day. Now I will go on the 10th for another butt violation. I only hope that the BB is just a ployp!
My nice neighbor bought me some homemade doggie food from that market. It looks delish and can't wait to try. She is so nice to me!!
All for now - gonna go beg for some food. Doing nothing makes one quite hungry!
Lots of love and licks -
Nikki

Rain....rain.....rain

2009-08-27T12:30:00.000-07:00

I have to admit my weakness - thunder and lightening storms. Not sure just why but, they scare the living daylights out of me. Welcome to Florida, I guess. Every afternoon - like clockwork. I get so worked up I almost pass out!
I did it again - managed to hurt my leg. I think I was trying to dry off after a bath by running laps aroud the house. I have been limping quite a bit since Sunday but, it might be just a hint better. I still can't use my leg like normal.
This waiting game this with the behind, really stinks. 2 weeks left till I go back to see the nice doctor (Dr. Weaver). She will re-examine my butt and determine if the BB needs to come out. I sure hope not......
I am starting to feel very violated!
All for now - hope all is well.
Love and licks,
Nikki

Could have been better.....

2009-08-21T15:33:00.000-07:00

So, I had my weekly check up at the nice doctor's office. She was very impressed at how well I am doing however......she did the dreaded anal exam and found a small little bump - as she described it @ 6 o'clock. She is not convinced it is the big C but wants to keep a very close eye on it. It could be a polyp or even better a hemmroid. Apparently, it is only the size of 1/2 BB pellet. She wants be to come back in 3 weeks for a re-check. Not the news I was hoping for.
On the position side - she did say I was the best Jack Russell she has ever met! She said that Mom and Dad would NEVER find another JR like me and sould not even try. She loves me....I love her too. I am sad that she had to put down her little doggie who had the dreaded "C". He was only 5.
Not much I can do now - just wait and hope for good news. Keep me in you thoughts. I promise to update more often (if anyone even reads this!!!!!)
Love
Nikki
XOXO

I'm back!!!

2009-08-11T14:57:00.000-07:00

Hope all is well - things here are great. I am back to my old routine of eating, sleeping and a little run in the backyard. It is hard to believe that it has been over 2 months since my butt was butchered. I must be a fast healer and my hind end appears back to near normal. Hair is even growing back.
I am eating well and taking my pills. I continue on my special diet and have learned to love it.
Got some bad news today about my pal KC - he has a mast cell tumor - just like me - but it is on his gum so surgically not a great option. His Mom is waiting to hear of the course of treatment.
How does that happen as 3 months ago nobody even knew what the heck a Mast Cell Tumor was!! I hope that he heals and my Mom has of suggestions for him from her obsessive googling!
I go back to the nice Dr. next friday for a check-up. Hope all goes okay.
Summer is almost over though you would never say it from the heat we are experiencing.
Hope all is well and I will check back soon - promise!
Love and licks
Nikki

It's been a while - consider it a good thing!

2009-07-31T18:14:00.000-07:00

Well hello friends,
It has been a while since I have last update so, you can take that as good news. I really do not have much exciting to report - the old saying "no news - good news" is really true!
Things are going well. I have adjusted to my food and really enjoy it. It is a delicious combination of -1/3 can Hill's N/D, 1 tbsp of pumpkin, 1 tbsp of puree asparagus and 1/4 ground chicken or turkey. I get this 2x/day - with my meds of course - disguised in cheese or sandwich meat! My Mom spends more time making my food than she does for herself! I must be special...
Looking forward to a nice weekend with the folks. I have been given increasingly longer times for running in the backyard. Leg is doing better so I do not want to hurt it again.
Hope everyone is doing well - I have missed you.
Say a little prayer for my fur friends Oscar and KC who are doing through their own problems
now.
Love and licks
Nikki

Good news today!

2009-07-21T15:30:00.000-07:00

My Mom recieved a call from the nice doctor today - looks like my bloodwork came back okay! No elevated calcium which means no spread to the lymph system! Kidney function was on the "high side of normal" but, she did not seem too conerned about that. She wants to see me back in month and then, if all goes well, every 3-4 months. So - needless to say- everyone is rather happy in the Marsh household today!
I did get to go on a little run around the new, wet grass. Only for a few mins but it did quench my cravings a little.
Hope everyone is doing great - love and licks
Nikki
(by the way - I am loving the new diet. I think we have found the right combination of Hill's cancer food supplemented with people food. Tonight, it was ground turkey. Yummy!!!!)

A few pics - almost back to the old me!

2009-07-20T19:04:00.000-07:00

Yippee!!!

2009-07-17T17:07:00.000-07:00

Hello there - great news to report today! Saw the nice doctor - she did her dreaded "examination" and....no evidence of any new tumors!!!!!!! She also took some blood, the results will be available on Monday so, paws crossed. I was very happy with that news - as was my Mom and grandma Ingrid, who came along for moral support.
Dr. said to keep on doing what I have been doing - eating what I will, taking supplements, exercising a little and return in one month.
Gotta say - great way to start the weekend for all!
Love and licks -
Nikki

Under the weather lately...

2009-07-15T18:39:00.000-07:00

So, I have had a rough few days but, I think I am finally on the mend. The new food (kibble) I told you about did the number on me! It made me so sick - runny/bloody poop (sorry so graphic) - lethargy and down right crappy! I did not even want to come out and see my parents and spend the majority of time under the bed hiding.
My Mom called the vet - she said to take me off my chemo and let me eat whatever I wanted. That's what I was looking to hear!!! But, instead we have come to a compromise - I now get some of the canned food from the beginning (Hill's n/d prescribed from Vet) mixed with ground chicken and a little pumpkin. It is rather delish - as gross as it sounds! Ever once in while, I hear I might get some other meats, salmon, sardines,veggies, eggs and cottage cheese. So for now - that is where I am. But, I am still stubborn. That will never change!
My Mom only stopped the chemo for a day as I started to come around, eat, play and actually want to go for walks. I am glad because I really think it is what I need and is seems to have helped my leg.
Looking forward to see what other slop I get fed before I go back to the nice Dr. on friday. I think some bloodwork and and ultrasound is on the plate.
I will definately let you know how that goes!
Love and licks
Nikki

Stubborn, I guess

2009-07-10T17:36:00.000-07:00

Another week is over - where does the time go?? I have had an interesting week. I made up my mind that I will not eat the expensive canned food from the vet. It just did not do it for me anymore. After much research, my Mom found EVO dry kibble - it is made of real chicken and all protien. It will do. She even tried to put in some RAW meat patties from the natural pet food store - they were, how shall I say, disguisting! I managed to get one down, that is all I am going to do. I think there was a little pumpkin mixed in tonite - to help with the poop. A little too soft for my parents liking (gross I know).
I have a Dr. appt on next friday - looking forward to some good news. Keep all fingers and paws crossed! I will have blood work and another ultrasound. Promise to keep you posted!
Enjoy your weekend and I will be back soon,
Love and licks
Nikki

Tired today...

2009-07-05T07:13:00.001-07:00

Exhausted from all the barking I had to do last night at the fireworks. They went on for what seemed like an eternity. I finally got to sleep at around midnight but, it is hard work. Don't these people understand that these things are very disruptive of my attempt at at sedate lifestyle?
Other than that, things are going ok. I am starting to get a tad sick of my new food but, all in all, ok. Pills are definately helping my leg. I do not seem to be limping, only when I run.
My super duper vitamins are apparently being disguised in cheese. I am starting to catch on to all the tricks that my Mom is trying to pull!
Looking forward to a relaxing Sunday. Fingers crossed, I might even get to go in the backyard!
I heard my cousin Oscar has an eye problem - I will have to find out what that is all about today.
Hope he is ok...
Love and licks,
Nikki

Rain, rain and more rain

2009-07-01T16:45:00.000-07:00

Not sure what is going on in Florida but it has rained for over 24 hours - not just a sprinkle or two, torrential rain! That means, I do NOT go outside. I hate getting me feet wet. Therefore, I have to limit my food and water intake for fear of having to go to the bathroom.
I have had a pretty sedate day. Lying around for the most part - aside from a little ride in the CAR! Yippee.....good times.
Started my new super duper immune boosting drugs. They are on the tasty side but I am sure I will get sick of them soon. Still have paws crossed that they will work!
Not much else going on here - let continues to feel a little better but, still no running permitted :(
Mom caught me scotting a few times. I think it is just healing and itchy - hope it does not mean any more bad stuff down there.
Stay dry Florida friends and Happy Canada Day to my Canadian counterparts!
Love
Nikki
XO

Start of a new week...

2009-06-29T16:10:00.001-07:00

Monday again. Where does the time go?? Good news is, I have not puked again! Hopefully it was just a fluke and will not have to endure that again.
Had a good day Sunday and today. I am getting back running a little - pills are definately helping the leg situation.
Have not recieved my super duper immune stimulating vitamins yet. Still in transition from California but am looking forward to seeing how they taste! (bonus if they help me)
For now, I have to hold off on the cottage cheese :( My Mom called the manufacturer and they said to get the most benefit from the food, I should not supplement it with anything else. Gonna wait and ask the nice vet when I go there in a few weeks. Hope she gives me the go ahead....I was becoming quite fond of it!
Hope all is well with everyone,
I will keep my updates coming, if anyone is interested!
Love
Nikki XO

Blah....puke.....blah

2009-06-27T09:38:00.000-07:00

All was going well till the puke started. I am not sure why but I have vomitted 4 times since last night. It is not fun - for anyone in my house! I was up most of the night trying to puke quietly but, my Mom ended up waking up to try to help me. I finally finished and was able to go back to sleep about 4am. I am sure it is just a side effect of the medicine but I tell ya, it is a major pain in the rear (as if my butt has not had enough to deal with!).
Good new is, the leg is much better. Pills must be doing something to help!
Gonna rest and hope for a puke-free day.
Talk to you soon,
Love
Nikki

Yummy.....

2009-06-24T18:14:00.000-07:00

I started me new food and I have to say....delish! All fat and protien. I have been licking the bowl clean each time I get it! Also started my chemo pills today. I think they might be helping my let a little, so my Mom seems to think.
Got to go on a few little walks today. Pretty short leash though so I do not run....not an easy task.
Pretty tired now - gonna hit the hay!
All is well....hope it continues.
Love
Nikki XO

Where have you been all my life??

2009-06-21T18:38:00.000-07:00

Cottage cheese - that is what I am talking about. By far the best food known to man/dog. I now get about 1/2 daily. It is loaded with good fatty acids that are supposed to boost my immune system. All I can say is....bring it on!!
Things are going well. I am very happy to have the stitches out. No more itching which means no more collar or lampshade.
Still limping a little on my hind left leg but, I hoping that it will get better soon. Just no running or jumping. That is a tough one for me!
Looking forward to a week free from Dr.'s (hopefully!) and just gonna do my thing as a try to get back to a "normal" life. Start my chemo pills on Wednesday...Hope all will go well.
Have a great week,
Love Nikki

Great news today!!

2009-06-19T11:40:00.000-07:00

Just got home from a long morning at the Vet - but, I am very happy to report that the cancer has not spread!!! The surgeon was able to get clean margins on the biopsy. Now, I just need to take a little chemo pill daily (with a pepcid for my tummy). She did an ultrasound which confirmed that it had not gone into my lymph nodes so I do not need radiation or agressive, IV chemo. Everyone is so relieved and excited! Especially me!!!
The oncologist was great. I think she even developed a little crush on me! (How could she not???)
I have to start a special diet that need to be ordered but from what I hear, it is pretty tasty!
Good news - I get more cheese. That will be the method of choice for medication administration..... (perk of being sick) Still limping a little so the Dr. out me on restriction and limit running and jumping for a while. Apparently, the chemo drug acts like an anti-inflammatory so it should be beneficial in many ways.
Gonna go take a nap. Finally, I can rest easy.
Thanks for all the love, support and prayers. They must have worked.
I promise to keep you updated,
Love and licks,
Nikki

Nervous night...

2009-06-18T18:23:00.000-07:00

Well, tomorrow is the big day. Get to meet the new Oncology Dr. - her name is Dr. Weaver. Her picture looks nice....I am anxious to hear what she has to recommend. Hopefully all will be ok but, I am prepared for whatever she has to say....
Something is definately wrong with my hind left leg. Can't even walk right on it. Will have to ask the new Dr. tomorrow - hope is just a little arthritis! My Mom tried to ice it tonight - I wanted no part of that!
Gonna try to get a good nights rest in preparation for tomorrow. At least the damn stitches will come out and I can stop wearing the stupid blue water wing around me neck!
I will fill you in on what happens tomorrow!
Fingers (and paws) crossed -
Love
Nikki

Finally got to run!

2009-06-17T16:55:00.000-07:00

I guess I am not to trusted in my own backyard as it is kinda large and I spend endless hours running up and down the fence line. For that reason, I have not been permitted out there much since surgery. Tonight, I was given a treat! I went to my friends (Janet and Troy) house and got to spend time in their backyard! It was great - got to run on a whole new turf!
I have been having some trouble with my hind left leg - I limp a little when I walk fast. Not too sure what it is all about. Hope is just something to do with my surgery and it will heal. Apparently, I do have a little arthritis in there so maybe it is just stiff from lack of activity. Therefore, don't you think I should be permitted to run in my own backyard???? Try telling the parents that one.
Surgery site is all healed (so I hear) and I can't wait for the stitches to come out so I can get rid of this damn collar when I am left alone. Yet another display of mistrust my parents have in me. Heck - I could not even reach my but if I tried. Have they seen me???
So, waiting to see what happens on Friday. I am not going to worry right now because really, what good will it do? Please just keep me in you thoughts and prayers.
Talk again later-
Love
Nikki

Day is done...gone the sun!

2009-06-15T17:57:00.000-07:00

Me again - not too much to report today. I did have great visist from my great pal Gina. She lives next door and is Zoey's Mom. She took me out - yippee! and I wanted to bad to visit my friend Zoey but, I think it might be a little too early. Hopefully soon. Other than that, all is well. I thought I'd send along a few snaps as I recover. I really hate having pics taken but I do it for the sake of my Mom. She seems to enjoy it!

Talk again later

Love

Nikki

Start of a new week...

2009-06-14T17:18:00.000-07:00

Another weekend over - that means parents go back to work tomorrow and I will be all alone. I am sure I will sleep most of the day while they are at work. I had a relativley uneventful weekend. I even got to run in the backyard but, only for very short spurts. It was fun, nonetheless!
The swelling has really gone down in my but and stitches look really good, according to my Mom. I have not had to wear my collar very much - thank goodness. I think I have earned some trust!
I guess it will be a long week, waiting for the appt. on friday. I plan on taking adavantage of every moment with my parents and sticking to them like glue!
Have a great week and I will talk soon,
Love
Nikki

As if one wasn't bad enough..

2009-06-12T13:55:00.000-07:00

Mom recieved a call from the nice Dr. this afternoon. Apparently, the pea/grape was a StageII Mast Cell Tumor with relatively clear, yet small, margins. This is a pretty good thing however, it gets worse......the nice Dr. took my anal gland and submitted it for pathology. Apparently, now, I have adenocarcinoma of the anal sac. What are the chances? My bloodwork did not show hypercalcemia, which could indicate that it has not spread. How does this happen....?
Not too sure on treatment options just yet. I am meeting with the oncologist in Friday to discuss treatment options and may have an ultrasound done to check out my lymph nodes to tell if it has spread. I tell ya, I am pretty pissed off right now with all this. Good thing is, I feel fine. Eating, sleeping and going to bathroom just fine. This is gonna take a while to sink in.
I will talk more later,
Love
Nikki

I am houdini!

2009-06-11T17:04:00.000-07:00

Just wanted to let you all know that I am houdini!! I was successful in getting out of the lampshade 3 times today. Whenever left alone with it on, I make it my mission to wiggle out of it. It was a great deal of work but, I am successful! I tumbled out of bed 3 times last night because of that damn thing so, with any luck my folks got the hint and will leave it for the garbage man tonight. I see some sort of device in the table that resembles an inflatable water wing. I am assuming it will go around my neck tonight as I try to rest. We will have to see about that one!
Other than that, I am feeling better each day. Got to go on a few walks today. Visited with Grandma Ingrid for a while. Getting a little itchy now but, all is good.
All for now -
Love
Nikki XOXO

All is good...

2009-06-10T18:17:00.000-07:00

Let me start by saying that, having something bad happen to you, really makes you appreciate your human family a great deal more. I have stuck to the side of both my Mom and Dad, like glue, all day. I do not want to be alone!!
Despite the above, I feel pretty darn good. Still pretty tender, to say the least. I am starting to eat more now and bodily functions are starting to get back to normal. Still not a fan of the Metamucil garbage!
I will be alone tomorrow - locked in the office with the lampshade. Grandma Ingrid is gonna pay me a little visit around lunch. Yipeee - that a guarentee for treats!!!
Pain pill kicking in now so gonna hit they bed.
Keep sending positive thoughts - I sure do appreciate them all.
Love
Nikki

Home sweet home...

2009-06-09T15:29:00.000-07:00

I am home now and recovering, slowly. I am pretty groggy now and really do not feel like eating or drinking. I did manage a frosty paw ice cream which my Mom tried to implant some Metamucil inside - good try but it is definately not odorless or tasteless. Truth. My Mom keeps trying to get me to pee and poop but I have no interest in any of that business right now.
I am not a fan of the lampshade - it is far too big for my little head. Luckily, my Mom is able to take it off when I am haning on the couch with her. I have a ton of stitches and my butt is killing me. I have pain pills to take, which should help. Thank goodness for that!
Gonna try to take a nap now, gotta find a good spot. Thanks to everyone for reading this and showing your love of me!
I will keep you posted on the progress,
Love
Nikki

Waiting for a walk...

2009-06-08T17:38:00.000-07:00

I am sitting here with this damn lampshade on my neck waiting to be walked. My Mom just called and spoke with the night tech...she said I am scheduled to be fed and walked @ 8:00pm. Well, it is past that time now and I am still waiting. Serves them right if I pee all over this damn cage...let's see how much they like that. Apparently, I am more alert and responsive, per the phone call I just overheard. I do not feel more alert, just hurt like heck. To be expected, I guess. Can't wait to go home tomorrow. Apparently, I will get some pumpkin to help me poop (what's that all about?) And, by the way, I was not successful in pooping on the floor this morning. There is always tomorrow.......
Think of me as I try to sleep....drugs...give me drugs.
Thanks
Love
Nikki

Where am I??

2009-06-08T14:15:00.000-07:00

I am out of surgery now and from what I over heard, am doing good. Nice Dr. was talking to my Mom and said that I am "such a good boy" - like there was any doubt! Apparently I have like 10 stitches in my butt - she took most of the little pea and even took my anal gland too. I am glad to get rid of that stinky, useless thing. I have to stay here tonight and heard they might give me some food. Not looking forward to the food as that means I will have to poop and not in the mood to try that just yet. Gotta get used to this new lampshade accessory - not the most fashionable, I must admit. I am pretty groggy right now and have pain meds flowing in my IV. Think it is time to take a nap. My Mom is supposed to call back later and check on me for updates...I hope it will all be good. The pathology report will take 5-7 days so, we will have to wait for the final result. Getting sleepy....ZZzzzzzz
Love to all
Nikki

Getting anxious....

2009-06-08T12:30:00.000-07:00

Just lying here in the cage waiting for my surgery. It should happen soon but thought I would give you a quick update (thank goodness for Wi-Fi). Met with the nice Dr. She was pretty matter of fact and said that the pea/grape needed to come out, as we all had thought so, here I am waiting....apparently they will have to shave off all my butt hair and I will have to wear a lampshade for 2 weeks but, if it fixes the problem, I can suck it up. Let you know more when I come out of surgery....

Wish me luck!

2009-06-07T15:03:00.000-07:00

Tomorrow is the big day. Meet with hopefully nice Dr. @ 9:45am. Grandma Ingrid is coming with us. She is very concerned and I appreciate her coming!
I have decided what ever happens, I know I will be OK. I just hope that I do not have to have my butt butchered too much in an attempt to remove the pea/grape. Speaking of - my Mom tells me is has shrunk significantly. I know that happens with this type of tumor but, I am taking it as a good sign.
No food after midnight so I am hoping for a big feed tonight. At least enough to build up a nice big poop that I have planned to take as soon as I make it inside the Dr.'s office.
All for now, I will keep you posted on how things go tomorrow.
Love you all and thanks for checking in,
XO
Nikki

Dr. Atkins was right

2009-06-05T15:42:00.000-07:00

So, my Mom was home sick today which gave her time to research more on the pea/grape. Apparently, this type of tumor feeds on Carbohydrates so, no more toast or crust for me. Despite my Mom's carb addiction, I will have to refrain, at least for a while, from begging for left overs. I will have to focus on lettuce for now. I guess that is ok as I need to watch my waistline as it has grown a little lately.
Get to go in the CAR now to go see my grandma and cousins. Yeah for me!!
Have a nice weekend. I get 2 whole days before the dreaded Dr.'s visit.
Love to all,
Nikki

News about new drug

2009-06-04T15:55:00.000-07:00

My Mom just told me that a new drug was approved just yesterday to treat Mast Cell Tumors, like mine. It is called Palladia and is the first ever approved for us canines. She is not really sure when it will be available for use but she definately plans to ask the hopefully nice Dr. on Monday. Maybe it is fate????? We can hope! I do know that if I have to take any drugs that means I will get lots of CHEESE! So, there might be a positive spin to some of this stuff.
Talk to you later -
Love
Nikki

Fruit Salad

2009-06-03T15:45:00.000-07:00

Me again...pretty uneventful day. Spent most of the day in bed, resting. This is my usual place to spend the day while the folks are at work.
The pea/grape seems to have transformed in a raspberry - of the dried fruit variety. Do not mean to be too graphic but it is starting to dry up and scab a little. My Mom keeps picking at it which I hate and is rather gross, if you ask me. I wish she would just leave me alone! I feel fine and just want to go back outside and chase the squirrels. The perimeter of the backyard is doing just fine but I must go now and check it out again.
Talk to you later and thanks for all the prayers!
Love Nikki

Another day is done...

2009-06-02T17:27:00.000-07:00

I guess I must be one cool canine! My Mom recieved lots of calls of love and support tonight from family and friends, concerned about my well-being. She appeared sad so I needed to get outside, away from her. I decided to bark until she let me out and in and out, over -and -over again. I figured, if I kept her busy opening and closing the patio door - she would eventually cheer up. She even took me for a ride in the CAR (her attempt to shut me up)! Yippee...great time as usual.
Apparently, hair is starting to grow back on the pea/grape. I would not know as I can not quite reach it yet however, I am trying be hardest.
Gonna beg for some cheese now and hit the hay. The old man will be back in town tomorrow so, I will have some company for a few days. Hopefully that will include some sympathy treats too!
Love to all,
Nikki

Success

2009-06-01T17:14:00.001-07:00

I did it - managed to take the biggest poop ever at the nurses station today as I was getting ready to be taken back to the "room" for blood work. I had a bad day at the doctor - I really wanted attention, that I did not get. For this reason, I proceeded to bark all morning long - that will teach them! My Mom even called from work to check on me an heard me barking, on the phone, from a completely different room. I hope I drove them all nuts and they are enjoying a handful of tylenol right now. So, bloodwork came back. My Mom tried to explain it a little - I guess it has not spread into my lymph system - guessing that is a good thing. My WBC's are high and albumin is low - whatever that means! Apparently the cytology showed "partly differentiated Mast Cell tumor" - I guess I will learn more next Monday when I go to the "specialist" - I sure hope she is nice. She looks very friendly in her picture - if that means anything!
Grandma Ingrid picked me up at lunch and brought me back to her house. I played a little with my cousins and teased the kitties. My Mom bought me a frosty paw - peanut butter. Yummy! I tore into it and even ate most the ones she bought for my cousins.
Now I have a few days off from people poking at my butt - except for my Mom - but that is fine. She is gentle. I will enjoy the next few days off and keep you posted on how things are going.
Gotta run now and find a squirrel!
Love
Nikki

Off to Dr. - again....

2009-06-01T02:56:00.000-07:00

At least I get to ride in the car! Who doesn't appreciate a nice little ride. Wish me luck - I starving - NPO since last night. Not even a damn beggin strip. Arrgghhh......

Got all caught up in the whole blog thing...

2009-05-31T14:25:00.000-07:00

I forgot to tell you that the pea/grape is called a "Mast Cell Tumor"

Let me start...

2009-05-31T13:31:00.001-07:00

For those of you who know me - you know what I am like!!! I would like to think that I am fun, cute and try my best to be nice to all that I meet. I admit some other canines get on my nerves and for that reason, I would much rather be around humans.
That being said, other that being a little overweight (or undertall) I am perfectly healthy - or so I thought. It all started about 4 weeks ago - I went to the Dr. for my routine shots and the dreaded anal gland squeeze. All went well. About 2 weeks later - during play time with my Mom she noted a little bump. about the size of pea, on my butt. Seeing that I had just been the Dr. to the stinky junk squeezed from my ass - she thought it was just related but, made an appt. to go to back to the Dr.
We made to dreaded trip to PetSmart to Banfield Animal Clinic - I usually put on the brakes at the front door and insist in being carried back. It I am left to walk back to the Dr. on my own accord I will, without fail, poop on the floor and do my best to get out of my collar in an attempt to run back to the car. After years of this, my parents have learned that I must be carried - all 23lbs of me, shaking like a leaf!
So the mean Dr. does his exam and without compassion, after feeling the lump, tells my Mom that "it does not look good - it could be very bad". Thought Mom was going to pass out - she got all hot and pale (he usual reaction to bad news). Me - I did not sweat it. I mean - I feel fine for goodness sake. So the mean Dr. took me back and stuck a needle in the pea. It hurt a little and bled a ton but - nothing I could not handle. Mean Dr. told my Mom he woulod call her with the cystology results. I really do not appreciate it when Dr.'s do not talk directly to me. I mean, I am the patient. Obviously, he does not comprehend the exent of my intelligence. (His loss) My Mom was visibly upset so I did my best to cheer her up - I tried to not act sad or sick but did my best to keep barking at the squirrels and crying to go outside - despite the rain, to ensure the perimeter of my backyard was safe and secure. Mom waited for the 5 days to pass to get the results (long weekend held things up)
Thursday, May 28th finally arrived. Instead of calling the mean Dr. Mom decided to take me - once again, back to the clinic. This time - my Dad drove me. I love his car as it is all black inside and it looks great when my white hair sticks to the seats! This time, my Mom requested a new Dr. (not the mean one). We met a new guy - he was pretty nice - soft spoken - greek - wedding ring on his right hand. He did not say much but felt my butt alot which was - to say the least - uncomfortable - on more than one account. He wast pretty straight forwards and was honest in his recommendations. The pea - which apparently now has transformed to a grape- needs to come out. Soon. They are not capable of removing it at his office so recommened a speciality clinic in Largo - go figure - us canines are getting pretty important. We even have our own oncologists to help us. My Mom had tons of questions for the new Greek Dr. I think he thought she knew everything but, she does do her research. He questions we appreciated - however, if you ask me, she went a little overboard. As I said - I feel fine and am going to be ok.
So - tomorrow is Monday - I have to go get something called "pre-op blood work and x-rays" Oh joy - back to that damn place again. I am going to try my best to take a big dump on the floor. Apparently, my surgical appt. is scheduled to June 8th in Largo. My Dad will be out of town so my Mom has convinced my grandma Ingrid to accompany us. She will need some moral support. I will try to be there for her but, chances are, I will be busy looking for new places to poop on the floor and christen the new Dr.'s office!!! I will keep you posted. Thanks for reading.
Love
Nikki

A little about me

2009-05-31T13:18:00.000-07:00

Hello all - I am just getting used to this process. I will be back soon to share