Monday, June 25, 2012

Bella-- Post operation

I am so relieved to say Bella's surgery is OVER!

Thursday was such an emotional day for me. I have never had to leave Bella with anyone before. I have done all of her surgical procedures and been there when she wakes up from anesthesia. We had to wake up around Five in the morning on Thursday to take Bella to the hospital. The doctor was so nice to let us take Bella home the night before. Dave and I got Bella to the hospital around seven. We had completed all paper work previous day so all there was to do was leave my little Bella with the staff. As attached as Bella is to Dave and I, she went with the tech very easily. I asked if they could please give her a pre- medication to help her stay relaxed. Bella was the first patient on the surgery table that morning. The  staff said they would call me when Bella was waking up.

I must admit I cried a little when we got back to the truck with out Bella. I was a little over whelmed. Dave decided it would be relaxing to take the morning to drive down to Annapolis, since we weren't that far. I have never been down and heard it is a fun place to visit. Dave and I drove all through the old towns, parked and walked around all the old shops. I had my phone close in reach if the doctor called.

When we got home a little after lunch, the house was extremely quiet and lonely. Dave and I did everything to try and keep our minds off Bella. Finally the tech called and said that Bella's surgery went well and she was waking up fine. That was a relief....

I had the phone practically glued to my hand the entire afternoon if hopes the doctor would call. I walked in the other room and left my phone on the charger. Naturally the phone rang while I was away and Dave answered it. I walked in towards the end of the conversation and all he keep saying was "OK... OK... OK... OK...." He didn't think to ask all the questions I would have or ask how Bella was doing. I was of course worried until we went to pick her up on Friday.

I did not get much sleep on Thursday night and was up at 5 a.m. eager to pick Bella up. Considering Bella's discharge wasn't until 10:30, I still had a bit of time to wait. I used  this time to prepare the house for her arrival. I made sure I had area rugs on all the hard wood floors, fresh water, beds and all her favorite toys sitting out. Dave and had bought some cute toys at the Pet Barn in Annapolis, so everything was waiting for her. We made a stop at Panera to pick up the doctor and staff some bagels. They had been so nice to us and did an incredible job with Bella we wouldn't to do a little something to say thanks! We paid our bill and got very detailed discharge paper work. Dave took Bella's favorite toy in to greet her with... her pumpkin! The tech brought Bella in the room, she looked up at us cried and grabbed her pumpkin. Everyone was laughing at her in the waiting area, as we walked through with her toy in her mouth. I could tell everyone really loved her at the hospital. All the staff members came up and said goodbye to her and said she was a really good patient. They did say they could tell she was really spoiled at home, she would cry a little in her cage and a staff member would come up and talk to her and she would be fine. I am clearly the one to blame for this.

The whole ride home Bella slept in my lap. I sat in the back seat with her while Dave drove us home. She didn't let go of her pumpkin until we stopped the truck in the drive way. She was very thankful to be home with her family. She had my mom, dad and grandmother visit her the day she got home from the hospital. She was still on a lot of drugs and was really out of it. Dave and I sat with her the entire afternoon... giving her lots of T.L.C.

It turns out Bella had a complete tear, a torn meniscus, and a lot of arthritis forming from the injury. The doctor fixed everything. When Bella is recovered her knee will be 100 percent. The T.P.L.O. surgery was the best fit for Bella. Dave and I are very happy with her progress this far. She is currently getting all medications, and supplements. She is getting ice and R.O.M. exercises daily. Whatever the best care we can give Bella, she will receive.

Bella has been keeping in good spirits, although it has been hard to keep her down and explain she can't run and play right now. The past 2 days Dave and I have taken her on some wagon rides. All the people who pass her think it is so cute and always stop to give her attention.

We have all gotten much support. I couldn't keep in such good spirits myself if it wasn't for all the supportive words from friends and family. It has been quite exhausting on Dave and I to try and keep up with all the proper care and dedication to making sure Bella is healthy and on the right road to recovery.

Bella will start swim therapy with an underwater treadmill in 3 weeks. We are all very excited to get started.

Wednesday, June 20, 2012

Bella's first trip to Dr. Walesby

This morning Bella had her consult with Dr. Walesby at Maryland Veterinary Surgical Center. Bella's visit today was her first visit being on the other side of things. She is used to her mom holding her for everything and is used to Celebrie and all her friends there. She had to wait in the waiting area with a very cute pug named Oscar. Bella made new friends today because everyone LOVED her at the office. She was a very good patient and rolled over for the doctor. Dr. Walesby did some maneuvers on her knee and it hurt Bella. After she was done Bella jumped up and tried to kiss her. She is very quick to forgive anyone. 


We had a great experience at the surgical center today. Dr. Walesby and her staff were all wonderful. They took the time to get to know Bella. She also gave me the choice to leave Bella for the night or bring her back in the morning for surgery. Due to Bella's separation anxiety we chose to take her home and drive back down in the morning to drop her off. Bella is getting a T.P.L.O surgery on her knee. This procedure is much more detailed and expensive. Dave and I want the very best for Bella, so we told the doctor to tell us what she thought was best with money not being an issue. She is very confident in the surgery and her previous cases. The American Pit- Bull Terrier is her number one patient for this surgery. Do to their high energy level and conformation it is very common. Bella will most likely have both knee's replaced with the T.P.L.O. surgery. The doctor said she See's a lot of changes in Bella's right knee. On the plus side her hips look great! The doctor was also very happy and impressed with the care we have given Bella leading up to surgery. She stated we will see great improvement with the surgery and care we can provide to her. Her swim therapy can begin 3 weeks post surgery. We are very excited to get Bella back to her happy, healthy self. Dr. Walesby was very knowledgeable regarding all questions asked by a nervous mom and dad. Dave and I will be calling later to set up her swim therapy treatments and whatever else the doctor recommends. I feel confident to know that Bella is in the best of care. Please keep your paws crossed for her. She has a long road to recovery and her surgery in at 7 a.m. Thursday morning.


http://www.tploguide.com/tplo-surgery.php

Above is a link with some information regarding the procedure if anyone wants to learn more about it. 


The above pictures are from today at the Surgical Center. Bella is a super star patient!

Wednesday, June 13, 2012

One more week

Bella's surgery will take place in a week and 1 day. We are trying to make the best of everything. My dad donated money to buy her a large cart that she fits great in. I have been pulling her around the yard. Dave and I took her to the park today on a wagon ride. She was a very good girl... just sad she couldn't run and play. It has been so hard to stop her from trying to run. We are making every attempt to keep her down but still get out and enjoy the beautiful weather. Bella has been a very good patient for us. She has to get a shot in her muscle every 4 days that helps her joints. She is loving her meatballs of pills! She is currently bearing no weight on her injured leg. She has already begun to lose muscle mass in that leg.

I can't wait to get her through the first few months of rest so we can start her rehab. Bella has a long road ahead. I expect she will recovery greatly due to her love to work and focus. The obstacle is to keep her down for the period of time that is required. Dave and I continue to get a lot of support. It truly means a lot to us both.

Life has been a bit more challenging trying to keep our Bella happy and healthy. Dave, Bella and I make a great team. We are going to over come this obstacle together and get Bella back to her crazy self!

Much can be learned from our dogs, they are always happy go lucky. Dogs are always in the moment.... as much pain as Bella is in she still keeps on going. It's almost like she forgets her knee hurts when she spots a bunny or squirrel. How amazing our animals? We would sit on the couch and cry with an injury such as Bella's.

Bella is a blessing every day. She brings much joy to my life. She has taught me what really matters. Keep your fingers and paws crossed for a safe surgery and speedy recovery for our Bella.

-Colleen :-)

Saturday, June 9, 2012

Life is strange

" It is so hard to remember my knee hurts, especially when the fuzzy little creatures follow me from window to window. Mom calls them squirrels. They are even more fun to chase then birds and bunnies. They climb things and make it harder for me to find them. I have a hard time understanding why mom wont let me out to chase them. She says my knee is torn and I have to wait a while before I can do that again. What is a while? Maybe tomorrow?"


" I have been walking around these past two weeks on a leash and close to mom and dad. Mom insists on picking me up to go up the steps. It's not bad but I like to run up real fast instead. I have been more spoiled lately. Extra big clumps of my wet food and cool things on my knee." 


" I am used to getting lots of attention but the whole not jumping on the bed where LILY gets to lay, isn't fair. I try anyway and mom yells no Bella, I will get you. Lily thinks it's funny... "


" I keep going up to the pool and look at mom, I have perfected this look... this is when I get  what I want. Mom always gives in the easiest to it. She is my number one target. It hasn't been working and I haven't been able to swim. She keeps saying it's my knee and I can start swim rehab after surgery. I don't know what surgery is. Mom says I've had 2 surgery's before. I always remember waking up wondering where the time went and what was I doing?" 


"Mom keeps putting this strange thing under my belly when I try and walk. I think she has lost her mind. I know my knee hurts but I can walk 3 legged just fine. She puts it on and says... go pee! Heck no... I do my business very privately in the bush or when I know for sure no one is watching."


" I know mom is very happy with all the support for me. She said it's because people love me, as much as I'd love to agree... I think a lot of people love her just the same. Mom helps a lot of people it's nice in  a hard time others help her and I." 


"Mom says it's time to ice my knee again. Then maybe a nap is in my future. For know I will dream of catching fuzzy creatures outside my window. " 


-Bella 

Sunday, June 3, 2012

My gimp princess

"Gimper Magoo"


The impact a dog can have on your life is remarkable; my little side kick has been diagnosed with an A.C.L. Tear to her left hind leg. I have undergone some surgical procedure and many painful injuries in my life time, and I am more over whelmed for my dog. 


It is so hard when a dog ( or any animal) is sick or injured. You can't explain to them why they can't play and do the normal things they love to do. They don't understand even if you try. Bella is my heart and soul. She has helped me through so many emotional times in my life. Bella is the first thing I wake up to in the morning. She is my sunshine every single day...


Her surgical consult is scheduled for June 20th. Time is moving very slowly. The surgeon is going to feel her knee and decide which surgical technique is best for her, then her surgery will be the following day. I have been saving every penny and trying to raise money for her expenses. I am touched at the generous donations given by friends so far. It is incredible how many people are trying to help. I am forever grateful. Many days Bella is the reason I smile. I know a lot of people in the world don't understand how someone can be this attached to an animal... the ones who do know how important she is to me. A.C.L. surgery is usually most successful post surgery. I have been studying everyday on rehab techniques and the best way to get my Bella back to hiking and running around like the goofball everyone loves her for.   


Bella is very special to me, to those who know her she makes people smile where ever she goes. I am forever thankful for the joy she brings me every single day. I feel better to know Bella will be at a great orthopedic surgeon. She came highly recommenced from Dr. Garrett and Dr. Zimmerman. I have seen her work with other patients. I find comfort in knowing I have so much support. Thank you everyone who has been there for Bella and I. This has not been easy news for us both to handle. Although if you'd ask Bella she'd say I am taking it a bit worse. 


My Bella is "broken" and I can't wait to get her fixed....  



Tuesday, May 29, 2012

It's all about Bella


It takes a special person to bring a dog into your home and make them part of your family. Bella was not a "planned" child. From the moment Bella was brought into our home, it was official... she was HOME and part of the family. My life is completely wonderful with Bella part of it. She is my side kick. If something doesn't include Bella, then I am worried about when I can get home to spend time with her. She has completely stolen my heart.... 

The last few weeks Bella has not been quite right in her hind end. She has been lame and favoring her left hind leg. Doing what I do for a living you always think the worst... TORN ACL! I had Bella sedated to clean her teeth and check her hips and knees. Nothing appeared on the x-rays to be wrong, however when you are looking for ACL tear it doesn't really show on x-rays. ( because you are looking at bone) So I was keeping an eye on her, giving her high does of her supplements. This past weekend everything seemed great... Bella had a swim date in the swimming pool with her Best Friend Lily and she seemed fine through out the afternoon. That evening Bella was painfully lame in the left hind and was non weight bearing. Her knee was painful to the touch. Some T.L.C., pain medications and rest were in her future. 
Bella seems to be doing well with her combination of medications, supplements and rest. She doesn't quite understand why she can't play with Lily much, or jump in the pool, which breaks my heart. She is the best patient and I will give her the best care possible. Dr. Garrett and Dr. Zimmerman are working with me to provide her with comfort. It is a strong possibility that Bella will under go ACL surgery in the near future. Dave and I have discussed everything and want the extreme BEST care for our furry daughter. I will be calling for consult with orthopedic surgeon this week to set something up as soon as possible. Surgery and post surgical care are extremely expensive. I will keep all of her fans in the "loop." For now please keep your fingers and paws crossed for her and for her family. If Bella needs to proceed with surgery, I am going to have wrist bands made to donate money towards her expenses. For now Bella has been placed on the " INJURED RESERVED" list. 
       

Tuesday, February 14, 2012

HAPPY VALENTINES DAY

Bella, Lily and I would like to wish all our readers a very happy valentines day! 






My valentines this year were my furry four legged friends. For a winter's day, the weather was beautiful. We played fetch until both fur balls were asleep on their bed... what a lovely day. People sure do get caught up on material things. I am just happy to spend the day with my pups. 


Always remember to enjoy the little things in life. ALWAYS! We may all not be in a loving relationship; however we all have someone in our life who we LOVE and who LOVES us in return. Whether your valentine is your mom, dad, sister, husband, friend or even your dog.... you ALWAYS have someone. Having material things is nice but the true meaning of LOVE means so much more. HAPPY VALENTINES DAY TO ALL!!! Hope it's a great one!!! 


Much Love, Colleen, Bella and Lily!

Tuesday, February 7, 2012

Vote for Bella!!!

Bella and I are now entered into the cutest couple challenge through the A.S.P.C.A. 
Voting runs March 1st through 9th. If everyone votes for us and we win- we are going to donate to an animal shelter in need. 


I need everyone to vote everyday through the A.S.P.C.A. Website under cutest couple photo challenge. We are under "Will you be my Valentine?" 




Bella and I would like to thank all friends and family for your support reading our blog. I enjoy sharing my love of animals and Bella has fun writing about her view of life. 



Annie the sweet cat-- looking for a home!



This sweet girl is Annie. She is up for adoption through Celebrie Veterinary Hospital. Annie is about 8 years old and boarder line diabetic. Her owner has dementia and can no longer care for her. Like many other cases, she will be a hard one to place. Due to age and her health most people would just look past this sweetheart. Annie is boarder line diabetic, which means she is currently on a special prescription diet called Purina DM. Annie is currently not on insulin and does well being on the special diet alone. 

Annie's owner loved her dearly; however was finding in hard to remember to feed her and care for her. She cried terribly when leaving her with me. She asked me to do my best to find Annie a good home with some one who could love her and care for her. She is a very laid back cat. We have had her in the hospital for a few days and for a few weeks prior ( she was staying with us and her mom forgot to come and get her) In her weeks at the hospital we let her roam around with the girls. She seems to adjust well to change. She would sit in our laps for a while and just hang out by our feet. She loves to be rubbed. She is a great eater and tends to not mind things going on around her. 

We have someone who may be interested in taking her in. They just lost their beloved cat of 18 years. If this does not work out, Annie needs to find her forever home. If there is anyone out there that thinks Annie would be a good fit for someone they know please contact me. If you don't mind feeding her a special diet and caring for a middle aged cat, she would be just lovely for someone. Perhaps someone who is retired or needs a friend? Annie deserves a chance. 

My  e-mail is colleenmackenzierose@gmail.com

Celebrie e-mail is celebrievethospital@gmail.com and the office line is 410-592-2550


Saturday, February 4, 2012

A pit's view...

" McDonald's has really gotten my mom hyped up... Dad and I took a ride to moms work yesterday to help move the groomers new lift table. Ashley the new groomer is so sweet! She always is willing to give me treats! I heard mom talking about it and knew she was upset." 


" I wish I knew why me and my breed are labeled as a bad dog? We are just as goofy as any other dog. Mom always says it's how the dogs owner treats the dog that matters. She works with dogs from 3 pounds to 200 pounds everyday... I think she knows best. When mom and dad are talking at dinner ( I am close just in case they happen to drop a bite or two)  I always hear mom saying how it's the little dogs that try and bite or OF COURSE a CAT!!!!"


" My mom educates people and I always try to be on my best behavior around others. Some times on walks people ask what I am... mom always proudly says an american pit bull terrier. Some people say I'm cute ( smart people) and some back away like I am 4000 pounds and ready to attack ( not very smart people) Even though I am always very friendly and of course CUTE, people judge me anyway. All you hear about on the news is about bad things that my breed and other bully breeds do.I wish people would hear good things. " 


" McDonald's is wrong to make a commercial implying that it is safer to eat their chicken nuggets then to pet a pit bull. Are you kidding me?? I AM SAFE!! I might jump up and kiss you if your lucky." 
"A lot of people called about this matter. McDonald's said they were sorry and they didn't mean to hurt peoples feelings. They said they would remove the commercial. It's great when people all pull together to make a difference. Thank you for those that always stand up for dogs and other animals." 

 " I am proud of my mom for standing up for me and for others.  My breed has LOTS of good things about us; we are really smart and learn things quickly, we are very loyal to the ones who love us, we are good at snoring and farting, and we are fun loving... just give us a chance!" 

" I let my mom open my mouth to brush my teeth, I let her put really embarrassing outfits, hats and glasses on me. Do I look dangerous or vicious ? Mom always says the most vicious thing about pit bulls is their farts... I feel as though that is debatable... my snoring is much worse."

" I am going to share some fun pictures of me and mom from this past week. Life is good." 

"Thanks for listening to a goofy, yet very knowable pit"

-Bella

Saturday, January 14, 2012

History Lesson

" My mom has gotten lazy. She is clearly handing this job over to me. Perhaps I'll change the name to Bella's Dog Blog. I was laying down with my best friend Lily, after a hard day of playing and she tells me to write another post. I guess people like what I have to say."


"Moms getting together a large donation for the homeless animals. She had everything laying out today trying to organize it and Lily stole a toy. I saw the whole thing and didn't have anything to do with it. Mom didn't get mad though. I really can't wait to take the donations to the shelter. Moms got a lot of people to donate to help the cause. We both wish we could save all of them." 


" I don't really know what it's like to be homeless. I was living in a bad home for a few months, but at least it was a home. So many animals are out on the streets or have to be put to sleep. I don't think people in this world grasp the idea of breeding. Why are so many people breeding? Aren't there enough homeless dogs in the world? Makes me so sad to know that some animals will never know what it's like to live the good life." 


" Mom took me to work tonight. I met a cat who could have taken me and Lily both, even with the cone of shame... I wouldn't stand a chance. Mom had to make sure her fluids were running, and she almost took moms hand off. I backed off respectfully.  I also met a little puppy who was also named Bella. She yipped and licked my face. I think she weighted 2 pounds. Mom and I both liked her much better. Mom said she was a Yorkie." 


"Mom wants to educate people and help them understand that Bully Breeds aren't bad dogs.  Did you know that my breed the American Pit Bull Terrier was a result of crossing the BULL DOG and ENGLISH TERRIER ? Bull Dogs started out as the fighting dogs. They used them for their size and strength. If you have ever met a bull dog you will quickly find that they are lazy and don't like to use their strength much. This is why they were crossed with the Terrier.. to get ME! The American Pit Bull Terrier is good at fighting due to strength and loyalty to their owners. It does not mean we want to do it. Those poor dogs are brain washed. They are beaten and killed if they do not listen." 


" If people took the time to learn more about BULLY BREEDS they would quickly learn that we are very lovable dogs. We only want to please our owners and do what we are told. Mom recommends the book LOST DOGS to all our blog readers. It it all about Michael Vick's ( hate that guy) fighting dogs. Did you know that all the dogs they rescued from his home ( except two) were saved and all passed their good citizens tests? That's AMAZING! "  




http://www.pitbullsontheweb.com/petbull/findpit.html

" The above link is a game. You must find the American Pit Bull Terrier out of all the dogs in the pictures. GOOD LUCK." 


" Mom says she will post more on the history of the American Pit Bull Terrier later. Please look for her posts. And give the BULLY BREEDS A CHANCE!" 


Me and Lily ready for the game!


" Go RAVENS" 


Love, Bella 

Monday, January 9, 2012

Hi I'm Bella!

"Hello Everyone! My name is Bella. My mom asked me to help her with her blog, so here I am. I am here to help you all see things from the dogs side. I think I am the BEST pup for the job."


"I am an American Pit- Bull Terrier. I am white with Brown spots. People are scared of me, although I am not quite sure why. I am a really good girl... well most of the time. I was born into a pretty bad home. I don't remember much about my past, because I live in the moment and it isn't important to me. Mom said I was covered in fleas and had no shots at the age of 5 months. My mom and dad saved my life. I was living with a mean little dog, Mom said it's called a chihuahua. He growled at me when I got close to him. To be honest, I was a little scared of him. (Don't tell Lily)  The guy who bought me, got me from a drug dealer who sold me for drug money.... He left me tied to the door knob for 12 hours straight. When my mom and dad came to rescue me, I had no idea I was going to the best home EVER!!!!"


" Mom and Dad brought me to my forever home and I was in Heaven. I was living with two other pups. A big black and tan dog named Roxanne and a FAT yellow one named Lily. These were my new sisters. I really had a lot of fun with them. Roxanne was older, but she still gave me a run for my money. ( I don't really know what the means, but mom says it all the time.) Lily was all over the place. She taught me how to chase critters in the yard. I really loved my new sisters. This was a really fun place to live." 


" It's been over 3 years and life is good. Roxanne passed away last year. I miss her a lot. I used to snuggle with her all the time. She taught me a lot about people food and begging to get what ever you want. ( and boy does it work!) Lily is my best bud. We play hard and sleep harder." 


" I really want to help my mom get the message out to people... that I am not bad and my breed isn't bad. Being a pup I have no idea what the difference in breeds is, it's not really a concern to me. I think the real problem people need to worry about is cats. My mom takes me into work with her, and they hiss at me and make me RUN the other way. We have a BIG FAT white cat that lives behind me. He got in my yard once, I ran up to him trying to be brave... but he hissed and I had to run back to my mom. (Lily's scared too.)" 


" Mom says I am going to write a lot more if people like it. For a pup I have a lot to say. She really gets upset when people talk down about the American Pit Bull Terrier. We make a great team. Were going to change some people's views." 


" Have a good night everyone. It's time for my 3rd nap of the evening." 


Love, Bella





Monday, January 2, 2012

Animals bring so much joy in life.....

I'm at work and the phone rings....


Client calls with a sick animal, they are told to come in NOW. It just so happens it one of my favorites. They are vomiting, lethargic, and not eating. Tests confirm cancer.....


On the ride home from work all I can think of is the animal and their family. At dinner I'm telling my family and talking all about it.... Later that night I am crying to Dave.....


Working with animals is a job you never really stop "working." Your heart is always thinking of them. There are so many emotions you get with the job. You are always faced with the good, bad, and the ugly.... Happy for the elder couple who just adopted the sweetest kitten, touched when the client you haven't seen in years just got a new dog and sad for the friendships that end due to death. 


When I started working in a hospital, I never thought I'd be okay with euthanasia. This was a difficult obstacle I had to overcome...
But working with these amazing animals everyday, it brings me comfort to be there with them for the last seconds of their lives. I am strong for their families and for them. I cry right along side of the family and make sure their BEST FRIEND is as comfortable as possible. This is never something that will be easy for me. 


Animals have brought me so much joy and meaning to my life. Every patient and family touches my heart in a different way. Dogs and Cats have so much to teach us ALL about LIFE. Growing stronger and more care- free everyday, is the credit of all the animals who have touched my life. 


When I arrive home ... I run in the door and sit right on the floor, my Bella and Lily kiss me all over and it brings me much delight. 


Dogs live in the moment everyday... they don't care if your well off or just getting by.... they don't care what you look like... they will LOVE you everyday for the REST of their life. Anytime you need a hug they are the friend you need. You never have to worry about your dog talking about you, or cheating on you. They are forever in the moment... forever your LIFE LONG friend. 


Even if they chew on your new boots you just got for Christmas... and carry them around like a toy... ( BELLA!!!)  You LAUGH it off and LOVE them just the same. Loving them is the strongest of love. You can yell at them and in a few minutes you are BOTH over it! 


If I can help one person who reads this blog realize they are special and have an important place in this world, I'd be happy... my dogs and the patients I have met have opened my eyes to so many 
amazing things.  


BE HAPPY!!! Enjoy the little things! Open your eyes through your dogs eyes.