We only had one puppy make it to 4 weeks old. We called him Helo (previously known as #7/ Mr. Teal). This photo was taken at 10 AM on Wednesday, November 8, 2006. He was so spunky and walking around then, and he was already gaining weight for the day. We really felt very hopeful about him, against all odds, I suppose. But 18 hours later (at 4:30 AM) he was so desperately ill that Jason took him to the Emergency Animal Hospital, unable to leave him suffering even until our 8 AM appointment at White Rock.
And so the puppies are all gone. Mr. Purple and Miss Navy (dear White Tips) both failed very quickly-- a matter of hours from the start of neuro symptoms until the end-- only a day apart. For White Tips and Helo we pulled out all the stops--even trying some experimental steroid therapy Jason read about on the Internet. But nothing could stop this terrible disease.
Of course we are so sad. We truly loved those darling pups. And we will never forget our experience with them-- what an incredible month! But as Ben told his teacher this morning, "We tried our best". And really, that is all anyone can ever do for another creature. And we don't regret trying-- Hannah is a beautiful, wonderful dog who will be completely devoted to some lucky family-- and she wouldn't be here if we hadn't been willing to try.
7 comments:
I'm so sad to read this, but I'm so impressed with Ben's maturity! You guys absolutely gave these pups everything you could.
You gave these puppies the best chance they could have EVER had in life. In their very short lives they experiences great love and tenderness. In some ways they are lucky. I hope you all are able to rescue another litter and experience the joy that healthy puppies can bring too. The dog rescuer in hopes that. The Porters have so much to offer. For now though, I am sure you need the rest, get some sleep.
I knew Ben was very special, but his reaction to this has really impressed and touched me.
You gave these puppies the best chance they could have EVER had in life. In their very short lives they experiences great love and tenderness. In some ways they are lucky. I hope you all are able to rescue another litter and experience the joy that healthy puppies can bring too. The dog rescuer in hopes that. The Porters have so much to offer. For now though, I am sure you need the rest, get some sleep.
I knew Ben was very special, but his reaction to this has really impressed and touched me.
Oh my - such a journey your family has travelled together. Our hearts are out there with yours.
Benny Ben is some incredible little fellow - due in large part to the training and teaching you have given him.
I agree with Amanda and Danielle in all their comments and join them in hoping you can have at a much more future date (like summer) when you can once again have a puppy experience.
Hannah is special. She'll make a fabulous pet for someone.
All my love, Mom
We are finally catching up on the blog on Saturday. We all had a quick cry here at this house. Mark keeps saying...I wish they would have made it.....of course we all do.
Oh, how heartbreaking it is to read all the sweet puppies have gone. You guys gave them the biggest gift, making sure they each got to experience love, tenderness and compassion.
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