The Roller Coasters Of Life
Over the last five days or so we've been on a roller coaster of emotions with our dog Lily.
While camping she began having difficulty breathing and not being able to keep food or water down. Chris took her to the nearest emergency vet hospital where they put her on IV, sedated her and found a variety of maladies - the combination of which put her in critical condition. We made the decision to transfer her to a different emergency vet hospital in Tacoma (the next closest) to be able to see a specialist and get more information (underlying causes, etc) before deciding how to proceed.
Since we've been here in Tacoma it's been close to the end and then it's been a bit better. It's been up and down, each day waiting for a different test, a new hope, a bit of recovery.
Riding the coaster is hard. Being here with family while riding the coaster makes things easier and keeps the kids entertained.
Today she seems on the upswing, able to keep some food down last night, but there's still other conditions that need to be addressed. We're waiting for another update from the main doctor today to determine the next course of action.
Lily's 11. She's had an awesome full life and has been a great companion for our family.
I appreciate your patience and your kindness towards our family and Lily as we move forward in the coming days.
sending warm thoughts and prayer to you, Lily and your whole family - I know how much a part of a family a pet becomes - my heart hurts for you.
HIllary
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I am so sorry, Ali. I know how difficult this road can be. Sending lots of thoughts, prayers, and hopes that Lily is comfortable.
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Prayers for you all and for Miss Lily. XOXO
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Poor, sweet Lilly. My thoughts and prayers are with all of you, as I know what a difficult time this can be. You'll make the right decision when the time comes Ali, and you'll know by the look in her eyes. These beautiful creatures teach us so very much about love, don't they? Much love to all of you.
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Dog stories always make me tear up.. they truly are man's best friend. God Bless.
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Thinking of you & your family during this tough time. And of course of Lily too. We have 2 "pups" so I get your heartache.
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Ali,
I was in your shoes 3 years ago with my 14 year old lab, Vince. I looked in his eyes and I knew. After I made the difficult decision to have him put down a friend said something to me that really put it all in perspective. "Helping your pet pass on is your final gift to them". Now I'm crying.
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Sending prayers and love to Lilly... animals lovers dread the day thier furry children get to old age way too soon!
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So sorry to hear this. Pets become part of the family. I hope you have good news and that Lily is soon enjoying a full life again.
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Ali and family,
I am praying for for Lily and your family. I know that this is a difficult time but lots of people who read your blog really care about what's happening. It is also a blessing that you have your extended family near by. (((HUGS))))
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I'm so sorry Ali, sending lots of prayers to Lily and your family. So hard when they are sick and they can't tell you what they are feeling. I hope her good days outnumber the bad. :)
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I'm so sorry to hear of the difficulties Lily, you and your family are facing. It's such a tough, surreal time. My thoughts and prayers go out to you all and Lily.
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My best to you as you go through this with Lily. My pups are part of my family, as I'm sure Lily is yours.
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Thinking of you all... be strong and have faith
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That's an excellent hospital! I've been there a number of times over the years. I live in Kent, WA and used to be a breeder. Sending hugs and prayers to Lily and you and your family.
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Prayers for Lily, you, Chris, Simon, Anna and the rest of your family...
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Ali, prayers are being said for Lily and for your family. We have a 4 yr old black lab named Daisy and I cannot imagine what you are going through. A big HUG for your family and for Lily.
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thinking of you and your family Lily! (woof woof).take care and take all the time you need.
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It's never easy to make decisions when it concerns our furry friends. Thoughts and prayers being sent your way.
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My heart goes out to you and your family(Lily included). This is never easy. My wish is she gets well and brings your family many more years of joy. I'm so sorry you have to go through this. I've been there, like many others, and know the hurt your feeling. You take all the time you need. Your blog friends will be here when you get back. ((HUGS))) to all
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sorry to hear your sweet lilly isn't doing well. it is hard when you are faced with these decisions. you'll make the right ones for her and she knows that. thinking of you.
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prayers for you, Lily and your family.
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I can't even comment without feeling a rush of emotions about our own older dog. Sending you many positive thoughts. Crossing all my fingers and toes that things continue to improve for Lily.
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Ali, I'm so very sorry. This time is never easy. Our pets enrich our lives so much and some how we never imagine they will leave us. I'll be keeping you and your family in my thoughts.
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My heart goes out to you and your family Ali. Having been in this position more than a few times (we have always had at least 3 dogs in our house) it is so heartbreaking; dogs are absolutely loyal and unconditional in their love, and such a gift in ours.
Along with the responsibility of caring for our pets the way they deserve to be cared for, and having them as such an integral part of our lives, whatever decisions have to be made at these times are so incredibly, incredibly difficult. Her presence in your lives (and you in hers) has been a blessing, no matter what happens.
My thoughts are with you. Please take care.
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