Barney was hospitalized on Sept. 23. His paws were so swollen, he was unable to stand. We had to gurney Barney out. On the way to the clinic, he slept in the back seat with the wind gently blowing in his face. He seemed peaceful. Dr Bradshaw did the usual series of tests. I know when a senior goes down, the news is never good. I expected to hear that his kidneys were not working properly - but his kidney values were fine. I was relieved and expected Barney to come home soon. Barney's testing didn't turn up anything out of the ordinary, he was eating well and drinking well. He was able to stand on his paws once he was helped to his feet. I felt pretty good at this point. Dr. Bradshaw told me that he was going to keep Barney over the weekend because he needed to find out what was going on and he had some ideas. When he callled me Monday afternoon I was all happy, thinking it's time to pick Barney up and bring him home. He was calling to tell me that Barney was already home. I wasn't expecting to hear that.....he explained to me that Barney had a heart murmur. Apparently Barney's big old heart had gotten too weak to pull the fluid off his paws. It breaks my heart to think of Barney struggling to his feet that last day he was with me to greet me. Bless his heart. He suffered a sudden heart attack. I went to Barney's run - I had put fresh blankets in his igloo. I had a refrigerated entree ready to greet him. His bowls sat in their place waiting on his return. I went and picked Barney up. He was all wrapped up in a white blanket with his collar on top. Barney was one of those dogs that I knew would be with me until the end. He loved me and I loved him. I miss his raspy bark. Until we meet again, my big pawed friend - play in Heaven on paws that no longer hurt. I love you my big orange baby.
Barney's final expenses are $211. If you would like to help cover them, please visit http://www.fundable.com/groupactions/groupaction.2009-09-22.2516438209
