Claude Comes Home, Brynn Stays

Nichole and I got back to Montana about 10 p.m. tonight; I dropped Nichole at her house and then headed to the ranch.  I took the photo shortly after I let Claude out of the truck to walk around the yard for a while before coming inside.  He immediately found the cot.  (He loves those cots!)

This morning at the veterinary teaching hospital we met again with the neurologist and the attending veterinarian to tell them we had decided not to pursue the surgery and explained why.  I told them that this was the most difficult medical decision we had ever made.  In fact, it was the first time in more than six years of running the sanctuary that we had decided NOT to do surgery on an animal.

Much to my relief, the neurologist told me he thought we had made the right decision in Claude's case.  He said that the medical team there was concerned about the prognosis for Claude following surgery, and that given all of his issues, they didn't think surgery was necessarily the best option for him.

I had second-guessed myself many times during a sleepless night and again this morning before we got to the hospital.  Were we making the best choice for Claude?  Could the outcome be better than the neurologist predicted?  What if...?  But when I heard him say we had made the right decision for Claude, all the second-guessing stopped.  I told the neurologist, "You know, I really needed to hear that.  Thank you."

The attending veterinarian told me later in the morning that if Claude had been her dog, she would have made the same decision we made.  Whew.

So then we discussed the near-term treatment plan for Claude for medical management of his neurological and orthopedic diseases.  This will involve steroid therapy, lots of quiet time, a special diet, and mild exercise.

I felt even better when the neurologist told us that medical management of Wobblers Syndrome can be just as effective as the surgical option, so we should not consider this treatment plan a 'second rate' alternative.

With the discharge instructions in hand, we loaded Claude into a giant crate and lifted him into the back of the truck ... and off we drove to Montana.

Meanwhile, Miss Brynn the blind foal stayed behind at the hospital for more tests.  The staff called me on my cell phone tonight when Nichole and I reached Missoula to tell us that Brynn was doing fine.  At this point I have no idea when we'll be headed back to pick her up, but we expect to hear tomorrow about the next round of diagnostic results.

Comments

[shelby]

God bless you! You are amazing. Never second guess your decisions like this please. You know what is best, although it still hurts a lot, you of all people know the right decision. Thank you for all that you do!! I'll be praying for Claude as well.

[Mary Balsack]

I think you go above and beyond when making decisions for the animals you have. The choice you made for Claude is the best. Make his life as comfortable as possible. Unfortunately not all animals can be fixed and made perfect, the same goes for humans. Sometimes all you can do is give them love and make life as good as possible for them. We have to remember that before Rolling Dog, these amimals would have had no chance and would have been destroyed. I know it breaks your heart when you can't save them. Your special people.

[Maribeth Watwood]

Claude is very lucky to have people who care so much about him making these crucial and difficult decisions. Every dog should be so lucky.

[Lynn]

Thank you for caring! Your efforts to love and care for all of these inspiring animals is a refreshing breath of humanity! As silly as this may sound to some, I am encouraged by you and the animals to strive for my goals!

[ginger & Tobias (the greythound)]

I'm so glad that everyone that you dealt with assured you that you've made the right decision about Claude. When I've had tough choices to make about my companion animals in the past when I've had a great vet, I've asked, "If this were your dog, what would you do?" Mind you, if I don't hold the vet in the highest of esteem, I don't ask that question, but chances are, I wouldn't be there anyway.
I think Claude probably likes those type of beds because it gets him up off of the floor, so there's no pressure on his hips. It has to feel better to him. He's happy to be home. It's great that you found out about a diet treatment!
Big hugs,
ginger & Tobias

[Laura B]

I am so sorry to hear about Claude's prognosis. He is a wonderful young dog and I will always remember him and Rudy walking around the yard...so cute to see them together. Also, when Claude thought he was a lap dog and climbed into Kate's lap and enjoyed her loving hugs and rubs, that was adorable. Please give him big hugs from me and Kate.

[Nina]

Claude looks so content to be home in bed!! So glad to hear the veterinary staff encouraged you re: your decision not to put Claude through surgery. I, too, had to make an orthopedic decision re: not to do surgery on a senior dog (mixed breed) and I managed her medically for over three years until I had to let her go at 16 years, 9 months. She enjoyed life to the fullest....so give Claude lots of treats and hugs!

[Shannon]

I've been thinking about Claude constantly. He's in such a great place and will receive the loving and caring he so deserves. I've been thinking of getting a "cot" for my great dane and I'm wondering if you can recommend a place? Thanks!

[Leilani]

I think the neurologist's good advice brought about much peace for you; and everyone concerned and in a similar situation with their Great Dane.
Most importantly, Claude will be loved and well cared for.
We will continue to hold a special place in our thoughts and prayers for Claude as he adjusts in health and hope his new daily program brings improvement and zest back into is days.

[Kari]

Steve, Alayne and all at RDR: I read your blog daily and empathize, beyond words, with your challenging and agonizing decisions on behalf of these wonderful animals. I had a rescue beagle who had heart disease. She was managed (w/ human cardiac meds) by a caring vet. cardiologist. We had many challenges in being her advocate. We love her, still, more than a year after her death and we always will. That's what your RDR family has - love, beyond words, that is ever-present and ever-lasting. We are thinking of you here, in Michigan. We will be thinking of Claude, Brynn and all of your family.

[Laura Whale]

I am sitting here crying after reading both blogs on Claude. My heart goes out to you and him. He's such a sweet boy!! He is in good hands!!!