We Lost Bentley

For some reason he hadn't been on the blog very much, and I don't know why. Bentley was a star, and I just never seemed to have the camera ready when he was giving us another wonderful moment. He was one of the sweetest, funniest, most affectionate little dogs we've ever had the privilege to know and love. And then, tragically, he was gone.

He died suddenly on Saturday, just six months after coming to us, and only three months after we were able to restore his vision.

Bentley was always the first one I would take out of a crate every morning, and whenever I would open the door to the dog room, he would be bouncing up and down in his crate, looking at me, jumping with excitement. I'd pull him out and set him down on the floor. Then he would dance a quick jig, run in circles across the floor, come back and jump up on me, then twirl and take off again in circles. It was just how he celebrated each new day. Alayne called him "our own little Fred Astaire."

So on Saturday morning when I opened the door, I instantly knew something was dreadfully wrong. He wasn't standing in his crate, waiting for me, bouncing up and down. He was laying on his side. Even before I got to his crate, I yelled down the hall to Alayne, "Something's wrong with Bentley!"

I reached in to pick him up, and there was no resistance. His body was limp. There was black diarrhea and red blood in the back of his crate. Bentley was breathing, and he'd blink, but that was the only sign of life in him.

In a couple of minutes I was in the van and rushing him to the emergency veterinary clinic in Littleton. Alayne had already called to let them know we were on the way.

On the road I called our internal medicine specialist in Burlington, Dr. Tanya Donovan, who was working that day in her clinic. She had just treated Bentley the previous week for the final stage of his heartworm treatment. I told her what had happened, and that he had been his usual happy, buoyant self the night before. I asked if there could be some connection to the heartworm treatment, but complications usually manifest themselves in respiratory issues and what we were seeing just didn't mesh.

Tanya told me to have the emergency vet call her and she would help in any way she could. Ideally I would have taken Bentley to Burlington, because Tanya's clinic is an emergency hospital as well, but that was two hours away and I didn't think he could make it that far without medical intervention.

At the Littleton clinic, I was just walking through the door with Bentley in a crate when the doctor, Dr. Christine Nau, rushed up and whisked us to a treatment station. Over the next eight hours she tried valiantly to save Bentley's life. Here's a photo I took with my phone shortly after getting there:

Her initial assessment was HGE, or hemorrhagic gastroenteritis, which we had experienced before with Widget. But his blood panel came back with his ALT, a key liver value, literally off the chart and unreadable. They ran another screen just to isolate the ALT, and it came back at 2,052 -- when the high end of normal was only 100. That was shocking, and couldn't be explained by simply HGE.

She had a hunch there was a blood problem, and then ran a more specialized test to determine his clotting factors, called a "coag" test. This came back also as off the charts and unreadable. There was simply an ">" at the end of the bar under "High." Now I knew Bentley was in real trouble.

During this entire time Dr. Nau and Tanya were in frequent contact. Dr. Nau told me that Bentley's case was exactly the kind where it really helps to have an internal medicine specialist involved to make sense of complex and sometimes confusing symptoms, so she was delighted to have Tanya to consult with throughout the day. And after one of the early calls, Tanya came back on the line to tell me, "You're in very good hands with Dr. Nau."  I knew it at that point. 

The coag test results suggested this might be disseminated intravascular coagulation, or DIC:

Disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC) is a rare, life-threatening condition that prevents a person's blood from clotting normally. It may cause excessive clotting (thrombosis) or bleeding (hemorrhage) throughout the body and lead to shock, organ failure, and death.

In DIC, the body's natural ability to regulate blood clotting does not function properly. This causes the blood's clotting cells (platelets) to clump together and clog small blood vessels throughout the body. This excessive clotting damages organs, destroys blood cells, and depletes the supply of platelets and other clotting factors so that the blood is no longer able to clot normally. This often causes widespread bleeding, both internally and externally.

A simpler explanation for his symptoms would have been rat poison, but we don't have any here and never have, so that couldn't have been the cause.

Dr. Nau gave him a plasma transfusion over the course of the next four hours. Our plan was to get him stable and then transfer him to Tanya's clinic late Saturday, where she could take over his treatment. But when I returned later that afternoon to pick him up and head to Burlington, I watched him in the medical cage and could tell there wasn't any real improvement. He was breathing hard, which was a change that had occurred in the previous half-hour. He had continued to ooze bloody gunk from his rear end throughout the day, which suggested to Tanya and Dr. Nau that his intestines were sloughing off the lining -- presumably because clots were choking off the blood supply to his GI tract.

Dr. Nau was concerned about whether he was really stable enough to make the trip, and I had to agree. We called Tanya, who concurred and recommended leaving him there for the rest of the night and then re-assess in the morning.

We ran his coag test again, after the plasma transfusion, and the readings had improved -- still far too high, but it gave us a little hope. But in the next thirty minutes, his heart stopped ... then restarted after a couple of seconds. His breathing continued to be labored and rapid, an indication that his lungs might be also compromised by clots now.

At this stage Bentley was in the oxygen cage. Suddenly he tried to sit up, went rigid, and cried out. Then he sank back down.

That's when Dr. Nau and I decided it was time to let him go. In tears, I called Alayne to tell her what we needed to do. She said, crying, "Just tell him I love him so much." After getting off the phone, I reached out to stroke him and said in a quavering voice, "Honey, your mommy loves you so much."

I was bending over him, sobbing, with my face resting on his body, when he slipped away. I couldn't believe he was gone. We'd only had him in our lives for six months, but it felt like ten years. And he was just getting his new start in life. It ended far too soon.

On Sunday morning there was no bright-eyed boy dancing his jig across the floor. The room, full of dogs, felt empty. Because one adorable little fellow was missing.

Comments

[Ruth]

Just saw this a few minutes ago. What a tragic heartbreak but please remember he had 6 good months with both of you to love him, and 3 months with his vision restored. Not long enough, of course but then it never is long enough no matter how much time our beloved family companions are with us. Enjoy your new life, little Bentley, until Mom and Dad are with you again.

[Bregda, South Africa]

Dear Steve and Alayne,
I am so very sorry for this big loss. The last 6 months of Bentley's life were probably equal to 16 years of complete and utter happiness for him; his little happy-dance every morning proves that! You made that possible for him, you gave him the peace and happiness every furry creature deserves.
Thank you so much for all the things you do, and as always - be kind to yourselves.

Greetings from an unusually warm winter in Bloemfontein! If it carries on like this, we're liable to have a white Christmas this year, wouldn't that be something!

[Karla]

Just got back from vacation to see this. I'm so sorry for your loss of Bentley. Such a sad blog and no real chance to prepare. I've been there and that is the hardest.

[Vicki]

I am so sorry about Bentley. I lost my beloved standard poodle, Holly, from the same illness. It was horrific. It haunts me still. You two do such wonderful things for the animals, bless you.

[Debbie Burke]

Dear Steve and Alayne,

I am SO sorry for your loss of little Bentley. Thanks to you, he had six months of utter happiness.

Debbie Burke

[Sandra]

How heartbreaking... I wish he had more time to be happy with you.

[Lindsay Mathieson]

I am so deeply sorry guys and deeply grateful for the what you do, giving all those dogs (and others!) some happiness in their lives.

What a delightful little chap Bentley was, he will be missed.

[[email protected]]

I'm sitting here in tears after reading what a valiant effort everyone made for sweet little Bentley. I was an R.N. for 30 years and we lost one patient due to D.I.C. and it was just heart-rending to watch..there's really nothing that can reverse it in time. My heart goes out to all of you..you are SUCH extraordinary and loving people to care so deeply for each of your rescued companions..
Judy Royer
California

[Lisa]

I was so shocked and saddened to read this today...

My heart goes out to you both and to little sweet bigger-than-life Bentley.

[Karen]

Oh I just read about Bentley and have tears in my eyes also. I am so sorry. But oh the joy you gave him in his short time with you and the joy he gave you and us the readers. RIP dear Bentley. So sorry Steve and Alayne

[Ashley]

Sweet Bentley. My heart broke a little reading this, and my thoughts are with all of you.

[Jennifer SLC, Utah]

So sorry to hear about that handsome boy Bentley.

[Ann]

I am sitting here with tears in my eyes. I know you and Alayne (and us, as well) are heartbroken that Bentley has left us way too soon. You gave him the most wonderful 6 months of his life and the opportunity to see again and enjoy the world around him. You gave him love and you were loved in return. He will always be around you, and he's dancing his jig at Rainbow Bridge. Rest in Peace, darling Bentley!

[Goofypiper]

Oh my Sweet Lord, Steve and Alayne - I am shaking as I try to type my words of solace and sadness. You are valiant and constant defenders of our furry friends and suffer so much when you lose them. I am so sorry and feel your pain - yet you go on , helping the least of them- who are, in truth, the best of God's creation! Thank you (Owen and Suzi are thriving, thanks to you and your loving care) Much love to you and all your critters.......

[Lisa K. - San Diego]

My heart breaks for your loss. Oh my, I am so sorry. Thank you for giving him an awesome chance in life. I wish it didn't end so soon. God bless you.

[Angie Cagle]

I remember the first time I ever heard of Rolling Dog Ranch was when I read an article about another little yorkie, I believe her name was Spirit. She had been abused, got to you guys then to her forever home when she was lost. I cried and cried, have been a fan since. Now Bentley .. my heart breaks again.. Thank you for loving him so! Many tears tonight for your loss and this dear Yorkie!

[Doe George]

So very sorry, my heart aches for both of you. Bentley knew love and what it was to see again! Godspeed sweet boy. Keeping you & Alayne in my thoughts & prayers.

[Annette Geller]

I am in tears..........absolutely heartbreaking......sweet little guy

[Mae - Jefferson City]

As soon as I saw the caption I started to cry. I love these animals like my own. It is heartbreaking when one of them has to leave you both I know. But
be comforted as you both gave him love and caring and those will be the memories he took with him. God Bless You Bentley.God Bless to you both.

[Kristi Gross]

Alayne and Steve,
It warms my heart to know that sweet little Bentley found such love and happiness with you. Sending hugs & love as you grieve this loss.

[Dawn]

I am so sorry, how very sad. I am in tears. I am sorry for your loss. I'm glad you could be with him and help him for the time you could.

[Eric]

REST IN PEACE BENTLEY REST IN PEACE

[Kathy Greene]

I was shocked & heartbroken when I saw the blog about Bentley and couldn't help but tear up - sad that he left, but happy for the wonderful treatment he received and that he was able to see again. As always, thank God that all of you are there for these beloved animals!

[Valerie]

With tear-filled eyes..I send you much love and a big hug....I am very very sorry...*precious* little Bentley.... This beautiful little soul was very fortunate to have you in his life and his in yours......xox

[Clay Hickman]

Rest in peace Bently. The Farm gave you the best six months of your life.

[Colleen and Wes]

Dear Steve and Alayne, Just remember that your Bentley could SEE you and know how much you loved him beyond a shadow of a doubt. We had our little Milli for only 5 months but understand totally what an impact Bentley had on you because Milli did the same to us. Aren't we the lucky ones to have these amazing little wonders touch our hearts!

[Meredith]

So, so sorry for your loss. Bentley went out on top, having found great love (and vision!) in your care. Thank you for giving that to him and for all that you do.

[Mendy C]

I'm so sorry. Thank you for giving him 6 good months. Thank you for risking heartbreak each time you take in a new rescue and dare to love them. Thank you for sharing your experiences with us!

[Stu Kertiss]

Through your blogs I feel I know these little guys. When you lose one, my heart aches. In this case, for little Bentley but also for you and Alayne.

[Sonja Matzkanin]

I am so sorry about Bentley...I cried all the way through your post....I don't think I ever missed a post...I feel like all the animals belong to all of us and I don't think I am alone
Sonja

[Marie Dalzell]

I am in tears here, reading about Bentley. I'm so very sorry, Steve & Alayne.

Run free Bentley. The last six months of your life were the best.

[Dee in KY]

I cried reading about Bentley. What an adorable little guy. I am so sorry for you both. The wonderful thing is that he was able to spend the last of his life seeing you. How wonderful for him!

[Gwen]

I am so very sorry and feel heartbroken. May you all feel the love that Bently bestowed upon you. May sweet Bently play in the sunshine. Hugs to you all. And thank you for loving these sweethearts. Gwen

[Ali]

Thank you so much for loving this sweet dog. At the end of his life he knew he was loved. We had to let our 17 year old go in 6/14. I know exactly what you mean about not seeing him jump around in the morning. What I would give to hear his toenails click across the floor. May Bentley's spirit live on!

[DarcC]

Oh, that's heartbreaking. I'm so incredibly sorry for your loss.

[Murphy Coupon]

Thank you for being there for Bentley.

Rest in Peace, Friend.

[Julie and her 3 doxies]

This is so sad to hear about the loss of sweet little Bentley. ((HUGS)) to you both for loving him and trying so hard to save his life.

[Chloe]

I am so sorry for your loss of this sweet adorable boy. We are sending you all our love at this sad time.

[Karen]

I am so sorry for your loss. My tears are falling as I type this. At least he did not pass alone, but felt your love in his final moments.

[Barbara A. Bessey]

Sending prayers to Steve & Alayne. I'm so sorry to hear of your loss of Bentley. Your dedication to the RDF boys and girls is inspiring. Bentley will remember your love and devotion. He will be waiting in heaven to see you one day. God bless you both and the ranch.

[Glenda]

My heart is crying with you...

[Shirley * James/Portland, OR]

So heartbreaking. I am lost for words. Just know I loved Bentley although I never met him. We love you and Alayne for the selfish work you do 24/7 and the heart aches that you two experience with no time to grieve because so many of the other RDF residents are waiting for you. God Bless you all--TRULY!!

[R Kent]

Too soon gone.

[patty c]

I am so sorry, prayers for comfort go up for everyone at RDF. This breaks my heart every time it happens; I can't imagine how hard it must be for you all. RIP, Bentley, you were loved by many.

[Jeanne Golden]

what happiness he gave you as only a dog can do having put my 15 yr old Bichon down a wave of sorrow came over me feeling that loss that never has gone away. We will see them again and I am sure his spirit is around you. God Bless you wonderful people

[Bob]

Bentley was a sweety. he gave you a million laughs and grins and you gave him a great 6 months. Always remember that.

[coasterkim]

Every one of these type of posts gets me! I'm so sorry for your loss. Bentley looked like a great little dog. Thank you for what you do.

[penny]

I'm sooooooooooo sad.

[Tonya Allen]

I'm so, so sorry. It's even worse that it happened so shockingly quickly. Certainly his last six months were the best of his life, thanks to you. It's too bad he couldn't have come to you sooner. That emptiness where a bouncy happy dog used to be is a terrible thing. I'm glad you have the others to comfort you.

[Michelle Galipeau]

I'm so sorry for your loss, it never gets any easier does it? It's incredible that you both do the work you do, day in and day out. Thank you so much for taking such exceptional care of all these animals.