[Sandy and Bo]

I really don't even know what to say, Duke is eating good now, and the swelling on his nose has gone down abit, so those are good signs I guess. He wants to go outside all the time, to lick the snow, even tho I am givng him water with ice in it. But it's the breathing that is so bad. His whole body just heaves. But he also doesn't seem as uncomfortable, didn't pace too much last night.
Having said that, he jumped off the couch, and barked when my friend came over this morning. Just two barks, but that's something. (He's a wonderful barker)
Part of me wants to end his struggle to breathe, but the other part wants to see if this med will help him, and that could take maybe three weeks, to kick in, or it may not help at all. So I am just taking it day by day.
YOUR COMMENTS HAVE BEEN SO COMFORTING, YOU JUST HAVE NO IDEA...I WISH DUKE KNEW HOW MUCH SUPPORT HE HAS. THANK YOU FROM THE BOTTOM OF MY HEART!!! BASSET PEOPLE ARE WONDERFUL, OUR HOUNDS HAVE TRAINED US WELL. I really want the basset reunion to happen I want to meet you all in person!
I haven't got the sense yet that Duke is 'ready', but the poor guy is working so hard for every breath. Steaming seems to ease it a bit, so my house is getting pretty humid! Some of it from my tears...

Sandy

 

[Guest]

As always, many prayers and blessings for you during this trying time. Just be sure to give him plenty of kisses, they have healing powers you know!

 

[Guest]

Hang in there Sandy. He will let you know. This is one of the hardest things you will ever deal with. We are absolutely here for you with all our prayers and tears. Huge hugs from Regina. Thinking of you lots

Take Care, Susan and Wilson

 

[murraysmom]

I've been thinking about you and Duke alot today.I'm really routing for him down here in Pennsylvania-

 

[Guest]

You go, Duke. Beat those little fungi. We're all rooting for you, big guy. Sandy, I know you almost don't dare hope that he's getting better, but this guy sounds like he's fighting hard. I agree with Wilsonsmom. He'll let you know. Doesn't sound like he's ready just yet. Sounds like you're doing all you can to keep him comfy. Fight the good fight, Sandy. Sometimes the good guys win! Prayers and snooters from

Janet 'n Twinkie.

 

[Guest]

I too have been thinking about Duke. I had to put my first adopted basset down 2 summers ago. We had struggled for weeks with her illness. She was in the vet's and I was on my way to see her. I was in turmoil and debating what to do. When I saw her I knew it was time and felt more comfortable with the decision than I ever thought I would be. Hang in there, just keep giving hugs and kisses and belly rubs. I feel very connected to all of you, especially when it comes to times like these. We love you Duke! yvonne

 

[biscuit]

Those sound like awesome signs to me. Really, they do.

Have you explored the issue of medical breathing treatments of some kind or ?? --- or whether this is a predictable part of the process --- with your vet? I'd sure be asking.

Continuing to send every good thought, good vibe, prayer and whatever else you need ....

 

[Guest]

Hang in there buddy! It sounds like your Mom is doing everything in her power for you and that you are very loved!!!
We are here for you!!

 

[Guest]

Just had a thought Sandy, maybe he wants to be outside because the colder air might be refreshing for him. I know when I am having trouble breathing (I have terrible asthma) the first place I stick my head is the great outdoors. And I am incredibly pacey and restless. It is like looking for air. Feels terrible but seems to ease my breathing a bit. Maybe it is the same for dogs. Only an observation from my own experience.

Big Hugs, Sus

 

[Guest]

Sandy, Duke is very blessed to have you for his Mommy! It is obvious how deeply you love this guy. I will continue to pray for him and hope that each day he gets alittle stronger. Hang in there Duke!

 

[Sandy and Bo]

Susan, I thought of that, too. But the trouble is when he comes back in, he can hardly breathe, the cold air seems to make it worse. Takes him awhile to settle down. But for some reason, he sure wants to lick the snow, even if I give him ice...wish I knew the answer. Poor baby, hope I'm doing the right thing.

Sandy

 

[copsmom]

You have been in my thoughts all day and I am truely sorry for all your going through just know we are praying for you!!

 

[Emma and Doris]

Putting him through a hard time can always be justified when there's a hope for him to be okay again. And it seems like both you and the vet think so. There are signs of improvement, so keep up the good faith.

We'll pray (me) and drool (Emma and Doris)!

 

[Guest]

The fact that he is eating and BARKING!! are good i hope he continues to improve hang in there!!

 

[Guest]

The fact that he is eating and BARKING!! are good i hope he continues to improve hang in there!!

 

[Guest]

The fact that he is eating and BARKING!! are good i hope he continues to improve hang in there!!

 

[Guest]

Finally, a little bit of good news....I've been checking the board all day. Will he eat/lick snow if you bring it in to him in a bowl? I was thinking that sometimes if I have a bad cold and/or bronchitis (as I'm very prone to get often), I will put some eucalyptis (sp?) oil in some steaming water. Seems to open up my bronchi and I breathe better. Might sound odd but anything that would help poor Duke. We're keeping the faith here in the Puget Sound.

Lynne & Huck

 

[Sadeyes]

Must be so difficult not knowing what's best. Hoping that Duke continues to improve each day. Sandy, have you thought of a humidifier? or if you don't already do so,some bowls of water placed beneath your central heating radiators? These both add moisture into the air which aids breathing.

Hoping for better news tomorrow.

 

[Sandy and Bo]

Lynne, I'm off to get some oil right now, what a good idea.
Sadeyes, I have had a pot of water slowly simmering on and off for days now. It does seem to help him.
Keep up the ideas everyone. If there is anyway to relieve his distress, I'll try it!

Sandy

 

[Guest]

Keeping my fingers crossed for you. I do hope that he is able to recover....I have been off line for a few days so kind of lost track of what the entire situation was with Duke. I will keep you and Duke in my thoughts.
Jennifer