While the end of 2008 was a bit stressful it was all worthwhile. Buddy had his ACL surgery and it was a success. He only had to wear the bandage/soft cast for a week and the e-collar for a total of 2 weeks. He is now learning to trust the leg again but it will take some time and patience before he is putting weight on it.

Christmas eve found me at the Baldwin Park Animal Shelter playing Santa Paws to the homeless animals kept there. The Los Angeles County shelter system is one of the worst and the animals there are on very borrowed time. A group of us from Best Friends LA and Laura Nativo from Greatest American Dog went out and delivered treats and blankets so that all the animals felt some holiday cheer - its amazing what a gentle pat and a belly rub does for their spirit. We also identified dogs to go on the next transport, many of whom were chihuahuas. The transport takes at-risk dogs from high kill shelter and sends them to rescue affiliates in Salt Lake City where homes are waiting for them. I also rescued a new dog, a little guy I named Rudy. He's a Mexican Hairless, barely a year and a total sweetheart. I was happy to rescue him in time to spend Christmas in a warm and loving home.

Christmas was a low key day. The pups got all they asked for from Santa:) My foster chi Peanut didn't have such a good day. His neurological state is rapidly deteriorating and he has good and not so good days. We now believe he has a brain tumor and that the last grand mal seizure caused damage in another part of his brain that effected his motor skills. We are trying Prednisone to alleviate any swelling and it does seem to help as he is moving around much better. He stills eats, still enjoys being carried in his sling, and snuggling so until he has more bad days than good he will be with us. At this point he is no longer for adoption. He will stay with me until its time for him to cross the rainbow bridge. This is my first hospice type of fostering and I go into it with much trepidation but it gives me comfort to know that Peanut's last days, months, however long, will be filled will love and kindness.

We go into 2009 with a full house and a lot of hope. There are so many things on the horizon. Here's to a happy, healthy and pup filled New Year!

Tags: New Year

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