Some Answers

We had an autopsy done on Tucker and got some results by Monday afternoon. Tucker did not have a viral infection (good news for the other dogs!) but had a condition called megaesophagus which caused food to go into his lungs and cause infection. His lungs were consolidated, also. Tissue samples have been sent to the University of Georgia for more answers. This is not a common condition and it would be highly unlikely the other pups from the litter would have it--a huge relief.
I'm still trying to understand not only how this all happened so fast, but also this disorder. I found a good explanation at this website, http://www.marvistavet.net/html/body_megaesophagus.html
"The esophagus is the tube connecting the throat to the stomach. When food is perceived in the esophagus, neurologic reflex causing muscle contraction and relaxation lead to rapid transport of the food into the stomach, like an elevator going down. Other reflexes prevent breathing during this swallowing process to protect the lungs from aspiration.

When these reflexes are interrupted such as by disease in the esophageal tissue or nerve disease, the esophagus loses its ability to transport food. Instead the esophagus loses all tone and dilates. Also, the reflex protecting the lung is disrupted and aspiration pneumonia commonly follows."

We have heard from so many people after our devastating week-end. David and I want to thank you all for your kind words and support. It really has been a comfort and has helped more than you could know. Dog people are the best!

We are Devastated

Tucker has been at the emergency vet since last night with a severe viral infection. It's not looking good. His temperature spikes and comes back down but his white blood cell count keeps dropping to levels that recovery seems unlikely. Please think of us.


Update: Tucker had one last rally Sunday night but slipped away early Monday morning.

Sadie's Latest Show

Neglected

Now that life is all about Phoebe and her pups, Lauren and her pups (who really aren't--they are now 11 months old!) probably feel like yesterday's news! They don't understand why mealtimes are rushed and one-on-one time is non-existent. I managed to get kennels cleaned last night and Jewel jumped on me for attention and was quite puzzled when I pushed her away. Usually, I drop what I'm doing and make over her.
Gibson did get some special time on Sunday. He went with my sister and me to Casanel for an afternoon on the terrace of sipping wine and catching up. He did get a couple of crackers but was too busy to enjoy the bone I brought along in case he got bored. He met the DeSouza's dogs, got lots of attention from Anna and other customers and was quite the well-behaved, handsome gentleman.

End Results

No more points for Gibson and Sadie, although Gibson took a major reserve on Saturday and was Reserve Winners Dog again today. Here are some recent pictures of the two:

Points and More Points!

Gibson and Sadie are in York, PA, for a series of shows and so far, so good! Sadie won her first point on Thursday, going Winners Bitch and Best of Winners! Friday was Gibson's turn, he won two points! The judge said he has so much coat that she would call him a smough. I can't wait to see what happens over the week-end--we're going to York on Sunday to watch Sadie compete.

Strike Two....

Followed by a home run!! Claire's breeding did not take but Phoebe's did! We saw four puppies on the ultrasound. One was bobbing its little head, almost like it had the hiccups. The fourth puppy tried to stay out of sight, but was finally on the screen so we're hoping there could be a couple more shy ones that don't like to have their pictures taken. Phoebe is very pleased with herself and was able to entice the vet office staff to keep giving her treats! The puppies are due in two weeks--maybe St. Patty's day??