Reminder of Why We're Here

Lest we forget - amidst all the sadness - why we are here in the first place, allow us to remind ourselves (and you) what an awesome, irrepressible spirit Shiva was, and continues to be.  Even just a few short weeks after her osteosarcoma diagnosis and amputation, she blazed around the pool like she had an Evinrude strapped to her tail.  Those who saw her recently will be amazed at how robust and powerful she was back then...in spite of her new limitations.  Although eventually slowed by arthritis, cancer and age, Shiva lived each day in the same manner...even if her body was no longer able to perform what her spirit wanted.

Remember this:  She had more than 3 good years beyond that sunny day.  Her cancer wasn't a death sentence, it was an opportunity to live each day to the fullest.  She lived - and ultimately died - that way.  Enjoy!

Shocking Red Dog Swimming Video

Shiva the Red Dog has been busy enjoying the beautiful fall weather, and she even took a quick trip to Tybee Island in the middle of it all. While she was there, she pulled a new trick out of her expansive bag of them. She took advantage of all the activity in the pool to slip in without her life jacket, and she surprised everyone by cutting through the water like a three-legged otter. Later, we were able to capture a similar moment on film. Special cameos are made by her favorite girls Olivia, Kennedy and Kayden. Here she is, in all her aquatic glory:

A Glorious Time Was Had by All

If you take nothing else from the videos of Shiva's trip to the beach, take this: she had a blast!

Red Dog Surf Safari

Check out the Red Dog as she hits the surf with old and new friends...everyone here is so nice and they all seem to love Shiva. This really is a dog-lover's paradise! The snappy life jacket by Ruff Wear was a fortuitous investment, no?

This cinematic masterpiece captures the Red Dog and her new friends as she gets to live the doggie dream of LEASH-FREE play on the beach. This, of course, never would have happened in a million years if she still had that fourth leg. We may be her slaves but we're not stupid!



Notice her Quixotic quest to stop each wave with a strategically-placed bite...can't wait for the digestive results of all that salt water...that should be fun!

To borrow from a celluloid classic, "Red Dogs love water like a sailor loves rum...why is that, Captain Ron?"
"Nobody knows."

It's Time for a Swim!

For those of you who remember this, our wait is over...the lime green beauty has arrived and will be christened in Aunt Rita's pool tomorrow. Woooooohooooooooo!!

The Votes Are In...

...and Black Obsidian wins in a landslide (just like Shiva's Mom said it would)! Thanks to everyone who commented, called or emailed their votes. We will take a measurement after her re-check on Monday and post a photo of the Red Dog in her new vest once it arrives. Thanks!

Much, Much Gratitude

As we've read countless stories of other canine amputee friends on the "Treatment and Recovery" forum at tripawds.com, we have come to the realization of just how lucky we (and the Red Dog, of course) have been through this process. While other dogs have to stay heavily medicated for 3, 4 or even 5 weeks, Shiva was off all pain meds at a week. While other dogs struggle with appetite, coordination and attitude, the Red Dog eats like a (pink) pig, pulls like a truck and demands a car ride at least once-a-day. Aside from Shiva's obvious magnificence, we have to give credit to Brenda for the healing touch treatments and to all of you for the prayers and good wishes. The support everyone has shown thus far has been nothing short of amazing. Now just pray that Shiva sails through the chemo like she did the surgery. Thanks! WOOF!

Btw...a "beauty" question from the Red Dog...which color will suit her lovely coat better...Red Currant or Black Obsidian? Please vote in "Comments". WOOF WOOF!