Niki's story-- Final Chapter 1997-2010

[ladysmom06]

Hi Dolly,

Good to hear from you. Happy:D:D that Niki is doing fine. Are you getting this latest snow storm? I can't wait for Spring - so sick of snow and the cold :mad:.

Hugs to you and Niki.

[eyelostit]

Hi Dolly,

Good to hear from you. Happy:D:D that Niki is doing fine. Are you getting this latest snow storm? I can't wait for Spring - so sick of snow and the cold :mad:.

Hugs to you and Niki.

Hi there :)

We've sure had enough of it, there must be 15 inches out there where it was shoveled!! The snow thats been plowed looks like a wall. I figure the H with it, just put my boots on make a path to the car, I use my feet to slide the snow around so I can brush the snow off the car. Its been terrible hasn't it.:mad:

Ah now that i think of it the Sears repairman is coming, now do i really need to shovel for this guy? LOL

Dolly & Niki

[peggy0]

Have him shovel for you dolly lol

[eyelostit]

Its been awhile.:)

Niki had the gentomycin injection in her eye, done in Pittsburgh at the specialist, I could not bear to remove her eye.

Her brown part of eye after injection went from a red to dark red, week later to purple and now back to her brown, I have not noticed any eye shrinkage yet.

We are still on drops, which will end by Monday.

She went to local vet for pressure check and it went down.

I hope this procedure helped.

I had alot of help & advice from the blind dogs group with dogs that have had this done as well as the eye removal, as time came closer to have her eye removed I just could not go thru with it.

Her bg was very high first week after this was done 450-500 I hadn't seen that in years, but it finally is at its normal 120-180.

I am still sick about all of this.

Dolly

[Dollydog]

Hi Dolly,
I've been thinking of you two for awhile and wondering what was going on. I understand about not wanting to remove the eye and hope that this procedure works out well for Niki. Glad to hear that another support group was a lot of help for you.

Hope your snow has melted away and that you can see some spring flowers. Hugs for the both of you,
Jo-Ann & my Dollydog angel :)

[Patty]

Dolly,
My thoughts are the same as Jo-Ann's. I'm glad the blind dog's group has been helpful. And I hope this procedure will show long term benefits for Niki.
Patty

[ladysmom06]

Hi Dolly,


I hope this procedure helped.



Hoping this helps Niki and glad :D:D to hear that her bg's have come down. Hugs to you and her.

[k9diabetes]

I'm sorry to hear that Niki's eye has continued to be a problem. Sure hope the gentamycin treatment works... I don't know anything about it.

Could you post the link to the group for blind dogs?

Natalie

[eyelostit]

Hi all,

Niki needs to have the procedure done again, its scheduled for Wednesday, I am so sad about her having to go thru this again, at least she doesn't have to go under all the way. I hope this is the last time.

At least I have the E collar

Dolly

Nat, here is link, I will post over on info also.

http://pets.groups.yahoo.com/group/blinddogs/

[peggy0]

Sorry to hear this Dolly. Hopefully this time will be the last. Thinking of you and Dolly on your way to the burgh

[Patty]

Dolly,
I'm sorry you and Niki have to repeat the procedure...hope it lasts for her. Let us know how it goes.
Thinking of you,
Patty

[Noodle]

I'm sorry to hear Niki needs a repeat procedure, but I hope all goes smoothly for both of you tomorrow.

[Chloe's Mom]

Oh Dolly, I too am so sorry Niki has to have the procedure done again. I will be saying a prayer for her.

Hugs to you both,
Heidi and Chloe

[ladysmom06]

Dear Dolly,

So sorry to hear that Niki needs to have this done again. Sending positive thoughts and prayers that everything goes well and she won't need it done again. Please keep us posted on how she is doing. Hugs to you and her.

[k9diabetes]

Ah, I'm sorry to hear that the first round did not improve it enough. I hope the second one resolves things.

For anyone interested, this article talks about this procedure at the bottom.

http://www.animaleyecare.net/diseases/glaucoma.htm

Natalie

[Dollydog]

Oh Dolly, I'll be thinking of you two on Wednesday and hoping that this time will do the trick. You're both such troopers!
Please let us know as soon as possible and take good care as my hugs and prayers go with you both,
Jo-Ann & my Dollydog angel

[bgdavis]

Sorry I missed all this about Niki and glaucoma! Crissy had glaucoma as a direct complication of her cataract surgery. She had the cataract surgery and implants done in Nov. 2004 and had a spike in eye pressure 9 times normal in one eye 8 days after the surgery. She lost sight in that eye immediately and it was removed and she had a 'fake' eye in Feb. 2005. She then had sight in the remaining eye, but with glaucoma and lots of very expensive eye drops for almost 2 more years. We did the removal and 'fake' eye again in Nov. 2006. She set a record at Oklahoma State for the most major eye surgeries in a 2 year period. They are still using her case in teaching about canine glaucoma.

I'm glad that Niki hasn't experienced the pain that Criss went through. It was awful and I could hardly function and drive her to the hospital.

We were told about the injections, but I elected the removal because of her pain. I just couldn't bear to see her without eyes, so we had the prostheses.

Hope Niki does well. Will she need to continue eye drops?

Bonnie and Angel Criss

[Dollydog]

Hi Dolly, just checking in on you two....

[CarolW]

Dolly - I'm watching! Looking forward to your next report! Always my huge best wishes to you and Niki!

Wed, 7 Apr 2010 23:37:51 (PDT)

[peggy0]

Hi Dolly

thinking about you and Nikki. How is everything going Sister.

[ladysmom06]

Hi Dolly,

Checking to see how you and Niki are doing. Hoping everything went well. Please update us when you get a chance. Hugs to the two of you.

[eyelostit]

Niki had her eye removed just about 2 weeks ago, what I thought would be another eye injection turned out to be having her eye removed, her eye was really bad it was still filling with fluid had developed an ulcer.

When the vet talked to me that day and I saw from the tear stain how worse her eye was I didn't want to have another injection, that would also have meant more drops and no guarantees that her eye would improve.

She will get her stiches out this week, I was worried about her and the anesthesia with her age, but the vet said when it wore off she was anxious to get out of there and the vet gave her a shot to calm her down, Niki stayed overnite, when the vet told me Niki was so excited when the drug wore off I knew Niki would be ok.

The worse part about this is of course the worry and the shock of seeing your dogs eye area all shaved down when they brought Niki out to me, her hair is growing back now

She's just about done with her antibiotic and will have her stiches out.

Right now we are seeing lows, too low, 50-70, we are working on these lows now and just need to ride this one out.
Dolly

[BestBuddy]

Dolly,

I am sure the only thing Niki thought about her eye was that it caused her pain. I bet she is still as beautiful as ever and now no more problem with that darn eye.
I know you would have been shocked and scared when they suggested the eye removal but I always knew you would do what was right for Niki whatever that was.

Jenny

[eyelostit]

Dolly,

I am sure the only thing Niki thought about her eye was that it caused her pain. I bet she is still as beautiful as ever and now no more problem with that darn eye.
I know you would have been shocked and scared when they suggested the eye removal but I always knew you would do what was right for Niki whatever that was.

Jenny

Thanks Jen

Odd thing about all of this before was she never appeared to be in any pain, the eye doc said alot of dogs show no pain, she only got finickly with her eye after that injection from the fluid draining out of her eye.

Dogs are amazing;)

[Patty]

Jenny's words are so true. I'm sorry she had to go through that Dolly, but hoping she feels tons better!

Patty

[Dollydog]

Hi Dolly,
I'm sorry that it was so upsetting to see the results after Niki's eye was removed. Even though Lady was almost totally blind she would look up at my face as if she could still see mine. I knew that she had looked up that way for so long that she still raised her face towards my voice. I never had to look at that little face without one of her beautiful eyes. :(

I'm glad she recovered so well from her surgery and I know you'll have those bgs straightened out in no time. ;)
Good to see your post....
Jo-Ann & my Dollydog angel :)

[ladysmom06]

Hi Dolly,

So sorry to hear that you and Niki had to go through this. I'm sure you'll be able to get the bg's straightened out. Hoping Niki feels better. Hugs to the two of you.

[CarolW]

Brave Dolly! You did mention you'd been feeling overwhelmed, so now I get an idea of why and how!

GREAT GOING, DOLLY! I hope (and know) I'll have the courage to do the same, should Kumbi require an eye (or both!) removed. No sign of that yet, and I'm thankful.

As Jenny said, dogs are incredibly stoic, and certainly terriers are! They can hide an awful lot of pain. So while I'm hoping Kumbi will follow Dollydog's example (and he looks up, same as Dollydog always did - but he looks at an off-angle, possibly because he might have a bit of peripheral vision left - he's losing it, though) - I feel as Jo-Ann does. And as Jenny does!

I admire you no end, Dolly, for going ahead with the removal when you really knew Niki needed it. You set a good example for me - in case!

Mon, 19 Apr 2010 15:57:59 (PDT)

[k9diabetes]

I'm so happy to hear that Niki got through the surgery like a champ.

I remember both Jody and Judy saying Taffy and Bud were in really rough shape for about 24-36 hours after the surgery - sounds like the vet got her through the hardest part and gave her great care.

I would think Niki's a lot happier now that the pain is gone. I'm glad you were able to go through with it cuz I think Niki will be a lot happier.

Natalie

[Margaret Boyle]

Dolly,

Glad Niki is all through the surgery.

Hugs to You and Niki

[pgcor]

Hi Dolly - well, I guess I'm glad that's over for both you and Niki. I know you said Niki never appeared to be in pain, but maybe you'll see an increase in activity now?

Pam

[peggy0]

Hi Dolly

Just checking in to see how you and Nikki are doing. Let us hear from you

[bgdavis]

Dolly,

Just read your post about Niki's eye removal from last month. I'm hoping she is feeling a lot better now. Criss had both of hers removed, a couple of years apart. I know she had discomfort for the first couple of days.

Bonnie and Angel Criss

[Soaphie & Sydney's Mom]

Oh my goodness. I can't believe I missed this post. Dolly - I am sorry to hear that Niki lost her eye. Please let us know how everything is going - we hope the best for you both!!!

Tami & Soapher

[eyelostit]

Hi everyone,

Niki is doing fine, she's such a trooper.
I've had alot happening with life in general lately, previously, tomorrow :eek:
She's still on her diet of Orijen, gr beans and turkey, her bg is good, other than both of us having arthritus I guess we are ok with meds.;)
Niki will be 14 this yr and has had diabetes for over 7 yrs now, she's still going strong and talks back to me.:)

Dolly & Niki

[BestBuddy]

Dolly,

I think of you and Niki often. So glad to hear she is doing well and you too.:D

Jenny

[eyelostit]

Dolly,

I think of you and Niki often. So glad to hear she is doing well and you too.:D

Jenny

Thanks, how's Cool Hand Luke and Pal Joey?:)

[eyelostit]

Oh also, all it does is rain or thunderstorm here anymore and pourdowns, I can't get anything done outside, I know you guys in PA and Northeast can relate, Niki don't want to go in the yard and she scared of the thunder.:(

I can always tell when a storm is brewing, Niki lets me know about 1/2 hr ahead of time she can hear it and starts pawing on the carpet. ;)

Dolly

[k9diabetes]

I am SO SO Happy to hear from you Dolly and to hear that you and Niki are well! :)

Natalie

[BestBuddy]

Luke and Joey are doing well. I can relate to the weather situation because we are in the middle of winter here and all it seems to do is rain and thunder. I really can't wait for summer or even spring.

Jen

[Patty]

Glad to hear things are going well with you and Niki, Dolly!! :)

Patty

[Dollydog]

Hello, Hello, Hello.....it is so good to hear from you and get such a great update!! I sent an email last week and was going to give you a little more time to reply before I sent it again.
Hope your weather dries up some and you can get outside. We had a really dry spring and have now had a few days of rain so can relax about the threat of forest fires.
I also hope Niki gets a break from the thunder....what an awesome girl!!
(((HUGS))) for you both,
Jo-Ann & my Dollydog angel & Victoria :)

[eyelostit]

We had a bad night yesterday, Niki was a bit disoriented and kept staying near.

Seems like since her eye surgery she's needing less insulin, I think my girls getting older now and things are affecting her, she's fine today, I hope she's ok or something scared her.

I'm not ready to walk the road...........

[k9diabetes]

I'm glad she was able to recover from whatever was worrying her.

Jack the other night was worried and couldn't settle in to go to bed. Turns out there were two tiny little beetle like bugs flying around. He pointed them out to me so I could take care of getting rid of them for him! LOL

Natalie

[Patty]

I hope she's ok or something scared her.



I hope so too Dolly. Glad to hear she's better today. :)



He pointed them out to me so I could take care of getting rid of them for him!

That's nice he could point them out for you Natalie and all could get some sleep :D

[eyelostit]

Well, I'm quite positive Niki has glaucoma in ther other eye now, its bad enough she had to get the injection in her eye, then having the one eye removed and now this.

I don't need to see the vet to tell me this, I've seen it before, we'll no doubt go to the vet in awhile, they will say same thing, pred drops etc, I'm not making Niki go thru this again.

Its a shame most diabetic pets get put down for other illnesses and not the diabetes.

I'm sad and I'm mad and I hate this, I can't imagine life without Niki.

[peggy0]

I'm so sorry Dolly. I know exactly how you feel. You think diabetes is going to be their only mountain and then its something else. We're here for you Sister D.

[k9diabetes]

Sounds like you are feeling that she can't withstand another eye removal surgery even if you just go straight to that instead of trying to avoid it... I know her arthritis has been bad too.

I am sorry that Niki's body is failing her...

Natalie

[CarolW]

Oh, dear Dolly - if I may make a suggestion - don't even TRY to imagine life without Niki. Life IS easier if you don't anticipate. I truly believe you will know when the time is right to help her take flight. Meantime, I suggest, just keep on doing what you do so well for Niki. You're such a fine DogMum for her. I'd let her tell you what she wants.

That does take some communicating with her in that special way you have, Dolly.

Remember we love you and Niki.

Love and hugs,

Mon, 21 Jun 2010 22:10:49 (PDT)

[Margaret Boyle]

Hi Dolly,

I am sorry to hear about Niki, I know how you feel it just seems to be one thing after another and it gets you down :(

Take each day as it comes Dolly You will make the right decisions. As long as Niki is not in pain.

I am thinking about you and Niki and saying a wee prayer.

Hugs

Margaret xx

[Dollydog]

Oh Dolly, I'm so sorry that you're facing this situation again and understand the turmoil that you're going through.
(((HUGS)))
Jo-Ann

[bgdavis]

Dolly,

I know the feeling. I hated Criss losing her second eye and all of her sight. Have they tried daily drops with Niki. Criss was on Azopt, Trusopt, and the expensive one, Xalatan. Seems like there was one more they tried. Those kept the glaucoma in check for almost two years.

Don't think about life without Niki. If need be, I'd risk removing the other eye as I think she'd be able to undergo another surgery.

Hugs,
Bonnie and Angel Criss

[Patty]

Dolly,
I'm sorry to hear this. It just doesn't get easier does it. I like Carol's post. They do tell us what they can handle don't they.

Saying a prayer for you and Niki,
Patty

[Noodle]

I'm so sorry you and Niki are potentially facing this again. Whatever you decide, I know it will be the very best decision for Niki and made with love. Thinking of you both.

[ladysmom06]

Hi Dolly,

So sorry to hear that Niki is having problems in her other eye. I know whatever you decide to do it will be the right thing for Niki. Keeping you and her in my thoughts and prayers. Hugs to the two of you.

[eyelostit]

Hi everyone, ;)

Niki is still waggin! She's slowed down alot but she's still jumping up in the SUV, always excited when she hears her leash, eating well, all good signs.

My mom is still ill, ah.....life just throws you one curve after another.

Dolly & Niki

[BestBuddy]

Glad to hear some good news about Niki, she is amazing. You should be proud of what you have been able to accomplish. Sorry to hear about your mum.

Jenny

[peggy0]

Hi dolly

its so good to hear from you. glad nikki is hanging in there. she is a real trooper!! hope your mom feels well soon dolly. keep in touch

[Patty]

Dolly,
Good to hear from you. Glad Niki is still waggin' ;).
I'm sorry to hear your mom's still having trouble.
Keep us posted,
Patty

[Margaret Boyle]

Nice to hear from you Dolly:D

I am glad Niki is still enjoying life give her a hug from Lucy and Me:)

I am sorry your Mum is still not too well, you do well Dolly looking after her:)

Hugs to you all.

Margaret

[CarolW]

Hey Dolly! I really miss you when you're not here; always look forward to news of you and Niki.

Sounds as though Niki is really hanging in there well! Good for her, and good for you!

Hope your mum improves - gets better - really rooting for you.

Love and hugs,

Mon, 19 Jul 2010 11:36:32 (PDT)

[eyelostit]

Hi all, :)

Just an update, Niki doing ok, debating on getting her rabies shot, I always had it done, but don't know now that she's older and the problems I had getting her bg back on track after her eye surgery. We gotta go to the vet for nail trim too I guess I will decide when I get there, just don't know.

Dolly

[CarolW]

Hey, Dolly! To repeat myself, I really miss you when you're not here!

I'd talk the rabies question over with my vet. A lot depends on how much of it is around where you live. The current accepted protocol is a shot every three years, but some people say if a dog gets rabies vaccine as a pup, and then a year later, no more is needed for the dog's lifetime.

I did keep Kumbi up with rabies shots. He never had any obvious problems with shots - vaccines, that is. Hey, nor insulin, either! Once or twice he threatened to hypo, but never did.

Tue, 10 Aug 2010 17:38:01 (PDT)

[Patty]

Dolly,
Good to hear from you! Let us know how the visit goes. There are a lot of opinions on the rabies vaccine. I think Carol covered it well.

I think next time Ali's due I'll pull a titer on her and see what her antibody level is. If it shows sufficient, I may bypass and ask my vet to write us a letter of exemption. She has had a reaction before.

Take care,
Patty

[eyelostit]

Niki's eye started running :( we'll be going to the vet, her eyes have never teared or ran before............

I haven't gotten her rabies shot yet, Talk to the vet :eek: ?

She always received the 3 yr shot, she's just getting older and thats what concerns me. We had titers done last year for the other vaccines, she didn't need to get the vaccines again. :)

Oh well, we'll see how it goes.

Dolly

[Jaye]

Niki's eye started running :( we'll be going to the vet, her eyes have never teared or ran before............

I had that same problem with my Robbie. Although a white dog, I've never ever (in 12 years) had any problem with eyes running. It started in one, then went to the other as well. Really running...quite wet.

He had been diagnosed as diabetic for about a year at that time.

He was already on Optimmune 2X daily for dry eye, but she said that wasn't it. That it was, more than likely, an allergy that had developed that he hadn't had before. I treated it cosmetically and to keep it from getting infected...kept it as clean as I could.

Then, seems like all of the sudden, it stopped. No clue why, but it just stopped and he hasn't had a problem with it since.

Here's a "Then" and "Now."

http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d88/Pinkponderosa/RobbieTearyEyes.jpg http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d88/Pinkponderosa/RobbieClearEyes.jpg

Hope Niki's eyes clear up for you!

[Patty]

Dolly,
Let us know how it goes...

That is quite a difference in Robbie. Wonder what the trigger was.
Patty

[ladysmom06]

Hi Dolly,

Niki's eye started running :( we'll be going to the vet, her eyes have never teared or ran before............



Sorry to hear that Niki is having problems. Let us know what the vet has to say. Hugs to you and Niki.

[peggy0]

Hey Dolly,

Good news hopefully for Niki

[Dollydog]

Me too...just checking in on you both....(((HUGS)))

[Patty]

How'd it go Dolly?

[eyelostit]

I had that same problem with my Robbie. Although a white dog, I've never ever (in 12 years) had any problem with eyes running. It started in one, then went to the other as well. Really running...quite wet.

He had been diagnosed as diabetic for about a year at that time.

He was already on Optimmune 2X daily for dry eye, but she said that wasn't it. That it was, more than likely, an allergy that had developed that he hadn't had before. I treated it cosmetically and to keep it from getting infected...kept it as clean as I could.

Then, seems like all of the sudden, it stopped. No clue why, but it just stopped and he hasn't had a problem with it since.

Here's a "Then" and "Now."

http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d88/Pinkponderosa/RobbieTearyEyes.jpg http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d88/Pinkponderosa/RobbieClearEyes.jpg

Hope Niki's eyes clear up for you!

Thanks for the photos, yep its sorta the same thing, Dolly

[eyelostit]

I called the vet about the eyes running, she said as long as its not bleeding or swelled up it can wait till Tues our orig visit day or call if any problem.

Niki is aging and its killing me, I know you all went thru this, ah... what are ya going do.:(

Dolly

[Dollydog]

Oh Dolly, it's a moment by moment, one-day-at-a-time journey right now for you two.....(((HUGS)))....just savoring all the good moments that you can....and it's TOUGH.
Jo-Ann

[lab lover]

Hi Dolly

Just read about Niki hoped it worked out at the vet maybe it is dry eyes since my surgery on my bad eye I am constantly putting drops in it - so with Niki losing her eye maybe she needs the moisture drops in it I hoped it works out for you. Baby also needs rabies and I haven't done it yet either she had the titer last yr she is still sick very high but, her last blood test came out ok on enzymes so I don't understand. will we be able to still give our dogs the Novolin N or will it be Humulin N after august trying to find out more info didn't know anything about it until I got on the forum I have been out of touch with these eyes I see blurry all the time still.

Let me know how Niki is please with her eye I feel for her my sister' dog Gracie is in renal problems now too plus the pancreas problem Gracie is 12yrs old do you know any websites that can helped her she is having a hard time dealing with this it was my mom's dog until she passed away four yrs ago. Keep in touch. Give a hug too Niki thinking about yu. Ida

[BestBuddy]

Dolly,

I know what you are going through and it really sucks. Each day one at a time and if Niki has a good day then enjoy it. I hope she hasn't got another eye problem.

Jenny

[CarolW]

Dolly -

Rooting for you and Niki.

BIG hugs!

Sat, 21 Aug 2010 22:57:14 (PDT)

[pgcor]

Hey Dolly - I wonder if our companions ever look at us and think "geez that's too bad they're getting so old"... I'm hoping that Pip excuses my lapses in memory and bladder control as I overlook his!!! LOL

Nobody has a better partner to the golden years than you and Niki!!! You have to be at least six years into diabetes right? Fabulous!!!!

[eyelostit]

Hey Dolly - I wonder if our companions ever look at us and think "geez that's too bad they're getting so old"... I'm hoping that Pip excuses my lapses in memory and bladder control as I overlook his!!! LOL

Nobody has a better partner to the golden years than you and Niki!!! You have to be at least six years into diabetes right? Fabulous!!!!

LOL I can just imagine what Niki thinks, even with her being blind you should see her face how she looks when she's on the couch when she hears me ;), " is that her? are we going out" " oh she's mad her mum ate all of the cookies" and " This feeding time thing I'll never figure out, it didn't use to be like this, what's the deal anymore" :cool:

Yep, its been 7 yrs with her being diabetic, almost 8 it doesn't seem that long, we just adapted to it and go with the flo, I think she went blind in 2005 I lost track, she's always under the desk here when I am online, probably wonders "what's she doing up there" maybe she'll drop a chip" LOL that has happened.:)

[eyelostit]

Niki has had glaucoma in her other eye, it started running on Thurs or Friday, we went to the vet and there's not much more that can be done other than remove her eye or try the gentomycin injection again, I don't think we are going to go that route again, her bg shot up after that surgery, then she went low and I had her down to 8 units at one point, then she's back to normal and we get on the high low ride.

I'm hoping to get some answers from some dogs that have had glaucoma with the runny eye.

She doesn't appear to be in any pain, she wasn't in pain with her other eye, I think if she was in pain she wouldn't let me go near her eye or she wouldn't be going after her toys, she sure lets me know if I try to trim her nails.;)

I may sound in control but really I'm not, just don't know.....

Dolly

[pgcor]

Dolly - no one has been a better caretaker and friend to Niki. As I said to you earlier, I will pray that you move this crisis quickly. Love and hugs to you and Niki.

[Margaret Boyle]

Hi Dolly,

Sorry to hear about Niki's other eye, I am glad she is not in pain.

I laughed at your post of Niki making comments:D

I hope things work out well for Niki and you do not get too stressed Dolly.

You have done marvellous with Niki. I don't think I will have Lucy as long as your Niki with the diabetes.

She is having too many infections ( that will not clear).

Give Niki a big hug for me Dolly.

Hugs

Margaret

[k9diabetes]

I hate this place you're in.... there are no good answers or choices.

I wonder if the glaucoma was hovering in the background after her previous surgery. It could be that the glaucoma has been and is contributing to her crazy blood sugar. Maybe there's a slim hope that her blood sugar would settle down if the other eye was removed.

But when they are old and there's a lot of inflammation from arthritis and whatever else, I think the good regulation tends to falter and you just do the best you can. Chris' last six months or nine, I can't remember - his blood sugar bounced around a lot. Often for no apparent reason.

If it was me, I definitely wouldn't go the gentamycin route. I'd either remove the eye or not. And whether I'd do the surgery to remove the eye... that would depend on every little nuance of how my dog seemed to be in terms of quality of life and willingness to go through it. Only Niki can tell you what's best for her. And of course, if she's in pain, then you would have to act somehow. I hope her arthritis meds are also managing any pain from the glaucoma.

I'm sorry... it's hard...

Natalie

[Patty]

Dolly,
I just wanted to say I'm thinking of you and your girl.
Patty

[ladysmom06]

Dear Dolly,

I'm sorry you and Niki are going through this. Sending prayers and hugs from my house to yours.

[peggy0]

So sorry Dolly. I have no experience with Glucoma. I hope good things come your way

[eyelostit]

My Niki has passed.

Dolly & Niki my precious Angel

[Ladybug]

Dear Dolly,

I had tears in my eyes when I read about Niki's passing. I'm so sorry. I'm sure my Shadow and Coco were at the Bridge to welcome her.

Remember the good times and take care of yourself.

Linda/Ladybug

[peggy0]

I'm so so sorry Dolly. There are no words I know, but you have an angel at your side always to take care of you as you did Niki. No one was as dedicated. Cherish the memories.

[Tikobird]

Dolly-so very sorry to hear of Niki's passing. You are in our thoughts and prayers

[Patty]

Oh Dollly, I am so very very sorry. My hearfelt hugs and condolences. Niki was so blessed to have you care for her.
God Bless,
Patty

[eileen]

I'm so sorry Dolly.....my heart goes out to you.

hugs

[pgcor]

Dolly - I know how hard you've struggled with Niki, and I'm so sorry that it was time for Niki. It's hard to let them go when it's all we do for so long but care for them.

Please know this - I'M HAPPY THAT NIKI HAD A GREAT LIFE. I'll bet Niki said thank you a million times to you Dolly.

Your connection to Niki was and will always be a beautiful thing!

Please don't stop posting here Dolly - I would miss you if you did. I know that sounds selfish, but so many people here have benefited from your relationship with Niki.

Love, Pam

[CarolW]

Oh, Dolly; I'm SO sorry Niki left this Earth - leaving you bereft (on Earth). No doG could POSSIBLY have asked for a finer Human DogMum than you!

Kwali and Kumbi are frolicking with Niki right now, and they say, she's a delightful dog, and is telling them all about her HumanMum.

Big hugs to you, and with our deepest sympathy.

Sat, 2 Oct 2010 06:27:17 (PDT)

[Margaret Boyle]

Dolly,

I am so sorry to hear you have lost Niki, my heart is heavy for you.

You were truly a great dog Mum to Niki and you will have a lot of lovely memories.

There are no words Dolly that take away the hurting but you are in my thoughts and prayers.

Sending you lots of hugs Dolly

R.I.P. Niki


Margaret

[inn8]

Dolly, I'm so saddened to hear about Niki's passing. You two had such a beautiful connection and bond, I can only imagine how heart broken you feel right now. You are an amazing mom Dolly and this 8 year journey you've been on with her has touched many people and changed the lives of many dogs. Praying for you and the days ahead...
Hugs and Blessings, Carla

[ozzi]

Dolly,
I am so very sorry to hear about Niki's passing. I know what a wonderful companion she was and the struggle she endured. We do everything we can, until our companions just can't do it anymore. I know how much you did for Niki and no one could have done more. I am saddened by this news, and I am happy that Niki had you in her life and she in yours.
My deepest condolences,
Kevin

[Soaphie & Sydney's Mom]

Dolly.

I'm speechless. You helped me so much when we first joined the forum. You are a godsend - Niki's was so incredibly fortunate to have found you.

Major hugs to you.

Tami & Soaphie

[LilyBell]

Dolly - I"m so sorry to hear this - my thoughts and prayers are with you during this most difficult time.

[k9diabetes]

Oh Dolly.... I'm so terribly sorry to learn of Niki's passing. She's been an institution for me through six years of canine diabetes forums and she lived with diabetes for so much of her life. She was and will always be a wonderful example of what life for a diabetic dog can be with a devoted human there to provide great management.

With deepest sympathy,

Natalie

[buddingartist]

No word can take away your sadness for the loss of your beloved Nikki.

So sorry and a great big <virtual hug< your way

Louise

[CoolGram]

Dolly,

I'm so very sorry to hear of Niki's passing. Niki was as fortunate to have you in her life as you were to have her in yours. I'll be thinking of you and keeping you in my prayers. Hope we will continue to hear from you.

Carolyn

[diggydog]

Dolly, so sorry for your loss x

[k9diabetes]

One of Dolly's stories about Niki.

http://www.nowpublic.com/health/my-dog-niki-canine-diabetes

Dolly has for a number of years searched the internet for stray posts to other kinds of forums and comments on articles by people whose dogs have been diagnosed with diabetes and are desperate for help but haven't found a site dedicated to canine diabetes.

She posts a message to them and steers them in the right direction with links to forums and other resources. Dolly has helped many many diabetic dogs over the years this way.

Natalie

[BestBuddy]

Dear Dolly,

There are no magic words to help you feel better. I am so sorry Niki's story has finally come to an end, she was a true warrior and fought hard.

Unfortunately there comes a time when we cannot win the fight any longer but I know how hard you tried.

My thoughts are with you.

Jenny

[Dollydog]

Dear Dolly,
I know how hard this post was for you. Our two girls are playing together with all their diabetic friends who have gone on before them and they're free of their tired bodies.
Please take good care of yourself right now and know that there is another little friend just waiting to keep you company.
(((HUGS)))
Jo-Ann

[ladysmom06]

Dear Dolly,

I am so very sorry for the loss of your sweet, precious Niki. I know there are no words to ease the pain and deep sense of loss you are feeling but please know I'm here for you. You and Niki were such a great inspiration to me and so many others. Niki was so lucky to have had such a loving, devoted mom and I know how much she loved you. Keeping you in my thoughts and prayers and sending hugs to you. My deepest sympathy.

[bgdavis]

Oh, Dolly,


I'm so very sorry to come here and learn that Niki has crossed over. I know how very much you two loved and cared for each other. It's very hard to watch them age and suffer from things , so know that she is free of all of that now and waiting just for you.

Hugs,
Bonnie and Angel Crissy

[Chloe's Mom]

Dolly, there is no possible way I can tell you how very sorry I am to read this. I know your heart is breaking and if we could, we would all hold you and comfort you right now. Niki showed us all what courage and determination really means....and so did you Dolly. You never gave up and always gave Niki the best care. You have come to the end of your journey with Niki here on earth, but she waits for you in Heaven....where there is no pain, only love. You will be together again one day and Oh, what a re-union that will be!

Love and healing prayers,
Heidi and Chloe

[eyelostit]

Thanks for thinking of me, yes its surely a loss, I was so used to the feeding times, shots, treat time, buying turkey and green beans and then no more. My house seems hollow without her.

I can't seem to throw away Niki's last 2 test strips, her bg was great that day. I guess thats just me and a small part of Niki.

I know alot of you have gone thru this and no doubt thought the same thoughts

The mums are in full bloom on her grave now. She is buried between my other 2 dogs, in the spring I will re-do their garden.

Well now.....what to do...I have alot of Orijen dogfood ;) I think Niki would say please adopt & help another doggie.

I will ..promise, my loved & cherished Niki, thank you for finding me Niki, you found me when I needed it most. I know you'll be with me always.

See you at the bridge my friend, there's no other place I'd rather go.

[Dollydog]

Hi Dolly, it's good to see your post this am.
I have slowly been giving Lady's supplies away and moving her things back into other places in our house. Some of her things are used with our new dog....who just loves blankets that have been slept on by other dogs!!
It's been 13 months since Lady's passing and my husband just mentioned the other day how easy it is to feed Victoria, compared to all the prep that went into feeding Lady.
(((HUGS)))
Jo-Ann & my Dollydog angel

[pgcor]

Dolly - I can say nothing else, except you are my hero! Somewhere there's a dog out there that will be very, very lucky. I hope you will post here and help some of the new people as well as some of the inept older members. Not saying who :D

[ozzi]

Dolly,

I was happy to see your recent post. I completely understand and share the loss associated with preparing the food, giving special "diabetic" treats, giving shots and home testing. It sounds crazy to say, but life without your diabetic dog is very different, and I found I missed and still do miss all of those things as well. With Kobi, I don't have to "do" anything...it's weird! Friends and family think it should be a relief, but I never found it a burden, and quickly grew to actually enjoy the additional things I needed to do to properly care for Ozzi. I believe you feel the same way about Niki.

As far as your house feeling hollow, I felt the same way. Even though I still had Abby, it just wasn't the same...hence Kobi...LOL. A week after Ozzi passed, I couldn't stand it, and started looking for another dog. Kobi has been a God-send. Although he doesn't need any special care (except for his blindness, which is no big deal), he is a busy puppy and has been a great distraction. Tomorrow will be 2 months since Ozzi left me, and yesterday I had a meltdown. I miss him terribly and no one will replace him, and I know you feel the same way about Niki. It's very difficult Dolly, and I understand how your life has changed. I guess I try to rationalize it by remembering how sick and how much pain Ozzi had at the end, and I know that part is gone. It's the only thing that gives me some comfort.

My thoughts are with you,
Kevin

[eyelostit]

Dolly - I can say nothing else, except you are my hero! Somewhere there's a dog out there that will be very, very lucky. I hope you will post here and help some of the new people as well as some of the inept older members. Not saying who :D

LOL, as always :)

[eyelostit]

Thanks everyone for the replies, cards and emails :) sorry I haven't been here

Dolly & Angel Niki :)

[peggy0]

Dolly, so good to hear from you. Hope you are doing ok! We miss you

[Patty]

Great to hear from you Dolly!!!

[Margaret Boyle]

Hi Dolly,

Nice too hear from you I think about you often:)

I do hope you are well Dolly and your Mum.


Hugs and God Bless

Margaret xx:)

[MaryLea]

Even though we have not been here for your journey, reading your story has hit a chord with me. Our Ruffles was also born in 1997, but not diagnosed until this year. We have come face-to-face with the same difficulty you had, watching our little girl struggle lately.

I send condolences to you and know you feel a deep sense of loss. Your love for animals and words to many others have been encouraging to them. May you be supported as strongly now in the same proportions as you have helped others.

[eyelostit]

Thanks everyone.:)

I'm still missing my Niki but I think that will never go away especially with the caring of a diabetic pet or any pet with special needs, they are our babies and we cared and loved them deeply.

I hope to be more active here, hopefully life is getting somewhat normal now.;) If there is a normal life.:rolleyes:.


Dolly & Angel Niki

[peggy0]

WElcome back Dolly, Its good to see you here. Missing our special needs pets never does go away. I miss forbin every single day even though I have others to love. They touch our hearts in a very special way.

[eyelostit]

Hi everyone,:)

Have a surprise, click below

http://k9diabetes.com/forum/showthread.php?t=2431 (http://k9diabetes.com/forum/showthread.php?t=2431)

[Denise]

I'm sorry to hear about Niki's passing. Another one of the "old gang" is gone. Can't you just imagine all the sugar babies together and I'm sure Judy's Bud is throwing a HUGE party!

So happy to hear you rescued a new one. Oh, Border Collie.....lots of energy! LOL :eek:

I have some news also but will start a new thread.

[pgcor]

Wow! Hi Denise! Haven't seen you for eons....or at least it seems that way. Hope you will start a new thread would love to know what's going on!

Pam

[Margaret Boyle]

I'm sorry to hear about Niki's passing. Another one of the "old gang" is gone. Can't you just imagine all the sugar babies together and I'm sure Judy's Bud is throwing a HUGE party!

So happy to hear you rescued a new one. Oh, Border Collie.....lots of energy! LOL :eek:

I have some news also but will start a new thread.

Denise,

I do not know you but I was looking at your photo album and Bogie is so like my Lucy a black mini who has just had surgery on Frid.

Lucy is so like Bogie if you go into my profile you will see what I mean.
I will be interested in reading your thread.:)

Hugs

Margaret

[k9diabetes]

It's a few months short of the anniversary of Niki's passing.

I brought her thread forward now so that Niki's experiences can help yet another dog - Kevin's Kobi - with her experiences with Gentamycin treatment, which she had done in March 2010.

Natalie

[ozzi]

Thank you Natalie!

I just read the entire thread and like Dolly, I just can't bear to remove his eye, at least as the initial treatment, but I need more information on the gentamycin injection when the time comes that I have to decide what to do. My opthamologist is a little more encouraging about the gentamycin injection than many others. I have read where most seem to say it doesn't work and ultimately removal occurs subsequently. Kobi's opthamologist says that his personal experience is about a 75% success rate, so if there is no risk of deafness, I will most likely go this route. He did say that regeneration of tissues can happen requiring a second injection. I figure enucleation is always available if the injection fails, and I'm willing to take the gamble, and keep his eye (at least the physical eye) intact. I feel bad for Kobi's opthamologist....I question him about the future procedures at each and every visit, because I really want to make an informed decision. Fortunately, he is a very patient man and answers all of my questions...LOL!

Thanks again,

Kevin

[eyelostit]

The other day I was over by her grave looking at the flowers and talked to her spirit.

Thanks Nat :)

Hi Kevin, let me take a look at your posts