'CAUTIOUSLY OPTIMISTIC' 3 APRIL 2011
Braveheart gets an ear skritch
On 4 April, Marti writes: We were allowed to visit Braveheart at the Vet School last evening, and I was happily surprised that Braveheart recognized me, even though he has been in the ICU longer (five days) than he had spent with us after we rescued him. He still looked like a really sick little guy, but Dr. Foy actually thought he was looking a tiny bit better than he had the day before.
Discussion of treatment As of yesterday, Braveheart still wasn't wanting to eat and he was still so very weak. So, I came home from our visit trying not to be discouraged. Braveheart meets Jim Houge again But, this morning we finally received some good news! Braveheart stepped out of his cage willingly to go outside, to go potty (previously they had to lift him out), and he actually ate two teaspoons of baby food! These are tiny steps, of course, but . . . our Dr. Foy is now 'cautiously optimistic' as Braveheart continues to make baby steps toward good health. Please keep praying and sending good wishes for his recovery. Sleep well and be strong, Braveheart. JUDY DOMM: I have to admit I was reluctant to open the latest email for fear of bad news - but it sounds as if Braveheart will have a chance to have a forever home and get the love he so much deserves. JANIE MILLER: My heart hurts just thinking about him! BOB ANDERSON: A miracle . . . it is hard to type with tears starting to well. Much Zen & and many brave thoughts! SANDE MANCINI: My heart aches for this poor boy. Please keep visiting him if possible, for it is my belief that your visits will give him a reason to live; after seeing you today, he knows you haven't abandoned him. He can feel your love, which will give him strength and the will to live. I pray Braveheart will continue to improve daily and get the much-deserved love and a forever home that he justly deserves. Sending lots of love & Zen to you, my sweet boy! JUDY BYRD: Hope they do pull him through. He IS one of the more pathetic looking dogs we've seen . . . . PATTI WEBSTER: Thanks for sharing the progress on Braveheart . . . I think about him every day and this just breaks my heart. I am so glad to hear he is doing better. I can't wait for the pictures of his recovery and his forever loving home. Sending loads of Zen, love & prayers everyday. Give him an ear skritch from us. KEN DeKOVEN: THANK DOG! Glad he's finally showing a little improvement. All paws crossed in NJ for a full, successful recovery for this brave little soul.

BRAVEHEART CONTNUES TO IMPROVE HERE