ROCKY AT THE VET
7 JULY 2010
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Debbie writes:
Rocky had his scheduled visit with the surgeons at Carolina Veterinary Specialist. Aside from his general vet, Dr. Nunnemacher, Rocky likes the staff at CVS better than almost anyone. He gets so excited when we get about a block from the hospital. I'm not sure what goes on there, but it must all be very good. I believe that Rocky knows that these gentle souls saved his leg.
We are currently 13 weeks post-op and Rocky continues to improve. At six weeks post-op, x-rays were taken and there was healing and new bone growth present. All involved were very pleased with his progress at that point. If you remember, a pin had come loose at just that time and it was necessary during that visit to remove it. The pin was cultured and there was bacteria found which for a period of time was very frightening to me. Since there was no way to know where exactly the bacteria were on the pin, the decision was made to just watch it and see what happened. Luckily for us, there was no massive infection and Rocky did just fine. We set our next appointment for six weeks later, expecting the fixator to be removed at that time.
Yesterday was the big day. We had told Rocky numerous times that the hardware would be removed and the first place we were headed was to the lake. While Rocky has not been allowed to swim since he came to us in February, he has watched the other dogs with envy as they enter the cool water.
As many of you already know, it wasn't to be. Dr Hoch made the recommendation after consulting with another surgeon at the clinic that it would be in Rocky's best interest to leave the apparatus on for another four weeks. There is more new bone growth and visible bridging which is very good, but . . . Rocky is a two-year-old adolescent Airedale. His behavior & energy level are the same as any other ADT his age. He's goofy, funny, adorable, loving & curious about everything. Given his exuberance for life and his energy level, the best thing to do for him is not to remove the metal supports that are holding everything together.
Here is the great news regarding Rocky's future. A retired emergency room doctor is smitten with him and has filled out his application. A home visit was done and he passed our rigorous inspection with flying colors. His most recent Airedale died a couple of weeks ago at the age of 13.5 years. He lives on the Outerbanks of NC on the Sound side with lots of water all around him. He was injured himself in a kite-sailing accident which prevents him from practicing medicine any longer. The ironic thing is that like Rocky it is his right leg that was injured. I called him yesterday to give him the update and the disappointing news, but he totally understood and is willing to wait until Rocky's leg is healed. I can see Rocky now in my mind swimming in the calm waters of the Sound. What an awesome opportunity lies ahead for him.
We still need help, and lots of it. Our expenses to date on Rocky are $6393.33 and we're not finished. We are thankful to all of his donors who have contributed over $2000.00; unfortunately, it's not enough. Today I am going to make another donation to National Airedale Rescue to be applied to Rocky's fund and I'm asking you to do the same. I know that there are hundreds of you reading this and following Rocky's progress. If each of us gave just $10.00, imagine how fast it would add up. Please crosspost his link to any other networks that you are involved in and send it to your friends & family. NCAR appreciates all the support that we have received. I have been so humbled by your generosity.
Rocky didn't get to go to the lake yesterday, but he did get a special treat. We took Rocky to Feeney's for a low-fat frozen yogurt. He drew quite a crowd of spectators as he enjoyed his tasty treat wearing his new Adopt Me vest that his Aunt Cathy bought him.
DENISE LUCAS:
SALLY SCHNELLMANN:
You're so right . . . if the waiting adopter is willing to continue the waiting, that's great.
Thanks so much, Debbie!
ROCKY SCHNELLMANN:
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