Sending prayers and love to you and Rurik.

Hugs and kisses, old man.

Lynn and the fearsome foursome.

How did it go? Is he ok?

We're still waiting for the results from the pathologist and the prognosis. Should hear tomorrow or Wednesday.

Charly, Romy & I send our love
& best wishes

Just read this post. I'm glad his surgery went well and I'm praying for good results. Hugs from Texas.

Were thinking of you Rurik

Praying and thinking of Rurik!

thinking of you and rurik!

Keeping you all in my thoughts........

Hi Everyone,

Results from the pathologist came back. It's a grade 2. But the margins were clean in all directions which is a good thing. There's a 50/50 chance of it coming back. We also went for a consultation with an oncologist today. He'll be going in next Tuesday to be a pin cushion for the day. They are going to take samples from all over including liver, spleen and bone marrow to make sure the cancer has not spread. After those results return we'll decide on a course of action, more surgery, radiation or chemo.

It's funny. Last month on his 11th birthday, I had the urge to make it an event. It was completely out of character for me. I don't even have him do tricks because I think it's demeaning to both of us. But that day I went out and bought him a bunch of presents, got us a couple of filet mignons and I even baked him a cake (a sugar free carrot cake of course). We had candles, party hats, the whole nine yards. Then a week later I woke up and had the urge to get him a friend. I woke up thinking I didn't want him to die alone if I'm not there; just in case. I had intended on getting a small dog like a chihuahua or yorkie. I went to the nearest pound and found Dagmar there. A pure bred Weim female; I had to take her home. With approx. 150 lbs of dog, I decided to get harnesses for better control on walks. I had never before used a harness. The harness rubbed against the tumor and caused it to become inflamed (mast cells hold and release histamine). The thing is that he's had this lump for over 6 years. When we first had it checked, the needle aspiration drew liquid so we all thought it was just a cyst and over the years focused on new lumps and never had a second thought about that particular lump. I think Dagmar came to us at the right time to bring my attention to this tumor now and hopefully we've caught it in time and he'll go on at least another 11 years. I have plans for him to be recognized by Guinness as the world's oldest living dog.

I'm just making the most of everyday with him. It's now two weeks since surgery so he can run wild again. We went to the beach today and took lots of pictures. He's always loved the beach. He gets excited about 10 miles before we even get to the beach.

Thanks again for all your support and kind words.

Rurik is the luckiest dog in the world...

I haven't been on here a while but I just read this thread. I am happy to know that Rurik's surgery went well. He is very fortunate to have someone like you to love him! Prayers for his recovery and that the cancer was contained. Hugs to the big boy! May God give him another 11 years.

He is the luckiest dog....new friend, birthday party with presents, and the beach! You are amazing for doing this stuff for him

What a lucky boy...may you have many more years with him...

Good News! Glad to see Rurik is doing better! Hug him from Tammy and Champ in Texas. (We are jealous that you live so close to the beach)