Sad, sad, stray in Middleburg, FL Part-2
suzptcruise wrote: i do no about you guys but he sure looks like a oes to me .and young looks how white his teeth look poor guy i am sure his dirty fur and mats are killin him .good work to both of you I think he's young too, whatever he is. He bounces around and tries to play like a young dog. When the mats are off him and he's vetted up, he should really be frisky! I have to crouch down to pat him thru the fence pretty much as I am not as tall as hubby and can't really reach over too well, but I plan to just go sit in the fence with him today as much as I can with the storms around us. he does come running over wanting attention when I go to the fence. It's so sweet. It seems he's been living in the woods for some time because I have noticed when I feed him and he doesn't eat it all, he will bury it in dirt and sand. i think he's trying to "hide" the food from predators, like racoons, possums, other dogs maybe. It's different from just burying a bone. It is intense, watching him do this. I got him a new area rug to put on the ground outside that will hopefully prevent him having access to the dirt. It seems very unhealthy for him. I would really rather the vet check his neck before I try to handle him. We have made progress and i don't want to screw it up now by hurting the boy... just my gut. More later! |
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| He looks friendly and he is wagging his tail in licking your husbands hand. He actually stepped up to him for a rub on his head. I was thinking that you might be able to get him to go into a crate. I was thinking that if you had one of the hard plastic type crates and load him into while he was in the fenced area and then carried him in the crate to your car that might be the safe route so he can't slip a leash and would be contained until he is in the vets office. |
That is fabulous video!!!  Best wishes for the vet visit   |
dogmom wrote: Are your dogs going in the fenced area to play with Mr. Muffin? I think he needs lots of attention and play time from your furkids  What lucky dogs! Great job with the fence!!!! And very smart putting it by the woods. Hope there are no more snakes! YUCK!!! (hate any kind of snake)I haven't let them there yet because he has bones and food parts scattered around in there and I'm not sure what to expect with food aggression. Mr. Muffin might not be able to defend himself and vice versa right now. They visit him at the sides of the fence and their company makes him happy. He unfortunately would never get into a crate. He is scared of enclosures. He won't even go into his doghouse. I don't know what to expect with a car yet either. |
oh my goodness. a puppy after my own heart!  It's so great that he's starting to trust you! Definitely go with your gut but IMHO I'd be too impatient to wait for the vet. I say go for it like sheepiegail suggested!  |
I had a Great Dane that was claustrophobic, no dog house for her. She didnt even like being in a bedroom with the door shut. In the car, a Tahoe with a big area in the back, she would pace the whole time. Never aggressive just would pace. Or dig a whole in the carpet when we closed her in a room.  Keep earning his trust little at a time and it looks like he will do fine. when he tries to jump it looks like the mats are preventing it, hopefully that is what is causing his limp too. Maybe an outdoor rug would work in the dirt. Like that green plastic mat, we use one when we go camping for our dogs to lay on when we are outside. |
| What an encouraging video! He certainly looks like he's ready for human companionship. Here's hoping the vet visit goes well and the grooming is the biggest "procedure" he needs. |
| Awe poor Mr Muffin with all those horrible mats, and even with that he seems so happy to be getting your attention! That is a great video! You guys have done an amazing job at rescuing this poor baby. Hope his vet visit goes well! Looking forward to continuing to see his progress! |
| He looks like a complete love. Everything crossed for easy vetting! |
suzptcruise wrote: i do no about you guys but he sure looks like a oes to me .and young looks how white his teeth look poor guy i am sure his dirty fur and mats are killin him .good work to both of you I was thinking he looks OES to me too! He sure has some of the mannerisms and playful attributes. I can't wait to see what is under that poor matted messy fur.... That has to hurt him. |
| A great video .Everything crossed for the vet visit |
keep coming back waiting to see if the vet made it out yet.  should be 5:25 there in Florida so hopfully soon. |
| Have you asked him: "Do you wanna go for a ride in the car?" "Wanna go bye byes"? And any other similar common phrases? |
 I was off line for a bit and look what I missed!! Wonderful video Sometimes I have helped dogs by just mailing a check or calling in a credit card # to the vet!! GOOD LUCK  |
| woo hoo! I am so happy! wonderful!!! Best of luck, and we can not wait for update! hugs and kisses to the Muffin man from his fan club! |
Ryleigh wrote: keep coming back waiting to see if the vet made it out yet. should be 5:25 there in Florida so hopfully soon. No vet tonight... I wasn't too hopeful about him coming by tonight since he had just gotten back from out of town for a week and this was his first real day back. I feel sure he will be by tomorrow...and I will call up there tomorrow to place a gentle reminder (although i doubt one would be needed) The waiting is hard and i am so anxious for MM to get medical care but he will be fine one more night...and i did put a big mat on the ground for him under his tent...he still prefers the sand though. I guess it's cool on his skin. It was sad though when earlier he tried to 'groom" himself, and all he got was a tongueful of sand. Ron wrote: Have you asked him: "Do you wanna go for a ride in the car?" "Wanna go bye byes"? And any other similar common phrases? It's funny. He is all wags and wiggles when i am on the opposite side of the fence. When I am inside, he is still scared, but i have a bucket to sit on and have been moving it closer and closer to him while inside and just crooning to him. I think he still feels protected by the fence. Tomorrow is another day:) 4dognight wrote: :banana: I was off line for a bit and look what I missed!! Wonderful video Sometimes I have helped dogs by just mailing a check or calling in a credit card # to the vet!! GOOD LUCK The vets office is helping me set up a way for donations... and i think every one who is interested and capable of helping is planning to pretty much wait until it can be determined if there is a microchip or dog tag on him. If he has owners who "might" be looking for him, they need to be the ones to handle the vet bills or give him up. If there are no owners, then it would fall on hubby and i - and all help would be greatly, massively appreciated, in any amount at all. I will keep everyone updated on the microchip/tag when we get him to the vets. Thank you!!! |
| Hi, I love that big Muffin!  I was thrilled to hear the updates and now he's finally in safe hands. Seems like you're doing all the right things and I'd recommend relying on your "gut" as to what's appropriate for this boy. The wonderful members here were with me when we first heard about a poor boy in Hong Kong and his eventual arrival to my home 7 years ago. (Panda is still with me). I too relied on my gut, as to how to approach him and when to sit back and just observe. I previously mentioned he approached me and asked for things on his own time as he had to learn to trust people again. Just like your Muffin, Panda was great with other dogs and it helped when my other dogs helped him view me as a good person who wouldn't harm him. I think having your other dogs will help in his eventual trust of you both. I agree with you in regards to the food bits on the ground and the potential for food issues..one thing I learned and still follow that it's better to err on the side of caution. Gilligan whom just passed 2 days ago was another one of my boys whom recieved a paypal setup from the generous members here. They gave him a second chance at life and was because of each of them that made it possible. He touched the lives of many through my updates and gave them a chance to view him as "OUR" dog as has Muffin whom has already touched so many hearts. I'd also want to chip in, in memory of Gilligan. From the vid it appears Muffin enjoys pats on the head but seems hesitant when his backside is touched so it could be the mats are hurting him back there, hip displasia or leg injury but it's all guesswork on my part. I'm anxious like all the people here to find out how he makes out at the vet. If the vet visits and recommends Muffin needs sedation/surgery/ or ? at a later date in which you'd need to bring him in - I'd ask him for a sedative to give Muffin with that day in mind. Or on your next trip to the drugstore see if they have Nature's remedy available which is a natural sedative to ease stress. (Just a drop or two in a water bowl does the trick) and will prevent anxiety in Muffin should there be a need to transport him. Lastly, by now we know you and your wonderful hubby don't give up easily and remember for every step forward sometimes it's two steps back but eventually you see the progress. The boys are sending sloppy kisses to Muffin and your boys and I'm sending angel wings to you and your hubby. |
| Marianne, Thank you for long, beautifully written, email. I am so sorry to hear about Gilligan. In a time when your heart is so heavy with loss, I am touched that you were able to reach out to me like you did, supporting, always encouraging. Inch by inch, I see Mr. Muffin get more comfortable, just as you described. Yesterday he eagerly came to me when I was on the other side of the fence only. This morning, when I was crouched down, he came up to my outstretched hands and gave a lick twice before darting away. Nature's Remedy is a great idea...and after Dr. Price looks at him, I am hoping he would even give him something for pain if he needs it...the last thing I want now id for him to associate pain with me - or anyone else, ever again. Thank you, thank you all, for "adopting" Mr. Muffin into your family here! |
Marianne wrote: ...Nature's remedy available which is a natural sedative to ease stress. (Just a drop or two in a water bowl does the trick) and will prevent anxiety in Muffin should there be a need to transport him... I hate to bother you with this, but I can't find "Nature's Remedy" anywhere on the internet. Do I have the name right? |
sad_stray_finder wrote: Marianne wrote: ...Nature's remedy available which is a natural sedative to ease stress. (Just a drop or two in a water bowl does the trick) and will prevent anxiety in Muffin should there be a need to transport him... I hate to bother you with this, but I can't find "Nature's Remedy" anywhere on the internet. Do I have the name right? Marianne does live in Vancouver, BC....maybe we don't have it here? oh Marianne???? |
| I'm assuming Marianne is talking about something similar to Bach's Rescue Remedy? |
| That's what I'm thinking too... http://www.bachflower.com/Rescue_Remedy.htm |
6Girls wrote: That's what I'm thinking too... http://www.bachflower.com/Rescue_Remedy.htm Amanda, Jaci, have you used the Bach's Rescue Remedy before? I am a firm believer in natural instead of chemical in everything possible...and it sounds like it would be a good thing to just have on hand anyway if it works as stated- |
| I've used Bach's Rescue Remedy quite a bit with my Simon....when I first adopted him he was scared of everything. It really helped calm him down for obedience classes, trips to unfamiliar places, things like that. You just add a few drops to their water....It is easily available at most health store places. Any word from your vet yet to when he will look at Mr Muffin? Can't wait to hear! Hoping all he needs is a good shave down and the love you guys are giving him! |
| I have heard it helps some dogs... it may just depend on the individual dog. I used it with Panda about 6 years ago. She arrived with pretty bad separation anxiety... the kind we couldn't have a door closed between us and she couldn't be crated. We had to go with a prescription med for about a year. But I don't want to discourage you from trying it... just being honest with my single personal experience using it. |
Bellalover wrote: Any word from your vet yet to when he will look at Mr Muffin? Can't wait to hear! Hoping all he needs is a good shave down and the love you guys are giving him! I called up there twice already today...and the last time the tech said she believed he was planning to come over before 2:30... so i have my pacing the floor...Trust me - all of you guys will be the first to know!! And thanks all you for the info on the Bach's - |
| Puff Puff....okay just arrived home from work. (points to coat and boots still on ) I was so anxious to hear news, I haven't removed them yet but logged on here immediately. Thanks for those kind words earlier. Also big thanks to those that advised using Bach's as it's the same product as Rescue Remedy up here in Canada. Sending my thoughts to Muffin and his new pack. Marianne |
music to wait by.  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lMOd8WADZZM   lol, i didn't write it. good luck gettin it outta ur head.  |
| haha oh internet! endless!! |
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| Here's where we are... Dr. looked at videos and said he didn't "need" to come out... he suggested i just get a slip collar and "bring him in"... much easier said than one as he has not seen how the fur has grown all around his poor inflamed, matted neck behind the BRICKS of matted fur. But I seem to have no choice or say in the matter as I took the first anesthesia appointment (a 2 hour block of surgical time) they had open. Friday morning @ 9:20. I am to have him to the vets by 8:50 so they can take him on back and get him sedated, etc. I spent all afternoon, off and on, with him in the fence, getting him used to me up close. We did make a lot of progress and he is so happy to see me even though he is still shy. Whether or not he will be ready for any kind of collar, and a car ride, is going to be another matter. I am praying my husband can be here to help me. If there was any way i could shave and clip him myself, i would...but I am not exaggerating when I say some of the mats are like bricks. It is so heavy it pulls his skin up and down and sideways. When I even touch it, he snaps his head around, I am sure because he is incredibly sore. So I suppose the next couple of days i will spend as much time as possible with him so he trusts me a little come Friday morning. I will also begin to put a collar on him and take it off, on and off, on and off, trying to gently lead him between now and then also. Depending on how he does, i may go up there ahead of time and get a mild pain killer for him, if possible. So i am a little sad this isn't over and in a way it feels like I am back to square one, but for the fact he & I have gotten to know each other better while we've been waiting. (Me, trying to look on the bright side) My husband reminded me that, "The steps of the righteous are ordered of the Lord", simply meaning - things work out according to His plan, and while we may want something, in looking back we will usually plainly see that it all worked out better than we would have ever thought possible when we leave it in God's hands. But for today, my heart feels sad for Mr. Muffin because he's not shorn and medicated, in the house with me. |
| gives him a few more days to get used to you, I guess you can see that as good news. And he is safe in the fence, so thats also good news. I know you (and all of us) want to see him shaved and clean but maybe its for the best he has a few more days. Unless a professional groomer is willing to come to you I wouldnt try to do it myself, no telling what is under all that. I hope the collar on his neck isnt embedded yet. |
guest56 wrote: music to wait by. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lMOd8WADZZM lol, i didn't write it. good luck gettin it outta ur head. So I've been keeping up with these FIFTEEN pages of the saga of Mr. Muffin and I'm VERY impressed with what has been done to rebuild the human spirit by two people. You guys are padding your karma to a level unknown by most and seen by fewer!!! Good on you! All this talk about Mr. Muffin and his name made me think of my favorite Frank Zappa tune... Don't worry, it's safe for work and family... Keep the updates coming and please be patient... After all, good thing come to those who wait. I was 28 before I met Jen and many will argue that meeting her was the best thing that ever happened to me. Meeting Mr. Muffin will be the best thing that every happens to you! It's already doing wonders for this crowd. Vance |
| A few more days for him to get comfortable with you-- You have done an incredible job so far--hang in there! |
| dang is there another vet i cant believe he is waiting |
| Is there another vet that you could call? It seems that all the people you've reached out to.........have kinda given you the cold shoulder. Between trappers, OES rescue, etc., it feels like nobody wants to make you and Mr. Muffin a priority. And that stinks. You guys are BUSTING you butt doing the right things for Muffin but nobody else seems to care much. It's kinda upsetting me. Couldn't the vet send a vet tech down to take a look? Time is of the essence here. You guys are doing a TREMENDOUS job with Muffin. Thank you and keep up the awesome work. I just wish better support was available from those that you've reached out to. [/rant] |
That's just not right...  Not coming out after telling you he was coming for two days? You could have been hunting down another vet. Have you tried asking the dog to "go for a ride" or "go for a ride in the car" or "go car car" or "go bye byes" yet? Frequently they know phrases like this and will respond to the familiarity. |
Well considering he was wandering the woods for so long. A couple more days... at least now he is getting human contact. Getting that bond closer before the vet visit is good. That way he will forgive easier  just joking. Dog could have the best experience at the vet but still hate it. Must be bred in way back. Keep doing what you are doing; you are wonderful people. I don't believe in much, but Karma is something I do believe in and agree you are getting some coming your way ! BIG TIME!! Most people would have called the cops and be done with it. Good for you.I will keep watching for updates. I love Mr. Muffin like everyone else. I cannot wait until you start a new thread... Happy, happy Mr. Muffin finds home. |
| Oh my goodness..... Friday? I know there are some Florida folks on here.... Do any of you have any close vets who maybe know people in that area and have a friend vet? I know my vet here in NJ has friend vets all over the state that she could call on if I needed her too. Any OES rescue people in Florida have connections down in that neck of the woods that you can reach out to and maybe they have a vet that can go and have a look at him? Personally, I would be calling every vet in the area looking for help. Is there a humane society or a really good shelter near by that you can just call and ask if they have anyone they recommend? Perhaps, an emergency vet clinic has a vet that would be willing to help? Besides, it would be good to get him scanned for a chip. They are portable. Basically, you need a person with a big heart and a love of dogs to help Mr. Muffin. I know you are doing your best and I am sure you are frustrated. I am probably a bit more impatient---but, then again, I live in NJ and we are notoriously impatient people.... Waiting until Friday just seems sooooooo long and stressful on you and your husband. Much love from here to you alll......... |
| You are so not back at square one. He is safe. He is being fed. He seems happy, albeit uncomfortable with the mats. He is learning to trust you. You have done so much for him!!! I know the waiting is breaking your heart and it really kinda sucks the vet can't help him until Friday. Have you called the rescue org http://www.animalrescuemovement.org/aboutus.htm that I posted about before? Maybe they have a resource that can help him sooner...just a thought. But he has been out there for a long time and a couple more days gives you more time to get him to trust you, get him acquainted with a slip lead. I actually think he already loves you, just is unsure of himself. You guys are so awesome!!!! Good luck, we are pulling for you 100%! Like spacegirl said.....can't wait for the new thread! |
spacegirl21 wrote: I cannot wait until you start a new thread... Happy, happy Mr. Muffin finds home. You mean, "Mr. Muffin finds bed"... he already has a new home  (And a new orthopedic bed already inside waiting on him, if he wants it)I know how disappointed you all are... me too. And Ron, I agree... he made me wait for two days on him, telling me he would be here and a no show. The reason we are waiting til Friday is because that's the very first surgical slot with the anesthesia table available. No way would I let anyone touch him without putting him to sleep to shave his poor skin. And it will be less traumatic that way too. I actually did consider calling for other vets today, but then i would have to go through the whole explanation again, hoping to get the message relayed, as well as ask them to hold off on payment. This vets office at least is one I know and they will treat him right while waiting for payment. Believe it or not... Mr. Muffin is already known up there. They have all seen his videos and feel like they too have a stake in his rescue. They will be kind and loving. And i can't expect the doctors to not treat other "patients" also waiting for surgery. Those owners love their pets too... But like all of you, it makes me sad. I have had quite a few dogs in my lifetime (although maybe not as many as you guys!!) and can say without a doubt MM is one of the sweetest, most humble, dogs i have ever known. He brings tears to my eyes every time i see him because i know he is suffering yet he always is so grateful for any attention he gets. He is ever so gentle eating pieces of hotdog from my hand, licking my hands and arms. At one point to day I thought he might have been considering crawling into my lap... He cried and barked last night after dark like he usually does, and did while in the woods...so I got a shop radio and turned it on for him to listen to the music and the occasional announcer...and not another peep was heard from him. He just wants contact. He's been quite lonely. Today I put some "babies" in the fence with him that my dogs had played with and he acted like he has never seen or had any babies of his own before. My dogs go wild and start preening stuffed babies as soon as I take them out of the bags... he just kind of sniffed them and then nothing. And I have never seen him gnaw on a bone, yet they're buried all over the back in the dirt now. Taking care of him will be like raising a great.big.baby. Thank you for the "Mr. Muffin Man" songs... they cheered ME up and made me smile! Again, I have to believe this is the right way to go and just wait because I have tried so hard to push it, and in spite of my best efforts, here we are. At least we can see the light at end of the tunnel now... Bellalover wrote: Have you called the rescue org http://www.animalrescuemovement.org/aboutus.htm that I posted about before? Maybe they have a resource that can help him sooner...just a thought. Believe it or not, I know exactly where this is...and i would be shocked if they didn't use the same vet as they are all of 1 mile or so away from his office. (Middleburg is a small town) There doesn't seem to be alot of active rescue resources here in North FL (Florida is a big, long - and wide at the top - state and we are closer actually to south Georgia that would probably have zero resources) so I am grateful he is at least safe now with us. Hopefully we will have good news after they've examined him too... I am concerned about heartworms. They are virulent in Florida... Good night everybody. "Talk" tomorrow!! And again... thank you all for being our good friend. |
| Are you planning to bring him inside Friday, after the shave? He will probably want to cuddle to get warm. Thanks for all you are doing for him. |
| Your first plan was the best plan for your safety and the dog's. There is no telling what the dog would do if you placed a slip collar on his neck with an already embedded collar. He may react to the pain and someone would get hurt. I wouldn't take a chance like that. Find another vet that would accomodate you for your own safety! Video's do not evaluate how a dog would react in this situation. |
Mom of 3 wrote: Are you planning to bring him inside Friday, after the shave? He will probably want to cuddle to get warm. Thanks for all you are doing for him. YES!! He is never again an outside dog... He will be with me. |
shaggydogs3 wrote: Your first plan was the best plan for your safety and the dog's. There is no telling what the dog would do if you placed a slip collar on his neck with an already embedded collar. He may react to the pain and someone would get hurt. I wouldn't take a chance like that. Find another vet that would accomodate you for your own safety! Video's do not evaluate how a dog would react in this situation. Hi! Sorry i got crossed up in the order of responses somehow... Thank you for your suggestion about the small farm animal vet. (Head snmacking moment...why didn't i think of that myself days ago???) I googled that and found an office to call tomorrow. I don't know anything about the vets but one of the doctors is involved with rescues so she can't be "bad", right??? http://www.atlanticveterinaryhospital.net/About_Dr.html I will keep you posted on this! |
| I have been trying to log in and follow this story whenever I can find even a moment. I have been so busy at my new job that I am never on the computer. Right now I'm supposed to be proofing and editing the last seventy report cards on my list (I'm a VP) but I took a moment to sneak in and catch up and I just want to say: YOU ARE AMAZING. I have a dog that I rescued through this forum (Rudy) and the support here was amazing. You've done so much more than I had to for Rudy (I just had to get him from Florida to Winnipeg in the dead of winter)... I am crying from reading all the posts. You are right, Mr. Muffin IS home. I can hardly wait for the pictures of him snuggling on the couch with you and getting belly rubs. (It took our Rudy a long time to trust, learn house stuff, etc but it was well worth the wait.) Mr. Muffin is SO lucky to have found you. And it sounds like he really did search high and low for the perfect family. It was meant to be. My fingers will be virtually crossed for you both...and as soon as things are set up, please let me know where to send my donation (well, all of us really I guess). He's in a lot of people's hearts already...and mine is definitely one of them! All the best from our crazy sheepie family! |
| Try this tomorrow morning - call the local TV station and ask to speak to the news director and explain to him/her what's going on. I can guarantee you'll get some response and fast. Don't mention the Vet who you are working with as you don't wanna burn that bridge with some bad PR. Try to stick to the positive side and stay up beat but insist that they cover it. Vance |
sad_stray_finder wrote: spacegirl21 wrote: I cannot wait until you start a new thread... Happy, happy Mr. Muffin finds home. You mean, "Mr. Muffin finds bed"... he already has a new home haha Yes! and gets a shave! I hope they shave him down and that was his only issue; big ol mass of matted fur and then a gleaming hunk of handsome dog. tada! Wait until he is shave! Not only will he look awesome. He will be liberated and free. It looks like it must weigh about 20lbs of fur. Poor Mr. Muffin. This is a story movies are made from |
| ARGH! I wish I wasn't going away in a couple of days; I'd love to make Mr. Muffin a coat for after his shave, like I did for baby Abby. I'll be trying to keep up with the situation as best I can from my cel phone. Good luck!!!!  |
Vance wrote: Try this tomorrow morning - call the local TV station and ask to speak to the news director and explain to him/her what's going on. I can guarantee you'll get some response and fast. Don't mention the Vet who you are working with as you don't wanna burn that bridge with some bad PR. Try to stick to the positive side and stay up beat but insist that they cover it. Vance This is an excellent suggestion! Thanks Vance! On a slow news day they might run with it! |
| What a great idea Vance.! Maybe someone will surface as a result who will come out and see him. I would have a hard time waiting until Friday if it were me. After all he has been through and all you have done for him everyone deserves to move on to the next stage. I think we will all feel better after a vet sees him. You have earned your angel wings. You are in my thoughts and prayers. Carley's Mom |
| There will be many offers for adoption and several claims that Mr. Muffin is their dog. |
Ron wrote: There will be many offers for adoption and several claims that Mr. Muffin is their dog. This. I would rethink the publicity just for this reason. |
Ron wrote: There will be many offers for adoption and several claims that Mr. Muffin is their dog. That is a real risk involved. I thought about this too. Sadly, after I posted it and couldn't edit it... Call me crazy, but I have my local news director's number in my cell phone. Vance |
| I don't know when I have been so riveted by a story - I've been to the forum more in the past couple of days than probably the entire last month just to see what is going on! I hope someone can offer help before Fri. You have come such a long way but FRI is SO FAR OFF. Not in the big picture- but as someone who lives in almost constant pain on a daily basis- I wouldn't want to wait until Fri if I was him! I wonder if the herbal drops can be given now to help ease his suffering? I love how far he has come in such a short amount of time. How amazing that an OES would find an OES lover to care for him. God does ordain our steps, and cares even for the sparrow- so we will pray that Mr. Muffin will receive the help he needs as soon as possible. I would also like to contribute to his care - keep keeping us posted- Lori |
| We all just want him safe and on his way to healing... it's difficult to be so close but not quite "there". But I think it's best to do this quietly. You don't want people showing up on your doorstep and scaring Mr. Muffin more than he's already been. Worse yet, someone thinking they can handle him and get bit because they don't respect him as you do. You've earned his trust. Unless his health is at risk of going downhill quickly, I'd just keep your appointment. |
6Girls wrote: We all just want him safe and on his way to healing... it's difficult to be so close but not quite "there". But I think it's best to do this quietly. You don't want people showing up on your doorstep and scaring Mr. Muffin more than he's already been. Worse yet, someone thinking they can handle him and get bit because they don't respect him as you do. You've earned his trust. Unless his health is at risk of going downhill quickly, I'd just keep your appointment. Agreed. I am anxious and hoped today was "the" day as we all did, but I think he's still in the best position he could be in at the moment. Hang in there. |
| The videos of Mr Muffin are just heartwrenching with his mats. I'm praying with all of my heart for Mr Muffin and for your efforts to help him. I don't really understand how the vet could see that video and not come to his immediate aid. It seems that it's a huge risk to try and take him with a slip collar. Since there's most likely a reason why he's running loose to begin with. Not to mention the fact he has an embedded collar and inflammation and to put something over that and pull on him. Who know's if he may try to extricate himself and possibly get away from you near a parking lot or street. Or if he can get in a vehicle with the mats pulling on him. You had such a great original plan it's beyond reason why the vet changed the plan. I don't know what kind of location you live in but are vets so very hard to come by? Hard for me to understand because I live in a good sized city with one on probably every other corner. Do you have mobile vets in the yellow pages? Maybe even a pet transport service? I'm just grieving here for the possible pain Mr. Muffin is going through. I'm so thankful for all that you're doing for him! You've gotten him into a much better situation and for that I thank you. Do you have any friends that have vets that can get you some quicker help and at your location? I know we were VIP's at our vets because of all my dogs illnesses. Are there any zoos or animal habitats? Got to be somewhere close to you with some animals lovers so you could get some help. If it's not possible for another vet can you be more assertive with that vets office? You know the squeaky wheel thing and all. Maybe tell them he's going downhill which considering the condition of his coat is the truth. How about a local fire station? Maybe some of the guys could come and help you get him to an animal hospital. Just brainstorming, it's pretty helpless being thousands of miles away, seeing what's going on and not being able to handle the situation. I tend to be a take action type person and this is killing me. Any doggie daycare facilities around where you live? If you can corral a few animal lovers to help you. Thinking of Mr Muffin and you every day, stay strong! |
| Not much sleep for me last night, honestly. Our Mr. Muffin was on his very best behavior, with the radio to keep him company, I did not hear one peep from him. What a sweetheart. But I tossed and turned, got up and read all the posts, tossed and turned some more, weighing all your words, imagining the best, imagining the worst... I am going to call the small farm vets office this morning from the link I posted and see if they can offer any other "options". Depending on that outcome, I will make another call to a local no-kill shelter and see who their voluntary vet is... that may be a possibility too. After that, I will see. The fire department is actually not a bad idea. They may be able to wrap him in a blanket to transport?? And perhaps, as an almost last resort, the small farm vet, if nothing else, might be able to help sedate and painlessly transport him to his appointment Friday morning if i don't have an earlier option? Gees, if all else fails, i will go up and get him some pain killers. Hubby said he would stay home with me if nobody else can help me Friday morning. He has strong arms and a big soft spot for me For now, MM literally ran over to the fence to see me this morning, sitting to get his head rubbed. (I usually reach through the wire to rub his head and smooth the fur from is eyes best i can when I am not inside the fence.) Yes, we are definitely getting attached at the hip!! So I will update you all later as i have information on this end! Thank you again for your help, ideas and always the amazing support. |
Vance wrote: Try this tomorrow morning - call the local TV station and ask to speak to the news director and explain to him/her what's going on. I can guarantee you'll get some response and fast. Don't mention the Vet who you are working with as you don't wanna burn that bridge with some bad PR. Try to stick to the positive side and stay up beat but insist that they cover it. Vance Vance, Your idea is wonderful, but i would be concerned that we would attract every person with a double-agenda in the country...and I do not want to spend my energy battling an ownership claim or have strangers all over the yard. It is a very emotional time for all of us...least of which is our Mr. Muffin-man. he was so quiet last night...and when the sun came up, I saw that he was quite the busy boy last night trying to tunnel his way to freedom again under the fence. I can only assume this is how he got away from his last owners! So I've been out this morning already bending and hammering in more rebar. My own dogs run free...I am not sure yet how i am going to handle this with Mr. Muffin. |
try calling a mobile vet I use one they bring their mobile office to you!! Or try the local rescue mentioned and let someone come out and help you that has more experience with scared loose dogs. I just cannot wait to see him all cleaned up and see what he is  |
sad_stray_finder wrote: Vance wrote: Try this tomorrow morning - call the local TV station and ask to speak to the news director and explain to him/her what's going on. I can guarantee you'll get some response and fast. Don't mention the Vet who you are working with as you don't wanna burn that bridge with some bad PR. Try to stick to the positive side and stay up beat but insist that they cover it. Vance Vance, Your idea is wonderful, but i would be concerned that we would attract every person with a double-agenda in the country...and I do not want to spend my energy battling an ownership claim or have strangers all over the yard. It is a very emotional time for all of us...least of which is our Mr. Muffin-man. he was so quiet last night...and when the sun came up, I saw that he was quite the busy boy last night trying to tunnel his way to freedom again under the fence. I can only assume this is how he got away from his last owners! So I've been out this morning already bending and hammering in more rebar. My own dogs run free...I am not sure yet how i am going to handle this with Mr. Muffin. And lets face it, you don't want to anger your neighbors any more with who knows how many news vans parked along the street. Strike my comment, for MM's sake. Sorry. Many times I fail to think things out completely and shoot from the hip. Vance |
| So glad to hear that MM is doing well! I love the part about him running up to great you this morning!!!! Waiting, very impatiently I might add, for a vet to get out there!!! I can't even IMAGINE what you're going through! Hopefully you (almost said "we"! HA) can get a vet before Friday!!! |
| waiting for Friday might not be a great option if he is trying to dig is way out from the fenced enclosure. You don't need the headache or worry if he does escape. You might have good luck with the farm animal vet since they are used to making house calls and they might also have other leads on vets willing to help out seeing him before Friday. I agree with the sedation for the exam and shave. When we rescued Bella my sister and I spent two hours shaving and only made it to freeing the mats around her neck and front legs. We took her to the vets the next day and they sedated her and it still took them 4 more hours to completely shave her. Keeping my fingers crossed Mr. Muffin finds a vet for today. |
with all the mats it may not be possible to tell, but if he hasnt been neutered maybe this is why he tries to run off.  Perhaps once he has been (if he hasnt already been) then he will want to stay home. |
sheepiegail wrote: You might have good luck with the farm animal vet since they are used to making house calls and they might also have other leads on vets willing to help out seeing him before Friday. Keeping my fingers crossed Mr. Muffin finds a vet for today. Ditto this. I have a horse and obviously the vet comes to him. My horse vet doesn't do small animals but there is another horse vet that does do small animals. So call a horse vet and they will probably be able to help you, or at least steer you to someone who can get Mr. Muffin sedated. I confess I have not watched the videos because I don't want to be sad. But I'm thankful MM has someone who loves him and is going to the ends of the Earth to help him. |
| |
| The bright spot in waiting until Friday is that he is getting more comfortable with you. I would be constantly thinking and worrying about the physical restraining and transport. Can you talk with the vet again and just tell him it's impossible for you do do this without his help. Offer to pay a special house call fee? to our Muffin Man and to you. |
| I have made several other calls and left messages for mobile vets... i assume they are "Out" and will call me back I called the small farm vet and waiting to hear if she is even an option... The no kill shelter doesn't open til 11:00... i will call back. Will update with all news! |
| Do you possibly have a garage space/ basement/ laundry room that you could gently try moving him too? Just an idea, but if you do might make him get more bonded and used to being inside and you could set up a cozy soft bed ! And stop him from digging and possibly escaping? |
Webdchymes wrote: Do you possibly have a garage space/ basement/ laundry room that you could gently try moving him too? Just an idea, but if you do might make him get more bonded and used to being inside and you could set up a cozy soft bed ! And stop him from digging and possibly escaping? We are in Florida, so no basements here, darn it And no other area that isn't "high dog traffic"... His first night inside, I will probably even have to bed down with him in a different room... Thank you for the thought though! |
sad_stray_finder wrote: Dr. looked at videos and said he didn't "need" to come out... he suggested i just get a slip collar and "bring him in"... much easier said than one as he has not seen how the fur has grown all around his poor inflamed, matted neck behind the BRICKS of matted fur. Would it be possible to put a harness on him... the kind the dog steps into and then clips on top of the back? This way it wouldn't be near the collar area of the neck. (Sorry if this has already asked.)  |
Those step by step pics are ADORABLE! |
| Great idea! I have one of these and nothing is near the neck at all. I love it they don't pull and I am never worried they will get out of it like a collar.  I buy mine from Amazon now half the price, never have my size in stores anyways. http://www.amazon.ca/PREMIER-Easy-Harness-Large-Black/dp/B000ZM5EDQ/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1330537365&sr=8-1 |
| Yes, i actually use those when i take my dogs to the woods to walk the trails. They are wonderful. But his mats are everywhere, so thick you can't even see skin except where it has pulled away. I am trying to work thru all of this... Maybe I'll take the Rescue Remedy instead of giving it to my Mr. Muffin hahaha |
| Oh gosh what to do? There's so much good advice on here , your head must be whirling as to the next step. I agree with many of the others your safety and his is paramount. Placing a slip collar may be the easiest while a harness might be the best. However, that said placing a harness if his neck is sore may possibly place you more in harms way and you have been around Muffin and can monitor how he would possibly react. I think getting a mild sedative in him before the vet visit may also possibly be the best option to safely transport him. Then again, if he's to be sedated later at the vets then he can't have food and water.  Again, I relate my experience with Panda. When I picked up my boy at the airport my sister and I were horrified to realize the crate would not fit in her car and we had to remove him from it and place him next to me. He rode next to me beautifully but looking back it may have been he was so exhausted after a 12 hr plane ride. Because.......after the honeymoon period he was a terror in the car and leaped towards the windows, barked, drooled and experienced anxiety. However, not that first day luckily! (It took months of in and out of the car parked in the driveway with treats, then drives around the block, then further, ....eventually desensitizing him to his fear of cars. He's great now. As you don't know yet all of Mr. Muffin's triggers or what may cause anxiety ....just don't let your guard down and keep doing what you are doing...observing quietly and allowing him to come to you on his terms. Seems you've been doing that and he's learning to trust you. If you can't get a vet to come out earlier then perhaps view this in a positive note, that while it sucks Mr Muffin may be uncomfortable , it gives you more time to bond with him in the duration. I'm wishing you luck and sending positive thoughts. Once you are at the vets (whoever he/she may be) make sure you post it on here so members can help. Marianne Sometimes the sweetest animals can turn into devils if something causes them pain or anxiety or if they are exposed to one of their "triggers". They also tend to misbehave after the honeymoon period when they are more comfortable around you. Not saying it will happen but be prepared as I only saw Panda's true personality weeks after he arrived at my home. |
| OMG!!! While I was typing my post...sixgirls was posting hers...regarding the harness! Seems like great minds think alike! |
| I'm just now reading this...backwards. I tend not to read stories that are sad and didn't want to read this. Today seeing as how long it was I decided to read the last posts to see if I could "handle" what came before. I still haven't read the beginning and probably won't as I have the gist of whats going on. You are a God send to this poor dog and I will continue to read from this point on and willing and able to chipin when needed. God Bless you and your husband for helping this poor baby! |
Simon's Mom wrote: I'm just now reading this...backwards. I tend not to read stories that are sad and didn't want to read this. Today seeing as how long it was I decided to read the last posts to see if I could "handle" what came before. I still haven't read the beginning and probably won't as I have the gist of whats going on. You are a God send to this poor dog and I will continue to read from this point on and willing and able to chipin when needed. God Bless you and your husband for helping this poor baby! I am the same, I cannot go to the Rainbow Bridge posts. Sorry very selfish of me to not give support. But I just cannot. I tried once and spent the night crying.  |
spacegirl21 wrote: Simon's Mom wrote: I'm just now reading this...backwards. I tend not to read stories that are sad and didn't want to read this. Today seeing as how long it was I decided to read the last posts to see if I could "handle" what came before. I still haven't read the beginning and probably won't as I have the gist of whats going on. You are a God send to this poor dog and I will continue to read from this point on and willing and able to chipin when needed. God Bless you and your husband for helping this poor baby! I am the same, I cannot go to the Rainbow Bridge posts. Sorry very selfish of me to not give support. But I just cannot. I tried once and spent the night crying. I find it hard too! As a warning: This story is definitely cry-worthy if you're of the frame of mind. Reading would be ok...just a bit sad. Definitely do NOT look at the first video. |
New OES Mama wrote: spacegirl21 wrote: Simon's Mom wrote: I'm just now reading this...backwards. I tend not to read stories that are sad and didn't want to read this. Today seeing as how long it was I decided to read the last posts to see if I could "handle" what came before. I still haven't read the beginning and probably won't as I have the gist of whats going on. You are a God send to this poor dog and I will continue to read from this point on and willing and able to chipin when needed. God Bless you and your husband for helping this poor baby! I am the same, I cannot go to the Rainbow Bridge posts. Sorry very selfish of me to not give support. But I just cannot. I tried once and spent the night crying. I find it hard too! As a warning: This story is definitely cry-worthy if you're of the frame of mind. Reading would be ok...just a bit sad. Definitely do NOT look at the first video. Oh yeah I cried at the video! But I know he found awesome people. |
spacegirl21 wrote: New OES Mama wrote: I find it hard too! As a warning: This story is definitely cry-worthy if you're of the frame of mind. Reading would be ok...just a bit sad. Definitely do NOT look at the first video. Oh yeah I cried at the video! But I know he found awesome people. Me too! |
| Like you guys, I have been a complete wreck most of the time. If I hadn't been able to get him, I probably would have literally been sick from worry when the rains were threatening us the first of the week. As it is, I still do not sleep well knowing he's living outside like he is, digging holes in the sand with those mats and God only knows what else on his skin... Now... GOOD NEWS AT LAST!! I found a local vet through the no-kill shelter who is willing to come over to the house here the morning before surgery (which I had to push back to 10:30 to accomodate his schedule a bit).... He is going to sedate Mr. Muffin and assist me with transporting him to the vets office for his general anesthesia/shave/examination, etc.. I am still in a state of shock that another vet would do this... it sounds almost too good to be true so I am pinching myself right now. I was so tired of hearing "no's" all day I almost didn't even call him. Thank you all for pushing me out of my complacency... I have been pacing around with the slip leash in my hand all day, picking it up, putting it down, picking it up, putting it down... I wish it were today BUT at least it's happening day after tomorrow. And thank you all again for the offers to help financially. It means so, so very much!! |
| Woohoo! |
| So glad to hear this! Both you and Mr. Muffin will be much safer this way. Friday seems so far and so near at the same time. You are doing a wonderful and remarkable thing. Best wishes for safe transport, minimal medical issues, and a long and happy life together! |
| so glad you found someone who will help you. and this gives him time to get used to the slip leash. |
| YIPPEE!!!!!! |
| I am sooooooooooooo happy to read the update!!!! I am glad a vet is going to be there with you to help, even with transport! Hope all goes well. And just so you know, this is just MY opinion, Mr. Muffin IS YOUR DOG NO MATTER WHAT!!! Collar or chip. He has obviously chosen you and your family. YOU ARE PHENOMINAL!!! WOOOOOOHOOOOOOOO!!!!!  |
| Give that vet a big kiss from me! Give yourself and your husband big kisses too!! Oh, and what is your name? We know Mr. Muffin's name, so when I talk about you I call you Mr. Muffin's Mommy, but do you have a first name? |
Mady wrote: Give that vet a big kiss from me! Give yourself and your husband big kisses too!! Oh, and what is your name? We know Mr. Muffin's name, so when I talk about you I call you Mr. Muffin's Mommy, but do you have a first name? "Mr. Muffin-man's mommy"? That is a mouthful!! My name is Ellen |
| I also call you Mr. Muffin's Mommy and my family all knows about Mr. Muffin....... Nice to meet you Ellen! I think this was the fastest growing thread in a long time if not ever? Keep up being awesome! Shari and Dahlia(The 14 month old sheepie) and Brian (but, he isn't on here. He just checks in about Mr. Muffin) |
NJ_Sheepie wrote: I also call you Mr. Muffin's Mommy and my family all knows about Mr. Muffin....... Nice to meet you Ellen! AWESOME to meet all of you! |
| Okay... I can breathe and believe it now. The vet just called back to confirm the time and get directions to the house, with instructions to with hold water, etc. He is also bringing an assistant. He plans to give MM a shot to sedate. And I will just lay him in the back of my SUV on a quilt. It is may be all of 5 minutes to the vets office and that is it! YAY!! |
| Me too (Breathe!) That is such a relief. To know you will have 2 helpers, and one being the vet who can administer drugs when needed...awesome!! Looks like things are really falling into place. Ellen and Mr Ellen (lol), you are doing a great job!! |
 YIPEE!!! Is this for tomorrow morning then? Plan is to put him under and shave him down, correct? And gauge whatever else may be going on? Hi Ellen, I'm Raquel - very nice to meet you! |
| Just wish sooner...poor baby needs help and I am sure you will rest better when he finally gets help! Will be anxiously waiting as we all are...Muffin most of all...imagine how good he will feel once shaved! |
| I can't wait until they get those mats off. And lovely to meet you Ellen. And now your husband will forever be known as Mr. Ellen. Or Mr. Muffin Man's Mommy's Man.... |
| Nice to meet you Ellen! You are doing a fantastic thing for Mr. Muffin! Good luck on Friday! Cindy |
| ellen i am 6 hrs away so many times i just want to get in my car and drive up there just to give you a hug such great news for all of you |
| I would verify the sedation shot the visiting vet is giving won't negatively interact with the sedation your regular vet wants to give for MM's shavedown before Friday. |
| WOW! Thanks everybody! I have never, EVER, seen such a welcoming and encouraging crowd. What a breath of fresh air you all are. Honestly. Wow. I told my husband his name is now: Mady wrote: ... Mr. Ellen. Or Mr. Muffin Man's Mommy's Man.... ...I could hardly say it out loud I was laughing so hard. CamVal1 wrote: I would verify the sedation shot the visiting vet is giving won't negatively interact with the sedation your regular vet wants to give for MM's shavedown before Friday. I will ask him what it is and relay the info in writing to the vet doing the procedure!! I never would have thought of that, thank you! Tonight I will rest better knowing "THE" day is almost here and tomorrow I am going to video our boy one last time as the "shaggy dog"... beats me how he can be so happy the way he is, but he's like a big, bouncing baby and i want you all to see it! Night!! |
CamVal1 wrote: I would verify the sedation shot the visiting vet is giving won't negatively interact with the sedation your regular vet wants to give for MM's shavedown before Friday. You beat me to the post! Yes, be sure to note not only what he gives MM, but make note of the time of the injection as well. (I suspect he'll give him ketamine, alone or in combination with something else - that's pretty standard.) As long your regular vet knows that, he should be able to gauge his additional sedation accordingly. On Friday you need to be prepared for Mr. Muffin to act out when these strangers approach him. Just remember that you've made huge strides with him so far, and he'll look to you for his comfort when all this excitement is over. Good luck! |
| Yup. Like Diane said. What they're giving him. How much they're giving him. How they're giving it. The time they're giving it. And maybe where they gave it. |
| Nice to know your name Ellen! You truly are Mr. Muffin's angel! to that vet and his assistant! I know you must be relieved to know that you will have expert help. Hang in there- not much longer until Mr. Muffin will be clean-clipped and comfortable! And you will at least know what his health situation really is! |
| Yup, this group is wonderful aren't they? Banding together to offer encouragement and advice you feel you're not going through this alone. You know what group? Some of you on here may remember when Ginny posted the story of the fireman whom saved the Old English from a frozen pond a few years ago. We flooded his fire station with thanks from us all over the world. He was thrilled and it made his day.Would be kinda neat to do that with the vet and his assistant who so kindly offered to help Ellen and Muffin. What do you guys think? Oh Muffin you've stolen our hearts and we're all rooting for you. Merlin, Panda and Snoop are sending you sloppy kisses . |
| Every day when I get home I check this to see how he is doing.My students ask about him every day. Hang in there. He is certainly starting to bond with you. I am so glad you will have expert help to get him to the office. I hope everything goes well for everyone. Can't wait to see pictures after he is ahaved and treated for any problems he has. You are his saving angel. I agree with Marianne. We should send thanks to the vet and assistant who are helping Ellen and MuffinMan. |
| I would gladly send Thank You's to the vet and his assistant for their kindness and caring! |
| Hi Ellen! So very glad to hear you are going to get expert help from the vet and their assistant and I would love to send a thank you to them! You guys are truly Mr Muffins angels. Can't wait to see him all cleaned up! Now just keeping that underneath that matted mess is a healthy dog! |
| Perhaps the names and addresses could be posted in the member's section, away from the bots. We need both the vet who comes out and the one doing the exam. I'll get my cards tomorrow. |
| OMG, what a story! I just caught up on this thread tonight, started at the beginning and read every post. It's a real page turner of a story, and it's wonderful to see the beginnings of a happy ending. So very, very grateful there are people in this world like you, Ellen and Mr. Ellen, plus all the good folks weighing in with offers of financial help, not to mention all the great suggestions and just plain moral support. This really is a great story and so much of it is chronicled here that someone with some writing skills could (and should!) put it together as an article, news story, or even a book that could be sold. Meantime, hugs and sheepie kisses for MM and his new mom and dad. |
| Hi Ellen, I have been following this saga with interest. I live just north of you near Jacksonville and adopted an OES, in 2006, that had been in the wild for a while (though not to the degree of Mr. Muffin). I know he has found a good home and will be such a good companion to you and your family! I Kind regards, Chris, Shaggy the Sheepdog, and Pepper the "Malinut" Belgian Malinois, |
| Well, I will be off line for about a week unless I can somehow get internet on my BB in Jamaica.... We are heading there shortly on vacation and I have to say, I will be thinking about you and how things are going with Mr. Muffin and what's under all those mats while I am away Good luck and I hope I can somehow find a computer for a few minutes to stay connected at some point during the next week. |
| Shari, we were in Jamaica way back in 2004 and the hotel then had several computers with internet access. Ask when you get there, I'll bet you can get hooked up. You don't wanna miss anything, now do you? Vance |
| How wonderful! Cannot wait to hear more and see videos! Hope all goes well. Sheepies kisses to you and him! |
| ONE MORE DAY!!!!!!!!! cant wait till tomorrows update. Hope all goes well. |
schoolmarm wrote: ...My students ask about him every day. How wonderful that your students are learning about and feeling empathy and compassion. So much of that I think has been lost... Thank you for telling me that, it made me feel good CamVal1 wrote: Yup. Like Diane said. What they're giving him. How much they're giving him. How they're giving it. The time they're giving it. And maybe where they gave it. I have my notebook ready to write it down because I will be a wreck in the morning... Marianne wrote: Yup, this group is wonderful aren't they? Banding together to offer encouragement and advice you feel you're not going through this alone. You know what group? Some of you on here may remember when Ginny posted the story of the fireman whom saved the Old English from a frozen pond a few years ago. We flooded his fire station with thanks from us all over the world. He was thrilled and it made his day.Would be kinda neat to do that with the vet and his assistant who so kindly offered to help Ellen and Muffin. What do you guys think? That would be nice! But I have to admit the "operating vet" has again kind of let me down... They don't know how to put a PayPal button on their site and dropped the ball. They said donors could "telephone" them...and I am trying to set up a Facebook page as Wendy suggested. Hopefully I will have it ready by tomorrow. I have been running around most of today getting everything ready for tomorrow so that when he comes home he will be all settled in. I will not be planning to leave the house for several days afterwards because I don't know how he'll react in a car or what kind of shape he will be in and I would not leave him at home alone without me, or even sitting in a car without me until I can judge how he might be with either situation. I posted his last "shaggy" video today when I fed him his little hot dog treat he has come to love. What a sweetheart! Not so frisky today because it's hot and he must be burning up in that old matted coat. like all of you guys, i cannot WAIT for him to be free of that mess forever. Here's the link to our big baby : http://s1257.photobucket.com/albums/ii513/b4now/?action=view¤t=mrmuffinday4.mp4 How anybody could have given up on this guy is just beyond me... Thank you for all the well wishes for the big day tomorrow!! Jonsey wrote: On Friday you need to be prepared for Mr. Muffin to act out when these strangers approach him. Just remember that you've made huge strides with him so far, and he'll look to you for his comfort when all this excitement is over. Good luck! I will be right there every second for him and with him, and he will be travelling in my car with hubby and I. I have already made him a comfy bed there. And if he is awake and not "out" all the way, I will be beside him in the back. The vets is only about 5 minutes away so it should go fast. Cross fingers, say prayers - and thank you!!!! |
| omg i have been worried all day here in fl it is so hot 86 out and i am sure he must be feelin so yucky prayers for you tomorrow i know he is in good hands. you are my hero!!!! |
| Wow....what a huge difference in this guy from the first video! He's gone from that sad, sad stray look to looking like a happy boy! That first video made me cry. And after tomorrow, wow, no more mats and clean! He obviously loves you! Thank you so much for being such great people for this guy. I really think he looks OES, but who knows once he gets cleaned up what's under there? Just let us know what the vet needs in order to contribute. And thank you and your hubby for being such a great advocate for Mr Muffinman....he is so lucky to have found you! |
He is doing so much better! How wonderful! Mr. Muffins Mom is a cutie!  Beautiful inside and out!I cannot wait until tomorrow for Mr. Muffin. I had a funraiser at work recently and was debating on what shelter to give the money. If funding is need for Mr. Muffin let me know. Can your vet not set up one of these http://www.chipin.com/ |
| aww he looks like a young komondor in that last video. Cant wait for tomorrow |
| thats a great video. Looks like he has lots of shade and a nice breeze so maybe the heat isnt to bad. Cant wait to see him tomorrow when hes able to wiggle freely. |
spacegirl21 wrote: He is doing so much better! How wonderful! Mr. Muffins Mom is a cutie! Beautiful inside and out!I cannot wait until tomorrow for Mr. Muffin. I had a funraiser at work recently and was debating on what shelter to give the money. If funding is need for Mr. Muffin let me know. Can your vet not set up one of these http://www.chipin.com/ Frankly, they seem reluctant to do much of anything in that regard other than take "phone orders". Today's conversation with them was not like the one I had with the owner last Monday... In fact, the office manager told me they couldn't be seen as "making special exceptions" for clients. I was pretty disheartened, to say the least. Anyway, I know how to make web pages/web sites (not as familiar with Facebook but it looks easy enough), so I will do the chipin page if you guys all trust me with that??? But I would like to wait to see what is actually needed first and they will know after tomorrow's examination and blood work, etc. And btw, thank you for the nice compliment. I haven't been called a cutie in many, many years! |
| Thank you so much for taking such good care of this little boy. I loved watching you giving out the treat to the two boys and Muffin's tail was going full tilt while you gave him his. Your German Shepherd is so beautiful and seems so sweet. Good luck tomorrow....I hope all goes peacefully.. |
Ellen, what a remarkable story! I cried watching your videos; what a transformation M has made. With that big ol' heart of yours, you are kind of people, whether you have a sheepdog or not. I am so excited/nervous for tomorrow's news!!!!  |
| His tail wagging was so heartwarming. I can't wait for tomorrow! |
| Wow. Update again. Can I vent a little? (A lot actually) I am so angry right now I am shaking. And my head is spinning. The vets office called a few minutes before 7pm and it was "the office manager, Stephanie" again. I didn't get to the phone in time so she left a message in which she said she spoke with Dr. Price tonight and they decided not to allow me any time to pay their vet bill. They expected payment immediately tomorrow...and even went so far to say that "Maybe I needed to wait a while to save up some money if I couldn't afford it". Can you believe this?????? Wait awhile????? Til when? Mr. Muffin is dead??? Then she said that Dr. Price didn't know I wanted Mr. Muffin sedated, that would cost more. What??? Did I just wake up from a bad dream? He and I stood in his examining room and went over everything on Monday... the two hour general anesthesia block of time (on Tuesday afternoon after his 'no show' he said that's why I had to wait til Friday because that was the earliest time a sedation table was open). He said they would help me with the donation 'button'. That didn't happen. That he would come look at the poor dog's neck and even help me get him there...that didn't happen. Another vet I don't even know stepped up to the plate to help me with the critical home sedation and transport. I am so sad to think I believed in this man and I have been a loyal customer for 8 years. I obviously am no judge of character. I called and left a message back on the answering machine that I was bringing Mr. Muffin in the morning at 10:30 as planned so he could get the help he needs and that I wanted everything done under general sedation but I was so angry i was shaking and could hardly get the words out. Folks, I am so sorry. At some level, I feel like I have almost let all of you down. if I had known all of this, I would have gotten him care sooner this week. I thought I was waiting on a "good vet" with Mr. Muffin's best interests at heart because he cared. My husband and I are going through with this tomorrow even if it takes our last dime. If anybody wants to call in a donation in Mr. Muffins name in the morning, the information is: Black Creek Animal Hospital 4106 CR 218 Middleburg FL 904-282-0499 http://www.blackcreekvet.com Thank you guys. Thanks for letting me vent too. |
| Did they give you an estimate of the costs? Did they at least watch the video to see what they would be dealing with? |
| Don't fret yet... go in for your appointment tomorrow. You have at least $100 on account to have Dr. Price check him over and maybe do SNAP 4Dx to check for heartworm and tick disease (heartworm disease, ehrlichiosis, Lyme disease and anaplasmosis). I'd do all of these to rule out tick disease as a cause of his limping. See what happens tomorrow once you're face-to-face with Dr. Price and go from there. You now have a vet that will come to your home. If Dr. Price's office doesn't work out, ask the vet coming to your home to make another visit, sedate him and maybe you both can get the boy shaved down and tended to.I know this is stressful... you'll do whatever can be done within the limits offered tomorrow. |
| sheesh ellen, if there was an alternative, i'd have ya get the animals out and call in an airstrike on black creek. wth possesses people to have this kind of behavior? i've seen vets come in to their office in the middle of the night after a capture of a runaway. well, whats best for muffin is what matters right now, then you can find a caring vet. maybe the vet coming to help out can refer. hope all goes well and thanks for being the kind of people you and your husband are. |
6Girls wrote: Don't fret yet... go in for your appointment tomorrow. You have at least $100 on account to have Dr. Price check him over and maybe do SNAP 4Dx to check for heartworm and tick disease (heartworm disease, ehrlichiosis, Lyme disease and anaplasmosis). I'd do all of these to rule out tick disease as a cause of his limping. See what happens tomorrow at the vet and go from there. You now have a vet that will come to your home. If Dr. Price's office doesn't work out, ask the vet coming to your home to make another visit, sedate him and maybe you both can get the boy shaved down and tended to.I know this is stressful... you'll do whatever can be done within the limits offered tomorrow. The other vet told me he couldn't do anything but sedate & transport him tomorrow morning because he was going out of town on vacation for 1 week, leaving tomorrow afternoon. Mady wrote: Did they give you an estimate of the costs? Did they at least watch the video to see what they would be dealing with? I don't know if I can believe anything he said because he acts like our conversation never even happened. But he had said around $400 - $500...but according to the office managers message tonight, she said that he said "sedation will cost more". So I have no idea at this point. My head is spinning. guest56 wrote: sheesh ellen, if there was an alternative, i'd have ya get the animals out and call in an airstrike on black creek. wth possesses people to have this kind of behavior? i've seen vets come in to their office in the middle of the night after a capture of a runaway. well, whats best for muffin is what matters right now, then you can find a caring vet. maybe the vet coming to help out can refer. hope all goes well and thanks for being the kind of people you and your husband are. I know. My husband said the same thing when i called him. (And a few more choice words to boot) If I had another option, without making him wait, I would. Tomorrow being Friday, at the very least, we're looking at 3-5 more days for a different vet if i started calling around tomorrow and whose to say i would find a "better one"? UGH. I am just sick over this. |
| Do you have anything in writing from your vet to prove the quote you had? Did he give you a detailed write up when you talked to him? Perhaps some emails between you and the vet talking what needs to be done. Hmmm is it time now to contact the media now as mentioned earlier? Seems wrong to make promises especially for a stray you are trying to help. Little coldhearted on his part promising help the going back on his word. Please don't fret it will work out. I have a good feeling. |
spacegirl21 wrote: Do you have anything in writing from your vet to prove the quote you had? Did he give you a detailed write up when you talked to him? Perhaps some emails between you and the vet talking what needs to be done. Hmmm is it time now to contact the media now as mentioned earlier? Seems wrong to make promises especially for a stray you are trying to help. Little coldhearted on his part promising help the going back on his word. Please don't fret it will work out. I have a good feeling. No, I have nothing in writing, just a conversation in generalities because he didn't know what to expect, so the 400-500 quote was just for the "known"...shaving (general sedation - or so I thought, but apparently not) - bloodwork, stool test, I suppose his shots, the normal work up, etc.). I can try to get something in the morning before we get there. The office opens at 8. I don't want to get confrontational before they see Mr. Muffin because I don't want them taking any anger out on him. When it's over, I intend to leave some "reviews". They should not be allowed to do this to other animals - or people. |
| First and foremost, the office manager works for the owner, not the other way around. Since she is contradicting everything the owner told you, and you will have the ear of the vet tomorrow, let him know (as calmly as you can) that you are greatly distressed over such a callous and unexpected turnaround, and you will deal only with him in all aspects of Mr. Muffin's treatment and billing. And if the owner of the practice cannot control his own office manager, you definitely need to look elsewhere, if not tomorrow, then in the long-term, and for all of your dogs. (Nothing like the threat of losing a regular customer to shake someone up.) Fingers crossed that things work out for the best tomorrow. Remember to be as calm as you can.  |
| maybe try calling the vet that is coming out to help in the morning. He seems to have a much better heart and care for animals, maybe he could help shave him then do the rest when he gets back in town, or maybe he has vet friends that he could call in a last minute favor. Wouldnt hurt to ask, all he can say is no. I thought vets took an oath like doctors do, to help the needy not just the ones who can fill their wallets.  |
| I could never be a vet I'd be poor and crying all the time. |
Jonsey wrote: First and foremost, the office manager works for the owner, not the other way around. Since she is contradicting everything the owner told you, and you will have the ear of the vet tomorrow, let him know (as calmly as you can) that you are greatly distressed over such a callous and unexpected turnaround, and you will deal only with him in all aspects of Mr. Muffin's treatment and billing. And if the owner of the practice cannot control his own office manager, you definitely need to look elsewhere, if not tomorrow, then in the long-term, and for all of your dogs. (Nothing like the threat of losing a regular customer to shake someone up.) Fingers crossed that things work out for the best tomorrow. Remember to be as calm as you can. I will keep my calm until it is over tomorrow...and trust me, my dogs will never go there again. If I didn't need to get MM shaved, he wouldn't go there tomorrow either. but he has waited all week and he must be shaved while sedated. I can't describe how horrible his mats are. He must be asleep to do this. No way would I want anyone shaving him by "handling him" in his fragile mental state. Only 1 week ago he ran from all people... I don't want to see that Mr. Muffin ever again. Ryleigh wrote: maybe try calling the vet that is coming out to help in the morning. He seems to have a much better heart and care for animals, maybe he could help shave him then do the rest when he gets back in town, or maybe he has vet friends that he could call in a last minute favor. Wouldnt hurt to ask, all he can say is no. I thought vets took an oath like doctors do, to help the needy not just the ones who can fill their wallets. I always thought that vets truly cared for animals too. And yes, I can ask if I have time. He is bringing an assistant to help and he is arriving at 9:30 one hour prior to the appointment in order to give the sedation time to work, us to transport, etc. so i don't know how much time I will have really. That's part of what irks me. You'd have thought they wouldn't have waited til the very last minute to drop this bomb on me... But then they haven't done anything they promised all week either. |
| For all we know, the office manager could be the vet's wife. That being said, so often in medical practices, including that of humans, the doc knows nothing of how the front office is dealing with people. And they need to know. I would be ready to spit nails at this point, but follow through with your plan...you know you have enough people here to help cover the cost. Print out this whole thread and take it with you if you have to, but continue to do what you have been doing, and that is to try to do the best for the dog. We've got your back. And BTW, I'm sure plenty of people would be more than willing to pick up the phone and let the office know how we feel about the way you've been treated. |
| Kinda late thought but is there a SPCA near you? They help strays all the time. |
sad_stray_finder wrote: I don't want to get confrontational before they see Mr. Muffin because I don't want them taking any anger out on him. When it's over, I intend to leave some "reviews". They should not be allowed to do this to other animals - or people. Very smart thinking here... It's all about Mr. Muffin; you're on the right track to do what's best for him, and deal with this unethical vet later. If you still feel that way. Then. Not now. essgee52 wrote: For all we know, the office manager could be the vet's wife. That being said, so often in medical practices, including that of humans, the doc knows nothing of how the front office is dealing with people. And they need to know. I would be ready to spit nails at this point, but follow through with your plan Exactly. |
| Take a deep breath (and if you drink at all, this would be a good time to have one). You have your priorities in the right place. The vet may not have a clue what the office manager told you. So don't be mad at him, yet. He can certainly over-rule her, so give him a chance. And she may be looking for a new job soon, if she does this often. With the current economy, vets need all of the clients they can get. I understand that this is a business, but he needs to work with his clients or they will leave. It wouldn't hurt to mention that you plan to contact one of the local TV stations (have a reporters name ready). It's a great human interest story and could be worth a lot of business for him. Don't mention that we decided it wasn't a good idea. |
| Thank you for your voices of reason and calm. I am going to bury my head in a few hours of tv or something to keep my mind off of this for awhile. (As for the drink, after tonight a glass of wine (or 50 of them) sounds appealing So, I hate to even say this, but: I will update later! (Geez, after today that sounds almost ominous, doesn't it?) |
| I haven’t commented on this thread, but I’ve been monitoring it daily – usually more than once each day – and rooting and praying for you, Ellen, and Mr. Muffin. I’m appalled by Dr. Price’s callousness. Visiting his website – where he boasts of “Community Involvement” and “Giving Back” – made me see RED! So it’s OK to “fly to the [Caribbean] islands to care for lost and abused pets”, but perfectly fine to ignore a lost and needy animal closer to home????? Call me cynical, but I wouldn’t be surprised if Dr. Price’s “giving back” was just a ruse to get a tax-free island vacation. At some time in the future his patients – and potential patients – should be made aware that Dr. Price’s advertising puffery is a pack of lies. I’ll be praying for you and Mr. Muffin tomorrow morning. Once he’s shaved down and comfortable, you’ll be in a better position to assess his needs and find another vet – one who really cares. |
Gus & Us wrote: I haven’t commented on this thread, but I’ve been monitoring it daily – usually more than once each day – and rooting and praying for you, Ellen, and Mr. Muffin. I’m appalled by Dr. Price’s callousness. Visiting his website – where he boasts of “Community Involvement” and “Giving Back” – made me see RED! So it’s OK to “fly to the [Caribbean] islands to care for lost and abused pets”, but perfectly fine to ignore a lost and needy animal closer to home????? Call me cynical, but I wouldn’t be surprised if Dr. Price’s “giving back” was just a ruse to get a tax-free island vacation. At some time in the future his patients – and potential patients – should be made aware that Dr. Price’s advertising puffery is a pack of lies. I’ll be praying for you and Mr. Muffin tomorrow morning. Once he’s shaved down and comfortable, you’ll be in a better position to assess his needs and find another vet – one who really cares. Thank you for the prayers. I am a firm believer that they are answered! And yes, when he feels better and I know more about where he is medically, i will have a clearer, calmer, head also. |
Ellen, I'm so sorry to hear that you, Mr Ellen, and MM are getting treated this way!  I hope everyone has helped calm you down. It seems that there's a lot of great advice going around! Just remember to stay calm. I wish you the best of luck tomorrow for you and Mr Muffin! We will all be anxiously awaiting the outcome! xoxo Kate, Joe, Sam, and Nola |
| This is what you're gonna do. Get the travelling vet to sedate him. Go to your regular vet as planned. Get MM the care he needs. Never go back to Dr. Price again. And let him know afterwards. If you can pay with a credit card, whatever you get from the chip-in will help pay the cretit card bill. Keep us updated. |
| What a tough situation for you--your thinking is absolutely right on--get MM the care he needs then deal with the vet situation. And it is very sad if he has that bad of a memory or is not informing his office help of the plan. So very frustrating either way! At least you have a plan and tomorrow is the day--stay calm as has been suggested--get it done and know that we are thinking of you and praying for you. |
| Hi, I agree with all that's been said so far. Allow Mr. Muffin to visit the office tomorrow as he's waited for days for his appointment. To all the others ....please don't call the office and vent while calling in with CC numbers as so many of us will be trying to call in with donations. I'm am sure the office will regret their decision to ask for people to call in, as if as many donate as they did in Gilligans case, then the phone lines will be swamped. I also would feel terrible if we tied up the phone lines and someone was trying to get hold of the vet for emergency treatment. Lets just keep it brief and I am 100% sure the staff will be amazed and overwhelmed at the response and probably feel somewhat ashamed they didn't trust their valued client that monies would be forthcoming. I think the vet whom is coming out with his assistant although Mr Muffin was not going to be his client, is the one I meant that should get recognition from us in ways of cards of thank you. My vet office was unfamiliar with Paypal but made every effort to accomodate me. Although they had agreed, they couldn't stop talking about all the checks and monies that arrived from all over, the sheer number surprised them and left all with heartwarming feelings that so many stepped up to help Gilligan. I suspect this will also be the case with Mr.Muffin as well. (Gilligan was given a second chance by many here and it was because of them he lived a happy life for the remainder of his years). I know Mr. Muffin will get that second chance as well. I am confident the (the vets office) won't know what's coming! Ellen, Mr Muffin's Mama's hubby and Mr Muffin - you're not alone and we're all behind you. You have our admiration for all you've done and we're not dissapointed with you at all. Good luck tomorrow! Marianne |
| Just what Marianne says. And there may be some things going on behind the scenes that haven't been explained... everyone may not be on the same page due to a miscommunication at the office (thinking positive!). You might even approach it that way with the vet. Marianne wrote: My vet office was unfamiliar with Paypal but made every effort to accomodate me. I've honestly never heard of a ChipIn going directly to a vet's Paypal account... it's always been the owner or rescue that received funds from past experience. But beyond that, it could be too the vet just doesn't have a Paypal account in his business' name and he didn't know this was required when he offered to add it. Hoping everything will go smoothly tomorrow. |
| I've already called my cc company to explain there will be a charge to a Florida vet and it's been pre- approved. I thought I'd mention this as some credit card companies may withold charges or find it suspicious that people living out of State (or country) in my case, would be paying a vet in Florida. So, if you folks think there may be questions - call your cc company and get pre-approval first to avoid any possible "holds" if the cc company may think the card is being used by someone other than yourselves. Oh gosh I won't get much sleep tonight...I will be anxious to find out how Mr. Muffin makes out tomorrow. Marianne On another note: I haven't seen a post from Heather for awhile and she was the one that made all the arrangements for the Chipin with proceeds going to the vet..perhaps we can ask her how to proceed? |
| I really don’t want to rain on anyone’s parade, but I would urge caution in phoning credit card donations into Dr. Price’s office just yet. Mr. Muffin has a 2-hour session scheduled tomorrow, after which it appears (and I hope) that he will be in the market for a new, more caring vet. Knowing the generosity of OES members, I’m guessing the amount of donations will exceed Dr. Price’s charges. My concern: will Dr. Price be ethical enough to return excess contributions to Ellen so that she can use them for Mr. Muffin’s care from another vet? Given Dr. Price’s mercenary and indifferent attitudes, I’m skeptical to say the least. Please correct me if I’m wrong, but doesn’t that “chipin” thingie have a gauge of “funds collected to date?” If so, one can be set up for Dr. Price and we can make sure he doesn’t get one penny more than his charges. A second “chipin” can simultaneously be established for Mr. Muffin’s new vet. It was a different story with Gilligan. Marianne knew Dr. Armstrong, so I had no problem sending a check directly to his office for Gilligan’s account. I would NEVER do that for Dr. Price! |
| Oh, Ellen, just stay calm like you said. Get the care for Mr Muffin that he needs. We have your back. Then you can find another vet if he needs more care and we still have your back. It does suck that you're getting conflicting info from the vet's office, maybe it's just miscommunication or maybe worse. Hopefully it's just miscommunication since you spoke to him personally. If not, you will get Mr Muffinman his care and then go elsewhere later. I left a vet I LOVED after 16 years due to changes in his office that totally affected the care of my dogs and have never regretted it cause I found a priceless vet afterward. omg I wish you were closer my vet would so take care of you! But it will all be OK, I have a good feeling too. I already called your vet clinic to let them know the vet bill will be taken care of. Had to leave a message but they will get it. And if you have to leave terrible reviews of them LATER, you can do that! Hope you had your (50) glasses of wine tonight! Take care and know we are with you and Mr Ellen and the Muffin. |
| Hi Again, Just this evening (after I posted) I recieved a email from Ray/Ann who are the OES rescue people up here. This is karma I think, as far as I know Ray isn't aware of this post. He wrote me because he's writing a beautiful tribute to Gilligan and all those that helped him in the spring issue of BOB TAILS mag. He sent me a preview and there was a note that stated the amount of funds that was raised for Gilligan and that he recieved all the PayPal monies which were then redirected to my vets office. Six girls you were right!- it was a rescue that was responsible for the paypal/chip in funds while some checks were sent directly to my vets. I didn't want to be responsible for any funds as I wanted everything to be 100% above board and just involved in Gilligans care. Although Ray/Ann resided on Vancouver Island, while I was on the mainland it was easy for them to redirect the monies. I hope my previous post didn't add to the confusion and I apologize for not remembering how it all came about. Grannie Annie, whom is often referred to as the Grand Dam of OES rescue also spoke to my vet whom she trusted 100% as I did...so yes, it was a different scenerio. Also this evening I received the most beautiful handwritten card from my vet offering her condolences...so again different circumstances regarding Gilligan and Mr. Muffin. I'll still call in with my CC to help out with the initial cost tomorrow, as I had already called my CC company but I agree...we should set up a chip in after Mr. Muffins ailments and possible cost are itemized and funds should be then redirected to a responsible and humane vet via a rescue (I now remember that this was also done in Gilligans case and I posted an itemized list made out by my vet of what the expected vet cost would be for all members to view. Ellen, not to worry we know you are a good person and have trust in you. It seems and rightly so that members might hesitate to donate funds to this particular vet and we do have your back as others have told you. Okay time to recharge my battery as it's on 12% and I'd better hurry and press post before I lose all of this. Marianne |
| I couldn't sleep - and thank goodness because it dawned on me that nobody at the vets office said anything about with holding food / water before anesthesia... I got up to do it. The mobile vet said no water after 7 am...but if they are giving him anesthesia, that is not enough time. I am wondering if there are different levels of sedation that do not require with holding food and water...? Anyway, everyone, thank you for helping me keep my sanity. Just tell me what you want me to do and I will do it. Honestly, I am almost brain-dead and emotionally whipped over all of this. The easiest part of this whole affair has been dealing with Mr. Muffin. Dealing with the vets office has resulted in mass confusion and unnecessary emotional highs and lows which are so taxing on me. I am going there as planned in the morning, hopefully with a very sedated pup in tow and insist on speaking to the doctor in person, but not about all the stuff i am upset over, just to make sure we are on the same page with Mr. Muffin's care tomorrow. And you are correct - I will direct my questions to the doctor because I do not want any he said/she said. I will try to get an accounting ahead of time in writing. If I have to go up there to get it, I will. As you all know, I didn't know until too late last night that the vets office was going to handle it by "not" handling it and not giving me a few days after the vet visit was over. I thought that we were getting him treated first, exams done, etc., and so the total cost would be known after-the-fact. And I will report to you guys so the ones who want to contribute can do so any way they feel comfortable. Like Marianne said, all I want to have to worry about is Mr. Muffin. Bless you all. |
| It's going to get better! I have two different vets as I live in GA half year and NC half year...getting past office in both offices frustrated me...Rosie has Cushings and I had a hard time getting office to order medicine in time to have compounded...when I voiced my concerns with vet he made staff order more to have ready at anytime...Rosie cannot go without one pill and I was not able to make plans as I was having to stay home for weeks at a time to get pills...finally it has become easier and I have pills available a week before she runs out. My vet had no idea I was having such trouble...also had trouble just speaking to him...he changed that too...The Ga office staff can also be difficult...my vets are both very caring...not always true of office folks...sometimes it takes pushing past them to get to vet. We have your back as others say...let us know this afternoon as I will call in a donation to his office or do paypal as soon as you know something. He's come so far and love that wagging tail...he will be a different dog once shaved! I rescued a Oes in Alaska that had been outside all winter because people wouldn't let her in..after shaving and cleaning her up she was the most loving, loyal pet. We did have to feed her outside alone to get her to eat and no bones as she would dig a crater to hide them. She would cover food with leaves at first. My donation will be for her memory...she was just the best! |
| After reading the posts about the problems with this vet I have come to the conclusion that this vet's integrity is in question. I feel the chip in should be directed to Ellen herself to make sure the funds go for treatment of Mr Muffin only and not into the pocket of the vet. Any excess could be donated to another dog. I would not give any contribution via CC to the vet himself. |
shaggydogs3 wrote: After reading the posts about the problems with this vet I have come to the conclusion that this vet's integrity is in question. I feel the chip in should be directed to Ellen herself to make sure the funds go for treatment of Mr Muffin only and not into the pocket of the vet. Any excess could be donated to another dog. I would not give any contribution via CC to the vet himself. I agree 100%! Ellen, please let us know how much out of pocket you're going to pay the vet today! I'd much rather pay you than the vet. Hopefully this was just a sad sad mix up and things will be much better when you get to the office today! With that said, good luck today! I'll be thinking of you and waiting (not so patiently) to see how Mr Muffin fairs! |
| I ditto what Mark said a few pages back. Get Mr. M. sedated and shaved. Find a new vet. We are here, ready to donate in whatever the best way is. Prayers being said (and were said on the drive to work) that Mr. M. is in a much happier state this evening. And Ellen, you too. The world will be rosier once this ordeal is behind you. |
| Checking my phone every 15 minutes, impatiently waiting for an update on MM. Hope all is going as well as hoped. |
| I feel like we need to start a new "Waiting for Mr M" thread! Like a waiting room for us! |
|
| I missed alot being out yesterday with a migraine. Anyway, I have caught up on the posts and to make a donation, I don't do face book or any other thing. If a paypal is ste up in Ellen's name, will someone please post the info today? Elle, I have said b/4 you are AWESOME and PHENOMINAL!!!! So is Mr Muffins Moms dad! No matter what is under all those mats, Mr Muffin is a handsome wonderful boy!! Got everything crossed and canhardly wait for updates! After Dr Price is finished w/Mr Muffin, (that is if dr price and staff are anal orifices) I would like a number and e-mail to contact. Also I would like info on the wonderful vet and tech that is coming out to do the sedating. Call me paranoid, but I would NOT leave Mr Muffins side until the vet is done. Good Luck to all. Angels are watching and prayers going out to you, Ellen, and your family. Nancy G |
| I keep checking for updates also. Lisa Frankie and Mattie |
| counting the minutes down didn't Ellen say 10:30 was the sedation appointment? hopefully they are there now and we will hear soon. |
| She did! PS - Gail, I love your profile picture! |
| Waiting here too. Hopefully no news is good news and things are going as planned. |
| Hello everybody. Thank you for all your encouraging posts and, well, for just being you. I could never, ever, have done any of this without all of you guys. I hope each of you will tell me how I can "give it back" to each and every person here... Well, the good news is, the mobile vet came with his assistant and i really really liked his no-nonsense ways. he does not have a brick& mortar office, he is strictly a mobile vet. Very capable and he was very good with Mr. Muffin, who was just THE most trusting dog you would have ever wanted to see. He was obviously scared of the strangers but I crooned to him and petted him and he never once objected to anything done to him. I fell in love with him all over again. When he was "out", we rolled him into a quilt and used it as a stretcher to get him to the back of the SUV, so hubby and i could transport. I had gone up there at 8:00 this morning to "diffuse" the situation by calmly asking for estimates on his care. Once they saw me as calm (which i could be thanks to you guys!!!), they let their guard down and life was rosey. Later when I got up there with our big baby, I spoke with the doctor who is doing the procedures, and it is not Dr. Price, it a Dr. Diley and she was very, very kind with me and with Mr. Muffin. She was quick to get him oxygen and taken to the back for observation. I asked them to do the fast result heartworm tests among other things and sadly Dr. Diley called to let me know that he did test positive as I was afraid of. She said the levels came back pretty high, but he seemed in overall good health (as far as they now know) and guess his age to be about 1 year old, so his young age is to his advantage. She said even though he would have a large number of heart worms since his levels came back high, he is not in heart failure yet (and i never once saw or heard him coughing) so that hopefully means he can withstand the heartworm treatment. She didn't spend too long on the phone with me because she wanted to get back in there with him as he was under general anesthesia. I decided on my own to go ahead and have him neutered while he was there so he didn't need to be put to sleep again because that carries a risk always also...and since he likes to roam, I just thought it was wiser to do that. She said she would go over everything with me later today which should be after 2:00 as they wanted to keep him to monitor after the anesthesia wears off. He will be on pain medication for 3 days since he is being neutered too, and antibiotics if necessary. I told them to go ahead and give him his vaccinations (assuming he has never had any), microchip him (assuming there was not one already), check his eyes which had been discharging, and his ears, which turns out he did have an ear infection, which she will be treating, trim his unbelievably long nails, do general blood work and fecal. The "estimate" they gave me this morning for today's bill (before the heart worm test came back positive) was $416 - $872 since I added the neutering. But I told them I would be paying today, and then when I get the final itemized bill on their letterhead, I will scan it and send it to wherever you want it, or upload it or email it, or whatever you guys want me to do. I know the heart worm treatment will be expensive, but i don't know anything about that yet. It will be this afternoon before i know about it. She will discuss it all with me then. The heart worm treatment is probably more than you guys wanted to deal with, and i totally understand that. I hated to even mention it, but it is what it is and I haven't held anything back from you guys and won't ever. So I am relieved he is getting the immediate care he needs today, but oh so so sad he has heart worms. If anybody has any good 'stories" to tell me about young (or old!) dogs that have survived the treatments and led happy normal lives, I would love to hear them right about now I will update later... |
| Tell me to butt out but I have to say this... If it hasn't yet been done, I'd personally hold off on vaccinations at this time... his system is going to be challenged enough as it is with the stress, the sedation, the neuter, being hw+, the meds. You don't want him to later have problems with a bad immune system and all the problems, both health and financial, that can bring with it. IF at all possible, I'd wait a few weeks so his system is healthy enough to accept the challenge. He's not a healthy dog right now. |
| Sorry to hear about the heartworm, but he is just a young dog, hopefully there is no damage to any organs yet and he can be treated successfully! I would actually venture the suggestion that this dog does have good luck! Maybe not good luck to have ended up a matted and suffering stray, but definitely very good luck to have wandered into your backyard! (Though I wonder if he'll think differently if he wakes up and says "Hey, HEY! Where did my balls go?" ) Let's hope this good luck continues with successful treatment. You have really gone above and beyond for this poor fellow. |
| ellen, i fully agree with jaci. Treatments Most dogs infected with heartworm can be successfully treated. The goal of treatment is to kill all adult worms with an adulticide and all microfilariae with a microfilaricide. It is important to try to accomplish this goal with a minimum of harmful effects from drugs and a tolerable degree of complications created by the dying heartworms. Heartworm infected dogs showing no signs or mild signs have a high success rate with treatment. Patients with evidence of more severe heartworm disease can be successfully treated, but the possibility of complications and mortality is greater. The presence of severe heartworm disease within a patient in addition to the presence of other life-threatening diseases may prevent treatment for heartworm infection http://www.heartwormsociety.org/pet-own ... #treatment |
6Girls wrote: Tell me to butt out but I have to say this... If it hasn't yet been done, I'd personally hold off on vaccinations at this time... his system is going to be challenged enough as it is with the stress, the sedation, the neuter, being hw+, the meds. You don't want him to later have problems with a bad immune system and all the problems, both health and financial, that can bring with it. IF at all possible, I'd wait a few weeks so his system is healthy enough to accept the challenge. He's not a healthy dog right now. Oh Jaci, I didn't even think of that...and I, of all people, should have. (Loong story for another time) As soon as i read your post, i called up there and it has already been done. I am sorry. ...and thank you Baba for your encouragement. |
guest56 wrote: ellen, i fully agree with jaci. Treatments Most dogs infected with heartworm can be successfully treated. The goal of treatment is to kill all adult worms with an adulticide and all microfilariae with a microfilaricide. It is important to try to accomplish this goal with a minimum of harmful effects from drugs and a tolerable degree of complications created by the dying heartworms. Heartworm infected dogs showing no signs or mild signs have a high success rate with treatment. Patients with evidence of more severe heartworm disease can be successfully treated, but the possibility of complications and mortality is greater. The presence of severe heartworm disease within a patient in addition to the presence of other life-threatening diseases may prevent treatment for heartworm infection http://www.heartwormsociety.org/pet-own ... #treatment So it seems i have already screwed up... I am so sorry |
| So far, so good! Except for the heartworm, of course, but from what you wrote it is treatable. Sorry, no heartworm stories here. Local vets don’t even recommend heartworm preventative because the condition is so rare in this part of the country. Still, rare isn’t never, so I have Gus periodically tested (and the test invariably comes back negative). Burning questions for when you’re up to posting (you deserve a long rest and a lot of wine): Were there any tags on Mr. Muffin’s collar? Not that it matters, but did any of the vets who treated Mr. Muffin offer any opinion as to what breed he might be? OES? Komondor? Poodle? All of the aforementioned? When you have time, please post pictures of Mr. "No-Longer-a-Stud" Muffin! |
| Don't beat yourself up - you're doing the best you can (and more than 99% of the population would !) |
| ellen, screwed up? i think NOT. you are looking out for muffin in everyway possible, he'll be fine. it certainly seems his symptoms for heartworm are mild at this point. it's easier for us to have these thoughts as we're not there and you are trying to cover all the needs. |
| PLEASE DON'T BEAT YOURSELF UP! You are doing a great job!!!! If the vet thought it was a bad idea then I'm sure she would have mentioned it! |
| I have a successful Heartworm treatment story! My rat terrier Riley randomly came up positive this past spring. We did the treatment, and he totally recovered and is a busy, happy dog, even a therapy dog out doing visits! Here he is yesterday, out at a visit with OES Chewie -  Riley was 5 when he had the treatment last summer. I'm SO, SO happy you got Mr Muffin in and his treatment is under way. Thank goodness the vets and helpers were good, and all is going so well. |
| It's ok... you can't ungive it so you just go on from here. The vet probably should have taken this into consideration themselves before giving it so don't beat yourself up. Fingers crossed that it won't make any difference with this particular boy. Quote: The heart worm treatment is probably more than you guys wanted to deal with, and i totally understand that. I hated to even mention it, but it is what it is and I haven't held anything back from you guys and won't ever. Fixing this boy includes HW treatment... no way around it and I'm sure a ChipIn will help to take care of the financial end of it. If by chance though, funds are not available to treat it the standard way, read the information here about treatment with hw preventative- http://www.veterinarypartner.com/Content.plx?A=610 The problem with this approach is that it leaves the adult heartworms to do their damage but it prevents new ones. I've heard of rescue dogs doing well with this approach but it's not for everyone due to the risks. No matter what treatment you pursue, you'll need to keep him calm for some time so he doesn't throw a clot. A group of dogs I donated to years ago were all hw+. They were kept on a vacant property by a hoarder in Texas who thought he was doing right by them. All three had standard hw treatment. The mother was too far advanced with a heavy cough... she lived for months after but later died due to the damage. Her 2 kids who grew up in a sealed pen also received treatment... one died shortly after due to an embolism but the third went on to have a normal life (she preferred sleeping in the closet). You're doing the very best to give Mr. Muffin a chance at a great life. And bless you and your husband for refusing to let Mr. Muffin suffer in silence. THIS STORY IS CONTINUED HERE: Sad sad stray in Middleburg FL Part 3 |
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