BHRR’s Bloom AKA BOOM-BOOM AKA Ms. Dynamite
2010 – April 1st, 2016

For all those that have followed this dynamo of a girl since her arrival to BHRR in the fall of 2011, you would have fallen in love with her spirit, heart and personality as much as we have! She was a HUGE presence in a ‘small’ package!

This girl was not a half measure kind of girl at all! She was brilliant, not above manipulating all that she could to get what she wanted and affectionate beyond words.

When this girl gave you her heart plus trust, you would be extremely humbled for she would have laid down her life for you.

She was a beautiful diamond…very much in the ‘ruff’ when she first arrived to BHRR. Anxiety issues, leash and other manners leaving much to be desired and she became a ‘lady’ in time!

Her radius curvus syndrome was addressed, a bloat survivor and nothing ever held her back!

She charmed, bullied and squeezed her way into the hearts of so many.

While those that seemed to want her had cats and/or exotics – she was NOT good with them – that right matched home for her never came along yet as it was with BHRR’s Dana, we wanted her, we adored her and we understood BHRR’s Boom.

For 4.5 years she lived with us moving from our rehab program to our adoptable program and then as her spondylosis worsened, she was moved to our BHRR Haven Program.

We updated her blogs for her fan club to be kept in the loop and I was so happy that she had an amazing BHRR ‘EXPERIENCE’ mini open house in January.

Come March, she did not have the best of PRIVATE BHRR EXPERIENCE, and on March 20th, at the get together for Sean, I was so happy that many could pass along their good-byes for we knew that her time was drawing ever sadly nearer….

She could not run like she once did, she did her wobble bobble trot and her balance began to not be as sound and so many commented on March 20th about how they could also see that while she was still having quality, that quality was diminishing….breaking so many hearts that day….

When her appetite, always a most healthy one! began to also decline, it was a big sign also.

BHRR’s Bloom, we adored you from Day 1 and I held you in my arms, loving on you and stroking your gorgeous blue fur as you were crossed over Friday night…almost in disbelief that this was the end….

An era has ended with the passing of BHRR’s Bloom. An enormous hole has been left behind….

You were so great with all the youngsters that came to BHRR and my own over the years. Could not have had a better dog watch over them and teach them manners and lessons. Incredible mentor and teacher you were to so many.

You had a huge mischievous side along with a no nonsense, ‘enough is enough’ side and we spent Friday driving to so many of your fav places so others could say their own good-byes and we stayed up all night Thursday so you and I could have one last sunrise together….one last small walk together and I worked so hard to keep my heart/soul from crumbling into million of pieces….

We took one final car ride together and this i the last photo I have of you….

After you were crossed over, we took our final drive home and you are now laid to rest beside BHRR’s Porridge and BHRR’s Ember at our Rainbow Bridge…when the weather gets warmer, we will plant a flowering bush in your honour….

I could not possibly count high enough the number of ways that I am going to miss you…you taught me so much, you gave me so much and I so wish we could have fixed your spine to have given you many more years of being YOU!

See you in my dreams…..until we meet again…

Thank you Stéphanie O’Bready for entrusting us with this magnificent creature….

My last post for today is a BIG THANKS post being sent out to each and every wonderful attendee that had registered for our first BHRR “EXPERIENCE” mini open house of 2016.

We had a total of 26 dogs mixing and mingling with 25 people today! 🙂 Another SUCCESSFUL event! Even BHRR’s Potter had only a few ‘tude moments and no ‘walk-about’ this time around! 😀

Lots of work goes into these experiences and each one just warms my heart with how wonderful they turn out to be!

We want to thank people from our hearts for the much needed donations of food, pinesol, mats, fabric softener etc. We are truly immensely grateful for your support!

We want to thank everyone that brought snacks and drink items from fruit to cookies, to squares and pop! You made the day truly fabu.

Today’s mini experience also raised $340 for BHRR’s Mavie!!! So filled with warmth.

The 50/50 – $80 won by Elizabeth was donated back to BHRR – THANK YOU! Thank you! So, a total of $160 came to BHRR’s Mavie

$70 was raised by Kathy selling her awesome doggie biscuits prior to visiting today. Biggest thanks being sent!!

AND thank you to those that told me that they made ‘birthday’ donations in our donation box to BHRR on my behalf. Though, I no longer have Birthdays, I do thank you!!! :p AND, no today is not my Birthday!

This photo was taken by Aaron(TY!) of BHRR’s Bloom have a great nap – she is now almost 5.5 years of age and her Spondylosis has been taking its toll. 🙁

Per a blog post made on December 27th, we had made the decision to move her to our Haven Program. Quality of life always for every blessed day we have with her and she had a truly great day……she was loved on and cuddled and snuggled and she got to ‘grump’ a couple of times at a few dogs in typical Boom Boom style :p and also to steal some of BHRR’s Flame’s kibble as per her ‘gift’ of being stealthy.

Thank you to each person that took some time to sit with her and tell her how special and precious she is. Many commented on how much more frail she now looks/acts over seeing here even at our XMAS Annual Chain of Success Potluck yet saw that true BOOM BOOM Spark explode at times.

For those already asking about our annual April BHRR “EXPERIENCE” mini open house, we are not hosting an April one in 2016 yet do plan on hosting our annual June experience. We will post when we are open for registration for that one….it is a glorious gorgeous time at BHRR in June! 🙂

THANK you again everyone for such a beautiful day had…..

We have made the decision that BHRR’s Bloom shall be moving to our Haven Program. She has had some very very very mild spondylosis since she first arrived into rescue yet over the past several months, her condition has greatly deteriorated. Quality of life always for her and all the BHRR dogs.

She is on Deramaxx daily and she receives canine massage which like the Diva Queen she is, loves! 🙂 At this time, CWW is not an option with hydrotherapy yet, could be in the future. 🙂

She continues to go on Play Dates and Play Visits and remains a HUGE presence to all at BHRR! 🙂

This is the first of two posts for two BHRR beauties that had their annual at KAH today!
BHRR’s Bloom AKA BOOM BOOM weighed a perfect 36.8 kgs(80.96 pounds)! She has lost quite a bit of weight over this past year and, is looking awesome! Last year at this time, she was actually over 40 KGs….ouch!
The Vet loved her gorgeous shiny blue coat, how friendly she was and, that she was quite the character from laying on her back with four feet in the air while on the weight scale to, practically sitting on my lap in the waiting room and, being a ham in the exam room.
Her heart and lungs sound great and, she was fantastic with her vaccines and only some minor wiggling with her Heartworm test.
Her leg that had surgery for radius curvus syndrome remains strong and, solid!
She has a bit of tartar on her teeth, nothing significant and, she made me so proud of her manners!!
She remains available for adoption to that right matched forever loving home! She needs not necessarily a Dane experienced home, yet, she needs a very experienced dog home that will be patient, consistent, keep on their toes to not be manipulated by the charm of this brilliant dog for she knows what she wants and, she will work her magic to get it…..
While not as high maintenance as she once was, she does best with a job like obedience and, the expression that training never ends, is so applied to her.
She travels fantastic in the car and, only very small sounds here and there of excitement made.
I love this dog so much and, we accept that she may be with us for her whole life for she is a larger than life dog and, we never want to see anyone lose the patience for she will keep you on your toes from sun up to sundown!
I admire her that while she trusts and respects me and, listens great that this does not stop her from testing me each and every day to see what she can get away with for that day.
You cannot give her one inch yet, this girl gives you everything she is, in everything she does and, that backbone has helped her be a survivor prior to being rescued….
While others many overlook you, stunning girl as you are small and, not the best in conformation, all of your fans and friends think you truly are THE BOOM BOOM BOMB and adore you!
We want you and, we will always be your number one fans!

Two Photo's of BHRR's Bloom at our latest BHRR 'EXPERIENCE' mini open house on June 22nd, 2014! All of us remain patient that her right matched forever loving home shall find her…..

Photo's are courtesy of S. Dowler. 🙂

BHRR's Bloom refuses to be 'outdone' by HQD AND, so, here are her own photo shoot photo's from today! 😉

She remains available for adoption and, is a big hit for all those that come to BHRR yet, most homes have cats or are not in a position to take on a Dane that is a bit more on the 'diva', high maintenance side. 😀

She is a charmer!!!

BHRR's Bloom – May 15th, 2014

BHRR’s Bloom is doing well! She is a bit more quieter than normal yet, she is eating and drinking and beginning to get that ‘spunk’ back….when we start to hear that ‘food cry’ at dinnertime, we know she is for sure doing better! 😀

I have added her statistics to the bloat/tort article I have written. 26 years of tracking bloat/tort with the Giants of BHRR, be they with us, in foster homes or adopted. It truly is scary to witness the increased number of Giants out in the community too that are bloating/torting. Very scary….
AND here is a copy of that article that I call “KNOW YOUR DOG”. AND, just because a dog is pexied DOES NOT mean they still cannot bloat.

Thank you everyone for the continued donations towards paying off her Vet Bills!!! Now, that we are into February, sincerely hoping for better times….though, we were contacted about a poor Saint Bx, that had been hit by a car and left untreated with two broken legs for months. 🙁 Very sadly, BHRR is not in the position to assist and it, was a hard email to write back for, we know that in the doing so, we were sentencing her to death for no other group could help her either. AND, it was not that we did not want her at BHRR…we just cannot take on more Vet Bills right now. 🙁 R/Q is so hard. 🙁 🙁

Donations can be made directly to Kanata Animal Hospital (613) 836-2848 and they will take Visa, M/C and AMEX over the phone under the account of ‘Birch Haven Rescue’ for ‘Bloom’.

They will take Debit or Cash in person at 440 Hazeldean Road in Kanata, Ontario; I would be as always, so grateful. There are no words for how much the support given to BHRR means…..

YOU CAN ALSO MAKE BI-WEEKLY AUTOMATIC DONATIONS OR EVEN MONTHLY DONATIONS – HERE
(You do not need a PayPal account either)

You can also mail donations via a Bank Draft to:

Birch Haven Rescue & Rehabilitation Services
C/O Gwendilin Boers
2425 Totem Ranch Road West
RR#1 Oxford Station, Ontario
K0G 1T0

OR email transfer to gwen@birchhaven.org

OR via PayPal(please use the ‘gift’ option OR the ‘friends and family’ option) OR we shall have to pay service charge fees.

**IF I am forgetting any of her ANGELS, it is completely unintentional and please EMAIL me**

BHRR’s Bloom’s BIG & BEAUTIFUL ANGELS:  $420.00* donated to date & final Bills are over $6,000
*Before PayPal fees
Nairn
Mason – Allowance
Kinsley – Allowance
Anonymous
Anna
Friends of Rescue Network
Stéphanie
Cynthia
Clo – PayPal took $0.88

Please keep BHRR’s Bloom AKA Ms. Dynamite BOOM BOOM in your thoughts and best wishes. Tonight she gas bloated. 🙁

Around 5 PM, Sean called me at KAH to say that she was not herself. He said that she was subdued, and, would cry out in pain. For all that know BHRR’s Bloom, she does not cry out in pain…she is one very strong/stoic dog, even when she had her radius curvus syndrome surgery and spay. For her to make any sound, means that she is in brutal pain.

I asked Sean to give her a good look-over for bleeding, any obvious injury – did she slip on the ice? and to feel her stomach etc.

He called me back shortly and said that her stomach was hard, painful to palpate, yet, not bloated and, she was being very quiet and laying still(not in an awkward position just still) – as, all that know this dog are aware, she is anything but quiet!

I said to bring her in immediately to KAH and, her weight upon arrival was a very solid 88.22 pounds(40.1 kgs). She was spastically happy and, Sean said almost violently affectionate on the drive in. She was moving quite well and, did not ‘appear’ to be out of the normal at this time. She was a bit tense upon exam yet, she was excited and stressed and that is not abnormal to find it hard to palpate and she showed no discomfort in being palpated at this time. Yet, as I kept saying to Dr. Marshall, if Sean says that she cried out in pain, something is wrong. X-rays were done and she had a large pocket of gas in her intestines and also gas in her stomach. She had not been pacing, drooling, panting, restless, no stomach distention, no attempts to vomit etc. She was not ‘classical’…again, I keep going back to what I tell people ALL the time “KNOW YOUR DOG”.

Another situation of a dog that was not ‘classic’ in presenting. THUMBS UP SEAN for knowing!!! 🙂

She was passing gas a bit in the exam room yet, passed a lot upon being x-rayed – first x-ray no sedation given. Next set of x-rays, she was given some torb.

So, she had gas bloated and, once a dog bloats, it is so much easier for them to bloat again and, torting is also a huge concern. AND, dogs can and do die of bloat. They do not need to tort in order for their life to be at huge risk. BHRR’s Bloom has been scheduled for an emergency pexy. As she is stable, Dr. Marshall will be doing her pexy.

When it rains it pours. 🙁 🙁 We have no right as always, to ask for any donations or assistance, yet, if any of her fans(AND, I know she has many. 🙂 ), may consider her cause, donations can be made directly to Kanata Animal Hospital (613) 836-2848 and they will take Visa, M/C and AMEX over the phone under the account of ‘Birch Haven Rescue’ for ‘Bloom’. They will take Debit or Cash in person at 440 Hazeldean Road in Kanata, Ontario; I would be as always, so grateful. There are no words for how much the support given to BHRR means…..

We are only January 14th, and, we are in a food crisis and two very urgent and expensive medical cases on our hands. 🙁 🙁 The year just has to get better…

Three of her 5 x-rays done tonight at KAH are below. 🙁 🙁

YOU CAN ALSO MAKE BI-WEEKLY AUTOMATIC DONATIONS OR EVEN MONTHLY DONATIONS – HERE
(You do not need a PayPal account either)

You can also mail donations via a Bank Draft to:

Birch Haven Rescue & Rehabilitation Services
C/O Gwendilin Boers
2425 Totem Ranch Road West
RR#1 Oxford Station, Ontario
K0G 1T0

OR email transfer to gwen@birchhaven.org

OR via PayPal(please use the ‘gift’ option OR the ‘friends and family’ option) OR we shall have to pay service charge fees.

BHRR’s Bloom – January 14th, 2014

BHRR's Bloom had her special picnic date folks AND here are some of those amazing photos of her DAY! 🙂
June 23rd, 2013


BHRR's Bloom – last photo sporting her new collar given to her by her special human dates! 🙂
*photos courtesy of Stephanie

The hv for a possible adoption for BHRR's Bloom was on Saturday and we had to decline the adoption.

I had my reservations re: her reliability re: cats and the home went in very aware that this may not work as they have two cats.

The humans had already met her a few weeks back when they were at our home and there was very much a mutual connection.

She was great with their other dogs(they are past BHRR adopters too!) as we knew she would be, predictable in her excitement with their gpiggers as we have three ourselves and they were moved to safety.

Yet, one of their cats took an instant dilike to her and she was excited. Not mean or aggressive yet, very excited. She was much more reliable and stable with their other cat yet, when their other cat even moved, she had a certain excitement level too.

So, based upon this, we can 100% rule out her being considered for a home with cats, that has confirmed my suspicions.

So, she is AVAILABLE FOR ADOPTION!!!

BHRR's Bloom's hv for her possible adoption is this Saturday.

BHRR's Bloom is moving under a PENDING ADOPTION!!! We shall update her blog as we can.

We are taking BHRR's Bloom off 'PENDING ADOPTION' as we have been unable to close off on the Vet reference successfully on the app sent our way that was interested in adopting her. BHRR needs to confirm that all current animals in ones' home is being vetted per what we believe are proactive and preventative vet care including regular heartworm testing, preventative and vaccines plus fecals.

BHRR's Bloom is AVAILABLE FOR ADOPTION for that right matched forever loving home!

BHRR's Bloom is moving under a PENDING ADOPTION!

She just rocked at the home visit that was done with BHRR's Cobalt and BHRR's Jetta not that long ago and I just know that she will be super excited to hear the news that another home is interested in her. 🙂

She is such a super dog! JUST super!

BHRR's Bloom AKA Ms. Dynamite Boom Boom Bloom is NOW AVAILABLE FOR ADOPTION! 🙂

She is only going to go to a home that is going to be very serious about her structure, routine, commitment to obedience, have a firm yet very loving guiding hand and is NOT going to ruin all that has been done for her to date. This needs to be a home that is not going to break her spirit or heart for that is the essence of who this gal is.

She needs a home that is going to allow her to have the absolute quality of life she deserves and she is capable of running and playing very well BUT she is NOT a running or jogging partner and needs someone that is going to call her out for her mischief and gooberhead moments and does not encourage nor enable any negative attention seeking behavours. IT has taken a very long time to train and direct her into the avenue of appropriate displays of behavour that I want. This dog now walks on a loose lead wearing a simple buckle collar. SHE has not been trained with prongs, chokes, haltis nor a harness(and with her lower centre of gravity, she would just love to dig in with her weight on a harness!).

She lives in harmony with ALL dogs at BHRR now; no more 'tudeness demonstrated towards the Blue Great Danes for example! 😉

For all the challenges that she is will give you(AND this shall only make you a better person plus owner); she is affectionate personified and very loyal with that BOOM BOOM 'edge'.

I would like to see her in a home with at least one other likeminded dog(a blue would be delightful! LOL); yet; is not mandatory.

She is very versatile in that she could work well in a home that works pt, ft, from home or semi retired etc. She is that awesome!

She also can be quite 'talkative' in how she feels and how she plays – very typical Great Dane behavour! 😉

We are aware that it most likely will take time for her right matched forever loving home to come along due to her smaller size and her now healed and very healthy leg; but we are patient and with all the dogs here; we are committed for her life should she not be adopted. She shall only continue to become more and more trained and an even bigger asset to home and community. 🙂

TO say that I am going to miss her when she is adopted, is putting it lightly. This dog has pushed me and poked me and just thrilled me with her brilliant brain and tactics! I do not just love her, I simply ADORE her!

BREAKING NEWS JUST IN! BHRR's Bloom's DNA results FINALLY in! BLOW me way! LOL I thought she was for sure a GDx, possibly with a PitBull and wanted to do the DNA testing to be sure that we adopted her out appropriately as we have the Breed Ban in Ontario BUT she is 100% pure 'teacup' Backyard bred Great Dane!

For the first time in 16 years we did a DNA test on a dog and we have waited with much anticipation for the results and BHRR can now place her up for adoption shortly!

When I received her first gorgeous photos, I was thinking pb GD or GDx and it mattered naught to us what she is really but; when she arrived to BHRR; she is different in person.
Her height is barely mid-thigh and that is the top of her head; her tail, back and butt are also 'atypical' for a GD yet; as we all know bybers breed them in all shapes, sizes and colours.

AND the only reason I did the DNA testing was that 'if' she was part of a breed banned in Ontario; that our group was responsible and showed proactiveness in placing her properly.
I could care less if she was part unicorn!! BHRR committed to her; rehabbed her through her surgery and now can move towards placing her up for adoption!! 🙂
 

Below are two copies taken of her DNA paperwork! LET there be NO doubt that she has had DNA testing done! 🙂

AND who knew that 'Adele' was the number one name for Female Great Danes!!!

WHAT an amazing testimonial re: BHRR's Bloom from our recent BHRR 'EXPERIENCE' Mini Open House!

 "Gwen, we wanted to thank you for inviting us into your home. Driving up to your house I told X "Wow! This is like dog heaven!" and after spending a few hours there I can say without a doubt that I was right. Your family (human and canine) is amazing (I must admit, I have a bit of a crush on Soul). We were VERY impressed by Bloom's overall improvement. Her leg looks great and you've done a fantastic job training her, we could not believe how well behaved she was. We look forward to continue hearing about her progress. We would love to come back and visit you and the pooches! Also, I would be interested in helping in any way I can (transport, fundraising, etc.), just let me know!! Give a big kiss to Bloom for me! :)"

BHRR's BLOOM rocked our recent BHRR 'EXPERIENCE' Mini Open House on April 21st!!! COULD not have been more proud of her!!!!

We also re-did her DNA test and Sean has mailed off the test on his way to work today. HOPE it works this time!!!

We will not be placing her up for adoption; until we have those results; to ensure that we do the absolute best we can for a possible future adoption placement.

Here is a photo of BHRR's Bloom AKA Ms. Dynamite – March 27th, 2012 – LOVING Bleach's beaten up 'doggie' couch
*I think she is getting the hang of 'relaxing!' LOL

She did not go back into her open crate yet; felt good and comfortable to relax and snooze elsewhere!! Huge!!!

She has been such a trooper with her surgery and crate rest recovery!

Such a piece of dynamite she is Miss Boom Boom!

We are still awaiting the results of her DNA tests. This has been a really long wait – almost 4 weeks now. I will call later this week to follow-up should we not hear anything.

She is successfully integrated with all the dogs here except Drift, BHRR's Cobalt, TAIN, BIG Blue & Sir Maestro. She is not very fond of those 'blue' dogs nor my mantle boy for some reason and with Drift being so wee(11 weeks) and with her exurberance; I have not yet had them together. YET, the more that she is exercied plus mentally stimulated; the better dog she has become. I really respect and admire her!

March 27th, 2012 – I guess she thought it would be SO much more comfortable if she took the cushion off first! LOL

February 17th, 2012 – X-rays as promised!

BHRR's Bloom – February 17th, 2012
11 weeks post-op surgery, weight was 85.14 pounds.

We also did her nails while she was under sedation plus microchipped her.

LEG is doing really well!

BHRR's Bloom  was at the Vet on Friday February 17th, 2012 for her next round of X-Rays, this set is 11 weeks post-op surgery.

Her weight was 85.14 pounds so she is coming along really nicely!

We also did her nails while she was under sedation plus microchipped her.

The Vet feels that her leg is healiing really well, slow but sure and she is to remain on crate rest until March 2nd, 2012. From there, we shall be able to begin to give her more house freedom yet outside shall remain on leash only! No playing or romping or zooming, especially with this snow/ice! This leg is going to need another 3 months of very careful monitoring and per the Vet, the cold shall continue to most likely make her leg feel sensitive due to the metal plate/screws. So far, she does not seem bothered yet BHRR's Bloom is not bothered by much! 😀

We shall re-evaluate again in March her progress.

She is such a trooper!

I took a small poll of those I work with as to their own thoughts re: her breed(s) and everyone is in agreement of the two possible breeds she most likely has in her; and one or two also mentioned Weim. Interesting! That had crossed my mind at one time too, yet, I am going to wait and see what comes in from her DNA testing.

We area also in agreement that she is a very social fireball of a dog! LOL

Her leash manner were SOOOOOOOOOOOO much better. We are getting there! 🙂

She was also very quiet in the back run as we waited for the sedation(Dormitor) to take effect and then after she was given the Antisedan after the X-rays were done and she was back up on her feet. 

**I shall post her latest X-rays as soon as we can figure out how to convert them from the format sent our way via email for the disc is corrupted and we cannot use the photos on the CD**

TOTAL FOR TODAY's BILLS: $549.27
TOTAL BILLS AT THIS TIME: $4,890.99

BHRR's Bloom – February 17th, 2012 @ KAH – I just LOVE tongue shots! She is so precious! 🙂

BHRR's Bloom is headed to have her follow-up X-Rays and exam done tomorrow. I am going to do it at KAH and forward on the CD to Dr. Gatineau for review as we have discussed more than once that he was in support of us doing. Unfortunately, due to an emergency, we were unable to visit him as scheduled earlier this month. So, this was plan B discussed with Dr. Gatineau from the time that she had her surgery.

I am looking forward to a new weight!

I also made in a previous post about how people were asking if she was a PB Great Dane and I said that she was 100% pure backyard bred Great Dane and of course, we all know what that means; she could have lab, greyhound, ABDT or any other number of Breeds in her pedigree and sold as a GD or thought to be a GD. The same could apply to many of the 'Great Danes' that come into any Rescue; mastiff is another breed strongly suspected to be found in many of these Danes in any rescue program out there.

As one or two are aware, I have had my suspicions for some time that BHRR's Bloom may or may not be all GD and it truly, does not matter overall for she needed assistance and we were SO more than happy to help. This is what we are here for, to help those special needs sweeties! AND man, she is a big sweetie! 🙂 However, based upon what could be in her pedigree, which shall very much assist us with her adoption placement; I have; for the first time ever ordered a DNA kit. I feel I need to know.

I am hoping that the kit arrives within the week and then we shall have to wait about another 2 weeks and I shall post the results. I do not feel that any cart should be placed before the horse in any situation and I am not going to begin now by posting speculations or more thought processes. 😉

REGARDLESS of what breed/breeds she is; she shall continue to be done right by AND she is one FABU(new word of the week for me!) dog! 😀

Will post an update from her visit tomorrow and new photos! Maybe, even a video! 😉

Here is a VIDEO of BHRR's Bloom as we got ready to head to KAH for her splint removal and re-visit. 🙂

She was a really good passenger, did not help me drive once this time and only rarely decided to voice her opinion of the occasional peson we drove by RIGHT into my ear! She is so social that she is not impressed that she is not being greeted by all!

She weighed 36.1 KGs today ( 79.42 pounds), so slowly getting there. Once she has that opportunity to get the muscle tone and mass on her; she should be around 90 pounds or so. People kept asking at KAH, what is she mixed with and if she will get any bigger and the answer is; she is 100% pure backyard bred dog and nope, she is not going to get much taller. She is that 'teacup' 'Giant' in that wee package of 'dynamite.' We nicknamed her 'Boom Boom', just as dynamite would explode, so can she with the biggest personality!

I wish I had my camera out as she layed sprawled in one of the KAH staff members laps! My dogs just WUVS her!

This poor thing has had to be on enforced crate rest for 6 weeks and has another 2 to go at the minimum(we see Dr. Gatineau on February 8th for more X-rays and another follow-up) and she has been a trooper but that is a lot to ask of anyone, let alone; a young dog. She makes up for lost time when she can be out and it took three people to hold that wiggly body still for the Vet to take off the splint and examine her.

People need to understand that she is not mean, she is full of young puppy energy that has been asked to be contained and to think how frustrated she could actually be and is not; is amazing! Yes, she is a high maintenance dog yet she is also an awesome dog and is going to make a home an awesome addition!

BUT, she is not for the faint of heart, small 'teacup' body or not. She is brilliant and a thinker and so busy!

That will change as her obedience can be more focused on(she was already better for me in the car and in trying to 'walk' with her! LOL) and it will only get better and better. AND she will improve as she matures and also gets proper exercise.

I took some photos of her leg. As the splint was being unwrapped, we could begin to smell what was underneathe. Yes, her toes are a bit swollen and in-between them is very raw – from her licking and the rubbing. The actual surgical incisions look really good and she is healing well but that one area from when she had her cast cut into her leg and though it was healing from the cast; the splint really aggravated it when it was covered by the splint. It is raw and oozing and you can tell that she has managed to snake that tongue of hers down the splint to lick it for it has that lovely raised edge look indicative of lovely doggie salivia! 😉

So, she was all cleaned up and I have hibitane cream for her, 1,000 mg of Cephalexin to give BID for 7 days and I left with an empty IV bag for her foot plus a cone. BY the time, I reached the car, the IV bag was off the foot and the cone had been busted…YUP! That is my dynamite girl for you! Sigh…………….

So, the challenge is going to try and keep it dry and from her licking it. We put YUK all around the IV bag and gauze to no avail but I now have the taste of it in my own mouth,..YUK is right!

The Vet had talked about possibly re-splinting it yet with the open sores/areas, it is best to keep it aired and within a couple of days, should look much better…AS long as we can keep her behaving! 😉 The Vet felt the leg was healing well and you could feel the pins through her skin. We just need to get on top of the cast/splint complications. I was a bit concerned and with just cause as we took that splint off and now we can be proactive about treating her!

She continues to keep me challenged and on my toes and I LOVE dogs like her. She is honest and open and very clear about what she feels at all times. I could not ask for a dog to communicate better with me.

BHRR's Bloom's right front leg – January 18th, 2012

BHRR's Bloom went to the DMV on Tuesday January 3rd, 2012.

She was a really good traveler. She only tried to 'help' me drive a couple of times and also thought it was grand to 'alert' me to a pedestrian or two as we drove to the DMV! 😉 Such a social butterfly she is with humans!!

I am going to post photos of her leg from her surgery on December 2nd and then I am going to post 2 photos from her 4 week post-op visit.

She weighed 35.2 KGs( 77.44 pounds) and when she gets her muscle tone and mass back; she should weigh around 90 pounds at her age.

She had her cast removed, new x-rays taken and they were reviewed by one of the surgeons on staff that day(Dr. Gatineau is still away). From there, she was put into a splint and the move forward plan put into place that shall require that this splint remain on her leg until January 17th. Now, she has had some different ideas and we have already had to repalce the elastoplast on her toes. 😉

She has a follow-up with Dr. Gatineau on February 8th to take more x-rays, re-examine and from there determine what the next 'best' move forward plan shall be.

She is healing well and at this time, there does not seem to be any concern about her being made available for adoption at some point in the future.

We are limited in the amount of obedience that we are able to do at this time, due to her restrictions and those needs will be further addressed when she is ready.

We know that it would be lovely to see her in a home with a right matched personality fit dog; yet not mandatory as long as her new home has a good strong social network in place via family and friends with dogs that compliment her.

She is fine in a home that someone works pt, ft, semi-retired, retired, flex hours etc.

We do not want a home that will 'baby' her and enable any SA types of behavour. That is not in her best interest.

We also want a home that is going to remain aware of her leg and not to make her into a dog that she is not. She is not a running or jogging partner(we strongly believe Danes are not meant for this purpose as is).

We want a home that is going to keep her safe and this means a suitable sized crate or appropriate dog proofed room until she has proven trustworthy for the full house. She is NOT ready for total freedom and this is not good for her leg either and will not be that way for some time to come.

Too many people misunderstand the importance and benefit of crates and it is is not a punishment. It is a great and safe corrective plus traiing tool/aid plus if ever you dog has to go to the Vet to stay for any length of time; be it a few hours or days; then the dog is not stressing out or stressing other dogs out that are also at the Vets. Additionally, if you dog is sick or injured and needs to be on enforced rest at home.

BHRR will not consider a home that is not like-minded to ourselves on this topic. BHRR's Bloom has had so many people reach out to support her in their belief of how deserving she is; and we are not going to put her in a home that is not going to ensure her continued safety plu;s future welbeing.

She is 100% housebroken and will let you know if she has to go out at a time other than when you are taking her out.

She has been dubbed a piece of 'dynamite' by several and I guess that is as good as expression as any to describe her fireball personality wrapped up into a wee package!  LOL

AND THANK you again extended to Karen, her lovely daugther and my own 8 year old daughter for assisting that day! 🙂 With BHRR's Bloom's lower level of gravity plus her sheer joy/excitement to visit folks; her pulling is whoa right now; and that I am still under a 'weight' restriction(now 15 pounds); the extra loving hands were so appreciated! 🙂

December 2nd, 2011

January 3rd, 2012 – 4 weeks post-op
 

I have an appointment scheduled to remove BHRR's Bloom's cast on Tuesday January 3rd at the DMV.

It has been a very difficult and complicated process trying to find a cast splitter/cutter in Ottawa!!! AND with the holiday hour schedules, it was impossible to get in with Alta (as I have done in the past) or even OVH. WOW! Talk about not expecting this 'bump'. 😀

So, I called the DMV and after much conversation, I am headed their way next Tuesday.

BHRR's Bloom is doing well. I think that she is actually doing very impressively well considering how young she is and how much crate rest we have to keep her on to make sure that she is not tempted to do running or playing or jumping or just being what a young dog should be!

Her surgery was Friday December 2nd and as of the 31st, we shall be 29 days post surgery. Dr. Gatineau is not back until the first week or so of January and he had indicated that he casts could be removed after 4 weeks.

As he shall not be around as per our preference to have him as he is familiar with her case; we are going to have her cast removed at the Hospital I work at on the 30th. I will be making an appointment when I am at KAH tomorrow with BHRR's Journey to have BHRR"s Bloom's cast removed.

From there, she is to have another 4 weeks of post-op recovery and then have x-Rays taken(we hope to have this done with Dr. Gatineau at the DMV yet; he indicated that as long as he saw the X-Rays he would be happy.) I would really like for him to see her one more time and we shall see what his schedule is like closer to that time – around January 27th, 2012.

She has 'tude this one and spunk and personality and I just uploaded some photos from her first night with us. When we put her into her what I call her 'taj mahal' crate! She told me what she thought of that! LOL She is given a very special yummy treat each and every time she has to go into her crate and she settles down well.

On the nicer and warmer days; I can be found sitting bundled up in a blanket and her in a coat; sitting on the front lawn on a pile of blankets; just enjoying the outside. She is really quite good about not wanting to try and zip and zoom and will lay or sit quietly by myself; just soaking up the change of pace of environments for her.

I will also take her for short drives and with each time that we go into the vehicle; she is less worried and tense. She really likes going through the Timmie's as she gets yummy treaties….

I am trying to keep her mind stimulated and busy; so that she is not going stir crazy with her enforced crate rest. She is a good patient yet not so good about being patient! LOL Meals are ALL about 'her' and 'now' and she has no hesitations about letting her know when she has to go outside to pee etc. GOOD girl!

I would like to see some more weight on her. She is lacking muscle tone now that she has had to be quite sedentary yet all that aside, I still would like to see some more actual weight on her. She eats well, nothing wrong with that appetite!

She thinks herself a 'queen' and she likes to look down her nose at the other dogs; especially my three black beauties who; in turn; look at her as if to say 'we are the royalty three…the duchess, the princess and the countess' and just 'WHO are you?' LOL

We are going to have a grand time with full integration here and I am so looking forward to when we can make that happen for her.

She is quite affectionate to humans and we are loving her! I have a bit of a feeling that she is going to be a bit selective about who she wants to call a friend and that is ok!

I also think that we are going to have some 'sharing' issues with her after her being so catered to; yet all that shall come when it is time.

We have had some inquiries on her already; and what we can say at this time is that she would do fine in a home by herself or with at least one other right matched personaity fit dog. If her forever loving home does not have another dog; they must have a network in place via friends, family and neighbours whereby BHRR's Bloom has her own social circle of friends. We want her to keep along this path of great development that she is making. 

She would do fine in a home that work pt, ft, flex hours at home, semi-retired or retired. She is quite 'all around' in that way. She will need a home that will not unconsciously enable any possible SA behavours for when she first arrived; she had the tendency to want to slip into some major whining and crying fits and we had to nip that in the bud pretty fast.

Now, the only time she will whine/cry is when she needs to go out during a time that we are not set in her rotation schedule to go out; or feeding time! 🙂 Sometimes she will whine as she is bored and sad and wants to come out and play and during those times; I give her a puzzle – treats in a toy to have to pull out; frozen treats in yogurt in a KONG or other puzzles to keep her busy and I just give her the special item; tell her she is a good girl and walk away(passively ignore).

I do not want to see a home cater to her 24/7 and she develps major SA behavours. We do not want her to become a barking, whining, crying, destructive mess by any home consciously or unconsciously enabling her. 

She is not to be pitied or have things 'made up to' for that will 'ruin' her…BIG TIME! She lives in the present and one should be focused on her future, not her past for that would be a big mistake.

I have been cleaning the area that her cast has dug into on her leg with betatine and keeping it dry. Sometimes, she will want to lick at it and we say 'Bloom…no licking' and she will stop. We have not found that we have had to put her on antibiotics for it as of yet and I clean and pat dry the area, up to three times a day to stay on top of any brewing infection. There is only one smaller area now that is slightly concerning and we continue to monitor in case antibiotics are necessary.

SHE is a HUGE trooper this one!!

BHRR's Bloom – December 16th, 2011 – TELLING me that she is NOT impressed with this crating thing! ISN'T she lovely?

Here is a short video(MY second ever!) and this is of BHRR's Bloom from last night! She is settling in well. I am slightly worried about the top part of her leg as the cast has dug in and there is quite the cut in her leg. We will monitor and if need be; place her on antibiotics.

I have seen the occasional cast wound call for sutures and we would like to avoid that if at all possible.

I always believe in given credit where it is due and BHRR's Bloom is here today thanks to her guardian angel, Stephanie. Thanks go to the sweet couple who found her in their cornfields and when they realised they could not keep her, Stephanie brought in into not just her own home but heart and family.
BHRR has dealt with many surrenders in our almost 16 year history, yet; none have shown the level of commitment and heart that she has. Many say they will help raise funds for much needed medical and rehab care and will stay in touch or donate and you know….you just know that as soon as you have the dog signed over; they are gone….
Not in this case, Stephanie promised BHRR's Bloom that she would be there for her and do whatever it took and she did. NO dog could ask for better and we look forward in continuing that stellar level in her rehab care now that she he is from her surgery at the DMV.
Biggest task….keep her calm and quiet. Two more weeks before we can take that cast off. Then another 4 weeks very limited exercise before post-op X-Rays to determine if she can then be placed up for Adoption.
One step at a time…
Right now, she is settling in excellently and now telling me it is time to stop typing and give her some love!! :)- Sassy pants!!
Thanks Stephanie for everything! You did a fantabulous job with her and we still feel privileged to have been contacted to assist her.
For those who have never met either Stephanie or BHRR's Bloom; if/when you do; you will be so touched with how aweseome both are!

BHRR's Bloom arrived Friday night to BHRR after a wee bit of an adventure for Sean to meet up with her guardian angel family. Much to update yet she has settled in well. We are using an empty IV bag/gauze to cover her cast to bring her outside(always keep several on hand to use) and she has to be one of the smallest and cutest 'teacup' GD's EVER! AND she has no problem 'sassing' me if I am not paying her enough mind! :)- I think we are going to really adore this wee minx! 🙂

I called for an update today on BHRR's Bloom on Saturday. The first person kept calling her a 'him' and was not even aware that she had also been spayed. This person also told me that there was a bandage over the spay incision. This person then said 'well, if things were not great, we would be calling you.' I asked very politely to talk to someone else familiar with her case as I want a true/real update on her.

I was then told by another person that she is eating great, taking her meds well and they are trying to ensure that she gets out. I asked about her spay incision and was given the information that it was healing well, no redness or swelling and that no, it was not covered by a bandage(that would be a new protocol for me). I was also told that things were looking good post-surgery for her Radius Curvus Syndrome.

I mentioned that I would be calling back again early next week.

I am going to feel the best when she is finally at BHRR. The original plan was for her to come immediately to BHRR post-surgery and this is the first time ever in my history of operating BHRR that a dog has not come home post surgery, be it a leg amputation, spay, neuter, cruciate or for radius curvus syndrome etc. I have to say that I am not very comfortable with some things and will see what my next update is like on her.

UPDATE: BHRR's Bloom at a good night on Friday. She was weaned throughout the day on Saturday from IV meds to oral and her spay incision also looks great. Will continue to monitor and post updates. 🙂

UPDATE: Dr. Gatineau called myself yesterday evening and BHRR's Bloom was resting well. She has plates and casts on both of her front legs. Dr. Gatineau and I put together a move forward plan re: her rehab and follow-up over the next 8 weeks.
He said he would call again today to update and I will be in regular contact with their staff until I bring her back to BHRR.
He is going to be going to the USA for training and more certification for the next 4 weeks, so I will have another contact as 'prime' to continue to discuss and monitor her care. Dr. Gatineau was happy if I wanted to move her to another Vet  for her casts removal etc; yet would like to at least view her 8 week post op X-Rays; yet I explained why we kept her going to the DMV and how I would like to keep consistency. He was very appreciative and supported my views/position.

So. I will make the 2.5 hour drive to bring her back to see Dr. Gatineau the first week of January for cast removal and then again a month after that for post-op X-Rays.

BHRR's Bloom's Angels:

Stéphanie
Bloom's Carnival Fundraiser Angels
Brian
Anonymous
Anonymous
Joan
Sam
James
Anonymous
Global Pet Foods – Kanata – We are donating the funds raised by their October 30th photo and nail trim event that 50% came to BHRR
David
Genesis Dog Rescue
Anonymous
Alex & Karen
Charles & Sherry
Helene
Andrea
Paula
Karen
Lynn & Al
Natalie
Marilyn
Margaret
Gen
Nancy
Montreal Dog Blog – Nat Lauzon
Sarah as a gift on behalf of K. Virtue

Total Raised To Date: $3,420
Total Needed to Raise: $4,000

From her guardian angel Stéphanie who has been so committed to BHRR's Bloom's welfare from the moment she took her in. AND for those that are not yet aware, this turns out to be a very small world for we learnt last Saturday that the woman who found her in her cornfield, works with a wonderful supporter of rescue, including BHRR. They were the couple that Stéphanie then got BHRR's Bloom from and then in October, Stéphanie contacted BHRR.

From Stéphanie regarding BHRR's Bloom(sent December 1st, 2011):

"We dropped Bloom off at the DMV this evening. In true Bloom fashion, she was really happy to meet new friends and happily walked away from us with the vet tech. We are very excited for her yet very nervous. Bloom has stolen the hearts of many people and hopefully her fans will be thinking of her tomorrow as she finally gets the surgery that will change her life."

BHRR's Bloom shall be headed to BHRR after her surgery. She will spend two weeks at the DMV and arrive at BHRR on December 16th, 2011.

Email from a friend of Stéphanie's who has been BHRR's Bloom's dogsitter(Sent November 19th) to Stéphanie:

"I see an amazing "growth" in Bloom since she's been with you. She has confidence, she's way better on leash, she listens better – and she knows what it feels like to be loved. […] She has now gotten her "ya-yas" out (today, Sat. Nov. 19), and I feel, as she leans against me, she is a special dog."
 

BHRR's Bloom's Angels:

Stéphanie
Bloom's Carnival Fundraiser Angels
Brian
Anonymous
Anonymous
Joan
Sam
James
Anonymous
Global Pet Foods – Kanata – We are donating the funds raised by their October 30th photo and nail trim event that 50% came to BHRR
David
Genesis Dog Rescue
Anonymous
Alex & Karen
Charles & Sherry
Helene
Andrea
Paula
Karen
Lynn & Al
Natalie
Marilyn
Margaret
Gen
Nancy
Montreal Dog Blog – Nat Lauzon
Sarah as a gift on behalf of K. Virtue

Total Raised To Date: $3,420
Total Needed to Raise: $4,000

BHRR's Bloom's bw was scheduled for November 21st at the Animal Health Clinic.

Her Surgery has been scheduled for December 2nd, at the DMV.

To help raise the last funds we need to schedule BHRR's Bloom's surgery, Bloom has some special postcards that she would like to offer to any supporters to consider purchasing!

FUNDS RAISED TO DATE: $3,370
WE STILL NEED ANOTHER $80 SO WE CAN BOOK HER SURGERY – PLEASE CONSIDER DONATING

There will be 30 available of  'Type' 1 and 20 available of 'Type' 2 for a total of 50 for sale!

Update: November 17th, 2011; there is ONLY 24 of 'Type'  1 and 14 of 'Type' 2 LEFT!

Please indicate Type #'1 and/or Type #2 along with how many you would like to purchase.

ONLY $3 each or 3 for $5 and Gwen from BHRR will pay for s&h to anywhere in the world!

You can pay by:

Paypal to gwen@birchhaven.org or email transfer to gwen@birchhaven.org or bank draft to 'Birch Haven Rescue & Rehabilitation Services(BHRR)' and mailed to:

Birch Haven Rescue & Rehabilitation Services
c/o Gwendilin Boers
2425 Totem Ranch Road West
RR#1 Oxford Station, Ontario
K0G 1T0

Great to use as a thank you, send that special note to someone while at the same time supporting a great cause for BHRR's Bloom!

Postcard photos are below and should you have any questions, please do not hesitate to email:

TYPE #1                                                                                                      TYPE #2

"Bloom was found as a stray in Huntington (QC) in September 2011. The couple who found her were not able to keep her so her now temp foster home offered to take her in and take on the task of finding her a good h…ome.… Upon meeting Bloom, she discovered that it might be harder to find her a home than she originally thought. It was obvious that something was wrong with her so she took her to see an orthopedist and it was confirmed that she suffers from Radius Curvus Syndrome and will need a $3,800 surgery plus need to be spay for another $150-$200 for a total of $4,000 required."

BHRR was contacted to assist and she was then signed over to BHRR's authority in October 2011.

FUNDS RAISED TO DATE: $3,3700
WE STILL NEED ANOTHER $80 SO WE CAN BOOK HER SURGERY – PLEASE CONSIDER DONATING

We cannot schedule her surgery until such time as we have the $80 and we are imploring to our supporters for some support. Please….please help us give her a life without pain.

You can donate by paypal to gwen@birchhaven.org or email transfer to gwen@birchhaven.org or bank draft to 'Birch Haven Rescue & Rehabilitation Services(BHRR) and mailed to:

Birch Haven Rescue & Rehabilitation Services
c/o Gwendilin Boers
2425 Totem Ranch Road West
RR#1 Oxford Station, Ontario
K0G 1T0

Expected ETA from her temp foster home to surgery and then direct to BHRR is Monday December 17th, 2011

BHRR's Bloom's Angels:

Stéphanie
Bloom's Carnival Fundraiser Angels
Brian
Anonymous
Anonymous
Joan
Sam
James
Anonymous
Global Pet Foods – Kanata – We are donating the funds raised by their October 30th photo and nail trim event that 50% came to BHRR
David
Genesis Dog Rescue
Anonymous
Alex & Karen
Charles & Sherry
Helene
Andrea
Paula
Karen
Lynn & Al
Natalie
Marilyn
Margaret
Gen
Nancy

Total Raised To Date: $3,370
Total Needed to Raise: $4,000

BHRR's Bloom – October 29th, 2011 at the 'Bloom Carnival Fundraiser'
*Photos courtesy of S. O'Bready

November 8th, 2011 UPDATE:

"Bloom is doing well. We are still working on getting her house trained. It has been difficult since she we had to scratch the crate idea because of her anxiety. She is now good when left alone, I guess it's hard to complain when you're sleeping on a bed! 🙂 Also, she is very pushy and tends to keep trying until she gets what she wants. We are trying very hard to set limits but I'm thinking it might take a while as she is a very determined gal!'"

More info. on BHRR's Bloom – Female, Blue GD, about 15 months of age.

What we know of from her current guardian angel on October 12th, 2011 when BHRR was first contacted to assist:

"Bloom was found as a stray in Huntington (QC) about a month ago. The couple who found her were not able to keep her so I offered to take her in and take on the task of finding her a good home. Upon meeting Bloom, I discovered that it might be harder to find her a home than I originally thought. It was obvious that something was wrong with her so I took her to see an orthopedist  and it was confirmed that she suffers from Radius Curvus Syndrome and will need a $3,800 surgery."

October 16th, 2011 UPDATE:

"Since we've had her, she's looking a lot better. The curve in her spine was really bad at first and I would say it's improved 80%. Bloom wasn't interested in food (kibble) at first so we switched her to a raw diet and she LOVES it! We also take her out for a run in the forest a few times a week and the exercise seems to be good for her even though the vet advised us to minimize her physical activity. She seemed very sore when she first arrived (she would cry when going up and down the stairs or by just getting up from her dog bed) and now we rarely hear her cry.  

We just started raising funds last week so we're probably far from our goal! The article in the NDG Free Press came out today so we're hoping people will donate.

Her surgery date hasn't been set yet as we are still waiting to raise the money. She has been seeing Dr. Gatineau at the DMV and this is where the money is being donated to. 

Bloom is wonderful with other dogs. We've taken her to dog parks (enclosed and off-leash trails) and she's never had any issues. She is very young and silly….. Bloom is also good with EVERYONE she meets. She LOVES people!! She's good with strangers, kids, etc.

Overall, she has amazing potential and I would love to see her reach it. She hasn't been spayed yet."

October 23rd, 2011 UPDATE:

"Dr. Gatineau told me that Bloom should be able to lead a normal life after her surgery and that is what I wish for her. She is SOOOO happy and loves to run and play, I want her to be able to do so without having to take pain medication and still be in pain for a couple of days. I'm convinced you will do an amazing job helping her recuperate from her surgery, your knowledge and experience will make all the difference!"

October 24th, 2011 UPDATE:

"From the moment I picked up Bloom, I made a promise to her that I would do everything to get her the care she needs and I intend to keep my promise no matter how much time and work it takes, she deserves it! I cannot thank you enough for having agreed to take care of Bloom's recovery and adoption, I couldn't have dreamed of a more perfect place for her to go to."

NDG Free Press Article on BHRR's Bloom – October 16th, 2011

HELP 'BLOOM' Blossom – 15 month old Great Dane diagnosed with Radius Curvus Syndrome – $4,000 Vet Bills & $805 – Donated to date

Please consider donating to:

Dr. Gatineau at the DMV in Lachine

Cal 514-633-8888 and donate to the file # 100861 – Bloom
Her surgery is estimate at $3,800 plus we need to spay her

OR

You can donate by email transfer to gwen@birchhaven.org (just ensure we have the password) or by PayPal(account is gwen@birchhaven.org) OR you can write a check/MO or Bank Draft out to ‘Birch Haven Rescue & Rehabilitation Services’ OR to ‘Gwendilin & Sean Boers’ for her Vet Bills with BHRR’s Bloom in the memo section and mail to:

Birch Haven Rescue & Rehabilitation Service(BHRR)
C/O Gwendiln Boers
2425 Totem Ranch Road West
RR#1 Oxford Station, Ontario
K0G 1T0