March 30th, 2007 – October 7th, 2015

May the day come that I can properly, honour this amazing dog…………..right now, all I can do is focus on is keeping my heart from just being blasting into a billion pieces of sorrow. 🙁

This photo embodies his gentle, big beautiful personality with one of the people that deeply adored him….this was at our PV Stittsville Event in 2015.

RIP our dear Papaya!

Tracy and BHRR’s Porridge having a moment at our latest BHRR Private “EXPERIENCE”.

This home won this amazing opportunity in an auction we hosted earlier this year.

We have hosted these days for well over 15 years now and it gives people the opportunity to come out and not just witness firsthand what it is that we do yet get hands on in the trenches with us.

BHRR’s Porridge was at the Vet with me today as he has been really struggling in this heat with his inflammatory nasal disease (extreme heat and extreme cold are so hard on him….) and losing weight.
His heart and lungs remain so strong plus healthy…..he just cannot breathe right the IND in the extreme weather.
Sadly, he has dropped 21.12 pounds since he was last at the Vet, exactly 3 months ago. When it is harder for him to breathe, it is harder for him to eat. Now, that the weather is breaking, he is eating better…..
I bring him in every 10-12 weeks for a recheck.
He now weighs 141.90 pounds and after his episode with the food contamination back in January with food donated to our group, he had dropped over 20 pounds then and we never quite got it back up to the 178 pounds he was of lean muscled boy. He is a very tall boy, almost 41″ at the whithers. We had gotten him back up close to 165 pounds.
We made the decision with his Vet that we will increase his prednisone on the really hot days. He was getting 50 mg SID.
We discussed quality of life in depth and know that this miracle Dane that was once not expected to see past his 18 month birthday and is now almost 7.5 years is on limited quality time, especially if we hit another extreme heat or cold spell, which is inevitable in our climate.
So, tears all around for his vet and I today and, I am praying for cooler weather to stay…..
Day by day and lots of love!

AND, one BHRR’s Porridge has been dropped off for his own special play date! He has already had a staff member at the Comfort Inn come out to give him a treat, greeted many in the parking lot of the grocery store in Brockville and, all before his date even began!! 

He is going to have a super time and I am so happy that he is still with all of us to be spoiled and pampered….over 7 years young and going strong!! Miracle Boy!

Time to pick up some last minute items for the BHRR private ‘EXPERIENCE’ later today and, bake some cinn buns!

I think BHRR’s Porridge has settled in nicely for his special overnight picnic play date!
Thanks to his wonderful ‘date’ in sharing this photo!
His special date rented a hotel room with a king size bed for this!

BHRR’s Porridge is off for his special overnight picnic play date!
After a bit of an ‘eventful’ beginning , things should be fabu wonderful!
Have fun, do not hog the bed and, see you tomorrow BHRR’s Papaya Boy!
The photo’s below are of him drinking from the sink at KAH this AM!

BHRR’s Porridge was at the Vet with me on Monday. So, wish I had snagged a photo!
He had a recheck and, then his manicure/pedicure.
So, pleased to say that his weight is now 73.10 KGs(163.02 pounds). 
That is up from the 155.10 pounds he was on January 27th from recovering from food contamination of food sent our way on January 17th. He is still a far cry from his normal 178 lean body machine weight yet, we are slowly getting it back up. YES!
He had lost almost 22 pounds due to the food…and, the long-term effects of that contamination is still being felt with several of the BHRR dogs.
Sadly, he is developing hind end muscle wasting from the pred., yet, he needs to be on it, on 50 mg daily – yet, he needs it for his inflammatory nasal disease that he was diagnosed with in March of 2014. 
This miracle boy reached age 7 in March and, he is determined that he is going to stay with all that love him for as long as possible! 

I cannot let today go by without wishing a truly incredible, miraculous amazing BHRR Haven Dog, HAPPY BIRTHDAY!
BHRR’s Porridge turns a miracle 7 years young today! 
This boy has beaten the odds! 
Born outside in the freezing cold, One of 9 pups…..I first was told about them when there were about 2 weeks of age….I made the 3+ hour drive to try to educate, beg, and plead for the O. to at least bring mom and puppies inside, if she would not surrender them. To no avail….
I left blankets and towels and food and, had a very heavy heart…..
It took one month before I could get what I needed to be able to legally get back to the property and seize mom/pups. 
Sadly by then, all pups but five had died and two of those pups plus mom had to be let go on site. 
The owner was feeding the puppies combined; only a total of 1/4 cup of food, two or three times a day(she could not remember how often she fed them.).
Out of ten precious creatures, I could only save three and, two had parvo. A local Vet took in those two to assist and, he ended up adopting our parvo pups when healthy – ‘Fiona and Tinka’ who also are wished a very Happy Birthday today! 🙂
I took the third, he was named ‘BHRR’s Porridge’ by my son, who was 7 at the time and, he was diagnosed with MegaE and, even being a group/home experienced with MegaE, his prognosis was given as poor and, we were told he would not live to 12 months, and, 18 months was a pipe dream…..
Well, that first year, we battled aspiration pneumonia more than once as he and we figured out the whole feeding regiment. 
The hardest part is that BHRR’s Porridge grew to a very impressive almost 41″ at the whithers, and, then you have to add, neck and head!
While not the tallest Dane ever had here, he is the second tallest.
Moving forward through the years, this boy continued to thrive and, steal the hearts of so many around him! 
In 2009, he took on a new challenge – Seizures
In the fall of 2009, he then had his first gas bloat
In February of 2011, he then had his second gas bloat
In May of 2013, he had to have a puncture biopsy of a suspicious growth on his muzzle – all turned out great
In March of 2014, he had to be rushed into KAH for breathing difficulties. We were told a possible nasal tumour was the concern. Much testing and traveling was done and, in the end, it is Inflammatory Nasal Disease that he has and, he is on Pred daily.
In January of 2015 he then battled food contamination from food donated our way by another group and he dropped almost 20 pounds. That was a very scary time.
We fast forward to end of March 2015 and, the GD that was said to not live to 12-18 months has now turned 7!!!
His weight is back up, not the lean 178 pounds he once was, yet close and he is happy, as healthy as can be and, while his body may move slower, his heart and brain are as youthful as ever!
When he is ready to rumble, body armor time it is!
His full blog can be read here: 
SO, from all of us to you our ‘Giraffe’, our ‘Papaya’ Boy, HAPPY Birthday!!! 
All of yours specialists are loving that you are proving them wrong! 🙂

Tonight's post of my immense thanks of warmth felt is first sent out to Rachel for giving me notice at our recent BHRR 'EXPERIENCE' mini open house that they were some new Rupert Wraps available. wink emoticon

Then, I must send out my biggest and sincerest warmth of thanks plus appreciation to Fiona and Her mummy!

For, I had wanted to pay for this wrap and, they insisted on giving it as a gift to the BHRR palliative dog I wanted it for, BHRR's Porridge.
It is so important to me to give back when I can and, to help others and, long before these awesome Rupert Wraps became a 'hot' item smile emoticon, quite a few of the BHRR doggies benefited from gifts sent to them by Fiona and her Mummy – HQD and My Lion Kings just to name some….
Even more reason that I wanted to pay for this one…..we have been given a lot of kindness already in the past…
There are truly never enough words in a dictionary to tell some people what their generous, giving and caring selfless gifts/actions mean to me…..and, the animals of BHRR.
As soon as I saw this particular wrap, it just screamed out his name! Even though he is almost a miracle 7 years soon, his reminds me very much of a kid that loves playing construction games and demolishing also! smile emoticon
Fiona and her Mummy do a lot for the community far and wide and, please join me in thanking them for their big hearts, amazing talent and, this gorgeous special gift!
From the wrapping to the sticker of 'adopt' to the beautiful folding plus presentation of the wrap, these wraps are made with such heart and love…..
Thank you both again!!! I really am so thankful and, touched……so, is BHRR's Porridge!
It may only cover a section of him, because he is almost 41" at the whithers but, to him as long as his head is covered, he feels safe and protected. grin emoticon
Now to make sure HQD does not steal it! tongue emoticon
The world is full of such goodness and, I feel so lucky and blessed that the BHRR doggies have Angels amongst them….

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

A file is set up at 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 ‘Porridge’. They will take Debit or Cash in person at 440 Hazeldean Road in Kanata, Ontario

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 Porridge Angels  $985.50* donated to date & Bills are: $5,439.44
*Before PayPal fees
Nairn
PVAR
PV Stittsville Nail Trim/Grind Event
Alex/Karen
Rachel
Pam
Bob & Hazel – Pred donated on behalf of their RIP dear Eddie
BHRR's April 'EXPERIENCE' Mini Open House – Donations and 50/50 (split between BHRR's Porridge & BHRR's Coach
Wendi – 'Vegan Cupcakes To The Rescue' Easter Fundraiser
Elizabeth
Andrea
Dawn
Nairn again
Clo

Someone says 'I'z sleepies'……zzzzzzzzz….
BHRR's Porridge(Miracle DOG supreme!) was with me at work today for a recheck. 
His weight was down to 70.5 KGS(155.10 pounds) – we weighed him twice and, he was rock solid on the scale – from the 172.04 pounds that he was at his last check up(he goes in every three months or so) and, as he was one of the rescues that became sick from eating some dog food that came our way last week from another group, we are running blood-work and, a UA. THAT is a big weight loss.
I am also doing his yearly HWT as we were already sucking blood form him. 
He had a manicure, pedicure and, though, his ears are squeaky clean, I touched them up….. smile emoticon
Always a huge hit at KAH! 
This boy was not expected to live to see 18 months of age yet, he showed that MegaE would not get the upper hand AND, that seizures were not going to take him over AND, when he became quite sick last March, we were advised that he many only live a matter of weeks yet, he has more than fought the great battle with the then finally diagnosed Inflammatory Nasal Disease and, his 50 mg of Pred SID is working wonders….
He will be celebrating his 7th Birthday at the end of March!!! You keep it up buddy!!! smile emoticon
He looks forward to seeing many of his fans soon at our upcoming BHRR "EXPERIENCE' Mini Open House!

BHRR's Porridge – MIRACLE BOY Supreme!
Sunday October 5th, 2014
Another amazing day for the BHRR animals at PV's Stittsville 'THANKS FOR GIVING' Event
To the fabu team extraordinary staff at PV, thank you for making us feel like we were part of your family this past weekend! Thank you for inviting us back in 2014!
THANKS must be extended to all the great folks that came to visit us today and, for our Sunday Volunteers, supporters and fans that gave a helping hand with dogs and, talking up r/q Rescue, responsible dog ownership AND, to all those that expressed their biggest plus deepest thanks to the Ottawa plus surrounding area Great Dane plus Giant Breed Rescue that continues to work so hard since our inception in 1996 filling a GIANT need!
We keep saying that we are nothing without our village/community and ONCE again, you have proven that we can keep going strong with you by our sides recommending BHRR to shelters, pounds, rescues and homes needing much needed assistance with their Giants, supporting us with kindness of words, and, hugs of caring and, donations from finances to materials much needed that includes cleaning supplies and dog beds and lifesaving food!
Thank you to the Maracle Family for hanging with us on Sunday and, Sarah Dowler for those extra hands when needed and, to Andrea McCoy, my husband Sean Birch Haven, daughter Kinsley AND, to all of our Visitors that included Miss Trinity from PVAR and, she brought along Tanya MacAllister & Tracy to hang also for a wee bit.
Marg McIlree was so lovely to see you for a bit!
Regan, Kelly, Emily, Breanne Jacklin, Melissa Gingras-Lepage you really are outstanding!
Ashley of AMB Photography, what a doll you continue to be! So thankful that you are part of our lives!
Amy Hache-Cameron & Elizabeth White, BHRR's Porridge feels uber spoiled and, cherished with all of your special love!!!
For all those that I did not catch names, that came to visit us, KNOW that we appreciate EACH one of you from the earth to the moon and stars and beyond!
We microchipped four animals over the two days and, that is a cause SO big and dear to my heart!!!
The monies from Sunday were counted and doubled counted by Cherie and Aaron and, then sealed in an envelope and signed and, then put with the Friday/Saturday Fund envelope that had been counted, double counted and triple counted by Bruce J. Moquin, Aaron and Breanne and all sealed, signed for a GRAND TOTAL deposited THANKS to the army of each of you:
$838.56
My cup is not just running over in warmth, it is spilling over in copious amounts!
THANK you for making our THIRD public awareness opportunity a successful one and, our last one of 2014, our fourth, shall be at the end of November – Saturday November 29th at PV Hazeldean – ANOTHER store that we absolutely are in love with!!!
As always, remember if you know of a Great Dane or Giant in need, please do keep r/q Rescues like Birch Haven Rescue and Rehabilitation Services(BHRR) in mind! Back in 1996, there was no organization like us out there and, we continue today, filling that need because of each of you being part of our CHAIN OF SUCCESS Story!

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

A file is set up at 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 ‘Porridge’. They will take Debit or Cash in person at 440 Hazeldean Road in Kanata, Ontario

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 Porridge Angels  $985.50* donated to date & Bills are: $5,379.90
*Before PayPal fees
Nairn
PVAR
PV Stittsville Nail Trim/Grind Event
Alex/Karen
Rachel
Pam
Bob & Hazel – Pred donated on behalf of their RIP dear Eddie
BHRR's April 'EXPERIENCE' Mini Open House – Donations and 50/50 (split between BHRR's Porridge & BHRR's Coach
Wendi – 'Vegan Cupcakes To The Rescue' Easter Fundraiser
Elizabeth
Andrea
Dawn
Nairn again
Clo

I am thankful that BHRR's Porridge is still with us, miracle dog and weighed a good solid 78.2 kgs(172.04 pounds) at KAH today and, had a great recheck exam. On a side note, I am thankful that when he threw his head back during sedation that he did not break poor Lesley's nose!! He owes you baked goodies!!

He needs to put on about another 6 pounds to be back up to where he once was and, the Vet marveled at how amazing he is doing! Just 50 mg of Pred SID is what he is getting and, I cannot tell everyone enough how happy I am that fall is here with cooler weather!

I have been counting all my blessings that it has been a cooler summer! It has literally kept BHRR's Porridge alive. Just this past weekend, we hosted our latest GD & Honorary GD "GIANT AT HEART' Walk/Hike and, who would have thought that BHRR's Porridge could also attend! I thought for sure that March would have been his last one.

Miracle dog!!! Absolutely a miracle dog! His Vet Team including specialists are mind bloggled. 🙂 YAY! He continues to go in for regular check-ups plus bloodwork.

I am not trying to look ahead too far for him, yet, I am sincerely hoping that he shall still be with us for our upcoming ANNUAL 'BHRR DINE WITH THE DOGS' Event at the end of September. So many, are coming in from out of town and province, and, I know that would want to be able to pass along in person their own best wishes plus say any 'good-byes' for, we will have to then start worrying about the extreme cold for him. This boy is now almost 6.5 years of age and, he was not even given 18 months to live when I first rescued him as a wee babe that fit into the palm of my hands.

Here are two photo's from the walk/hike on Sunday. If anyone wishes to join our over 260 member distribution walk/hike list, please do EMAIL. ONLY Responsible dog owners are permitted.

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

A file is set up at 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 ‘Porridge’. They will take Debit or Cash in person at 440 Hazeldean Road in Kanata, Ontario

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 Porridge Angels  $965.50* donated to date & Bills are: $5,145.53
*Before PayPal fees
Nairn
PVAR
PV Stittsville Nail Trim/Grind Event
Alex/Karen
Rachel
Pam – PayPal took $0.59 in fees
Bob & Hazel – Pred donated on behalf of their RIP dear Eddie
BHRR's April 'EXPERIENCE' Mini Open House – Donations and 50/50 (split between BHRR's Porridge & BHRR's Coach
Wendi – 'Vegan Cupcakes To The Rescue' Easter Fundraiser
Elizabeth
Andrea
Dawn
Nairn again

BHRR's Porridge, JS, Oatmeal and Sir-Bounce A Lots with Sean/Kinsley & BHRR's Porridge & JS – August 17th, 2014

BHRR's Porridge came to work with me today and, I had a recheck(as I do not want to be putting under sedation without a current Vet approval status) and he was up 3.2 KGS(7.04 pounds!). To me, that is huge!!! The Vet noted that his muzzle was more swollen now than what it was yet, his lungs and heart sound good and clear still. 🙂 We discussed cyclosporin(atopica) again as a possible next step for him yet, he is doing great on his small dose of Pred – 50 mg SID – at this time. We re-visited laryngeal paralysis, or polyneuropathy complex and the probability of that happening to him.

One of the things I brought up was how hard BHRR's Porridge took to recovering from his last sedation at KAH and, the Vet that saw him tonight, was a bit worried about that and, felt that maybe a lower dose may be better. Yet, in looking through his file, they noted that he had been given that day via IV an IM dose of Dexdomitor / Torb and that was so frightening to have been told that. So, he received the proper dose of sedation via IV this time and, he bounced back like he always had when the ANTISEDAN (atipamezole) was given.

He is marveling the medical profession as to how he is still here and, I just leaned down and whispered in his ear, 'YOU GO my papaya!' 😀 I am keeping it real….I know that he is dying. Yet, we are doing all we can to give him quality of life. We installed a small window a/c unit in the ensuite to help in the hot days and, this is in addition to the a/c we have in the house.

I cannot make him better, yet, I can give him all I can in the time we have left……

He showed everyone how his energy level while, not normal for him, was back up on the 'hyper harle' end of the spectrum also! 😀
 

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

A file is set up at 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 ‘Porridge’. They will take Debit or Cash in person at 440 Hazeldean Road in Kanata, Ontario

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 Porridge Angels  $965.50* donated to date & Bills are close to $5,000
*Before PayPal fees
Nairn
PVAR
PV Stittsville Nail Trim/Grind Event
Alex/Karen
Rachel
Pam – PayPal took $0.59 in fees
Bob & Hazel – Pred donated on behalf of their RIP dear Eddie
BHRR's April 'EXPERIENCE' Mini Open House – Donations and 50/50 (split between BHRR's Porridge & BHRR's Coach
Wendi – 'Vegan Cupcakes To The Rescue' Easter Fundraiser
Elizabeth
Andrea
Dawn
Nairn again

BHRR's Porridge is long overdue for an update. I was waiting for all findings and testing to be back before posting. He is officially diagnosed with Inflammatory Nasal Disease. One of the things I felt he could have. I was not 100% convinced(LOVE my Vet team) re: the nasal tumor and yet, also did believe them that this could have been a nasal obstruction situation. They have been all on board and supportive with me looking for second and third and more in respect to opinions and, expertise to help me and, in turn, possibly help him.

Unfortunately, the IND is due to auto-immune reasons and I could move on to all sorts of biopsies and tissue samples and surgeries(IF he would even survive the anesthetic) and, knowing that there is nothing that can resolve his situation(I did not think by going down this further route of investigation that there was going to be some miracle cure or treatment yet, I wanted to know if there was something missing in the equation that could give him a longer better qualify filled life). Sadly, not really….he remains on the Pred with 50 mg SID and, we continue to love him, have play dates and spoiling visits with family and friends and tons of his fans!

The terrible part in all of this is, that with the warmer weather, he is struggling further and, my promise has always remained to him quality of life…qualify of life, no matter how much I am dying inside of pain over the inevitable and all too soon loss of his amazing presence.

With him struggling more when it is quite humid, he is at high risk of laryngeal paralysis, or polyneuropathy complex. He panics when he cannot breathe quite right(his right nostril is completely blocked), mostly in the middle of the night, AND, only on the extreme humid nights, even with a/c blasting. I was going to let him go this week, as, no way, did I want to see him in that state….through these two nights though, he has eaten(he has been off the mirtazapine for ages now), drank, played, rested(in his special resting position and, doing great!), energy level is pretty much back to normal and he has put on much of the weight he lost…still a wee bit spiny yet, he is now over the age of 6 and getting 'old man' spread as we call it. To watch him zip and zoom is like nothing is wrong with him…..

Then, the temperatures dropped again, and, he was all back on track…so, then, I did not bring him in to let him go. I have the three 24/7 emerge hospitals at my fingertips to bring him in on a moment's notice if need be for, we are facing a time clock that as much as I would like to turn to the fall, winter or even earlier spring, I cannot. So, as summer approaches, it is killing him and, while so many of us look forward to summer, to me, it is a death sentence for him and, for me, my nightmares coming closer to reality………… 🙁 🙁

The one and only 'acceptance of peace' that I have in my heart and soul is that I have covered all medical ground that I felt I needed to, and left no rock unturned to give him all that he deserves and, that is a peace that I did not have before…..

To be better informed of his condition, to know that aryngeal paralysis, or polyneuropathy complex is highly possible for him and, to know that there is nothing more than quality of time, tons of spoiling love and lots of treats, is all that I can give him is the only gift I have to cherish. He has been through enough and, the rest of his time is going to be ALL the things he loves and, all the people that he loves and that love him……what I tell many of my behavioural clients, is what I am going to embrace now….'no glass bubble' and 'do not mourn him as if he is already gone in the time I have left as, that time cannot be taken back and re-lived'….'live in the moment and to the fullest'…

AND, no one can believe that he is still with us and looking mighty fine!!! So, please keep him in your best of blessings, thoughts and well wishes…..he is one HECK of a special dog…..LOVE you BHRR's Porridge….I remember holding you in the palm of one hand and fighting for a month to save you and the rest of your litter plus mom from the freezing outside weather of March/April…..and, watching you put MegaE in its place – the specialists said you would die long before your reached adult hood! We watched you stare IS in the face AND, we watched you grow up to be 178 pounds of uber fantastical love. 🙂 🙂 You have given us so much….I can only hope in turn, that we gave back to you on iota of the heart, soul, joy, laughter and care that you bestowed upon us………..

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

A file is set up at 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 ‘Porridge’. They will take Debit or Cash in person at 440 Hazeldean Road in Kanata, Ontario

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 Porridge Angels  $955.50* donated to date & Bills are close to $5,000
*Before PayPal fees
Nairn
PVAR
PV Stittsville Nail Trim/Grind Event
Alex/Karen
Rachel
Pam – PayPal took $0.59 in fees
Bob & Hazel – Pred donated on behalf of their RIP dear Eddie
BHRR's April 'EXPERIENCE' Mini Open House – Donations and 50/50 (split between BHRR's Porridge & BHRR's Coach
Wendi – 'Vegan Cupcakes To The Rescue' Easter Fundraiser
Elizabeth
Andrea
Dawn

BHRR's Porridge wants to SHOUT out a thanks to Elizabeth! She won a date with one of our BHRR doggies in our 3rd Annual 1-on-1 Special Date Auction and she donated an extra bit for her " favourite boy Porridge ♥." Thank you! 🙂

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

A file is set up at 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 ‘Porridge’. They will take Debit or Cash in person at 440 Hazeldean Road in Kanata, Ontario

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 Porridge Angels  $845.50* donated to date & Bills are close to $4,000
*Before PayPal fees
Nairn
PVAR
PV Stittsville Nail Trim/Grind Event
Alex/Karen
Rachel
Pam – PayPal took $0.59 in fees
Bob & Hazel – Pred donated on behalf of their RIP dear Eddie
BHRR's April 'EXPERIENCE' Mini Open House – Donations and 50/50 (split between BHRR's Porridge & BHRR's Coach
Wendi – 'Vegan Cupcakes To The Rescue' Easter Fundraiser
Elizabeth

I want to SHOUT out a very special plus deep thanks to an angel who did an Easter 'Vegan Cupcakes To The Rescue' Fundraiser for her friends and had hoped to raise a couple of hundred dollars to go towards BHRR's Porridge's Vet Bills. Today, I received the following email….AND, it is at these times, that I feel such hope for the human race, knowing that there are REALLY good people out there! True, genuine, caring, giving, selfless people. THANK YOU! AND, BHRR's Porridge also thanks you! 🙂 Angels, each of you are!

BHRR's Porridge continues to hold his own. His weight loss has slowed down immensely and with the medication, he is eating up to 3/4's of his normal ration. He was put back on the Doxy(that he originally only had one dose off and was advised to stop) and, it has made a HUGE difference!

Unable to get into a more local specialist for him, we are now wait-listed for Guelph and in the TO area. Will keep updating as I can.

"I hope you had a wonderful Easter with your family and enjoyed the great weather.

I have applied $408 to Porridge's account at KAH today. I was overwhelmed by the support and generosity of my friends. It was a great success."

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

A file is set up at 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 ‘Porridge’. They will take Debit or Cash in person at 440 Hazeldean Road in Kanata, Ontario

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 Porridge Angels  $835.50* donated to date & Bills are close to $4,000
*Before PayPal fees
Nairn
PVAR
PV Stittsville Nail Trim/Grind Event
Alex/Karen
Rachel
Pam – PayPal took $0.59 in fees
Bob & Hazel – Pred donated on behalf of their RIP dear Eddie
BHRR's April 'EXPERIENCE' Mini Open House – Donations and 50/50 (split between BHRR's Porridge & BHRR's Coach
Wendi – 'Vegan Cupcakes To The Rescue' Easter Fundraiser

BHRR's Porridge had a good BHRR 'EXPERIENCE' Mini Open House yesterday. He was naturally not as energetic as he usually is and, yes, I turned the 'blind' eye when folks were cuddling on our couch…. 😉 At one time, he even laid down on his side and slept on the couch….ON his side! 🙂 Yes, he is not his normal self yet, he is also looking and feeling well some days…..

I am so happy so many had the chance to visit with him and love on him one more time…………AND, I thought that my 'tears' for the event would have come from discussion of him yet, I held strong and it was BHRR's Jersey's story that reduced me to the 'baby' tears! YUP! Has to happen at least one time at our EXPERIENCES! 😉

Below is an amazing photo taken by our special friend Dee of a very dear soul – Penny with our very dear dog – BHRR's Porridge in our still almost finished newly renovated sunroom! 🙂 Dee loved our radiant floor heating! 🙂 That is Caffrey's adorable butt in the corner of the photo!

Please do consider helping us give him the best in quality of life for the time he has left……
 

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

A file is set up at 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 ‘Porridge’. They will take Debit or Cash in person at 440 Hazeldean Road in Kanata, Ontario

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 Porridge Angels  $427.50* donated to date & Bills are close to $4,000
*Before PayPal fees
Nairn
PVAR
PV Stittsville Nail Trim/Grind Event
Alex/Karen
Rachel
Pam – PayPal took $0.59 in fees
Bob & Hazel – Pred donated on behalf of their RIP dear Eddie
BHRR's April 'EXPERIENCE' Mini Open House – Donations and 50/50 (split between BHRR's Porridge & BHRR's Coach

When I went to work yesterday, I had a conversation with one of BHRR's Porridge's Vets. I discussed my questions of inflammatory nasal disease and nasal tumors and went back to asking about skull x-rays and more scopes etc….after conversing further, I have asked to have a referral to another specialist, this one at Alta Vista AH. I explained to his Vet this feeling I have in my gut and, they agreed with me, that by going off to another specialist, that, it could well be of some benefit. I said I do not want him to be a pin cushion and he has had so much in testing etc., yet, I have this worry in my gut….AND, I know that he is not a surgical candidate and, I know many things yet, I now feel I need to do this…and, I have thought it over long and hard and, I am trying to be objective and not subjective and, want to give him all that he deserves plus is worthy of and not, ever lose sight of the quality over quantity. So, I am setting up an appointment – his Vet already called in the referral and I just need to make the appointment – possibly as early as next week(they have some openings then yet, I do not know dates/times) – to sit down with another specialist and, will fax/email all that has been done to date, and, talk and see where that goes…….

I wish in my blog post that I could say that I am looking for this or that, yet, I cannot. What I am most looking for, most (AND, I know that I have gotten this from his three Vets already at KAH and other specialists etc.) is 'peace'…………to be able to look at this amazing dog and, know that I am giving him everything within my power and resources to give him and, that I am making the best informed decisions possible for him. Day by Day.

I also obtained more mirtazapine and pred for him for another week. He is eating about 1/2-3/4 of his normal intake. The nasal discharge has not worsened, his muzzle has not become more swollen, his energy level is a bit better as he is now eating and drinking more.

He had a WONDERFUL 6th Birthday! The walk/hike with friends of old and new and the messages and cards – AND yes, he even received some flowers! IS he not loved?!! He has made such a BUG impact over the years with so many and remains one of the top requests of BHRR dogs to bring to our community education/public awareness visits at Schools. 🙂 At this time, he is obviously on a 'break'.

ALL of these people that took the time to text, call, email, etc., THANK YOU! THANK YOU! It was an emotional day and a very emotional time for all that love and care. TO each person that has also donated to his Vet Care, THANK YOU! Every little bit helps and, all donations that come in from our upcoming BHRR 'EXPERIENCE' mini open house shall also be used towards his Vet Bills.

This is JUST one message sent his way on Sunday by a real angel:
"Sending sweet birthday wishes out to Porridge today. Just want him to know that 24 people who have never met this sweet boy are sending him positive thoughts and love and will be contributing to his vet bills by buying cupcakes for my Easter Event. We all wish we could do more. Hugs and kisses all around."

Below are his x-rays and, two photo's from his walk/hike on Sunday. Our next scheduled walk/hike shall not be until May and please EMAIL, if you would like to be added to our almost 220 member list of responsible dog owners ONLY.

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

A file is set up at 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 ‘Porridge’. They will take Debit or Cash in person at 440 Hazeldean Road in Kanata, Ontario

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 Porridge Angels  $367.50* donated to date & Bills are close to $4,000
*Before PayPal fees
Nairn
PVAR
PV Stittsville Nail Trim/Grind Event
Alex/Karen
Rachel
Pam – PayPal took $0.59 in fees

BHRR's Porridge's Chest/Heart x-rays from March 19th, 2014

BHRR's Porridge – March 31st, 2014 – His 6th Birthday @ our latest GD & GIANT AT HEART Walk/Hike

I have BHRR's Porridge's x-rays and shall post them shortly and, I want to update all on his 6th Birthday that happened on Sunday!

Yet, I wish to make this post to say that, I have thought and re-thought everything over, reviewed and re-reviewed all of his tests, yet, again to date, and, I feel the need(after further research and conversing even more with his Vets and Specialists) etc., to ask again some questions(I have two in mind right now plus to ask another Point of View one) and discuss other things…once again…in more depth. I just feel I have to re-visit this and have, what most likely shall just be repeated discussions yet, I look at him and, I am not feeling anywhere near any kind of 'acceptance' and 'understanding' of him dying and with how aggressive all of this has come on. 🙁 🙁

I am most likely going to be going down the 'broken record' and 'beating the dead horse' path, yet, I feel strongly, that I need to break all of this down again step by step and piece by piece. I want to be as objective as I can, yet, who am I kidding…I am object with a subjective 'twist' in quite a few ways….we have been together for so many years….

I brought BHRR's Porridge back to work with me at KAH tonight. Two of his Vet team examined him and, we sedated him – with Dorm/Torb this time as we know that at this time it is not a heart condition causing his distress. We did his mani/pedi also.

He has zero air flow through his right nostril. I have known this since last Tuesday and, it was confirmed with the Vets on Thursday night and, with him being completely sedated, could be investigated more thoroughly. He has limited air flow on the left side. His discharge is still clear and on the right side with a little on the left nostril.

His weight was down another 5 pounds – 73.3 Kgs since Saturday. 🙁 🙁 161.26 pounds is his current weight.

You can see more rib than one should and more of his spine. He has swelling on his muzzle and in being sedated, more detailed investigation could be done of his nose.

He has a nasal tumor and we discussed doing a MRI or CT and, as we all know, that is not a curative step. Additionally, we discussed skull and facial x-rays again for if we did see corrosion on the bone, we would know that his time is now to be crossed over. I also know that if bloody discharge begins to appear, that, is also time to cross him over. We discussed that there can be soft tissue findings on skull x-rays etc. and, both Vets continue to support that this is not really the best way to go for BHRR's Porridge.

We are going to proceed with treatment of quality of life and keep him on the Pred and put back on the Mirtazapine and, I explained to one of the Vets that I am not 100% convinced that giving him meds to 'make/force' him to drink and giving him meds to 'make/force' him to eat, so, that more time can be had with him is in his best interest.

I also said that when you have had this puppy when he was barely over 2 weeks of age, then having fought to save him and, his litter plus mom, and in the end, after a month of fighting with the courts to give me what I needed to get back into the home to get the mom/pups who were living outside(this litter was born March 30th) and, then finding out that all but 5 pups had died, plus mom had died and, then having to let go two of those surviving pups as they were in terrible shape, and, then fighting to save the remaining three pups(two had parvo – the females) plus discovering that the male(BHRR's Porridge) had MegaE – that, being objective is hard….yet, I have to think about not being selfish and, doing 'right' by him.

I am angry, I am devastated, I am upset beyond words, I am frustrated, I am at a loss, I am so beyond scared of losing him, I am so many things………yet, what I am not, is one to be selfish……….

To all that were here while I was away, he was fine up to Thursday March 13th and, then was not 'right' on the 14th yet, only had some mild wheezing sounds, and by, the time I came home on the 18th, he was really not well. Apparently, he was eating during those days, yet, not as of when I got home. Energy level was noted as going down and drinking level also, yet, nothing that anyone felt was of true deep concern from those that were staying here and, I trust them 100%……..whatever he has, is aggressive for, I have not yet been back one week, and, this dog is fading before my eyes and, time is running out fast as every test and exam and specialist possible has become involved in his case.

Yet, now we know and, now, with that knowledge of the 'knowing', does not come the 'peace' that we all talk about in the 'if only we knew what it was…it would be so much easier to handle.' Well, it is not easier…it makes me more mad and crushed and, scared and, frustrated. With each loss at BHRR(we have had two this year already in our Haven program), I feel a piece of me die………..I feel brought to my knees in such despair.

He needs his friends right now…he needs his fan club right now….and, I am hoping that he shall be here for our next walk/hike as THIS was one of his most fav things in the world to do and, I hope that some of his friends/fans will be there….we will most likely be poking slow at the end and, may leave early, yet, it is my deepest wish that he still be with me for that walk/hike. If he is not, that walk/hike shall be in his honour for that is the same day he will have celebrated his miraculous 6th Birthday.

Below is a photo taken at KAH tonight as we were bringing him out of sedation. Even under, there was one point that I became worried as his breathing really slowed down(more than I thought it should with the Dorm) and, it took three to four times as long getting him back up on his feet afterwards. I am also attaching some of his test results……none of which can help or save him at this time. 🙁

I would go $10,000 or more in debt to save any one of these incredible dogs, yet, when you cannot save them……….and, know that no amount of fundraising in the world could save them…………..it just rips you to bits……..

Please pray for my Papaya boy….dear sweet Porridge………I have not slept much since I arrived home as, you have found it difficult to rest yourself and, we shall pack all that we can into the remaining time we have left together…….

I do not like using the word 'hate' yet, I HATE this….

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

A file is set up at 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 ‘Porridge’. They will take Debit or Cash in person at 440 Hazeldean Road in Kanata, Ontario

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 Porridge Angels  $357.50* donated to date & Bills are close to $3,500+ and rising
*Before PayPal fees
Nairn
PVAR
PV Stittsville Nail Trim/Grind Event
Alex/Karen
Rachel

BHRR's Porridge, March 24th, 2014 – love how his ear flipped!
Biopsy Results
UA Results
Wellness Results

Wellness Results Continued – Realised that I cut off the left margin – will re-take a new picture to post
CardioPet proBNP Results

So much to update on this very special boy…..we are now almost 2:30 AM on Monday and, I still find myself sitting at this blog post and finding the right words to say…a struggle.

I have copies of his biopsy reports, UA, bloodwork etc. and, when I am at work later today, I will email the x-rays for posting.

Below are two photo’s from his afternoon at PV Stittsville…he is sitting on BHRR approved adopter/Volunteer Bre’s lap(also the MA at PV) and her lovely son, Bryson is also in the photo’s…

I want to thank everyone that came out and donated to help us with BHRR’s Porridge’s and BHRR’s Coach’s ever mounting Vet Bills. I am also attaching a video of BHRR’s Porridge so, people can get an idea of what his breathing sounds like – he is NOT sleeping NOR is he snoring in this video. You can see that he has his eyes open. I wish I took a video of him prior the the Pred(that he started on Friday) kicked in…..he is on 50 MG BID and today, he will go up to 75 mg BID per the Vet. That pred has literally been a lifesaver for him….

My focus is going to be on quality for him….I will NOT see him suffer. He had fairly good energy on Saturday, the Pred is making him drink(AND pee more) and from Thursday night to Saturday AM(he came to KAH with me on Saturday), he had put on almost 1.5 kg back, mostly water. The Vet marked in his file on Thursday night that he is anorexic. 🙁 At just over 160 pounds. 🙁 He has gone from 178 pounds now, down to barely over 160 pounds and now is back up to just over 163 pounds. AND, at 178 pounds, he was not fat. He is also very tall at just under 41″ at the whithers. BHRR does not like to see fat dogs. 😉 The mirtazapine is making him want to eat and that is good. As people witnessed on Saturday…due to his breathing difficulties, it takes him a long time, to even eat a treat.

His UA showed some spilling of protein yet, nothing too concerning. We will do a UA by cysto in a few weeks(if he is still with us) per the recommendation of the Vet who saw him on Saturday. He has a Vet team of three working on his case right now at KAH and not to mention how many specialists are involved! AND, a village that has been sending him notes and messages of such warmth and kindness! 🙂

On Thursday night, he did have two seizures…most likely stress related and the emerge Vet – Dr. Glenn – said that until we had more of his results back, he was reluctant to consider meds. Porridge has not had a seizure in years and, this was distressing to see him have these. His last seizure was because he was given HAG for sedation for his nails. His first sedation ever. NEVER had that combo given again and, he has not had a seizure since that time, years now.

I am going to post BHRR’s Porridge’s VIDEO HERE and the two photo’s on this blog and later today, will post copies of all of his testing to date. BHRR believes in full disclosure and so the posting of all of his test results etc., is one way for the public to know that:
1) this boy is really in need
2) that we are being proactive on his well being plus care
3) that these tests are really being done
4) that we are racking up the bills as we work so hard and as fast as we can to figure things out for this amazing dog
5) that we are committed for life to each and every dog that crosses our door and hearts
6) Quality of life over quantity is our focus

There are so many disreputable rescues out there, more opening up almost daily and, I want our members plus supporters to know that we are accountable to them as much as we are accountable to the dogs under our authority. 🙂 So many stories going around of late of groups that people once thought were ‘good’ yet, truly, never were……please, support only r/q groups and organizations out there…it is the animals at the end of the day that are going to suffer by those giving of themselves to those rescues that are not properly vetting animals  including spaying/neutering, are not taking the funds sent their way to help animals yet are putting the money to their own personal usage, that are taking dogs in and pumping them out, have exorbitant adoption fees, no thorough adoption process etc. AND, it is not just ‘small’ groups out there that can be disreputable.

I am sincerely hoping that some of his fans may consider his cause and, he shall be celebrating ( I HOPE!) his 6th year birthday this week….please think about making a donation to help him have a special birthday!!!!

Animals adopted out by BHRR are:

• Microchipped
• Fully vetted – altered, necessary bw inluding HWT, x-rays, necessary surgeries, utd on vaccines, dewormed, fecals
• Put on HW/Flea/Parasite Preventative – BHRR uses Sentinel year round
• Some obedience
• Behavourally assessed/evaluated
• Behavourally rehabbed – Founder has MA in Animal Behavour/Development and is working on PHd in the same discipline
• Medically rehabbed including with our team of other experts – hydrotherapy, chiro, acupunture and massage if needed
• BHRR remains a 24/7 resource for as long as you have one of our animals
• Adopted with a collar/leash
• XL Ziploc bag of dog food should home not have food already – We feed FROMM – Salmon, Whitefish plus Pork & Applesauce
• Adopted out with any ‘favourite’ toys the dog may have
• Adopted out with any Secret Santa or other ‘gifts’ given direct to them
• Copies of all Vet/Microchip information/records
• Full disclosure given
• Invitation to take a copy of photos on the dogs blog plus a copy of the blog itself
• Invitation to join our 200+ member strong GD & Honoray ‘GIANT AT HEART’ Walking/Hiking Group
• Home sent an emailed ‘information’ package re: Dog plus how to ensure a smooth and successful adoption transition
• Should home ever have need of emergency doggie care; BHRR will do so at BHRR at n/c during your time of need
  *Donation to BHRR in lieu of any fees charged by BHRR deeply appreciated – food to be provided by approved BHRR adoptive home

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

A file is set up at 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 ‘Porridge’. They will take Debit or Cash in person at 440 Hazeldean Road in Kanata, Ontario

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 Porridge Angels  $327.50* donated to date & Bills are close to $3,000+ and rising
*Before PayPal fees
Nairn
PVAR
PV Stittsville Nail Trim/Grind Event
Alex/Karen

March 22nd, 2014 @ PV Stittsville
*Per our home page, all blogs and photo’s are copyrighted and cannot be used legally without written permission*

UPDATE: I ended up bringing BHRR’s Porridge back into KAH today. 🙁 He had a terrible night. I was up to 6 AM with him and, it is breaking my  heart to see him like this.

His bloodwork is back, remarkably normal yet, his WBC is very low normal. His protein levels were low, probably as a result of being dehydrated. He did give me a urine sample and we will also now run a UA. Needless to say, his urine was extremely concentrated. 🙁 This is only his second pee since Tuesday. He has not eaten nor drank for me since I arrived home. 🙁 He is down another .6 of a kg in weight.

He had two other Vets thoroughly exam him and also they reviewed his x-rays from yesterday(I shall get a copy to post) and, we are all in agreement that this is most likely not his heart. We shall see what his heart blood tests results indicate – should be in by tomorrow.

His lungs and heart sounds good today. His resting resp was 22. He still does not have a temperature.

His biopsy results should hopefully be back tomorrow. I do not think I could bear having to wait until Monday. 🙁

I have to keep him ‘propped’ up so he can rest and for a dog that loves to sleep in his side, this is not the most comfortable for him.

The consensus at this time from the two Vets he saw today – THANK YOU for seeing me! – is that this is some very aggressive strange virus(not likely) OR an aggressive nasal tumor OR lymphoma. Both of the Vets indicated that a skull x-ray is not conclusive and really does not show up anything the best and we discussed MRI’s and CT scans. I was advised to just hold off for this moment and wait for all of his current test results to come in. I was advised to stop the Doxy that we just started as this is NOT an infection, and, that was not what any of us really thought, yet, we were all trying to be proactive.

We discussed Pred and then, was advised to wait until all of his results come back in.

So, he is now on Cerenia 1ml mixed with 9 ml of Saline solution for his nose – 1-2 drops BID and Mirtazapine to help stimulate his appetite for he has lost all interest in even trying to eat. 🙁 🙁 He did take some Pill pockets and a Benny Bully’s liver treat while we were at the Vet and, I came home with the rest of the bag of Pill Pockets YET, can you imagine HOW many bags he would have to eat!?!!

I am offering him food by hand. Both Vets noted his hard and slightly swollen lymph nodes and that he has flared nostrils and, a clear discharge from the right nostril more than the left. In using slides to see if he is putting condensation on the slides, nothing from the right nostril was noted. WHAT a trooper he was again today. We even discussed doing more chest x-rays yet, nothing right at this time, points to this being a heart or lung issue….hoping that his bloodwork for his heart comes back normal also.

The one thing I told the Vets is that I shall not see him suffer. Quality over Quantity. He clearly cannot breathe with his mouth closed and, is very labored in attempting to get the air in and out. All of us agree that this is most likely something upper body for him – ie, neck, skull, nasal etc.

His eyes are not dilated or uneven, he has not noticeable swollen area on the face or skull or any caving in…..

As everyone knows, I am not one to panic, and, I am very much concerned for this amazing miracle dog………..

The not knowing is so hard…the trying to cover every test and angel possible to try and find out what is going on, is also so hard. 🙁 🙁 I promised him, that I would not see him dragged out in suffering.

He really could use some helping hands…..and caring hearts to consider his cause…..we are almost $2,000 and counting….he is so worthy…he really is.

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

A file is set up at 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 ‘Porridge’. They will take Debit or Cash in person at 440 Hazeldean Road in Kanata, Ontario

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 Porridge Angels  $10.00* donated to date & Bills are close to $1,100 and rising
*Before PayPal fees
Nairn

GENTLE REMINDER & UPDATE – The March 22nd PV Stittsville Nail Trim & Grind Event(poster in previous blog post) from 10 AM – 5 PM will NOW also be used to also help BHRR’s Porridge – Rushed into KAH March 19th for when I returned from being out of the country, he was not well. He had dropped 3 KGs(6.6 pounds), had a nasal discharge, flared nostrils, no temp yet, belly breathing and could not breathe with his mouth closed, had not drank anything in over 24 hours, minimal eating, lethargic, swollen lymph nodes and, could not rest on his side(his fav resting spot).

PORRIDGE VET RESULTS TO DATE: Full exam done, lungs sounded ok, did a full blood work up including a heart blood test(awaiting results, we could not use Dormitor(if he did have a heart condition, this would be not in his best interest) to sedate for x-rays and the Torb barely took his anxiety edge off(we were not able to do his nails as he needs the Dorm also to sedate him) and, we could only get the right lat for x-rays yet, the heart on that side look almost completely normal. There was no noticeable bulge or significant enlargement yet, we had to take four shots to get his full chest and lungs just of the one side and the left side could not be completed at this time. We took biopsies of his lymph nodes, heart rate was elevated. The staff there noted how poor his energy level was from his norm ‘must maim with my happy tail and enthusiasm hyper harle happy boy ‘tude’ and while, he did eat some wet canned food, he had a hard time trying to eat anything dry and could only take one dry piece of T/D that was offered to him. The Vet has prescribed Doxy for him 4 tabs BID of the 100 mg IN case it may be infection related yet, he would not be presented ‘classically’ if that were the case. Yet, we are being proactive from all angles.

He went down hill so fast while I was away and, I thank all for monitoring him and I have trusted and do trust that those that were here, did keep his best interest at heart and, did not see fit to bring him in. I was completely ok for hi to go in for peace of mind and, I had been told that he was eating and drinking well and energy level was ok, no nasal discharge and lungs were clear(one person here is a nurse). In discussing him in more depth tonight with some of the wonderful souls that were here, it was noted that a weight loss had been seen, that drinking levels had gone down and energy level had changed. He was apparently fine and completely normal up to late last week and, I arrived home on Tuesday early afternoon. Whatever he has, it is aggressive….. 🙁

AND, in the 24+ hours that I have been home, his condition from there worsened further and, I jumped in bringing him in ASAP. Even called KAH to change his appointment to an earlier time slot.

Possible diagnosis at this time range from early heart to early lymphoma to early nasal tumor. Good case scenario, an infection of some sort.

He could really use some angels. He is a HUGE BHRR fav and, at the age of just shy of 6 years, he is a true miracle dog! He was not expected to live to see his first birthday and definitely, not expected to see age 2. If anyone may consider his cause, I would be so indebted! He will be at PV Stittsville on Saturday March 22nd, FROM 2:30 PM – 5:00 PM to thank anyone that may show up to make a donation in exchange for cuddles and kisses! 🙂 You will have to just ignore his own long nails as, they could not be done and, as he cannot be sedated often to get them done, they are long. 🙁 🙁 A product of his past terrible experience AND, the only dog in our BHRR history PLUS in my over 4 decades of owning dogs, that has ever required having to be sedated for nails.

Even with the Dorm tonight, when, one of the staff at KAH just barely brushed by his feet, he freaked out.

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

A file is set up at 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 ‘Porridge’. They will take Debit or Cash in person at 440 Hazeldean Road in Kanata, Ontario

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 Porridge Angels  $10.00* donated to date & Bills are close to $1,100 and rising
*Before PayPal fees
Nairn

BHRR’s Porridge, my PPSS & BHRR’s Hailey – flaked out! March 13th, 2014
*photo courtesy of S. Dowler

GREAT NEWS UPDATE: BHRR's Porridge's results are: NEGATIVE for Cancer!!! Yes!!! Yes!!!

BHRR's UPDATE: The decision was made to puncture biopsy that growth on the side of his muzzle. Send him positive thoughts that it is a papilloma or some such non threatening diagnosis. It has been sent off for pathology. It was changing so fast that this is the best decision!
He broke a toe nail right back and so, antibiotics for him and he had a mani/pedi plus a good ear cleaning today!
He looks cute with his blue sutures against his fawnequin hair.
His weight was 77 KGS(169.40 pounds) and he could still stand to gain a few more.
Always a big hit at KAH or wherever he goes!
The dog that was expected not to live a year has just turned 5!!
Please do pray for no bad results on that growth….

BHRR's Porridge – Biopsy surgery & the puncture biopsy tissue being sent off for pathology/histology – May 22nd, 2013

BHRR's Porridge is heading in with me as well for that growth we have been monitoring on his face has changed colour and size over the last few days….think good thoughts for him! The miracle dog he is!
 

BHRR"s Porridge weighed 73.20KGS(161.04 pounds) today at work.

I brought him in for his manicure/pedicure as he has a special date coming up on the 20th of January and he wanted to be uber groomed!

Will try to get photos to post!

He is one walking miracle!! 🙂

BHRR's Porridge's Traditional XMAS PhotoShoot is below!

BHRR's Porridge – December 24th, 2012

Here is a photo from the Ottawa Pet Expo today with Karla/Shawn of Global Pet Foods Kanata/Hintonburg who very generously donated the $3,500 prize of dog food WON on Friday November 9th, 2012 by our dear and wonderful friend Christy on the 93.9BOBfm contest with her stunning photo and then donated that prize to BHRR.

BHRR will assist other local r/q Rescue Groups in need with this amazing donation too.We hope that Christy may also partake in her amazing win! 🙂

THANK you Karla/Shawn, Christy & BOB FM! 🙂

Global Pet Foods Kanata/Hintonburg shall be donating one bag a month until the value of the food adds up to $3,500. HOW generous! 🙂

AND for all that ask how much does BHRR's Porridge weigh now – he was just shy of 160 pounds yesterday at the Vet. 🙂

Shawn, BHRR's Porridge with myself & Karla – November 11th, 2012

BHRR's Porridge had his annual(WHO would have thought that he would be a miracle dog this many years later! YAY!) on Saturday and he is doing fabu! 🙂

Him and that happy tail of his! 🙂

I had his weight written on a post-it and shall post it when I am back on my main computer. 🙂

He and BHRR's Hailey had a really great day with all of us on Saturday at KAH.

His HWT was negative.

I brought BHRR's Porridge in for nails today and some social time and his weight was 78.5 KGs(172.70 pounds). SOLID muscle boy he is! 😀

BHRR's Porridge weighed 72.4 KGs(159.28 pounds) today when I brought him in to sedate for nail trimming!

Honouring my 'promise!' 2 Pictures of BHRR's Porridge from February 2nd, 2011 – 'WINTER WONDERLAND DAY' @ BHRR!

BHRR's Porridge & BHRR's Hailey with BHRR's Windsor with BHRR's Porridge

Here is a photo of BHRR's Porridge from December 24th, 2010. You can see just how much of a 'big' boy he is in relation to the floor rug he is laying upon! This is a candid shot taken of him as we saw him laying there. He must also be thinking that it was getting close to Santa to come pay him a visit! The angle is not the best as we did not desire to disturb him. 🙂

BHRR's Porridge – December 24th, 2010

I brought BHRR's Porridge into work with me today and he weighed 71 KGs(156.2 pounds). We also did a HWT today for him.

BHRR's Porridge was one of three dogs that I brought to our last regular GD & Honourary GD Walk/Hike! We had at least 20 people plus all their wonderful canines! We can be as few as 6 at times and we have had as many as 40+ in attendance and our distribution list for these walks are now up to almost 100!!! For anyone wishing to join us; please email and we only take responsible dog owners and their dogs. In having held these walks for almost 15 years now; we have never had an incident and we are all very diligent, committed owners and there is always room for more. Nothing like seeing all of these Giants and 'honourary' giants out and about. We also regularly change up the locations so that we have different venues.  We have meet ups in areas such as Orleans, Ottawa, Kanata, Sittesville, Constance Bay, Carleton Place and even in the Kemptville area. We have another group that regularly meets up on the Brockville and Kingston areas too! Our next planned walk is on December 12th. 🙂

I am attaching a photo below of some of us that attended that day. Several had to leave early and so we are about half of the group that actually were in attendance that day. BHRR's Porridge was a huge hit as always and he was Mr. Friendly and Gentle as usual.  AND this walk provided an excellent opportunity to provide educational awareness re: what I call the 'pillars' or responsible/quality breeding of which dogs are bred for temperament, health, conformation and longevity. It also gave us the chance to talk about rescue in general plus some of the BHRR animals up for adoption, what BHRR does etc. AND the walk provided an excellent venue to train and socialise for/with my dogs! Our youngest dog was not yet 16 weeks – my Sir Maestro and the oldest was 19 years old – Jingles, the deaf beagle that belongs to a friend!

BHRR's Porridge is another 'walking' miracle for his lifespan was estimated to be around 18 months and he shall be celebrating 3 years of incredible living come the end of March! WOOHOO! YOU GO BHRR's Porridge. 🙂

Photo courtesy of C. Desjardins – Sunday November 14th, 2010

Before going to bed, I was looking over at BHRR’s Porridge and I was thinking….’hmmmm, you look taller…again….’ AND I took his measurement for no matter if it is almost 4 AM right now, I just had to know and Porridge now stands just under 41″. He is almost as tall as the tallest Dane I have ever had the pleasure of knowing and that was my RIP beloved Frost ‘T‘, at a very small smidge under 41″ at the whithers. Porridge was standing next to my Multi CH. BIG BLUE, who is hanging around 38″ himself and was thinking that BIG Blue looked almost short next to Porridge!!! AND one of the biggest things I wish to stress on this blog is that this is not NORMAL for a Great Dane and it is NOT good for their joints, backs etc. In almost 25 years of working and owning Giant Breeds; I have only met three this tall as in over 40″ at the whithers; my Frost ‘T‘, Porridge and a GD owned by a Volunteer of BHRR. That is a lot of Giant Breeds; thousands between all that BHRR does, has done and those that I have trained or being consulted on behavoural matters, showed and that we have owned. While I think that the ‘average’ for Great Dane height has increased over these many past years; to have a Dane that tall; not only are they at a high risk of joint and back issues, yet one loses rear angles which affects drive from the hind end and movement too.

I have added 2 new pictures to BHRR’s Porridges’ slideshow #6 & #7. One is from our 2nd Annual Microchip Fundraiser July 12th, 2009 and one is from December 24th, 2009 with Sean. I am also adding them below as I LOVE them both! I continue to struggle a bit with Porridge’s nail trimming since that one tech student really hurt him about a year ago and the last time I trimmed his nails, I was able to do the back ones all by myself yet had to mildly sedate him for the front ones. Last night, I attempted to do his nails and he was ‘having’ none of it, he was so panicked; so I will have to sedate him. Such a shame that what was done to him has caused him such distress and I have been handling his feet and putting the clippers out for the past year and the progress is slow with his rehab. We will get there yet I no longer open up BHRR to students at this time. That might change moving forward. We have our lives together to get him feeling safe again around nail trimmers. For those that have been asking our 3rd Annual Microchip/Nail Trim/BBQ Fundraiser will be on Sunday July 18th, 2010 at Kanata Animal Hospital! At this time, I am not sure who will be the 2 ambassadors representing BHRR, yet I believe that BHRR’s Ava Marie shall be one most likely and possibly BHRR’s Potter. We will know closer to the time who will be in attendance.

Hulk with BHRR’s Porridge & BHRR’s Mr. Parker Paws & CH. TAIN – July 12th, 2009 & Porridge with Sean – December 24th, 2009

BHRR Inc.’s Porridge came with myself and two wonderful BHRR Inc. Volunteers on February 2nd to Ashbury College as part of a Community Volunteer Fair Event we were asked to participate in. It was such a great time! This is the first one that we have been able to attend since the summer of 2006 when we did the Port Hope Pet Expo. We are hoping that we can take on more of these Human Education/Community Awareness Opportunities moving forward. Both BHRR Inc’s Porridge and BHRR’s Inc. Potter were very popular. We only brought 50 Volunteer Appications and we went through them all before the Event was over! BHRR Inc’s next Community Event is a Human Education/Community Awareness Speaking opportunity being held on Thursday February 25th at a W.O. Mitchell Public School in Kanata, Ontario. We are still looking for one BHRR Inc. Approved Volunteer to come join myself from 10:30 AM for about one hour; to assist with the animals that shall be joining us and perhaps if they feel comfortable; in answering any questions. Please email Gwen if you are interested and can help out!

Porridge had a really nice playdate and is now fast asleep! He weighed 65+ KGs(145 pounds) yet I continue to believe he is leaning a bit on the wall for at 40″ at the whithers, he should be looking a wee bit thin at that weight. On behalf of Porridge, a huge THANK you being sent out to the Volunteers who opened up their time and home to have him come for a visit. Other than a wee bit of a whine in their vehicle; he apparently, did fantastic and his leash manners were quite good. I have been working on getting him back on a flat buckle collar and he has been doing a little pulling here and there. WHAT a good boy Porridge! 😀 He loved playing with their GD puppy, so what a good time he had away from ‘Momma Gwennie’.

BHRR’s Porridge is doing well! He has not had another seizure and as tall as he is now; he is in another growth spurt! He is going on a playdate this upcoming Friday and I know that he will enjoy that. This will be his first time away from me with a playdate, so I will be curious to hear how it goes. He is a huge ‘Gwennie’ boy and I have been somewhat surprised on our GD Hikes just how close he wants to be to me. Mr. ‘Independent’ at home is NOT so independent outside the home. I am also going to post below a picture taken from our July 12th Microchip Chip/Nail Trim/BBQ Fundraiser. JUST a fantastic shot of him!

BHRR’s Porridge – July 12th, 2009 – BHRR’s Microchip/Nail Trim/BBQ Fundraiser
*Photo courtesy of T. Tarnoczy

I brought Porridge with me last night to work to have his nails done. Ever since the VT Student in the spring cut his one nail way back to where it comes from his toe; he; understandably has been very nervous about his feet and nail trimming. Part of what we do at BHRR is humane education and we often have groups of students out to learn how to properly groom, restrain, do nails, bath and take care of horses plus giant breed canines and unfortunately, Porridge was given a traumatic experience by a student that unsupervised cut his nail that bad. I have since brought Porridge in a couple of times, put him under a light sedation and have trimmed his nails. Last night we used a slightly different ‘cocktail’ for him as the last one we did in July(Hydro); just put him right on his tush for the whole day and made him quite ill to boot. It is not uncommon for some nausea and/or vomiting to occur on Hydro yet this just really set Porridge down for the count and in the sedation department; he was given quite the low dose. Everything went well and I took him home yet when I went to bring him into the bedroom approximately 45 minutes later to feed the dogs and to give Porridge about 1/3 of his own normal portion, Porridge began to not act nor look normal. After being in the bedroom for a very short period, I rushed him outside and the poor boy had terrible diarrhea and the drooling began. I then decided it was time for GasX plus Zantac for I did not like how he began to ‘crunch’ up on me. We then began to walk and keep him moving. I think Porridge and I must have down 15 laps down our extensive laneway and back and thank god, it was making a difference. In bringing him back inside, he was ‘ok’ for a bit and then began to drool again and nip at his sides; so in went more GasX etc. and I tubed him. The gas that came out of him was significant. Throughout all of this, I could palpate Porridge without much discomfort to him and his stomach did not swell once. I then took Porridge for some more walking and Sean slept with him in the main area so that he could be supervised one-on-one all night. Porridge kept wanting to come into the bedroom yet with how the ‘pack’ wanted to be with me for I had been away working all night; it was easier to do things this way. It was also a great ‘bonding’ moment for Porridge and Sean who have had their moments of ‘not’ quite seeing eye-to-eye since Porridge came to us as a mere 6.5 week pup. For me to attempt to determine a possible ‘trigger’ for Porridge’s ‘gas’ bloat is truly impossible to define. Yet, I am not so keen on signing on for the same ‘tranq’ cocktail we did last night for Porridge. I am going to converse more with the Vet when I am in today to see if any of the meds that we did give Porridge could possibly have had the side effect of ‘gas’ build-up. On the other hand, being sedated, slows down things as is and we were a bit more cautious over putting him under due to his recent seizure. So much to discuss with the Vet and the fantastic news is that while Porridge is a wee bit still under the weather this AM, he is almost back to normal. He had a good night with Sean, once he settled down and realised that it was ‘ok’ to be just with Dad and not with Mom too. For those that are very worried about bloat etc., the one thing to continue to bear in mind is that you can read all the ‘classic’ symptoms of bloat all you want; yet there are cases where they do bloat and the symptoms are not there as you might expect them to be. Just know your dog’s behavour and what is ‘norm’ for them and be vigiliant. We have had several Danes(Zane, KB/JB and now Porridge) that have ‘gas’ bloated on us over the years and it is key to begin treatment ASAP to get that gas out before other complications can arise. Porridge weighted 63.8 KGs(140.36 pounds) last night yet I believe he is more for he had a foot resting on that wall. 😉

I took a new height measurement on Porridge today and he is 39″. I am not sure if he shall surpass our beloved RIP Frost “T” who was just under 41″ and I hope not. Being overly tall is not a good thing and I hope that Porridge does not grow very much more in height. The good news is that he has not had another seizure at this time and everything crossed for him.

After talking to one of my Vets, we have decided to hold off on any Pheno/med treatment at this time. We do not wish to be jumpstarting on medication any sooner than we might have too. I shall bring in some bw though when I am back at the Hospital to see what/if anything might be possibly going on and Porridge, while a little more quiet than normal; has been doing fine.

I was just saying to myself as I went to bed in the wee hours of this AM that Porridge is now 18 months and doing quite well and sigh….I spoke too soon. At 5:40 AM today; he had a seizure. Did not last long yet it was ‘strong’ enough and 😥 . I will discuss with my Vets later this AM for I am bringing in Banzai within the next 1.5 hours for his own procedures. The poor thing. He was so scared plus disoriented afterwards and though he did not lose control of his bowels; post-seizure; he spent a few minutes just going around in circles and I had to take his collar and try to re-focus him. Then, just like Soul does, he blindly just wants to get outside yet that is not safe for him.

I took Porridge into work with me today to do his annual and to get some extra assistance with his nails as Sean is still laid up from being in the hospital with his back. Porrdige weighed 65.6 KGS(144.32) pounds and while he looks wonderful; especially for a MegaE dog; he is a wee bit on the thin side. I would like to see about another 10 pounds on him at this age/time. The Vet thinks he looks fantastic though! He received a great check up and I had his vaccines updated. We have a person here, who has just finished up her first year of the tech program and I asked if she wanted to practise drawing blood on Porridge and both did awesome! I had her draw blood from his back leg, front leg and jugular and I could not be more impressed with both of them! 🙂 He did have a bout of diarrhea outside from all of the excitement yet really enjoyed the company of everybody and all animals. When he was at the Hospital, he had that darn happy tail and now we have a tail tip injury….sigh….He gave it a good crack a couple of times on the walls coming into the hospital the wee goober! He was just so excited!

Porridge has his his annual scheduled for July 16th. I have been a bit worried about his weight this past while. He does not appear to have grown taller(should re-measure the small giraffe!) yet he has ‘thinned’ out a bit more than I would like. He is eating and drinking well and I know that he is finding it a bit rough in this heat; yet that is not unusual for all Danes. I would like to see him around 155 pounds right now and so we shall see what story the scale tells us. I know that Porridge is one dog that is very happy that we now have our A/C fixed! That was a long few days for him as we waiting for Atel Air to come in to look at it. 😛 I am not sure if Porridge shall be at our Microchip Fundraiser this year. He and Linus were our ambassadors last year and BHRR’s Mr. Parker Paws is coming and I am not quite sure who the other BHRR GD Ambassador shall be right now. I am thinking of our sweet Mazda.

I just realised that I do not have a picture of Porridge posted(yet many know him very well!) and below is one of him not all that long ago. As most know, I remain hesitant in posting too many pictures of him for obvious reasons. THIS is not a colour to be coveted by all. He continues to fare well. He stands just over 39″ to date and it is becoming more and more challenging to feed him as he has to be for he is so tall(my giraffe). Many a Volunteer has arrived at our home to find me standing on the side of my raised ensuite tub on my tiptoes(I am almost 5′ 8″); feeding Porridge as he needs to be fed straight up. What a sight and pair we must make! 😛 We still receive many inquiries on Porridge and he remains in our BHRR Haven Program due to his megaesophagus condition and just as with KB/JB; I would like to take the opportunity for humane and public awareness plus education(and just as with the osteosarcoma information; I shall add this under our “Health” Section under the tab of ‘Other Places To Visit” in our menu bar); to post information on this condition; so that people can better understand what it is it that Porridge lives with every day of his life. Just as a fact, most Breeders – even those that many would consider reputable/quality – will PUT down a MegaE dog.

I think I first need to explain the difference between ‘vomiting’ and ‘regurgitation’ of which the condition MegaE causes.

VOMITING VERSUS REGURGITATION

Most people do not realize that there is a difference between these two actions. Vomiting is an active process. There is gagging, heaving, and retching as the body actively expels stomach contents. Regurgitation is passive. For whatever reason, food is swallowed from the mouth but never really goes anywhere beyond that point. Food sits in the esophagus until it simply falls back out the mouth at some point. In the dog, megaesophagus is the most common cause of regurgitation.

The esophagus is the tube connecting the throat to the stomach. When food is perceived in the esophagus, a neurologic reflex causing sequential muscle contraction and relaxation leads to rapid transport of the food into the stomach, like an elevator going down. Other reflexes prevent breathing during this swallowing process to protect the lungs from aspiration.

When these reflexes are interrupted such as by disease in the esophageal tissue or nerve disease, the esophagus loses its ability to transport food. Instead the esophagus loses all tone and dilates. Also, the reflex protecting the lung is disrupted and aspiration pneumonia commonly follows.

CONGENTIAL MEGAESOPHAGUS

Most cases involve young puppies (Great Danes, Irish setters, Newfoundlands, German Shepherds, Shar pei, and Labrador retrievers are genetically predisposed). In these cases the condition is believed congenital though it often does not show up until the pup begins to try solid food. Congenital megaesophagus is believed to occur due to incomplete nerve development in the esophagus. The good news is that nerve development may improve as the pet matures. Prognosis is thus better for congenital megaesophagus than it is for megaesophagus acquired during adulthood with recovery rates of 20-46% reported in different studies. Most puppies are diagnosed by age 12 weeks though mild cases may not be clearly abnormal until closer to age one year.

ACQUIRED MEGAESOPHAGUS

In adult dogs, diseases including Cancer that cause nerve damage can lead to Megaesophagus. Myasthenia gravis is considered the most common cause of canine megaesophagus and is one of the first conditions to rule out. Myasthenia gravis is a condition whereby the nerve/muscle junction is destroyed. Signals from the nervous system sent to coordinate esophageal muscle contractions simply cannot be received by the muscle. Megaesophagus is one of its classical signs though general skeletal muscle weakness is frequently associated. This condition is treatable but special testing is needed to confirm it.

Scarring in the esophagus (as would occur after a foreign body episode or with damage to the esophagus from protracted vomiting) may be sufficient to interrupt neurologic transmissions or even narrow the esophagus so that food cannot pass through it. (Such a narrowing is called a “stricture.”) Technically, this is not a true megaesophagus as the muscles are working normally; there is simply an obstruction present. Special balloons can be inserted in the esophagus to dilate the narrowed area but some residual regurgitation is likely to persist. Tumors of the esophagus may have similar effects in that they, too, can cause obstruction.

Addison’s disease (hypoadrenocorticism) has also been associated with megaesophagus though this would be a rare cause. This condition represents a deficiency of cortisone production by the adrenal gland. This deficiency alters the metabolism of esophageal muscle. Diagnosis and treatment are not difficult

External obstruction of the esophagus could cause a similar syndrome by creating a blockage. A mass in the chest could pinch the esophagus closed.

A condition once rare in the U.S. is also worth mentioning and that is Dysautonomia. Dysautonomia patients have a 60% incidence of megaesphagus and usually affects dogs living in rural areas. The syndrome involves a total disruption of the entire autonomic nervous system leading to difficulty urinating, dilated pupils, flaccid colon (megacolon), flaccid anal tone, poor tear production and, of course, megaesophagus. Successful treatment is unlikely so it is helpful to recognize this constellation of signs from the beginning so that euthanasia can be considered.

Many of the above conditions are treatable and it is important to find a cause for megaesophagus if it is at all possible to do so. Despite all the diagnostic tests, unfortunately, the majoritiy of megaesophagus cases are “idiopathic” which means that no underlying cause can be found. The patient is usually age 5-12 years in age and a large or Giant breed dog and must be managed as they are. To minimize the effect of gravity on the food (and thus minimize regurgitation) one must train the dog to eat in an elevated position.This can be hard work. Treatment requires dedication and commitment and still may produce poor results. Be sure your veterinarian has answered all your questions about this condition.

Aspiration pneumonia is treated with fluids and antibiotics as is any other bacterial pneumonia, though these individuals may re-aspirate at any time and require treatment all over again. Hospitalization may be required. 

BHRR’s Porridge

I brought Porridge with me when I went out for a hike on Sunday and then again to the B&F event. He did great! He seems to be a bit of a ‘momma’s’ boy in public though…always wanting to keep that one eye on me! I weighed him at the hospital last night and he was 152.54 pounds at 11 months of age. I will have to take a new height on him yet he is now taller than Bronson; who is 38″ and I believe he is about 39″. My little ‘giraffe’ is most certainly holding up to his end on that ‘tall’ prophecy!!!! So many just fall in love with Porridge yet I wish it was not his ‘colouring’ that drew them most to him and his personality instead. Yes, reputable/quality Breeders produce the porcelains and fawnequins too; yet those are not all that common and come with the added benefits of having a mentor; the animal being bred for correct temperament, health, longevity plus conformation to give an owner the best possible chance of having that sweet and healthy GD for a long time to come.

I measured Porridge tonight after doing his manicure and pedicure and he is now 35″ at the whithers at almost 8.5 months of age. He is growing just as I felt he would; very tall! He is in a total ‘goober’ idiot stage right now and having Dana in her own training phase most certainly has made for interesting times here! 😛

Porridge has recovered well from his neuter and is just getting taller every day. I always knew that he would be tall and he is most certainly fulfulling that prophecy! LOL He is now in full swing into the first ‘idiot’ stage as I call it and the sweet ‘Papaya Boy’ has turned into the selective hearing, devil child at times! 😛 At last measurement he was 34″ and I know he is taller now and counters have become a great new source of exploratory discovery of delights! What a ham! When he was neutered he was just over 103 pounds and I really would like to get a new weight on him. He and our new ‘little blue’ Tain(14 weeks today) are the best of chums and where one is found to be chomping on a shoe the other can be found chomping on another shoe right beside him. Porridge will even bring a shoe for Tain and go back for another one for himself and then plunk himself down to chew right beside him. Incredible! LOL Major NILIF going on in this house that is for sure! Gwennie’s Doggie Boot Camp is in full force with these two. Surprisingly enough, Lil Linus who is not much older; has been a ‘model’ citizen in his own ‘idiot’ phase; in comparison. AREN’T puppies fun!!!! 😉

Porridge was neutered today and I shall be heading out within the next hour or so to get him. The Vet called to say that he had ‘liquid’ diarrhea and his last fecal tested was normal yet he continues to be soft to diarrhea with his stools. Poor thing. It has been a very busy week with an ear cropping, Bronson’s annual, Porridge’s neuter and I have two more to go in within the week for a closer look at Guinness’s leg and Maggi’s distal cyst. I have more pictures to upload yet they will have to wait another day or so. We are also drawing near to our last Fundraiser of 2008 and things are getting very busy and exciting as we head into the home stretch!

Porridge’s latest bw came back today and I am almost weak over relief and joy that it was normal! YAY! Porridge will be neutered on the 8th of October and I will do another repeat of the bw in about 3 months to just monitor things. TALK about getting GOOD news!!!!! 😎

I took Porridge with me to work last night to hang out and he weighed 41.2 KGS(90.64 pounds).

Porridge’s fecal came back negative. He has been de-wormed yet again and we will repeat the bw on October 1st(I had to change it from the 30th). I am also thinking that he might have something now going on with his skin for it is super sensitive and the last Dane that was like this; BHRR’s LT; was treated for scabies. We will do a skin scraping if needed and treat accordingly. If his bw comes back normal this time, we shall do his neuter on October 8th.

Porridge’s pre-surgery bw came back with ‘hepatic insufficiency’ results. It also showed that he was anemic. From talking in more depth with one of the Vet’s; I will bring in yet another fecal sample(his last one was in June and was ‘clear’), de-worm him again and repeat the bw in one month’s time. Should we still obtain abnormal results; we will do a full liver panel on Porridge before moving forward on a possible neuter. If Porridge was a a poor eater, we could understand some of these results a bit better yet he would eat to the cows came home if allowed. Poor little guy. From Mega to this.

It is time to add Porridge’s page. He is one of 9 pups born to a byber and I first was called in to assess/help with this litter/mom/home when the litter was 2 weeks old. I made the almost 4 hour drive to evaluate them and imagine my despair when I found the litter outside(they were born at the end of March). The litter already showed signs of sickness including the mom and I spent quite a few hours trying to work with the owner and to provide food/blankets/supplies and strongly urged the owner to take them to the Vet. As we had no ‘legal’ authority to seize the littler/mom; there was only so much I could do. I left later that day with a very ‘sick’ feeling in my stomach over what would be the fate of all of these animals. It took one month of dedication to be able to get back to this place to have the right to take the animals and by then, the mom and three of the puppies had died. 😥 The day I arrived; the litter now just over 6 weeks; had another pup dead in the outside pen. We had to humanely let two more of the pups go as they were just skin and bones plus so sick/weak, now leaving only three pups out of 10 Great Danes when I was first there a month previously. The owner was feeding the puppies combined; only a total of 1/4 cup of food, two or three times a day(she could not remember how often she fed them.). The Vet that came with me that day, Dr. Armstrong is to be deeply credited for us saving two of the remaining pups, who at the time were given a survival prognosis of about 60%. Now, named Fiona and Tinka; they shall be adopted by Dr. Armstrong later next month after they are spayed and microchipped. I took the remaining pup home with me in the hopes that we would be able to successfully rehabilitate/adopt him. He, now named Porridge by my son; was treated for Coccidia and sadly, we have learnt that he also has Mega. This past week has been a very tough week for him with his Mega and he is now being treated for aspiration pneumonia. He shall not be up for adoption and shall remain as part of our Haven Dog Program for what shall remain of his life.