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Barnyard Buddies:  Toby my dog -10-16-13 Has crossed over.  |
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wooliespinner
True Blue Farmgirl
1311 Posts
Linda
Manchester
Ohio
1311 Posts |
 Posted - May 13 2013 : 06:13:01 AM
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Today Toby crossed over with the help of our local vet. The past couple of days the tumors had taken their toll and his quality of life went down hill Monay night.Tuesday night he was starting to have more pain so I gave him a pain shot and he was able to sleep most of the night. So I put a call into the vet and he was able to come to the house early this morning and put Toby to sleep in the security of his home and in my husband and my arms.
Toby was only a little over 8 years old. I can't believe its over and he is no longer going to take walks with Darla and I and be a part of our life. I am so heartbroken I don't know how I can get past losing another pet. I know I will but right now it seems impossible. I was so blessed to have such a wonderful buddy and friend like him. Rest in peace my sweetie you will be so missed.
Thanks everyone who has emailed me asking how Toby has been doing and to all you ladies for your wonderful replies. You are all blessing and treasures.
Linda
8-29-30 update on Toby.
Toby had his 2nd surgery 5 weeks ago today. 14 days later he already had 2 turmors back. This time they came back faster then the first surgery and are already as big as a chicken egg. We took him Tuesday of this week to a different specialist to see what our options were for Toby, this vet came highly recommended.We had hope for maybe being able to get rid of this cancer. Now we are being told this is not a slow cancer....I think we figured that out on our own.
He was a super nice vet and was very straight with us and explained everything in detail to us.
The vet said he could do a 3rd surgery that was super radical. Remove his front leg, shoulder and the side of his neck and down his side...at this point I was already crying and falling apart. Then they would remove the skin and muscle too. They would take skin from the other side and try to cover the areas removed. Then do 1 month of radiation which he would have to stay 5 days each week. The vet said if they do all this it might buy him 6 months. Since his other leg is already compromised from injuries he had when we rescued him it would not support his weight....Toby is a rather large dog. He also may never heal or recover right from this surgery.The vet said he was willing to do this if we wanted him too.
Well after hearing all that we decided Toby was done with anymore surgeries, chemo and the fear of going to another vet. Tuesday was a very brutal and emotional day for us all.We want Toby to enjoy and have some quality time with the time he has left....not spending the time he has left in pain and suffering.This decision has been one of the toughest to make. I hope we made the right one for Toby.
My husband and I have decided to continue to love Toby each and everyday that we have left with him. We will make sure he gets his daily runs and walks through the woods on our farm with his buddy Darla, eats his daily goodies and love and treasure each day that we have left with him. They are giving us maybe 2 months for him but we will see. One day at a time thats all we can do.
Its very hard to even write about this but wanted to let everyone know what was going on. Toby has been a true friend and treasure in our life.When you look in his eyes there is a wonderful soul that I have had the pleasure to know.We have been blessed by being able to have him as our pet.
Wanted to thank everyone for their prayers, support past and future. Each one is greatly appreciated and wanted you all to know that.
Linda
My dog Toby is having a very large tumor removed this morning it has grown to almost dinner size plate in 3 weeks.I have never seen something grow so fast. They had done biopsy and saw mast cells and fat so not sure what they will find when they get in there.
He is a dog we rescued almost 8 years ago. We found him under a bridge busted up and he required 4 surgeries so he could walk again and they were able to save his front leg. He limps slightly but has been doing good since that time. He only weighed about 15 pounds and was around 5 months old when we found him. He was a very skinny dog and almost didn't make it.He now weighs 115 lbs so he has grown since then.
I can't tell you how much I love this dog with every part of my soul. He is part of my family and I am hoping with this surgery he can be with for a few more years.He's truly a wonderful dog  I can't say enough about him. He is what the vets think is a coon hound shepard cross.
Please say a prayer for him today that there is no cancer and that he makes it through the surgery today.This tumor is on top of his shoulder and wraps around the side of his neck. It will be a touchy surgery. I pray that God guides the surgons hands carefully.
Thanks so much.
Linda
Update 5-17-13
One of the vets called today from All Creatures animal hospital with the biopsy results. The vet who did the surgery for Toby is out of town so it was another vet. Unfortunately Toby has cancer... its called a Spindle Cell Sarcoma. The vet that I talked to has no experience with cancer she was just reading me the results. I have to wait for Dr. Meiken to call Monday and tell me how aggressive this cancer is and what our next step for Toby is. So thats all I know at this point so all I can do is wait, love Toby and Pray lots of praying.
I am so upset I can't hardly breath.I have been crying and can't hardly contain myself. I feel so bad for him.I wish I knew more about this cancer. I feel like I am hanging on a thread. I have been waiting all week for the results and then don't even get a complete report. Thanks so much for listening and letting me vent. You ladies are wonderful and I appreciate all the support and prayers.Once again thanks so much.
Tomorrow we go in to have his drains removed. Hopefully that will give him a little more relief to have those taken out.
Well Toby's staples are out as of today and he is so glad.Toby and Darla had another fine run through the woods today.
I talked to the vets office who knows how to treat cancer. We will be taking Toby for his first visit next friday. We are going to get a scan and see if its anywhere else. If its not then we will proceed with treatments. If its spread to the rest of his body then we will just enjoy him and love him for the time he has left. We are hoping its not and they can extend Toby's time here hopefully many years. Just have to wait and see. I will not put him through something horrific if its not in his best interest.The vet tech I talked to today says they do chemo in pill form and it does make the dog sick like people who get chemo. I guess I will know more when I get to talk to her personally. Its gonna be another long week of waiting. But I feel we are moving forward in a positive way.Anyway will update again after next friday. I just keep praying and hoping.
6-1-13-We took Toby to the vet this past Friday. She did a scan and did not see anything anywhere else at the moment.Total sigh of relief for the moment. We started him on a drug called called Proxicam.Its suppose to keep imflamation down and really stimulate the immune system. If he tollerates that okay we will be starting a second drug called Leukeran. Its very expensive in the U.S. to buy since only one drug company makes it. She had me set up a account with a drug company called Big Mountain Drug in Canada. They are alot cheaper but still not cheap enough but way better. We will start him on this about 7 to 10 days after the other. Again if he tolerates it. This drug is suppose to stop the division of cancer cells.Of course will be watching the site where the cancer was and pray it doesn't grow back and if it does hopefully it will be super slow. So here's to hoping and seeing what happens.
Toby right now feels pretty good and acts pretty good. He just hates going to the vet especially 1 1/2 hours away. Once again we bought him a plain hamburger after his vet visit. I think this time he was expecting it. He's such a good boy.Anyway if all goes well we will go back in 3 months for a checkup and bloodwork to see how his body is handling everything. Guess thats it for now. Thanks eveyone for your support and prayers. I really appreciate each and every one.
Linda
6-20-13 Toby has now been taking both of the chemo meds for several weeks. One was started and then a 10 days later we added the second. So far so good as far as we can tell.He goes back in Aug. for bloodwork and checkup.
He is back to eating more normal and the swelling and redness is all gone where he had surgery. Its nice and smooth and looks really good.He actually has been acting more frisky the past 2 weeks. But the vet said the one pill he was on was suppose to help with pain,appetite and his immune system. I am glad he is doing so well for now. One day at a time...thats all we have. Anyway just wanted to let everyone know how he was doing and thanks for all the prayers and support for Toby.
We are off for our daily romp in the woods. Darla and Toby are hounding me as I type. Those 2 dogs make me smile everyday.
update: 7-19-13
Toby had surgery on May 13th and 2 week ago we noticed a few pea sized nodules. Hubby thought it was scar tissue. I had a sinking feeling it was not.
After only a few days I could see it grow. We had our local vet out for a farm call and he said I think his cancer is back. So I called the specialist who we were refered to for the aftercare and we opted to try one more surgery.She thought we should have it done right away.We were not ready to throw in the towel yet.So we scheduled a second surgery with the other vet who does the surgery. The Oncolgist is only a consultant she does not do the surgeries.
I feel so guilty putting his through the surgery again. He was acting okay but you could see the tumor growing like a weed. I ask the oncologiest "I thought this was suppose to be a slow growing tumor" and never got a straight answer or explaination. I would hate to see what a fast one would do.So I don't know what to think at this time with the info we were given.I am kinda lost at what else to do besides the surgery and good food and care.
The vet that did the surgery said he worked as hard as he could and did the best he could to get clean margins this time. It had already fingered into the layers of his shoulder and chest muscles. I told him thats all you can do is your best and thats good enough for us.
His incision is 15 inches long this time. I felt sick when I saw that long zipper running from the top of his shoulder down the side.
Got him on pain meds right away and have been doing some light massage therapy on him. He is doing pretty good considering. I love this dog of mines spirit. I have cried many tears for him and know I will cry more for him in the future.
I wonder if there is any kind of holistic approach I can do for him to help him fight cancer?I am not very informed in this area and have spent many hours today trying to figure something out.
If anyone has any suggestions at all or any info. I am all ears and would love to hear your thoughts or things to try.
So we are praying maybe we will not see it come back so fast this time.I am at a lost at what else to do. If it does come back we will have to accept this. Its all in Gods hands now. Thanks for listening.
Linda
Raspberry Run Farm
Nubian Dairy Goats |
Edited by - wooliespinner on Oct 16 2013 08:05:33 AM |
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texdane
Farmgirl Legend Chapter Leader Chapter Guru
4658 Posts
Nicole
Sandy Hook
CT
USA
4658 Posts |
Posted - May 13 2013 : 06:25:59 AM
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Linda,
He looks a lot like my fur baby. How lucky he is to have found you after his ordeal. I'm sure he knows how loved he is. I'll keep him and your family in my prayers. Hugs to you. Keep us posted on your sweet boy.
Nicole
Farmgirl Sister #1155
KNITTER, JAM-MAKER AND MOM EXTRAORDINAIRE
Chapter Leader, Connecticut Simpler Life Sisters
Farmgirl of the Month, January 2013
Suburban Farmgirl Blogger
http://sfgblog.maryjanesfarm.org/ |
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Fiddlehead Farm
True Blue Farmgirl
4562 Posts
Diane
Waupaca
WI
USA
4562 Posts |
Posted - May 13 2013 : 06:37:46 AM
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Linda,
Praying for Toby and you. Hopefully they can remove the tumor. My English Bulldog Tank had one removed before last Christmas and it was not cancerous. Bless you for rescuing Toby, he is beautiful.
http://studiodiphotosite.shutterfly.com/
farmgirl sister #922
I am trying to be the person my dogs think I am.
I get up every morning determined to both change the world and have one hell of a good time. Sometimes this makes planning my day difficult.
- E. B. White |
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marlee
True Blue Farmgirl
1650 Posts
Marlene
DeRidder
Louisiana
1650 Posts |
Posted - May 13 2013 : 3:16:12 PM
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I have Toby in my prayers. He knows he is loved , look at that smile.
Hugs Marlee
God is the painter, he paints the picture. And his son builds it, for he is the Master Carpenter!
Silly Boys Trucks Are For Girls |
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wooliespinner
True Blue Farmgirl
1311 Posts
Linda
Manchester
Ohio
1311 Posts |
Posted - May 13 2013 : 3:34:34 PM
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Toby made it through the surgery today thats one hurdle he has made it over. It took them several hours to remove the growth. The vet said it looks suspicious and sent it off to find out what it is.He said fatty tumors usually peel off but this was hard to remove. I was hoping it was a fatty tumor but now I have a sick feeling in my heart. I will have to wait until friday until pathology does there test and calls with a report so I know where we go from there.They put several drains in the incision site so it can drain. We have to go back and have those removed and later on the stitches. I have never had a dog go through surgery before and have drains put in. This is kinda scary.I hope they do there job and he doesn't pull them out.I am a nervous wreck and wish I could calm my nerves.We have pain meds. and antibiotics to give him too. Keeping my fingers crossed.
All I can do now is wait...and love on Toby while he recovers and try to be brave for him. Its going to be a very long week for sure. Thanks for your prayers and good thoughts they are so appreciated.
Linda
Raspberry Run Farm
Nubian Dairy Goats |
Edited by - wooliespinner on May 13 2013 3:50:48 PM |
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FebruaryViolet
True Blue Farmgirl
4810 Posts
Jonni
Elsmere
Kentucky
USA
4810 Posts |
Posted - May 13 2013 : 4:00:46 PM
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I'm so glad Tobie made it through with flying colors. I know how much you, of all people, Linda, love your pets. I just saw this (wasn't online at work today) and I hope you are all safe and sound at home. I remember when Finn was so ill 2 years ago, I didn't know what to do with myself.
"Hey, I've got nothing to do today but smile..."
The Only Living Boy in New York, Paul Simon |
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kristin sherrill
True Blue Farmgirl
11303 Posts
kristin
chickamauga
ga
USA
11303 Posts |
Posted - May 13 2013 : 5:46:11 PM
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Linda, I'm so glad he made it through surgery. Is he home now? I'll be thinking of you and Toby.
Kris
The good beekeeper is generally more or less cranky. C.P. Dadant
www.kris-outbackfarm.blogspot.com
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nubidane
True Blue Farmgirl
2875 Posts
Lisa
Georgetown
OH
2875 Posts |
Posted - May 13 2013 : 6:18:39 PM
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I have had the pleasure of meeting Toby many times, & he is such a sweet boy, always nuzzling for a rub or kiss.
Linda, my dear friend, I hope you get the best of news, & I know, no matter what, Toby will be surrounded by love & care from the best.
Kiss his sweet snoot for me.
"We must reject the idea that every time a law’s broken, society is guilty rather than the lawbreaker. It is time to restore the American precept that each individual is accountable for his actions.” – R.R. |
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wooliespinner
True Blue Farmgirl
1311 Posts
Linda
Manchester
Ohio
1311 Posts |
Posted - May 13 2013 : 6:44:05 PM
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Yes he is home. He is on a very thick comfy bed and we have a fire in the woodstove so he is warm. They have 4 drains sticking out of him. Its really disturbing to look at. We had to carry him in the house which was no small feat considering how much he weighs. He could not walk so he has been out of it since we put him on his bed. I dribbled a little water in his mouth and he swallowed it. I know his mouth is super dry. I didn't put in but 2 spoon fulls. I don't want to make him sick. I cried when I seen the incision and his face. I feel so bad for him.
We'll take it one day at a time......thats all we can do for now. Thanks everyone and Lisa I just kissed his snout and told him it was from you.
Linda
Raspberry Run Farm
Nubian Dairy Goats |
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crittergranny
True Blue Farmgirl
1096 Posts
Laura
Lindrith
NM
USA
1096 Posts |
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wooliespinner
True Blue Farmgirl
1311 Posts
Linda
Manchester
Ohio
1311 Posts |
Posted - May 14 2013 : 05:37:31 AM
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Last night Toby drank a little more water. We helped him outside but he would not potty he just wined and wanted to come back in on his bed. So put him back on his bed and he ate a little potroast and a little more water then I gave him his first pain pill. This morning he finally went outside and went potty. I think I was more relieved than he was. He drank about half a cup of water. I can tell he is in bad pain. I hope these meds. knock it back enough for him. If not I am asking the vet for something stronger.
Thanks so much Laura.
I only offered him a little when he first got home because he was really nausiated. He kept drooling. He was really out of it like he was in a coma or something. They did his surgery last because they knew it would be a long one. So around midnight I could tell he was starting to come around and wake up.
I can't believe how much fluid has drained from the drains. I am going to change his bed and put clean towels and blankets down on his bed.I hope it didn't soak through to his dog bed. If it did I have a backup bed in the basement.
Well all the animals are fed and tended to this morning so now its my turn to eat. Take care everyone.
Linda
Raspberry Run Farm
Nubian Dairy Goats |
Edited by - wooliespinner on May 14 2013 05:41:02 AM |
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Cindy Lou
True Blue Farmgirl
2325 Posts
Susan
Lonsdale
MN
USA
2325 Posts |
Posted - May 14 2013 : 06:56:35 AM
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It sounds like Toby in on the mend. I'm praying that the tests come back with good news. He is such a loved family friend, you have done so much for him in the past and now. and I am sure he has more than repaid it in companionship and love.
Susan
"Tell me, what is it you plan to do with your one wild and precious life?"
Mary Oliver |
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FieldsofThyme
Farmgirl Guide & Schoolmarm / Chapter Leader
4928 Posts
USA
4928 Posts |
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FARMALLChick
True Blue Farmgirl
978 Posts
Lora
Alexandria
IN
USA
978 Posts |
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prariehawk
True Blue Farmgirl
2914 Posts
Cindy
2914 Posts |
Posted - May 14 2013 : 7:39:28 PM
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Praying for Toby. Sometimes it takes a day or two to recover from the anesthesia. He looks sorta like my new dog--Jaxon, a Plotthound-shepherd mix.
Cindy
"Vast floods can't quench love, no matter what love did/ Rivers can't drown love, no matter where love's hid"--Sinead O'Connor
"In many ways, you don't just live in the country, it lives inside you"--Ellen Eilers
Visit my blog at http://www.farmerinthebelle.blogspot.com/ |
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kysheeplady
True Blue Farmgirl
1291 Posts
Teri
KY
USA
1291 Posts |
Posted - May 17 2013 : 07:27:22 AM
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Linda,
I am so so sorry to hear about Toby, I will be praying for the both of you.
I know it must be so hard for you both, him in pain and you not knowing.
I am hoping that they will be able to treat with chemo.
Is he doing a little better today? Just keep on lovin' him ...
Teri
"There are black sheep in every flock"
http://whitesheepfarm.wordpress.com/ |
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FebruaryViolet
True Blue Farmgirl
4810 Posts
Jonni
Elsmere
Kentucky
USA
4810 Posts |
Posted - May 17 2013 : 08:43:10 AM
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I am sorry to hear the results, Linda...but, you'll know what the best course of action is for him. When your regualar vet comes back, they'll be able to give you the best idea. And, you know, it never hurts to seek other avenues, including holisitic treatments. It might not extend his life much more, but it might help keep him comfortable and pain free.
I know you're upset, I would be as well. But wait on the doc to give you all your options.
Thinking of you and dear Toby.
"Hey, I've got nothing to do today but smile..."
The Only Living Boy in New York, Paul Simon |
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sherrye
True Blue Farmgirl
3775 Posts
sherry
bend in the high desert
oregon
USA
3775 Posts |
Posted - May 17 2013 : 1:25:03 PM
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oh linda, my heart aches for you. the waiting is the hardest i think. to not get the whole story after waiting on results must be so frustrating. you will be in my prayers. i will carry you in my heart today. sending love hugs and a prayer, sherrye
the learn as we go silk purse farm
farm girl #1014
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nubidane
True Blue Farmgirl
2875 Posts
Lisa
Georgetown
OH
2875 Posts |
Posted - May 17 2013 : 3:51:27 PM
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Oh Darn it Linda; I had a good feeling about him. Maybe it is not aggressive. Also, I would still recommend a consult with the internists in Milford. I love that gal. Dr Cheryl Harris
Here is a link to some reviews. She is wonderful.
http://www.superpages.com/bp/Milford-OH/Veterinary-Oncology-Referral-Cheryl-Harris-DVM-L2078719737.htm?&rwtab=1#BPreviewContainer
I took Willow to her & she nailed the problem in 5 minutes that Dr Biddle & his staff couldn't figure out in 3 days.
I also had her run some heart tests on my big boy Nixon. Just loved her. If she was a regular vet I would drive the hr plus to see her.
"We must reject the idea that every time a law’s broken, society is guilty rather than the lawbreaker. It is time to restore the American precept that each individual is accountable for his actions.” – R.R. |
Edited by - nubidane on May 17 2013 3:58:28 PM |
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kristin sherrill
True Blue Farmgirl
11303 Posts
kristin
chickamauga
ga
USA
11303 Posts |
Posted - May 17 2013 : 7:13:21 PM
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Linda, I'm so sorry. I know your heart is breaking right now. I hope you get some answers soon.
Hugs, Kris
The good beekeeper is generally more or less cranky. C.P. Dadant
www.kris-outbackfarm.blogspot.com
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wooliespinner
True Blue Farmgirl
1311 Posts
Linda
Manchester
Ohio
1311 Posts |
Posted - May 18 2013 : 11:00:56 AM
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Well we went to the vet today to get Toby's drains taken out. He was really a good boy while they did it. She said everything looked good as far as the incision goes.We stopped and got him a plain cheeseburger on the way home. He really enjoy that. Not his usual fair but he earned it.
So he goes back next Saturday to have all the staples out. He is doing well considering. I took Toby and his best buddy Darla on the trails today on our property. He chased a few squirrels and seem to have alot of fun. I could tell because he was smiling. We did this before the 1 hr 10 min drive to the vet... its a far drive but he is the closest specialist at this point.
So I am waiting for Monday to come to consult with the vet and see what the next step is if there is one. So thats all I know for now. Thanks for all the prayers and support. Will keep you all posted.
Linda
Raspberry Run Farm
Nubian Dairy Goats |
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doggiegirl
Farmgirl at Heart
9 Posts
Laura
Blue Creek
Ohio
USA
9 Posts |
Posted - May 18 2013 : 4:25:23 PM
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| to everyone who knows or knows of my dear friend Linda... she is a very kind person I moved here from Cinti.. knew noone.. people out here looked at my husband and myself as intruders from another planet... not Linda. She befriended me as if she knew me all her life...she is kind hearted that is true.. gives the utmost care to any animal coming to her farm and nurses those that are injured... I have seen her in action.. she is compasionate and caring.. she loves Toby so much... I hope he is with her a long time... laura |
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texdane
Farmgirl Legend Chapter Leader Chapter Guru
4658 Posts
Nicole
Sandy Hook
CT
USA
4658 Posts |
Posted - May 20 2013 : 06:01:29 AM
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I am so sorry to hear this, Linda. Laura, what a sweet post. Glad to hear she has a friend like you nearby to lean on during this time. Hopefully little Toby can be treated and be with her a long time. I love my furbaby like that, and my heart goes out to you, Linda. Keep us posted. You and Toby are in our prayers.
Nicole
Farmgirl Sister #1155
KNITTER, JAM-MAKER AND MOM EXTRAORDINAIRE
Chapter Leader, Connecticut Simpler Life Sisters
Farmgirl of the Month, January 2013
Suburban Farmgirl Blogger
http://sfgblog.maryjanesfarm.org/ |
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wooliespinner
True Blue Farmgirl
1311 Posts
Linda
Manchester
Ohio
1311 Posts |
Posted - May 20 2013 : 09:36:22 AM
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Thanks everone for the encouragement and kind words.
Laura your making me blush  and thanks for your kind words. Still waiting for the vet that did the surgery to call me. If he doesn't call me today I will be calling them tomorrow. I am tired of this waiting.
Lisa if I do not get any good direction with my vet I will give them a call. Thanks.
Linda
Raspberry Run Farm
Nubian Dairy Goats |
Edited by - wooliespinner on May 20 2013 09:37:12 AM |
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texdane
Farmgirl Legend Chapter Leader Chapter Guru
4658 Posts
Nicole
Sandy Hook
CT
USA
4658 Posts |
Posted - May 22 2013 : 05:44:02 AM
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Checking in to see if you heard anything. Thinking about you and Toby. Hang in there!
Hugs,
Nicole
Farmgirl Sister #1155
KNITTER, JAM-MAKER AND MOM EXTRAORDINAIRE
Chapter Leader, Connecticut Simpler Life Sisters
Farmgirl of the Month, January 2013
Suburban Farmgirl Blogger
http://sfgblog.maryjanesfarm.org/ |
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kristin sherrill
True Blue Farmgirl
11303 Posts
kristin
chickamauga
ga
USA
11303 Posts |
Posted - May 22 2013 : 06:13:01 AM
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Laura, I know from just talking to Linda on the phone that she's the most sincere compassionate animal lover in the world. She goes above and beyond in the care of her animals. I know Toby is being loved and spoiled right now by her. She's an amazing person for sure.
Linda, I hope you and Toby are doinf well today. Sending prayers and hugs your way!
Kris
The good beekeeper is generally more or less cranky. C.P. Dadant
www.kris-outbackfarm.blogspot.com
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Barnyard Buddies: Toby my dog -10-16-13 Has crossed over. |
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Toby my dog -10-16-13 Has crossed over.
