re:bone cancer post
As you know, Moses, nine years young, has bone cancer; he is gloriously happy and completely mobile ten months post amputation and seven months post chemotherapy. Xrays thus far, done every three or four months, show that he is in remission, thank God. Ascertain that your dogs' doctors have checked the lungs for possible spread. Moses' bone cancer revealed itself as a suspicious shadow, discovered during Xrays for arthritis, on his left femur. A bone biopsy revealed osteosarcoma. With this cancer, which is aggressive and painful, time if of the essence; action must be taken quickly. Treatment can be very successful with some dogs still alive and doing well two or so years later. Amputation removes the primary tumor. Chemo. removes the microscopic spread, usually present at the time of diagnosis, of the cancer. Moses is quite comfortable and his quality of life is excellent. Lisa Allen _ Get MSN 8 and enjoy automatic e-mail virus protection. http://join.msn.com/?page=features/virus
Sheepless in Seekonk!
Tomorrow, I'm gonna be nine years old and so's my sister, Tory "Cottle" of Rhode Island. Not only did Sis send me a lovelee card but, guess what I gots in the mail today! My breeder, she's the bestest, sent me a birfday cake. My human, "Lisa," has already taken several photos of it for our collection. I am looking splendid, in spite of my early August (3 day!) visit to a farm in rural New York state; sheep are not my thing but my housemate, Piber, seems to enjoy herding them. I put the time to good use, though, lounging around, snacking, and soaking up the admiration of all the two-legged participants. I enjoy the comforts of home like a visit from my masseuse and the sumptuous meals my person prepares. The summer has been a little slow, what with the heat and humidity, but I see that my social calendar is beginning to fill come September and I just loves to "wow" the crowd with my abundant charm and Berner handsomeness! Always your pal, Moses "Allen" _ MSN 8: Get 6 months for $9.95/month http://join.msn.com/?page=dept/dialup
Ewe Herd it from me; 3 day (Swiss) dog herding clinic
Based on notes taken at the Ann Witte herding seminar: A strong eyed dog (think Border Collie) stares, lowers his head, and moves close to the stock. A loose eyed dog moves with his head up, is outgoing, and is aware of everything (think Swiss). 8/1-8/3 Herding is moving stock along a line of travel. With loose-eyed dogs, you are instructed not to stare at the dog as it breaks his contact with stock. Just walk. Dog should be in half circle behind the line of travel. No upright dog wants to lie down. Loose-eyed dogs keep pushing. Loose-eyed dogs are perceived as weal when in a down position. "That'll do" means that current behavior will change. "Stop" means to cease movement. The loose-eyed dog has a softer nature and works based on physical presence, pushing stock all the time. Make your command words strong and definitive. Loose-eyed dogs can watch you and know what you want, they do not have to hear you, lock eye contact to stop dog. Most of the three days were spent not in lecturing but in learning by doing; that is, working with stock and testing dogs. Lisa Allen _ Add photos to your e-mail with MSN 8. Get 2 months FREE*. http://join.msn.com/?page=features/featuredemail
Mast cell cancer
Jorda's mast cell tumor was located, to the best of my recollection, on the same spot on which the Hartung's Berner's tumor was discovered. I do not recall the grade of Jorda's tumor. It appeared when she was four years old, in 1990. Treatment was, initially, surgical removal. My dogs' veterinarian, Dr. Marks, who has provided them with the most excellent medical care since 1983, removed the tumor and margins were clear. Dr. Marks' skills as a surgeon are superb. Then, Jorda was prescribed a medication beginning with a "T." (Tagamet???) Too, every six months we Xrayed the areas to which mast cell cancer might spread. Jorda, my second Berner, lived until the age of thirteen years two weeks two days, when my sweet and sensitive girl lost a very brief "battle" with large cell lymphoblastic lymphosarcoma. Lisa Allen (Dr. Marks would have the answers to name of medication, grade of her tumor, etc.) _ The new MSN 8: smart spam protection and 2 months FREE* http://join.msn.com/?page=features/junkmail
Have Ewe Herd?
Got back from a herding clinic, 3 days, in rural New York state today. The instructor is very experienced with the style of herding done by the Swiss breeds. There were Bernese there, some participating. I took copious notes and about 200 photos. A couple of Entles participated as well. My Appenzeller, Piber, now has a title! She earned her Herding Capability title, passing both legs with tremendous style and great ease. This is her first time herding. I am the proudest of "Moms!" I shall share the notes with the list later and more about the very fine work done by the Bernese. Moses was a part of the cheering section and everbody commented about how very well he carries himself and moves about to wherever he wants to go. He handled the trip beautifully! Lisa Allen _ The new MSN 8: smart spam protection and 2 months FREE* http://join.msn.com/?page=features/junkmail
Seven generations from now
Regarding the breeding discussion: With so many Bernese dying before the age of seven With so many Bernese dying of cancer With so many Bernese with fragile immune systems With so many Bernese with questionable orthopedics With too many Bernese still shy With good health/care the birthright of any living being With over 2000 AKC registered Bernese pups each year in the USA alone With many Bernese now in auctions and pet stores etc., etc. Well, I have a frequent dream of all conscientious breeders from all over the world, getting together and saying that enough is enough and making a plan to start again from scratch even if this means that I cannot obtain a Berner pup of quality/health for twenty more years, even if a breeder who has been in the breed for thirty years cannot breed for a decade...of these breeders making a plan for decreasing the number of sick Bernese by going back to the drawing board and making a new plan to create Bernese whose frailties would not render them without productive use on a farm This breed has a reputation among serious dog fanciers due to its problems... Please, I mean this for due consideration and with respect... I am "nursing" a lovely Bernese with IMPA and bone cancer (in remission) to the tune of twenty four thousand dollars...He is doing wonderfully But, how does this bode for the future of the breed? I know, we have studies and funds but with so many, many Bernese being whelped, with Mother Nature who would never do as we are, What are we leaving for our great grandchildren? Lisa Allen _ MSN 8 with e-mail virus protection service: 2 months FREE* http://join.msn.com/?page=features/virus
Housetraining ideas, breeding discussion
Regarding the pup who barks in his crate in the early morning: I would like to suggest that you remove the pup from the crate, and take him out quickly for a no-nonsense kind of potty trip. Then, put him in bed with you and cuddle him until he is sleepy again, or pull some bedding on the floor and lay down next to pup, perhaps offering him a toy first, in order for him to expend some energy in play. Of course, some of us are just early risers; I am generally awake at around 5AM or so and my dogs like to sleep until about 7AM! Of course, I housetrain my pups and always have, in a matter more similar, I believe, to many of the Europeans. I hope that more folks will consider trying this; there is nothing quite like soft warm puppy breath on your face and hearing pup's contented sighs as he curls up next to you to fall asleep. Mine are never crated during this process but, rather, I sleep next to pup on the floor or wherever and when pup stirs, I am there to comfort pup and escort pup into the yard for pup to relieve himself. My dogs are allowed to sleep on the bed or couch, wherever they want once they are large enough. My sleeping nearly half century old body is always "planted" in the same general area. My dogs are crated in my vehicle, for our rides, etc. so they are not unused to being crated such as at a veterinary clinic, where this would be necessary. Regarding breeding bitches, I think that one would want to evaluate each litter before a new one is bred. For example, most of Yoda's litter eventually succumbed to cancer and one to meningitis. Yoda's litter was VERY conscientiously planned and contained lovely representatives of the breed and Yoda was the love of my life, so to speak, my soulmate. His mother, to the best of my knowledge, died of cancer? and his father, to the best of my knowledge, at a young age to a kidney related problem?? For me, this would send up red flags (not saying absolutely do not do it) here and there and everywhere about repeating such a breeding (it was not repeated) or breeding any relatives. Given the breed's medical challenges, would this not be enough, by itself, to justify waiting until a litter has reached at least an age where OFA is do-able, to repeat a breeding, breed close relatives, that sort of thing? Since most Bernese, given their fragility, health-wise, would not last all that long "in the wilderness," should we not attach more human-type considerations to the breed's situation, which is, after all, created by man, as is the breed. I too read that constant breeding of a bitch actually might suit her better BUT we are not takling about wolves here but, rather, a breed whose problems might become catastrophic. Should not the bigger picture be taken into consideration? After all, "we" are doing what Nature would NEVER NEVER do; creating beings with fragilities that would never permit its long term survival in a natural environment and not just a few, but thousands upon thousands of such. Regarding ANY of our many and respected better breeders breeding to merely supply the pet market with better dogs, I do see the logic but I can not support such an idea as it shows no respect, in my mind, for the bitch whose life is precious and whose very essence demands more consideration than that of being made to assume producer status. We should make cars to meet consumer demand; this should never apply to creating lives, which have birthrights due more consideration, a certain reverence, actually. Lisa Allen _ MSN 8 helps eliminate e-mail viruses. Get 2 months FREE*. http://join.msn.com/?page=features/virus
Chemo. for bone cancer
I can only speak from experience with two types of canine cancer, of course, bone cancer and synovial cell sarcoma. Yoda's synovial cell sarcoma in a front leg required "only" amputation and no chemo. We consulted quite extensively with Dr. Withrow and had him and his pathologist review all of Yoda's biospy work, including tissue sent to him by Angell Memorial after their review. Dr. Withrow is considered one of the top canine cancer doctors in the world and practices at Colorado State University. His guidance allowed Yoda an additional sixteen months of happy, quality filled life. Bone cancer is most successfully treated with amputation and chemotherapy. Amputation rids the body of the primary tumor which, by the time it is discovered, has been found to already be shedding microscopic cancer cells into the body. Once Moses' cancer was diagnosed, to extend his life beyond a few more weeks or so, we had to begin aggressive treatment. Amputation without chemo. or vice versa, for this cancer, can be compared to putting an engine in a car but not giving it wheels or vice versa. We were lucky with Moses, too; he showed none of the "regular" symptoms of osteosarcoma. Xrays to determine the extent of his arthritis quite by coincidence revealed the tumor, which had not spread to lymph nodes, perhaps due to its early discovery. A bone biopsy confirmed OS. Treating as quickly and as aggressively as we did guarantees Moses perhaps as much as two additional years of life and maybe more, please God, which is "not bad at all" for a dog who will be nine years old in a few weeks! Moses inspires and amazes me, every waking moment of my life with him. He is gloriously handsome, a big, typey Berner whose profuse coat shines like the sun. Having three legs does not slow him down and the zest for adventure which he displays and the joy which he squeezes and then savors from each moment is that which many a human might seek to emulate. Lisa Allen _ Tired of spam? Get advanced junk mail protection with MSN 8. http://join.msn.com/?page=features/junkmail
Chemotherapy
The standard treatment for bone cancer in dogs is amputation to rid the dog of the primary tumor and then chemo. to rid the dog's body of the microscopic bits of cancer remaining in the body. Osteosarcoma is a very aggressive cancer and Moses' oncology team got right to work shortly after his diagnosis by bone biopsy. Moses is almost six months post chemo and not only did he show "no" (one day off his feed and same day as this, tired after second chemo.) side effects from the chemo., he has a quality of life not shared by many four-legged dogs! He did not lose any coat and, in fact, I get complimented regarding how thick, shiny, and beautiful a coat he has. He eats with zest and is always ready for the next adventure! Moses' chemo. began in Nov. 2002 and finished in February, 2003. Treating his cancer in the standard and aggressive manner has allowed him a lengthened life as quality filled as it was prior to his illnesses (IMPA and OS). Lisa Allen _ Add photos to your messages with MSN 8. Get 2 months FREE*. http://join.msn.com/?page=features/featuredemail
Chemotherapy
Moses underwent chemotherapy for osteosarcoma; that and amputation almost immediately after diagnosis have kept him in remission and he is doing extraordinarily well. His first three chemotherapy treatments consisted of adriamycin and cisplatin (excuse spellings) and his fourth treatment consisted of adriamycin and carboplatin, which was used instead of cisplatin for this treatment because a STAT, regular urinalysis showed that his specific gravity was a bit low. Chemo. was administered by the oncology department at Boston's Angell Memorial Animal Hospital. Except for one day, after his second chemo., when Moses had a case of the "blahs" (tired with no appetite), Moses had no side effects from the chemo. Each chemo. treatment cost one thousand dollars, which included STAT bloodwork, hospitalization for the day, monitoring, urine tests, any medication, and the chemo. drugs. I mention the price for a couple of reasons. Cancer is a very big problem in the breed and people need to know that it is an expensive one as well. To me, Moses' health is his birthright, he is family and his life is, to me, every bit as sacred as yours and mine; I do not put a price on that which sustains health and happiness in a family member. Particularly with the Rescue problem bound to increase in Berners and the Average Joe not feeling in his heart as I do, there will be an increase in the number of dogs who present with enormous medical challenges, some that can very definitely be overcome with the proper medical care and treatment. Lisa Allen _ Tired of spam? Get advanced junk mail protection with MSN 8. http://join.msn.com/?page=features/junkmail
re:lameness
I would suggest a visit to a veterinary orthopedic surgeon for evaluation. One of my four Berners, since 1983, had elbow dysplasia in both elbows and one had it in one elbow. A male will often show signs early in life. We are fortunate to have some excellent and trusted orthopedic doctors here in the Northeast. Both my ED dogs were symptomatic and had the surgery. I believe it was about $1,500.00 per elbow. Shortly after I joined the list, I think, in 1996, someone posted that one of the US veterinary teaching universities was calling the Berner the poster child for elbow dysplasia. I have had experience, too, with lameness in the older dog. My Yoda's lameness responded to nothing and Xrays were non-diagnostic as well. A tissue biopsy revealed a cancer most closely resembling synovial cell sarcoma; Yoda responded beautifully to treatment. Moses did not become lame with his cancer but he was in discomfort so we did extensive Xrays to determine the extent of his arthritis; found a shadow on his left femur which was bone cancer; he has responded beautifully to treatment. I am fortunate in that the veterinarian who has provided exceptional medical care to my dogs since 1983 knows the manner in which I care for my dogs and understands my deep feelings for them and will refer me to the very best and most compassionate specialists when necessary. Lisa Allen _ Protect your PC - get McAfee.com VirusScan Online http://clinic.mcafee.com/clinic/ibuy/campaign.asp?cid=3963
Pet Health Insurance, Nationals, Home Insurance
To the best of my recollection, someone posted that health insurance should be purchased for a Berner for at least the first two years. I would disagree with this. Cancer does not generally seem to occur in this breed that early. Buy coverage for the dog's entire life. For example, Moses' chemotherapy for bone cancer cost one thousand dollars per session, the bone biopsy cost about six hundred dollars, and the amputation cost about one thousand dollars. Moses will, please God, be nine years old in August and is "bursting" with happiness and completely mobile. I think three events should be mandatory at National Specialties; draft, herding, and conformation, with the primary emphasis being on conformation; let us first, get dog shows back to an evaluation of/competition between potential or already breeding dogs and second, test the breed for the tasks that would be required of it on the farm. Last night at 10PM on Fox News, they did a segment on home insurance and dog ownership. Five million people are bitten by dogs every year. They interviewed a lady who lost her home insurance because the company she used deemed Dals (she has a sweet, well-trained one) aggressive. Other dogs "on the lists" are Pit Bulls, Rotties, GSDs, and Black Labs. Are Berners on any lists yet? I fear they might well be on all lists in the not too distant future due to the population explosion in the breed, pet store pups, backyard breeders, etc. Lisa Allen _ The new MSN 8: advanced junk mail protection and 2 months FREE* http://join.msn.com/?page=features/junkmail
Re: mast cell cancer/francs
When my sweet and sensitive Berner, Jorda, was four years old, a mast cell tumor was removed from her foot. Our regular veterinarian removed it; he is a skilled and talented surgeon who has tremedous experience with many Bernese and has been doctor to my dogs since 1983. I do not know the grade of the tumor. Jorda was put on a medicine whose name begins with a "t," to the best of my recollection. This was back in 1990. Every six months until she was ten years old, our veterinarian would do Xrays to ascertain there was no return of the mast cell cancer. It turned out that it had been surgically cured as it never returned. Jorda crossed the Bridge at age thirteen years two weeks two days (large cell lymphoblastic lymphosarcoma). If you would like more information about her treatment, I can give you our DVM's clinic number. Thank you for the information about francs; a friend asked me about the conversion and I had no idea. Lisa Allen _ STOP MORE SPAM with the new MSN 8 and get 2 months FREE* http://join.msn.com/?page=features/junkmail
May I be franc?
I am curious as to how many francs are equal to how many USA dollars; in other words, how you convert. Second, an idea for a shirt: one that displays three or four of the most important websites or phone numbers for people to secure information regarding Berners. Lisa Allen _ Help STOP SPAM with the new MSN 8 and get 2 months FREE* http://join.msn.com/?page=features/junkmail
Birds becoming brazen and bold
Funny the things we remember. I was in my teens and visiting my grandparents in Miami Beach, Florida. Animal lover that I am, I decided to stroll along the beach and feed the birds. Either they were starving or did not care for the brand of biscuits that I brought, because, the very second the bag was emptied, these large winged creatures took flight toward me, for all intents and purposes looking as though they wanted me for dessert. I ran as fast as my legs could carry me. The local birds seem to enjoy landing on my fence where my younger dog can reach them. When she is but inches away from them, they take flight, seeming to enjoy teasing my precious pup. Lisa Allen _ Add photos to your e-mail with MSN 8. Get 2 months FREE*. http://join.msn.com/?page=features/featuredemail
Moses, people magnet
I am struck by how many people are immediately drawn to Moses during our walks. I take the dogs on errands with me, weather permitting, and walk them on leash around the area stores, post office, etc. Moses is, within seconds it seems, surrounded by a crowd and he shakes hands with his fans and insists on mini-massages. He radiates such joy that it is nearly palpable. It permits me a wonderful opportunity to educate people regarding Bernese. Moses, as you know, has bone cancer but after amputation and chemotherapy, is doing so very well and is currently, thank God, cancer-free. "His public" marvels at how mobile Moses is and, too, I inform them of the cancer problem in the breed. Hopefully if these people or their friends ever consider a Berner, they will retain the knowledge which I have shared. I am able to speak of the temperament of the breed, Moses' being so lovely, its great beauty, Moses being a large, handsome boy, and "everyone" wants to tell me about their dogs. Today, outside the post office, a lady approached me and soon I learned that she had purchased her Cocker Spaniel from a pet shop; she knows now how fortunate she is that the dog was healthy but she had to work with the dog to overcome behavior problems. Then, we had something to which to tend at the local automotive dealership and again, very soon, I was surrounded by technicians playing with the dogs and telling me all about their own. I am so blessed to be owned by such a marvelous ambassador for the breed! Lisa Allen _ STOP MORE SPAM with the new MSN 8 and get 2 months FREE* http://join.msn.com/?page=features/junkmail
Clarification
I just re-read my post and when I wrote the creation of 2000 pups, I meant 2000 a year. Lisa Allen _ STOP MORE SPAM with the new MSN 8 and get 2 months FREE* http://join.msn.com/?page=features/junkmail
re: post about being discouraged with breed
We do not know if the AKC would accept radical, as most would see it, moves on the behalf of the Berner breed unless we ask them. I refer to the Chinook program and the Leonberg program. One of the reasons that I continue to mention them is because I hope that one day, one or more of the influential people in the breed will take a shine to such and be able to bring such proposals to fruitition in a manner which I cannot. I cannot, hard as I attempt to do so, understand how the creation of over 2000 AKC registered (and these are only those registered with the AKC) will improve the breed. Perhaps someone with knowledge I do not possess will make the effort to explain this. Before we are able to defeat cancer, should not Berner immune systems be made more fragile than fine china? We "cannot" walk (pups), vaccinate, or feed these dogs kibble; before I receive posts stating that such and such a person does all three of these things, know that I have heard these "cannots" stated enough by people with clout that I can post them without stretching the truth to the point of tearing. Of course, there are people working to turn things around and I hope I can do my share. I have become a breed steward and already helped someone to make a good decision, I write constantly to bring to the attention of newbies and others many important issues and I feel more than qualified to be bone cancer contact person for the BMDCA and have volunteered my services in this regard. Well, gotta go; Moses' massage therapist is due at the house any minute! Lisa Allen _ STOP MORE SPAM with the new MSN 8 and get 2 months FREE* http://join.msn.com/?page=features/junkmail
Re: discouraged by breed post
Hope springs eternal but there are times when I wonder if this breed can be saved; everyday delayed is important time lost. There are radical approaches that could be taken such as adopting "rules" that would make those of the Leonberg club or the most strict European countries seem "lenient." Or, when faced with health problems and a limited gene pool, the very most dedicated Chinook fanciers, with UKC cooperation, began a very careful program to breed their dogs with carefully selected dogs of other breeds until they reached the degree of excellence originally sought. But, I am told, the AKC would not allow this. Well, they have not been asked, first, and second, we must always put the dogs first and what best serves them. My Yoda lost a leg to synovial cell sarcoma and my Moses to bone cancer. Moses has been "ill" for two years, first with immune mediated polyarthritis and now with bone cancer, treated with huge success with amputation and chemotherapy. Medical costs for Moses for the last two years have now amounted to twenty four thousand dollars, that's right, twenty four thousand dollars. I have saved all the notes on treatment, receipts, etc. While I sit in clinic waiting rooms feeling new gray hairs sprouting and my heart slowly breaking, I wonder the number of other Berner owners who must be doing the same. I wonder why a breed is allowed to evolve in a direction that makes this degree of emotional trauma and expense necessary. Moses is a happy boy, VERY active but is the average Joe going to go the lengths that I have to ascertain such? Not a chance; the Bernese of the average Joe will be put down or shuffled off to become the responsibility of Rescue. My Jorda had hideous hips and lived to the age of thirteen years two weeks two days with no problems from such and even became a BMDCA ranked obedience dog in Novice and one of the first two dogs to earn the BMDCA Draft Dog title; she also did brace draft work with my other Berner, Daphane, before there were titles for such. I am told, when people become discouraged by Berner health, well, the short years of ecstacy with them make it all worthwhile. This statement makes my blood pressure rise because there is indication in it, in my opinion, that dogs are merely created to satisfy us and do not deserve health and longevity as their very birthrights. Lisa Allen _ Add photos to your messages with MSN 8. Get 2 months FREE*. http://join.msn.com/?page=features/featuredemail
Would you trust your five year old...
Berners have been a part of my family for twenty years and when I leave the house without them, and I take them just about everywhere with me, weather permitting, they are "confined" in a special, large area of the house which has been dog-proofed to perfection; their favorite toys and treats are there and I leave the television or radio playing a low-key type program. I am never gone more than a short while. In twenty years, ten months or ten years, my Berners have never "trashed" the house in my absence because they are never given the opportunity to do so. I once read that you should never trust a dog in any situation in which you would not trust a five year old child and I "operate" on that premise regarding a good many situations. Another person on my block "allows" his dog to chew through the window screens when the family is in/out. One day, their cat fell through the hole the little doggy made. Lisa Allen _ MSN 8 with e-mail virus protection service: 2 months FREE* http://join.msn.com/?page=features/virus
Longevity in Berners
My first Berner, Daphane, bred by Eileen Brouck and Charles Kolenik, lived to the age of ten years four months. My second Berner, bred by Eileen, lived to the age of thirteen years two weeks two days; she was diagnosed with large cell lymphoblastic lymphosarcoma in the last few weeks of her life, which ultimately claimed her. My third Berner, bred by Bobbie and Bill Hefner, lived to the age of nine years six months when synovial cell sarcoma, for which he had been treated, claimed his life. My fourth Berner has been ill for two years, first with immune mediated polyarthritis and then bone cancer; treatment for both has been successful and he enjoys his life thoroughly. The secret to longevity; luck, certainly but, also, a veterinarian who understands the soul of the breed and goes well beyond the call of duty to tend to the medical challenges of the breed, which mine does, and minimizing stress for the dogs and, by this, I mean, primarily, emotional stress. Too, my dogs know they are loved unconditionally, always, whether they are stretched out on the couch, snoring, or earning a Best In Show/High in Trial (not that they have earned these awards but, well, you "get the picture.") Lisa Allen _ Add photos to your e-mail with MSN 8. Get 2 months FREE*. http://join.msn.com/?page=features/featuredemail
Notes re: Moses' health
Thank you to everyone who has written to me lovely notes about Moses' continued, thank God, good health. As you know, Moses has been treated for bone cancer using the combination which is most successful, amputation and chemotherapy and he was just Xrayed for the second time since treatment was completed and still, no more cancer, although he will be Xrayed every three to four months. Moses, please God, will be nine years old in August. I am just a little behind in answering all my e-mail. You see, due to Moses' health, I have, essentially, not been traveling or not, anyway, without him. Several months ago, I made arrangements with his internal medicine specialist to "board" Moses while I made a two day trip to Detroit, Michigan, where I was born and grew up and where my parents are buried; some family business awaited me and I wished to see a few relatives and visit my parents' graves. Let me state that I do not travel much anyway and have postponed trips if I have an elderly or unwell dog. I do like to attend the yearly National Specialty and go to Detroit at least once a year. I discussed all this, too, with Moses' breeder. My younger dog, Piber, stayed at the kennel which I always use. Picking them up yesterday required a round trip of 150 miles; this, which tired me, since it is 128 (Boston), and 95 through Providence and the trip to and from Detroit; these and the fact that I did not want to leave them today, less than 24 hours after I brought them home, kept me from the Ladies Dog Club show, which I like to attend. Got a message from my dogs' regular veterinarian this afternoon; he had just telephoned to check on the dogs' general health and discuss such; what a blessing to have, tending to Piber and Moses, two such dedicated clinicians, our veterinarian (since 1983) and Moses' internal medicine specialist, who, among other things, waited on a three or so degree night, in February, when Moses was unwell for a week, at the hospital in Boston for Moses' arrival. We are, indeed, fortunate. Lisa Allen _ Add photos to your e-mail with MSN 8. Get 2 months FREE*. http://join.msn.com/?page=features/featuredemail
Moses' second regular post-treatment Xrays
Moses second post bone cancer treatment (amputation and chemotherapy) Xrays are clear! Nothing in the lungs! Amputation was last November and chemo. finished in February, 2003. What a relief! Xrays in February, May (every three months). Lisa Allen _ MSN 8 helps eliminate e-mail viruses. Get 2 months FREE*. http://join.msn.com/?page=features/virus
Greenies
When my younger dog was given a Greenie as a graduation gift from puppy class, she promptly buried it. Moses, on the other hand, was lying on the rug in the front room of the training center, where all the merchandise and goodies are displayed. I was right next to him. Suddenly, he gets up, stretches his neck, and grabs a Greenie off a table, right out of the display box. One might say he "choplifted." He thoroughly enjoyed it. Lisa Allen _ MSN 8 helps eliminate e-mail viruses. Get 2 months FREE*. http://join.msn.com/?page=features/virus
Appenzeller-mix in NYC requires rehoming
A family in New York City seeks to place their three years old, spayed female, likely Appenzeller-mix into a new home. When they adopted Lucy, they lived in Georgia. They are very fond of her but feel an environment which provides the stimulation and opportunities for activity suitable for an Appenzeller would be better for Lucy. Appenzellers are very intense and reactive dogs who like to herd. Like Berners, they are devoted and sensitive dogs. They also can pull a cart and do quite well in agility. They are much smaller than Bernese, quite hardy, short coated, and have tails which curl over their backs. An adult weighs about fifty-sixty pounds. To learn just about everything you ever wanted to know about the breed, contact me and I shall put you directly in touch with the people in America with expertise regarding the breed. To offer Lucy a home, contact me and I shall put you in touch with her owner. Thank you for your attention to this matter and my gratitude to Pat Long for allowing me to post this to the list. Lisa Allen _ Protect your PC - get McAfee.com VirusScan Online http://clinic.mcafee.com/clinic/ibuy/campaign.asp?cid=3963
Bernergirls and Bernerboys:Both are Treasures!
What the breeder of my first two Berners told me still rings true. These were both girls. She said that in the Bernese breed, the girls and the boys BOTH make admirable pets. She was correct. The only slight, and I do emphasize slight difference, just perhaps, is that I perceive the boys to be a little more dependent than the girls but I stress that both the boys and the girls in my house, over twenty years, have been devoted, sensitive, remarkable companions. Lisa Allen _ Help STOP SPAM with the new MSN 8 and get 2 months FREE* http://join.msn.com/?page=features/junkmail
Administration of medications, treatments; how I handle such
Also, another "rule" to which I subscribe is to never, to the best of my recollection, administer medications, treatments, supplements to my dogs without consulting, first, with my dogs' veterinarians or, in an emergency, with whatever veterinarian is handling the case. For example, Moses, hopefully in remission from bone cancer, is being provided medical treatment by my superb veterinarian,to whom I have been taking my dogs for twenty years and also a Cornell educated veterinarian who is also certified in holistic medicine to whom our regular vet. sent us, and the cancer care group at Angell Memorial Animal Hospital in Boston. Each doctor knows what the other has prescribed because, as Moses' advocate and "Mommy," I ascertain that this is so. Too, although I speak with other Berner owners, learn marvelous things on the Internet and on the Bernese lists, etc., all of this is discussed with our wonderful vets. before anything is implemented. I am bright, well read, and have been owned by Bernese for twenty years, but I am not a doctor and, as such, I might "miss" something and that particular something might be critical. So, although there are dogpeople whose words I take as (almost) gospel, it is to those with DVMs after their names to whom I turn before beginning treatment. Lisa Allen P.S. Moses, too, is taking Duralactin, prescribed by one of our vets. _ Help STOP SPAM with the new MSN 8 and get 2 months FREE* http://join.msn.com/?page=features/junkmail
When your dog is lame
I would strongly suggest that before anyone considers various supplements, treatments, therapies, diets for lameness, Xrays and perhaps various other diagnostic tests be done. There are so many things that can cause lamemess, such as, but not limited to, dysplasia, autoimmune disease, and bone cancer. Lisa Allen _ Add photos to your e-mail with MSN 8. Get 2 months FREE*. http://join.msn.com/?page=features/featuredemail
Moses' magical day
Moses spent most of the day at the Cottle residence in Jamestown, Rhode Island, where his litter sister, Tory, lives. Piber, Moses, and I went there to attend a Bernese club draft work clinic, with Piber participating and pulling her tiny plastic kiddy wagon. Moses was permitted free access to the extensive, fenced property, which stretches right to the ocean's edge. He loped about the grounds, and I took numerous photographs of him with the Newport (RI) Bridge in the background. At one point, Marjorie and Chris instructed the group to heel and Moses looked like a king appraising his subjects as he relaxed on the grass in the middle of the circle. My heart filled with pure joy to see him grinning with happiness, enjoying the day, oblivious, as it seemed were most clinic participants, to the recent (11/2002) loss of his leg (osteosarcoma). Piber's utter joy when she discovered and went wading in the Bay and Moses' spirit singing so loudly and joyfully made the three of us wish that this perfect day would never end. Lisa Allen _ The new MSN 8: smart spam protection and 2 months FREE* http://join.msn.com/?page=features/junkmail
Appenzeller question and the plane facts about 700 Vari Kennels
Have your veterinarian check for luxated patellas right away; can usually be felt by palpation and owner observation of the dog (this regards the Appenzeller question). Now for the 700 Vari Kennel issue; not all planes have cargo doors big enough to get them into the plane; I found this out "the hard way" ten years ago so check with your airlines first as to the kind of plane that will be used for your intended flight. Lisa Allen _ The new MSN 8: smart spam protection and 2 months FREE* http://join.msn.com/?page=features/junkmail
Adriamycin and Carboplatin
Moses was treated with Adriamycin and Cisplatin for his first three chemos for bone cancer and Adriamycin and Carboplatin for his fourth. Stat blood work and urinalysis were done before each chemo treatment. Fourth urine test revealed lower specific gravity that they like to see which is why carboplatin was used as it is friendlier, so to speak, to the kidneys, even though the "system" is extensively "flushed" when the Cisplatin is used. Moses was only "off his feed" after the second chemo and only for one day when he did not want to eat, was depressed, and just wanted to rest. Lisa Allen _ MSN 8 helps eliminate e-mail viruses. Get 2 months FREE*. http://join.msn.com/?page=features/virus
Less inclined to think cancer in spine
Today Moses had his second "official" post amputation, chemo (osteosarcoma) check-up by his specialist at Angell Memorial Animal Hospital in Boston. The doctor is less inclined to feel that there is cancer in the spine since Moses has improved and is more readily and easily ambulatory. So, we hope he is in remission. Xrays will be done every three months, with the next scheduled for May. Moses will continue receiving monthly check-ups at Angell for now. I believe that weekly aquapuncture is helping Moses a great deal. One of his nail coverings came off, was chewed off, who knows, so he will take an antibiotic in case of infection. Moses' attitude is wonderful. Minute by minute, I am inspired by his courage and optimistic outlook. While we were in the examining room waiting for Moses' doctor, I became even more aware of the wisdom in the eyes of an old dog as I looked into Moses', such depth, so different from the gaze of a pup, who has yet to discover life's treasures and know its secrets. Lisa Allen _ Add photos to your messages with MSN 8. Get 2 months FREE*. http://join.msn.com/?page=features/featuredemail
Inquiry (from Canada) about becoming a breeder conclusion
If, as a result of your post or any calls you have made around your area, someone offers you a show pup, from healthy lines, tomorrow, be very suspicious. There are brokers and backyard breeders who are now involved with Bernese who would be delighted to "guide" you and tell you whatever you want to hear, no questions asked. I truly look forward to hearing about you, perhaps via "Dogs In Canada," to which you will want to subscribe (one of many excellent publications), when you begin to make your positive mark on the breed, as a whole. Lisa Allen _ MSN 8 helps eliminate e-mail viruses. Get 2 months FREE*. http://join.msn.com/?page=features/virus
Inquiry (from Canada) about becoming a breeder Part Three
It is no secret that the Bernese Mountain Dog is not the world's healthiest breed. There has been discussion as to whether any lines are free from cancer. In addition, immune systems appear to not be terribly strong. These are just a couple of the problems with which the breed is plagued, even those from good lines. Treating and curing these can cost as much as tens of thousands of dollars. You will want to research pet medical insurance. Well before you breed your Bernergirl, you will want to have established contacts and have in mind caring homes for as many as twelve pups and have drawn up a contract, reviewed by your attorney, to guide your buyers and protect all parties concerned but, especially, the pups, who are to be cherished and whose lives are sacred. If, down the line, three owners, even though you carefully interviewed everyone, are unable, for any reason, to keep their dogs, they will likely return them to you to take into your home. And, have a plan to help the owners of any of your Berner's offspring, even if it is only to provide emotional support, should a dog you bred become ill. Lisa Allen _ MSN 8 helps eliminate e-mail viruses. Get 2 months FREE*. http://join.msn.com/?page=features/virus
Inquiry (from Canada) about becoming breeder Part Two
Years from now, when you have at last obtained that Bernese that is winning in the show ring, performing well in working events, and, too, possesses an admirable temperament, you will want to also ask your mentor(s), and those with decades of experience as breeders to evaluate your dog. Let us suppose that your lovely dog is hypothyroid or you have discovered that a number of his or her relatives have died of histiocytosis; now breeding becomes an ethical decision as well. Too, let us suppose that your bitch is healthy with heart, eyes, thyroid tested, orthopedically sound, no bleeding disorder, soundness in pedigree, and more and successful as a show and working dog; your dog's breeder and many whose opinions you value are encouraging you to breed to a dog who compliments your dog's pedigree well and the stud is located in, say, Louisiana, USA. Are you prepared to travel with her or to ship her to the stud owner? If you ARE the stud owner, then you will have drawn up a contract checked by your lawyer, to protect the dog and the bitch and providing guidance in the management of the pups. Too, you will want to have the facilities to house the visiting bitch comfortably. Lisa Allen _ Add photos to your messages with MSN 8. Get 2 months FREE*. http://join.msn.com/?page=features/featuredemail
Inquiry (from Canada) about becoming breeder Part One
After twenty years of involvement in the breed, I have formed opinions regarding what I feel should be "required" to become a conscientious breeder of Bernese. It is my hope that, especially, our fine breeders will contribute to this thread. Since just about anyone can become a dog breeder, I shall assume the inquirer wishes to, as a fancier, evolve in the direction of becoming a conscientious one. Unless you are well known in the Berner community or, perhaps, a devoted "dog person," deeply involved in raising, breeding and showing another breed, a Berner breeder of good reputation might not trust you, initially, with a potential show puppy. Spend your initial years in the breed reading, studying pedigrees, attending local all breed shows and Bernese club related events. Too, with becoming a breeder in mind and to "get the total picture," you will want to attend shows, meetings, seminars and almost all National Specialties in the USA and Canada, at the very least. Also, plan to join both clubs. And, include Europe in your travels, particularly Switzerland. Only one of my four Berners, since 1983, would have been a "candidate" for breeding and Daphane's breeder, God bless her, decided that it would be best for me if Daphane did not become a Berner Mom. You see, a bitch's health can suffer in the process and Eileen did not think that I could bear it if anything happened to Daphane. Lisa Allen _ Add photos to your messages with MSN 8. Get 2 months FREE*. http://join.msn.com/?page=features/featuredemail
Hair, There and Everywhere!
Four or five years ago, t'was time to "give back" the ol' Ford 150 Econoline Van and lease another vehicle. So, I gave it a cleaning, sweeping, vacuuming that put all others to shame. Several days later, I had to stop by the dealership for something or other and was talking to the fellows in the shop; they said it took them two days to remove all the dog hair from the van! I was truly shocked...I expected to have missed a bit, of course, but, well, the only thing that I can think of is that, like those furry round creatures (Tribbles?) on that episode of "Star Trek," Bernerfur must beget more Bernerfur! Lisa Allen _ The new MSN 8: advanced junk mail protection and 2 months FREE* http://join.msn.com/?page=features/junkmail
my dogmobile
I am pleased with the recent performance of my Ford Windstar as it has gotten me safely back and forth to Angell Memorial Animal Hospital and, during the storm when 100 cars were piled up on 95 in the Attleboro, MA area, it got me through blinding snow, around the pile-up via a detour, and home safely. Why was I on the road, you ask? It was not my intention to be caught in the storm. When I left to purchase Moses' medicine, it was not snowing. I don't like the fact that everything is automatic these days; when I requested manual controls for doors, windows, whatever, the salesman looked at me like I was Fred Flintstone asking for a new club. My favorite vehicle of all time, but I shall not buy another, is the Suburban. I don't like the modern ones at all. I want them to bring back the big, boxy ones with the double rear doors that practically screamed, "Bring me your dogs, horses, building materials, etc!" The current ones scream, "Fetch me your soccer team and park me only in the tonier neighborhoods!" My vehicle carries what is most precious to me, my dogs. Therefore, every three months I take it in for a check up, work, whatever, whether it needs it or not. I lease so that means they "force" me to get a new vehicle every three years. I lease because of this and because I am protected by the automobile company as well as the local emergency services company, just in case. I have trained my salesman, a long-timer, to respond to my needs. He knows that he can not put one over on me and that, if a vehicle is delivered which does not meet my specifications (for the dogs, of course), I shall refuse delivery. To his credit, he personally went shopping for special mats for me for the dogs to use under the crates in the van. I "buy" my vehicles in the neighboring state at a dealership whose emphasis has always been on, mainly, personal satisfaction and excellent service. Since these are my priorities re: my driving experience, it suits me well. Lisa Allen _ Help STOP SPAM with the new MSN 8 and get 2 months FREE* http://join.msn.com/?page=features/junkmail
re: posts to list about eyes and legs
Someone wrote to the list requesting information about leg injuries with mention that the dog in question had suffered from several. If your dog injures his or her leg, I would suggest that first you take the dog to your regular veterinarian; if he or she thinks that the services of a specialist are in order, you can then be sent to one. If there is a problem, it can thusly be managed early and thoroughly and well. A leg problem can range from minor to; Yoda's lameness, which persisted despite everything we did by way of treatment, was synovial cell sarcoma and lameness can also be indicative of well established bone cancer; luckily, we "caught" Moses' before it got to this point, actually, we discovered it by accident when Xraying for something else although, given other clinical symptoms and the fact that he is a Bernese, it came as a shock but not a total surprise that cancer was present. Also, if your dog's eyes are not healthy, I urge you to rely on Internet information only as an adjunct to a firm diagnosis by a veterinary eye specialist, to whom your dog's veterinarian can refer you. Moses' eyes, which are FINE, were causing him some problems several years ago, we thought, when he was diagnosed with immune mediated polyarthritis; I heard from several veterinarians that ocular changes are one of the signs of histiocytosis, which he does NOT have. Lisa Allen _ MSN 8 helps eliminate e-mail viruses. Get 2 months FREE*. http://join.msn.com/?page=features/virus
Mast cell tumors
My Berner, Jorda, had a mast cell tumor surgically removed at age four years. She lived an additional nine years. I credit the work of my dogs' veterinarian, who is a skilled surgeon. Lisa Allen Blessed with Jorda, Olympians Helen of Troy CD DD from 1986 to 1999! _ Add photos to your messages with MSN 8. Get 2 months FREE*. http://join.msn.com/?page=features/featuredemail
Dealing with those who snub you...
If someone treats you rudely, look elsewhere. I say this because, if I approach someone with good intentions and address him or her politely and with respect and this person treats me with contempt, I attribute the problem to this person and move on, with the knowledge that there are "plenty of fish in the sea." Maybe this is a mind-set that comes with age; as I approach the half-century mark, being a contestant in a popularity contest of sorts is not something to which I seek to devote time, a valuable and precious commodity. I am a wonderful dog owner, not the world's best. A little too permissive, not as talented as a good many of the top performance dog handlers, guilty of allowing myself to be a slave to my dogs at times but, consider my dogs family, always put them first, spend any amount their health care demands, take them to classes and doggy social events throughout their lives, and have arranged my own life so that I can spend almost all my time with them which is something I want to do. I am not seeking a pup of any breed at this point in time but, if I was a PPO and someone treated me as being well beneath them, I would think to myself first, this is that person's problem and, then, that person just lost a magnificent home, mine, for their dog. Then I move on because time is a precious and valuable commodity and it serves no one, especially me, to dwell on the unpleasant. That being said, it is no secret in the world of purebred dogs that one must grow a thick skin. Sad perhaps, but true. I have a nice relationship with all my dogs' breeders and it is not based on agreeing on every matter. I appreciate, and let them know such, that they have placed with me this precious bundle of fur and realize that we might not agree on everything and that no two people generally do, even in the same family. Lisa Allen Blessed with Bernese since 1983! _ Tired of spam? Get advanced junk mail protection with MSN 8. http://join.msn.com/?page=features/junkmail
Hair, There and Everywhere!
I experience some of my very most profound insights when I am falling asleep at night. Thus, it did not surprise me to find myself contemplating the recently discussed subject, "Bernerfur," as my eyelids grew heavy last evening. Bernerfur, I believe, has a life of its own. Much as we do with our dogs, it holds local "shows," Regionals, and Nationals. The local gatherings are celebrated on one's computer keyboard, for the regionals, under the bed suffices just fine and, well, for the Nationals, only the vents and various other barely accessible places under the "fridge" will do! When I travel to a National without a dog, I always bring a lint brush, anyway. It never fails that I find dog hair where I have slept or sat in my hotel room; my dogs should adhere so closely to me in obedience class! Lisa Allen _ The new MSN 8: smart spam protection and 2 months FREE* http://join.msn.com/?page=features/junkmail
Moses' first "official" post-chemo exam at Angell
Today Moses had his first "official" post-chemotherapy-amputation (bone cancer) appointment at Boston's Angell Memorial Animal Hospital. This was a regular, scheduled appointment with his internal medicine specialist for an examination and plans for future cancer care/treatment. Moses recently had Xrays showing that his lungs are clear, extensive blood work, and an exam by a neurologist who deemed him quite intact in this regard. At this point, Moses will be monitored closely with another appointment in several weeks or so and we shall gradually wean him off the Prednisone which was prescribed for his severe episode of pain several weeks ago. He is improving a little every day but his back still bothers him some when he is lifted. His Angell doctor is still not ruling out a possible spread of cancer to Moses' spine but we are not at the point yet where a bone scan, MRI, or CT scan is on the agenda and, to be frank, if the cancer has spread to the spine, there is nothing that I know that can be done to stop it. Moses is a cooperative patient and a wonderful dog; his "joie de vie" is inspirational and contagious! Lisa Allen _ Add photos to your e-mail with MSN 8. Get 2 months FREE*. http://join.msn.com/?page=features/featuredemail
Hair There and Everywhere!
Or, as the local Berner club likes to say, they shed once, for 365 days. I don't mind pet hair at all. I probably wouldn't know how to breathe in air without it! The breeder of my first two Bernese told me, 20 years ago, that she cannot even slice open a baked potato without finding dog hair in it. A Berner owner with a baby who is now a teen told me she would find it in diapers. I was born and grew up in Detroit. I do my laundry regularly. Yet, even so, whenever I would leave New England to visit Detroit (dogs were boarded) my mother and sister would exclaim with amazement that wherever I sat, slept, etc., well, dog hair would be deposited. Since I am not a slob, I can only assume that it follows you! Lisa Allen _
Kenny's choice
As you have noticed, I do not mince words where the welfare of the Bernese Mountain Dog is concerned because I do not feel I am serving the breed by being any less than completely honest, as my mind dictates. What I had hoped to state was that this breed has some very serious health problems and even the well-bred dogs are not immune from them. Should your Bernese fall ill with one or more of these problems, it is not unheard of to be required to spend several thousand dollars, often to save the dog's life or to establish a diagnosis or to evaluate his condition, often in the course of a several day time period. I would recommend that every Bernese owner have at least, actually more, three thousand dollars tucked safely away, should the dog's health deteriorate. And, sometimes, there is no "warning." My current Berner was fine one day and the next day found him lying on his side, clearly in pain; this was the beginning of our autoimmune "saga." As to his osteosarcoma, we were merely Xraying for the progression of his arthritis, to determine the best management regimen for him. The Xray, surprisingly, revealed a very suspicious area on his femur and a biopsy, where half a dozen specimens were taken, clearly indicated bone cancer. This kind of cancer spreads aggressively through the blood stream and a week later, the leg was amputated to remove the primary tumor site. Each chemotherapy session cost one thousand dollars. I was brought up to not discuss costs BUT I do not feel that being any less than "brutally" honest about what can occur serves anyone well, especially the dog. My previous Berner, also well-bred, lost a leg to synovial cell sarcoma. I consider my dogs family and would do anything necessary to ascertain a long and quality life for each. To me, toasters are replaceable, living beings are not. It has been discussed that there might well be no lines free from cancer in the breed and immune system and orthopedic problems are not uncommon. I have been owned by Berners for twenty years, each has lived a very long life, considering the breed, and while the Bernese is unequaled in devotion, sensitivity, and sheer physical beauty, the health of the breed is, in my opinion, poor at best. There are indeed pet insurance companies and I have signed up my one year old Swiss dog for such. Ascertain that the company you select will cover conditions known to be a problem in the breed. Lisa Allen _ Add photos to your e-mail with MSN 8. Get 2 months FREE*. http://join.msn.com/?page=features/featuredemail
Kenny's choice
Kenny and others, If price is a profound consideration in your decision to adopt a Berner, then perhaps more thought on the matter is in order. It is known, in this breed, that the purchase price can be a mere "drop in the bucket" compared to the price of tending to an unwell Berner. By all means, purchase your Berner from a conscientious breeder but be aware that this is not a guarantee of excellent health in a breed plagued by problems and the breeder should not be blamed, either, now that you have become aware of the risks. And, if a seller should tell you that his or her lines are from whatever country and have no known problems, run, do not walk, away from such a situation. My current Berner, a well-bred lad, has been "ill" for two years, first with immune-mediated polyarthritis (the breed does not have the world's strongest immune systems) and now with bone cancer. Thanks to my love for him and the very best medical care, his spirit still sings loudly and with joy. It has cost me thirty times the purchase price to tend to his medical needs; I offer this merely as a fact as the health of my family, which includes my dogs, is priceless. And, to "chime in" on a former thread, I do not expect the breeder to pay one cent toward his care as he is my "child" and no living being is free of "imperfections." Too, this "frees" me to select the medical care of my choice for my dogs, whom, as family, receive only the best; it is my duty and their very birthright. And, I would refer anyone to his breeder who is very caring and conscientious in regard to dogs bred. You need to be very aware, and I cannot state this often enough, that maintenance for this breed, specifically in terms of health, can rise into the thousands or tens of thousands of dollars faster than you can possibly imagine. Lisa Allen Owned by Bernese since 1983 _ Help STOP SPAM with the new MSN 8 and get 2 months FREE* http://join.msn.com/?page=features/junkmail
Yoda, Bobbie, Fargo, Oberon(s)
I think that recently a Berner owner wrote to this list about her dog, "Oberon" and that she felt she could or would not "recover" from his passing. I just want to state that I can empathize with you; Yoda(1992-2002) passed away from cancer a year ago and I still ache more deeply than most can imagine; I don't think I have ever felt more completely "in touch" with another living being than I did with Yoda. In fact, one of the reasons that I attended the West VA Specialty was to see Bobbie and to express my overwhelming gratitude for allowing Yoda to join my family as it was, from the very beginning, I feel, "a match made in Heaven" and Bobbie always called Yoda my soul so, she knew, in her own heart, what he meant to me. Another reason I attended the W VA Specialty was to observe Yoda's half-brother, Oberon (too), who is indeed, like Yoda was, a bear of a Berner and one of the lovliest Bernese that, in twenty years of being owned by this breed, I have ever seen. Yoda had just passed three months prior and seeing his likeness in his stunning half-brother tugged harder than I expected at my very heartstrings. Until the end of time itself Bobbie will have my gratitude for enriching my life immeasurably via the addition of my magnificent Yoda and Yoda will always have my love. In fact, perhaps one of his greatest lessons to me was to teach me how deep is my love and how bountiful and how very much of it I have to share. Re: Fargo; my first two Berners were Olympian girls, so I might have had Fargo relatives! Lisa Allen _ Tired of spam? Get advanced junk mail protection with MSN 8. http://join.msn.com/?page=features/junkmail
Do they Shed?
Yes, they shed, big-time; prepare to find fur in places you never even considered. The shedding does not bother me at all but I realize it is an issue for some people. I notice you did not ask about health issues in the breed. Perhaps you are already well-educated in this regard? Lisa Allen _
Gratitude
The breeder of my first two Berners and I have always agreed on everything but not so with me and the breeders of my third and 4th Berners; I realize that it is human nature not to agree with everyone, even a parent, sibling, or spouse 100% of the time. I let all my dogs' breeders know via gifts, photos, and words, constantly, how very grateful I am for the furry bundles of love with whom I was entrusted. Because of Bobbie Hefner, I met my soulmate, my magnificent bear of a Berner, my gentle and noble companion, Yoda. I shall always be grateful to Bobbie for allowing this "match made in Heaven" to occur. I shall adore and miss Yoda (1992-2002) until the very end of time itself. Lisa Allen _ MSN 8 with e-mail virus protection service: 2 months FREE* http://join.msn.com/?page=features/virus
Let Us Celebrate the Process of Elimination!
I was more than a wee (pun intended) bit relieved when Moses urinated in the parking lot of the veterinary clinic. This is because we were not only there to fetch a new medication but also so Moses could be catheterized. It had been felt that his spondylosis had caused such a shift in his balance and movement that the process of urination was disturbed. Moses is more ambulatory today and his appetite and hydration have improved. Both Angell Memorial and my dogs' regular veterinarian called today to inquire about Moses and my dogs' regular veterinarain, who saw him briefly, noticed the improvement. The doctor and I again reviewed Moses' medications and we have determined that, for Moses' "illness," the best suited to him are Sea Jerky Flexibility Supplement, Synovi G3 Chewable Tablets 2 a day, continuing on Clavamox, which Angell prescribed, until course completed, Hoxsey Boneset Formula added to meal, 2 Cell Advance Nutritional Supplement Capsules a day, Prednisone, Deramaxx, and Duralactin, which is an Immuno-Nutritional Aid for the management of chronic inflammatory conditions in dogs. Lisa Allen _ Add photos to your e-mail with MSN 8. Get 2 months FREE*. http://join.msn.com/?page=features/featuredemail
Moses ambulatory
Moses just walked across the room without my help! Bravo! Lisa Allen _ Add photos to your e-mail with MSN 8. Get 2 months FREE*. http://join.msn.com/?page=features/featuredemail
Taking It A Day at A Time: Plain Rads Show No Cancer Spread
Moses had extensive radiographs done of his spine and pelvis today. Though this is the most "crude" way to detect bone cancer spread (remember, he is not at Boston's Angell Memorial Animal Hospital right now), there are no black spots on the spine, no erosion?, the bone does not have an "eaten" appearance. Moses always had lovely hips and the hip on his remaining rear leg still looks quite good. No osteolysis of back. Spine has some bridging: new bone growth. Moses does have very "bad" spondylosis, massive amounts, such that the nerves have even been re-routed. The spondylosis is caused by age, movement, predispostion; one or two or all of these. Moses was sent home with 2 "new" medications, Prednisone, which he needs, and Deramaxx. He was taken off the Piroxicam and Cytotec. He had begun to eat a bit and to drink at the veterinary clinic. As I mentioned, Moses' aquapuncture veterinarian had called me last night and asked if she might visit Moses at our regular veterinarian's clinic and perform a treatment today. She did! and they were delighted to have her help but, most important, her visit gave Moses much happiness. Moses is still non-ambulatory but he has not given up on himself and is quite alert. The spondylosis might well be the reason that he is non-ambulatory. He is wearing a beautiful leather harness which I ordered from Ikon Outfitters in WI; it is for guide dogs but even the veterinary staff agreed it is very good for supporting Moses weight, the front of his body, and helped me to fit it properly, along with a sling for his hindquarters. Right now he is sleeping quite comfortably, which warms my heart and his "sister," Piber, is asleep near him, her head on a pillow. Perhaps there will be a CT scan in Moses' future but right now, we are taking it a day at a time and Moses is, as always, the embodiment of goodness and courage. Lisa Allen _ Add photos to your messages with MSN 8. Get 2 months FREE*. http://join.msn.com/?page=features/featuredemail
Moses Update: Weds., at veterinary clinic
Moses' veterinarian and his internal medicine doctor at Angell feel that there is a strong possibility that Moses' osteosarcoma has returned, to his spine. Plain radiographs at Angell do not demonstrate this but they are "crude" as a diagnostic tool for such. A myelogram, bone scan, CT scan would be the best diagnostic tools. Moses' is spending the night at the veterinary clinic, where he was re-admitted this morning so they can keep him hydrated and relieve the bad back pain which he is experiencing. Too, if he cannot or will not urinate, he will be catheterized there. He is resting comfortably there. His prognosis is uncertain and I am feeling that special sort of agony in my heart that many a devoted pet "parent" experiences when his or her angel is suffering. Moses' treatment team consists of my dogs' regular veterinarian since 1983, his internal medicine specialist at Angell Memorial Animal Hospital in Boston and their oncology staff and the veterinarian who performs aquapuncture on Moses; she is a Cornell educated veterinarian who is also certified in such. My dogs' regular veterinarian sent us to her last year to join those seeking good health for Moses, who was experiencing immune-mediated polyarthritis at the time. She called me this evening and wants to make a special trip to our regular veterinarian's clinic to visit Moses and perhaps do a treatment. Of course, I said yes! God bless her! Lisa Allen _ MSN 8 with e-mail virus protection service: 2 months FREE* http://join.msn.com/?page=features/virus
Moses declines badly, veterinary care becomes necessary
Moses continued to decompensate throughout the afternoon. He finally defecated but could not make it outside to do so; no problem. He was drooling, panting, could take a few steps but would then collapse, would sometimes stand frozen in one place and then drop to the floor, and would not hydrate himself. He had not urinated for almost a day and would not do so. His ears were positioned far back on his most beautiful and noble head. Of course, I telephoned my dogs' veterinarian who said to bring Moses to the clinic right away. My dogs' veterinarian and a technician carried him into the clinic and these are people who know exactly in what manner to lift a dog so as to cause no discomfort but Moses was in such pain that he growled; this is TOTALLY out of character for Moses and we all knew it. The first procedure was to insert a catheter and then withdraw Moses' urine. There was "liquidy" blood in the syringe as the doctor withdrew the last amount of urine. This might be hemorragic(excuse spelling) cystitis, a result of chemotherapy. Moses was given Torbugesic, Dexamethasone Sodium Phosphate, and IV electrolytes and then sent home with me, where we agreed he would be more comfortable. He will be re-admitted to the clinic in the morning. Right now, he is resting comfortably, thank God! Also, thank God for my dogs' veterinarian, who kept the clinic open late into the night and waited for me to bring Moses there. For twenty years, he has provided the most exceptional medical care to my precious dogs, my family. Lisa Allen _ The new MSN 8: advanced junk mail protection and 2 months FREE* http://join.msn.com/?page=features/junkmail
Angell concerned Moses' cancer has spread
Moses' internal medicine specialist's office called. They are concerned that the bone cancer has spread to the spine and are considering doing a myelogram and/or a CT scan and/or a bone scan. All of Moses' urine tests results came back and they are fine. Moses remains depressed, is breathing hard when he moves and is not "going to the bathroom" regularly. When offered his meals, he "eats like a horse." They said to discontinue the Rimadyl. Angell Memorial will be in touch with our regular veterinarian today to determine the best course of action. Of course, an important part of Moses' therapy will be to just rest. Lisa Allen _ Protect your PC - get McAfee.com VirusScan Online http://clinic.mcafee.com/clinic/ibuy/campaign.asp?cid=3963
Good Health Comes at a Price
I do not think that medical care for our dogs is overpriced, as a person who posted to the list questioned. Their (Bernese) conditions are far too often severe and serious, even critical, requiring the most highly specialized care available. I have always been extraordinarily pleased with the quality of medical care my dogs have received and the clinicians who deliver it are some of the most compassionate and brilliant people whom I have ever met. They genuinely care about my dogs and treat them as if they are royalty (which they are!). It seems that MAYBE when medical care becomes "too" expensive, we call it overpriced even if it is actually performed "at a loss" or if it is indeed, appropriately priced. Each of Moses' four chemotherapy treatments/day hospitalization cost over one thousand dollars; so be it; he is a much loved family member and made by the same hand that made me. His life is no less sacred than mine and preserving it is what I expect of myself and, I firmly believe, what God expects of me. Even if the cancer had come back the day after the last chemo. session (IT DIDN'T), I would not have given a second thought to having given Moses the best chance for recovery. By the way, the lady from one of the Carolinas who is searching for a Bernese, the question you forgot to ask is about the health of the breed, which, in my opinion, is poor. For the person with the Berner with the liver shunt, there is a contact person, Jane H., for this problem and hopefully she will post to you. Perhaps I ponder the issues in a bit of a different manner than many: I don't question the nine hundred and seventy dollars that I spent for Moses' most recent hospitalization. What "makes my blood pressure rise" is that the breed has become so medically frail, with no end in sight, what with the auctioned dogs, backyard breeders, pet store Berners, and with over 2000 born a year in the USA and these are only those registered with the AKC. Lisa Allen Blessed with Berners since 1983! P.S. I have pet health insurance for my other Swiss dog. I learned my lesson! _ Protect your PC - get McAfee.com VirusScan Online http://clinic.mcafee.com/clinic/ibuy/campaign.asp?cid=3963
PART 3: Moses' recent hospitalization
Moses appears to have lost all of his enormous confidence and the weather is contributing in no small part to this. Even with assistance, manuvering on the frozen and/or snow covered ground has begun to fighten him. When he naps in the house, he cries unless I am near. He will stand as if he is going to take a few steps, freeze, and then sink to the floor; this is even with me encouraging and helping him. He is taking the following medications and ALL of his doctors are aware of what each doctor has prescribed: Monthly Interceptor as heartworm preventative. No vaccinations except rabies since his severe episode of immune-mediated polyarthritis in 2001, early 2002, several strips a day of Sea Jerky Flexibilty Supplement, 2 tablets a day of Synovi G3 Chewable tablets, IC Piroxicam 10mg capsule MYL one capsule a day, Generic Cytotec 100MCG (Misoprostol) tablet 1 and one-half tablets every 12 hours, Hoxsey Boneset Formula added to his meals, four pills a day of Thorne Moducare Sterinol Complex capsules, four a day of Skin Formula 3V capsules for Large and Giant Breed dogs, 2 pills a day of Cell Advance Nutritional Supplement, Salmon Oil added to his meals, Rimadyl 100 mg once or twice daily as needed for discomfort, Clavamox (antibiotic) 375mg, 40 pills, with 2 tablets to be given every twelve hours until they are gone. Later this week, Deramax will be added to his list of medications. Too, Moses receives aquapunture every two weeks by a veterinarian who is certified in such. He received aquapuncture every week during his chmotherapy treatment times. No apparent cancer spread. If anyone has ideas about how to restore Moses' confidence in his ability to remain ambulatory, I am "all ears." Lisa Allen _ Help STOP SPAM with the new MSN 8 and get 2 months FREE* http://join.msn.com/?page=features/junkmail
PART 3: Moses' recent hospitalization
Moses appears to have lost all of his enormous confidence and the weather is contributing in no small part to this. Even with assistance, manuvering on the frozen and/or snow covered ground has begun to fighten him. When he naps in the house, he cries unless I am near. He will stand as if he is going to take a few steps, freeze, and then sink to the floor; this is even with me encouraging and helping him. He is taking the following medications and ALL of his doctors are aware of what each doctor has prescribed: Monthly Interceptor as heartworm preventative. No vaccinations except rabies since his severe episode of immune-mediated polyarthritis in 2001, early 2002, several strips a day of Sea Jerky Flexibilty Supplement, 2 tablets a day of Synovi G3 Chewable tablets, IC Piroxicam 10mg capsule MYL one capsule a day, Generic Cytotec 100MCG (Misoprostol) tablet 1 and one-half tablets every 12 hours, Hoxsey Boneset Formula added to his meals, four pills a day of Thorne Moducare Sterinol Complex capsules, four a day of Skin Formula 3V capsules for Large and Giant Breed dogs, 2 pills a day of Cell Advance Nutritional Supplement, Salmon Oil added to his meals, Rimadyl 100 mg once or twice daily as needed for discomfort, Clavamox (antibiotic) 375mg, 40 pills, with 2 tablets to be given every twelve hours until they are gone. Later this week, Deramax will be added to his list of medications. Too, Moses receives aquapunture every two weeks by a veterinarian who is certified in such. He received aquapuncture every week during his chmotherapy treatment times. No apparent cancer spread. If anyone has ideas about how to restore Moses' confidence in his ability to remain ambulatory, I am "all ears." Lisa Allen _ Protect your PC - get McAfee.com VirusScan Online http://clinic.mcafee.com/clinic/ibuy/campaign.asp?cid=3963
PART 2: Moses' recent hospitalization
Moses was admitted on Saturday night, Feb. 15 by his internal medicine specialist, who was, thankfully, on duty to Angell Memorial Animal Hospital in Boston, where he has been a cancer patient (osteosarcoma) for fever (103.7), lethargy, decreased appetite and fluid intake, labored breathing and considerable weakness in the remaining hindlimb. He had been experiencing increased difficulty remaining ambulatory and on Friday, he began to decompensate to the degree that hospitalization for evaluation and stabilization was required. We thought there might be some posturing and the neurologist was called to thoroughly evaluate Moses. He has degenerative joint disease and arthritis in both elbows and in his right stifle. Moses is eight years six months old. Moses wwas also given antibiotics and analgesics in the hospital. Bloodwork was normal. The veterinary radiologist specialist will examine the Xrays during the week. I shall know the results of the urine culture test sometime in the next few days. Moses kept himself busy at Angell by charming everyone in the building and on the campus. Moses' temperature fell to 101.3 at the hospital. No fluid in his lungs. Triple phosphate crystal in urine. Arthritic changes common to elderly dogs in lumbar vertebrae. Was given subcutaneous fluid. Lisa Allen _ The new MSN 8: smart spam protection and 2 months FREE* http://join.msn.com/?page=features/junkmail
PART 1: Moses' recent hospitalization
Moses is home. Piber and I departed for Boston's Angell Memorial Animal Hospital at approx. 6AM and there was little traffic and no snow on the drive there. As usual, the front desk had all of Moses' medicines ready and the paperwork in order related to his case. A "plug" here for the Newfoundland Club sling about which "we" spoke a while back: so handy and efficient is this that, when Moses was admitted, the staff asked me to leave it with them while Moses was hospitalized. The snow began when we were about ten miles from home and I simply applied the great degree of caution that I always do to my driving. Plus, I learned to drive in Detroit, so I am used to snow, although I am not eager to drive in it. Moses had the following tests/procedures performed while he was in the hospital: Emergency exam, General profile, CBC, Platelet Count, urinalysis, Culture Aerobic and sensitivity, spine lumbar single view, chest right and left Lat/VD, other bloodwork and fluids, large decubitus pad, and examination by veterinary neurologist, who came to the hospital specifically to examine Moses, on a Sunday. A reminder that Moses has been treated for bone cancer, amputation and chemotherapy. Lisa Allen _ Help STOP SPAM with the new MSN 8 and get 2 months FREE* http://join.msn.com/?page=features/junkmail
Moses Improves
I just got off the telephone with Moses' doctor at Angell. He has "picked up" considerably. Temperature 101.3. Is eating. Chest Xrays appear normal but will be re-checked by a veterinary radiology specialist. Neurologist came in specially on a Sunday to check Moses and feels that Moses is neurologically intact. No fluid in Moses' lungs. Blood tests fine. Triple phosphate crystal in urine. Will be sent home on antibiotic and stronger arthritis medicine. Is ambulatory. Stiff in one elbow and right knee. Arthritic changes common to elderly dogs evident in lumbar vertebrae. Urinating well. Being given subcutaneous fluid. I shall be picking him up tomorrow before the snow starts. He is charming everyone at Angell Memorial. No apparent cancer spread. What a terrible scare; I am so weary. Thank God we can put this terrible "episode" behind us. Lisa Allen _ MSN 8 with e-mail virus protection service: 2 months FREE* http://join.msn.com/?page=features/virus
Progression of Moses' illness
Yes, Berners can go rather quickly from being "fine" to, sometimes, quite ill. That is why Moses' quickly going from having a little more trouble walking to almost collapse did not surprise me as much as it might a new Berner owner, as I have been owned by the breed for twenty years. I cannot sleep. This is 99.9% because I am worried about Moses and the rest is due to the fact that my other dog, Piber, has been following me back and forth from bed to couch and, of course, is always allowed to share both with me even if it means I have only room to curl my late middle-aged body up into a ball. Too, I realized that due to the events of the day, what with Moses' decline and admission to Angell, I had neglected to partake of the four or five or whatever food groups. So, I am sipping on the requisite Diet Coca Cola and munching on a lightly buttered pastry. Moses has been ill for two years, starting with immune-mediated polyarthritis, becoming or merging with age-related degenerative arthritis, and, then, in late 2002, being diagnosed with bone cancer and being treated for such (amputation, chemo. His medical care, the very best, has exceeded the twenty thousand dollars mark; I don't care; I just want my sweet boy to live well and be happy, as with any family member. Lisa Allen _ The new MSN 8: smart spam protection and 2 months FREE* http://join.msn.com/?page=features/junkmail
Moses readmitted to Angell with pain, fever, ? neuro. symptoms
My sweet Bernerboy was readmitted to Angell Memorial Animal Hospital in Boston, Massachusetts this evening with fever, pain, and considerable difficulty remaining ambulatory. Moses' internal medicine specialist met us there; he told me, when I spoke to him on the phone, earlier, to bring Moses right to the hospital, as an emergency. They have called the neurologist to examine Moses as there might be some posturing. They will run blood work and do Xrays. Moses' prognosis is listed as guarded. The osteosarcoma could well have returned and I knew that this might happen, even with amputation and chemotherapy, which he has had, although these treatments offer the best "guarantee" for a remission. They will carefully examine his back and spine to determine if the problem might be in this area. My heart is heavy and I fight back tears. Moses tried to be so cheerful and cooperative, very typical of him, in the hospital, even though he was feeling so unwell. Lisa Allen _ Protect your PC - get McAfee.com VirusScan Online http://clinic.mcafee.com/clinic/ibuy/campaign.asp?cid=3963
Post amputation and chemo follow-up
Well, I received a call from Moses' internal medicine specialist at Angell Memorial Animal Hospital; they are thrilled that Moses' first post-chemotherapy blood and urine tests were normal, as am I. We scheduled his first Angell amputation and treatment follow-up, for Xrays. Am I worried? Deep inside, you bet'cha! Treatment has given Moses a wonderful chance to achieve a significant remission and there was no cancer in his lymph node on the leg; we caught it early and treated aggressively; he is receiving holistic therapies as well. Bone cancer travels via the blood stream and can be quite aggressive and painful. I probably won't need to post after Moses' Xrays; if they are fine, you will surely notice that the very solar systems will shift with the strength of my relief. Lisa Allen _ MSN 8 helps eliminate e-mail viruses. Get 2 months FREE*. http://join.msn.com/?page=features/virus
How MSN Users Must Post To The List
Let me preface this post by loudly exclaiming that I am the type of person easily intimidated by a soda pop machine and, what is worse, is that all machinery seems to sense this; perhaps even smelling my fear. Now, this is entirely different from, for me, a trip to the dentist, where I loudly announce my terror, making no secret of such, and, in a cathartic and completely childish display, "share" my agony with the entire office complex. From 1996 to 2001, I was owned by an HP computer. You read that correctly, the machine required that I hire someone to tend to its whims and sleep outside so there would be room for its manuals and software in the warm, cozy house. I grew up in the late 1950s and early 1960s, when authority figures were respected and obeyed, so, when the HP said, "Jump!," I asked, "How high?" Then, after I managed to finally stop trembling, I could sit on my stool and resume typing. In early 2001, my tutor attempted to install a second hard drive; the HP went into a rage, gigantic in proportion, frothing from the CD slot, and attempting to grab onto me like a giant metal leech, while alternating between flashing ugly messages and becoming completely catatonic. So, I donated it to a local senior center. Sometimes, late at night, I hear a delivery truck, wares clanging about in its bed as it makes its way down the road in front of my house and, before I am fully awake, I think, much like Freddy Kruger, that the ol' HP has come back to even the score. But, I digress. Off to CompUSA I went and said to the twelve year old that offered to assist me, "I want a computer that your great-Granny could operate." Now, all that this machine does is e-mail and web surf; it is operated entirely by "msn," which, much like a father figure, imposing and all-knowing, I thoroughly trust to guide me and never betray me. There is no software or hardware and I think I love it. And, after two years, changing the cartridges in the printer hardly frightens me at all anymore. I am so proud of myself. So, I sign on to get my Bernese e-mail and a fellow New Englander, not formerly from Detroit, as am I, sends me a note stating that my post was grabbed by aliens who tampered with it before releasing it to the list. I break into a cold sweat and begin to panic. And, it appears that my simple and sweet machine is experiencing an identity crisis, warming up to hotmail, attempting to join a cyber inner circle of sorts, much like the one to which I have aspired, socially, for years. My stomach actually begins to churn. I make a quick trip to the bathroom. One day, at my wit's end, dark circles under my eyes, I stop trying to convince my 'puter that it must relinquish this hotmail fixation, and it, in turn, happily sends a message to our list. You must log onto www.hotmail.com you think it's that easy, do you? Hah, hah, hah, hah... A page then appears asking you for your password; another dash to the commode when I first saw this. What password??? SOB! Well, I DID select one when I signed onto msn service for the first time so I tried that and, lo and behold, it worked! GASP! After my heart began to beat normally again and I wiped the perspiration from my eyes, I resumed random tapping on the keys and was taken to a page where I could compose messages and the rest, as they say, is history! Trust me, if I can do it, then so can you; I am the one for whom the computer gurus write the "Idiot" books! Lisa Allen _ Add photos to your e-mail with MSN 8. Get 2 months FREE*. http://join.msn.com/?page=features/featuredemail
Selling dogs in the newspaper
Last night's news investigative report on Channel 7 Boston really shocked me. I consider myself rather savvy where the doings in the dog world are concerned but was not prepared for the terrible conditions that I witnessed which constitute the sad reality behind ALOT of these newspaper ads. That these people are so brazen and that so little is done to regulate such came as a bigger surprise to me than perhaps it should have. Sure, I knew to be suspicious of newspaper ads...whom among who has been on the Internet does not, but Channel 7 should be complimented on doing a real eye-opening report on what is happening behind closed doors. And, it is inconceivable to me that someone, anyone can treat another, particularly a dependent creature in this manner; really, it boggles my mind...Geez, I get worried/upset if one of mine even sneezes or appears not to be enjoying a toy that I just bought for them. I studied the pet ads in today's paper with a more educated eye; it sickened me to read one that basically said something like "Puppies, big or small, we can get 'em all." Heaven help these poor dogs. Lisa Allen _ Add photos to your e-mail with MSN 8. Get 2 months FREE*. http://join.msn.com/?page=features/featuredemail
Whew! BIG Relief! Moses' first post-chemo tests...
Yesterday, my dogs' regular veterinarian removed the few remaining staples from Moses' amputation site, drew blood for testing, and sent out the urine from Moses that I had brought to be tested, per request Angell Memorial Animal Hospital. We were concerned about the specific gravity of Moses' urine, which was low enough on February 3 that Angell changed one of his chemotherapy drugs for his final in a series of chemotherapy treatments for bone cancer. And, chemotherapy can effect the blood cell count, of course. Everything, including specific gravity is normal. Blood is fine and urine is fine and the clinic will fax the results to Angell. I know that I shall sleep better tonight having received this good news. I am concerned about the crepitus in Moses' remaining rear leg, even though it is to be expected from use but Moses' appears to be moving about fine and has little difficulty climbing on the couch and getting into the van; I just need to help him a very little bit. Lisa Allen _ Help STOP SPAM with the new MSN 8 and get 2 months FREE* http://join.msn.com/?page=features/junkmail
Ads in newspapers, Moses first post-chemo tests
I am completely in favor of dog clubs advertising in the newspaper to offer the very best of services but I would never "send" a person to the newspaper in search of a dog if one requested of me where best to find a specific breed. Rather, I would warn such a person of the fact that ALOT of these ads are very deceptive. I become sick at heart when I see a Berner advertised for sale in the pet column of the newspaper. Yesterday, Moses had his first post chemotherapy (bone cancer)blood tests and urinalysis and I should have the results today. Naturally, I am anxious to receive the results although Moses seems to be doing quite well. Angell Memorial called, too, yesterday, to inquire as to Moses' condition. Thanks to their finest of orthopedic and oncology departments, Moses is progressing beautifully, although he tends to overuse his remaining back leg, in which there is some crepitus which can be easily felt. My dogs' regular veterinarian removed the few remaining staples from the amputation site; two of my Bernese have lost a leg to cancer, Moses to osteosarcoma and Yoda(1992-2002) to synovial cell sarcoma and I constantly marvel at the surgical sites, which were left so tidy, no infection, swelling, or pain, with the dog trying to stand up literally within hours of surgery; how very blessed we are, in the Northeast, to have such a fine facility as Angell Memorial Animal Hospital available. Lisa Allen _ Add photos to your messages with MSN 8. Get 2 months FREE*. http://join.msn.com/?page=features/featuredemail
re: limping and stiffness post
I can only speak regarding Bernese but, if your dog is displaying limping and stiffness, a trip to the veterinarian, in my opinion, would be in order. This can indicate the mildest of conditions to the very most serious. Your veterinarian can Xray and then suggest the proper medications or treatment. Or, your veterinarian can then refer you to an orthopedic specialist. If this condition is easily treatable, then it will be good to devise a plan under medical supervision. Lisa Allen Blessed with Berners since 1983! _ MSN 8 helps eliminate e-mail viruses. Get 2 months FREE*. http://join.msn.com/?page=features/virus
Be suspicious of newspaper ads selling dogs
A truly sad news report on Boston Channel 7 at 11PM. Was called "Puppy Profiteers" I had to take notes very quickly but, They said that ALOT of the Want Ads are deceiving Their investigative people went to visit some of the folks who posted the ads Deception, shocking conditions In a NH home? dozens of dogs in filthy dark cages were shown; they said that it looked like a factory Showed a barn? in Attleboro, MA where there were filthy, underfed and diseased dogs Said that local kennel licensing is often? ignored and no state inspection The MSPCA says that the consumer does not know what is behind the ads Ads mislead A lady who bought a dog that she thought she was going to a private home to purchase later learned that the dog was in a pet store and shipped from the Midwest Said that pet stores can sell their animals as long as they pass yearly inspection I have always been against the advertisement of Bernese in the newspaper and this reinforces my belief. I know that others feel that it is fine to place advertisements in papers and I respect this. Lisa Allen _ The new MSN 8: advanced junk mail protection and 2 months FREE* http://join.msn.com/?page=features/junkmail
Food for thought
Let us SUPPOSE that I am new to the list. I am learning several things: if my Berner plays with a Lab, I can bid farewell to good orthopedic status. If my Berner presents with a lump, first rule out cancer. If my Berner does not remain on the exact same diet on which the breeder's dogs thrive, he will surely be, at some point, rushed to the vet. with a tummy ailment that defies diagnosis. Are we talking about farm dogs here or Grandma's little lap dog? How fragile are these dogs going to become? Lisa Allen Blessed with Berners since 1983! _ Add photos to your e-mail with MSN 8. Get 2 months FREE*. http://join.msn.com/?page=features/featuredemail
The Tip of the Iceberg
And, with the popularity of the Bernese, the number of people breeding them, and the puppy mill and pet store Berners joining the population, those with temperament issues will perhaps just constitute "the tip of the iceberg." The health issues faced by this breed are monumental. Will the average Joe, even if well-intentioned, spend the thousands or tens of thousands of dollars necessary to treat "Bernie's" cancer, to fix his painful elbows, etc. I would, of course, without a second thought because my dogs are family and their lives, like any family member's, are sacred and too precious for words to me. I predict that not only dogs with temperament problems will be "flooding" rescue programs but those with health issues as well that, practically in the blink of an eye, became too weighty for their owners to handle or by owners who conscientiously select not to deal with the health problems or by new Bernese owners who are quickly overwhelmed by such. Lisa Allen Blessed with Berners since 1983! _ The new MSN 8: advanced junk mail protection and 2 months FREE* http://join.msn.com/?page=features/junkmail
Moses discovers joy in every moment!
Well, today about eight inches of snow fell in Southeastern Massachusetts. My heart grew wings and soared like an eagle watching my lovely Moses, eight years six months old, three legged from bone cancer, having just completed chemotherapy, cavorting and rolling about like a pup, covering himself in Nature's special blanket. Of course, my camera had a thorough work-out as well! Lisa Allen _ MSN 8 with e-mail virus protection service: 2 months FREE* http://join.msn.com/?page=features/virus
Head changes and Family Trees
Everytime I look at Moses' head, I wonder at the subtle changes that I see; it is so handsome and noble. And, now, at age eight years six months I see wisdom, too, and am utterly enchanted and deeply moved by a seeming knowing that even I cannot hope to achieve. I would suggest that those searching for information regarding their dogs' family trees and health status of litter mates keep trying. I was fortunate in that the owners of Yoda's littermates were open and honest. Yoda developed a different type of cancer from most of them but it was so very helpful for my dogs' veterinarian and the world reknowned canine cancer specialist with whom we dealt to have the total picture. Lisa Allen _ The new MSN 8: smart spam protection and 2 months FREE* http://join.msn.com/?page=features/junkmail
Final Chemotherapy Treatment
It has been a long and very tiring day for Moses and me, but he is finished with chemotherapy for his bone cancer; the amputation and chemotherapy have extended his happy life, hopefully significantly. When I learned to drive, in Detroit, in the very early 1970s, my instructor said that if a person could drive the highways and byways of the Motor City, he or she could drive anywhere. This gentleman has never been on Route 128, I am certain, going to or leaving Boston in heavy traffic, with a few of us poor souls, including me, driving, as usual, safely and cautiously, but the majority attempting to reach their destination as quickly as possible in whatever manner is necessary to achieve this. When I dropped off Moses at Angell Memorial Animal Hospital in Boston, one of the Critical Care Nurses was strolling through the waiting room and told me what a pleasant and determined boy Moses is, wanting to stand right after his November 2002 rear leg amputation. Today Dr. Vandis, one of the oncologists, was in charge of his chemotherapy. She commented on what a pleasure it was to work with Moses. Again, Moses' pre-chemo. blood work was fine BUT his urine was mildly diluted. Since all else seems well, we are hoping this is just a fluke and not a sign of kidney dysfunction, possibly caused by the chemo. drug Cisplatin, given with Adriamycin during the last three chemo. treatments, even though the system is flushed extensively (diuresis) when Cisplatin is administered. Urine dilution can fluctuate during the day and my Yoda's (1992-2002) urine's specific gravity was always slightly "off" and we did every test "in the book" to ascertain his wellness and he seemed fine, in spite of this. But, instead of Cisplatin today, Carboplatin, which does not have the same adverse effects on the kidneys, was given along with the Adriamycin. Moses was sent home with Reglan (generic metoclopramide) in case of nausea and vomiting but he seems comfortable, thus far, and eagerly ate and kept down a small dinner. Dr. Vandis, in typical "Angell fashion," called me in the late morning to give me a lengthy update regarding Moses, for which I was deeply appreciative. Moses is scheduled for another urinalysis next week, and bloodwork too, at my regular veterinarian's clinic; he works closely with Moses' specialists at Angell. Too, we have scheduled Moses' first post-cancer treatment follow-up appointment at Angell. In the fashion of a young person, whenever my mother used to worry terribly if I was ill, I always wondered why she reacted so deeply and personally, it seemed. Having experienced synovial cell sarcoma with Yoda and now osteosarcoma with Moses, and "suffered" along side with them, I now know. One heart feels another. Lisa Allen _ Add photos to your e-mail with MSN 8. Get 2 months FREE*. http://join.msn.com/?page=features/featuredemail
re: post about pup with front leg limp
I would strongly suggest that you have your veterinarian Xray and check for elbow dysplasia; if it is such you can begin making plans to manage it. Been there. Lisa Allen _ The new MSN 8: smart spam protection and 2 months FREE* http://join.msn.com/?page=features/junkmail
Canine osteosarcoma (OS) and Synovial cell sarcoma
A couple of people have posted to me questions or comments regarding bone cancer so, allow me to elaborate regarding such. The most common sites for bone cancer are the distal femur (Moses, left side), the proximal tibia, the distal radius and the proximal humerus. That being said, I have heard of it occuring in the brain, the nose, and the ovaries. Now, remember I posted that Dr. Ross (George Clooney!) on ER, I thought, had commented that a girl he examined whose ankle? break, from minor trauma during soccer, appeared, on Xray, as though the bone had imploded from the inside (she had bone cancer)...Well, the article from which I quote states that OS develops deep within the bone and becomes progressively more painful as it grows outward and the bone is destroyed from the inside out. The lameness goes from intermittent to constant over one to three months; Moses, by the way, never experienced this lameness, we discovered his cancer while Xraying to check the progression of his arthritis so that we could establish a proper supplement/medication regimen. Nor did Moses experience the swelling associated with OS. Anyway, what occurs is that normal bone is replaced by tumorous bone, which is not as strong as normal bone and can break with minor injury. OS is a rapid spreading tumor, via the bloodstream. What is happening with this type of tumor is that the bone is slowly exploding and this creates enormous pain. By the time OS is discovered, it is considered to have already spread. Amputating the leg removes the primary tumor site, that is "shedding" microscopically. Then, chemotherapy is the way to alter the course of this cancer. This article also mentions synovial cell sarcoma, to which Yoda(1992-2002) lost a leg. "This is a tumor of the joint capsule lining. It's hallmark is that it affects both bones of the joint. OS will never cross over to an adjacent bone." http://www.marvistavet.com/html/body_canine_osteosarcoma.html Lisa Allen _ Add photos to your e-mail with MSN 8. Get 2 months FREE*. http://join.msn.com/?page=features/featuredemail
Bone cancer
Yes, while I still have much to learn about osteosarcoma, since Moses was diagnosed with such, I have learned more than most laypeople with much to learn yet. One very frightening fact is that, if the dog has had surgery in an area and, for example, some sort of metal piece has been left at the site, the dog can develop bone cancer there. I believe that I also read that a dog whose surgery was completed with the site clean can also develop such, simply because the area was invaded. Often bone cancer is not diagnosed until it is quite advanced and has already spread. Lameness may be mistaken for so many other things. By the time it is diagnosed, it is assumed to have spread and it does so via the blood stream. Moses' bone cancer, left rear femur, was caught at the beginning and we found it completely by accident, when Xraying for another problem; he had no lameness associated with it. There is an episode of ER on television where Dr. Ross (George Clooney!) is faced with a pre-adolescent girl whose ankle? has broken as a result of minor trauma during a soccer game. When he reviews the Xray, he states that it looks as though the bone had imploded from the inside, I believe. The girl seemed in little pain and her parents were shocked beyond belief when informed that the girl had bone cancer. There is nothing "good" to say about this cancer. Amputation must be done quickly because it spreads so fast and this will at least rid the body of the primary tumor site and then, since it has generally spread by then, even microscopically, chemo. must be quickly initiated and this is only if it has not already spread to the lungs. Of course, bone cancer can also be found in the nose, brain, and, in a site unrelated to the limbs that has been invaded surgically. This is a truly "evil" cancer, as I tell my sister. Lisa Allen _ The new MSN 8 is here: Try it free* for 2 months http://join.msn.com/?page=dept/dialup
re: dog whose leg suddenly broke
regarding the dog whose leg suddenly broke: suspect osteosarcoma; this is one of the possibilities that explains a sudden break associated with little trauma. Lisa Allen _ MSN 8 with e-mail virus protection service: 2 months FREE* http://join.msn.com/?page=features/virus
Whew! Hooray! Lungs Clear!!!
I never sleep well the night before Moses' chemotherapy (third session today) because my "baby" will be away for the day and, too, the drive to Boston makes me a bit nervous, even though we are so used to it that I could almost hop into my van, say "Angell," and the vehicle would know where to go. I finally turned on the television at 3AM? Fri. and was completely bored by an episode of "Three's Company." 4:45AM found me following Moses out the back door and into the yard, cup in hand, to obtain some of his urine for the renal profile they would be running at Angell in several hours. We left home at 5:30AM as the drive takes from one to two hours, depending on traffic and they start admitting at about 7AM. Our routine has become such that I know that leaving home at 5:30AM allows us to completely avoid the rush hour traffic on 128N and we arrived at Angell Memorial Animal Hospital at about 6:45AM. Moses spends his day in the Critical Care Unit where he receives his Adriamycin and his Cisplatin under the care of the oncology department and the supervision of his internal medicine specialist. Complete STAT laboratory work is performed on his blood. Today they also decided to do chest Xrays; thank goodness I was not told of this in advance as I would have been, internally, a "wreck" while I wondered if the cancer had spread to his lungs. I spoke on the telephone to Moses' internal medicine specialist at about 4PM and he told me Moses' chest Xrays revealed that his bone cancer had not spread. I am more than completely certain that my relief was so palpable that the doctor felt it through the phone line. Moses continues to move about without difficulty on three legs. I picked him up from Angell at about 6PM. He got home, eagerly ate a small meal, and is stretched out on the couch, falling asleep. I am hoping that this time he will have a better "day after" than he did following his last chemo. session, when he was very passive and had little appetite the next day, but soon was back to his old "the world is my oyster" self. Lisa Allen _ STOP MORE SPAM with the new MSN 8 and get 2 months FREE* http://join.msn.com/?page=features/junkmail
The times they are a' changing
Berners have been a part of my family for twenty years. I would say, and this is but a general statement, that the biggest change in the breed, perhaps, is that the breeding, buying, and selling of Bernese has become big business more so than the breed can handle and afford rather than the infrequent, labor of love and mentorship and long years of study which it used to be, at least enough to instill in one a greater feeling of confidence. And, soon, I feel, we shall face, in greater and greater numbers, across the board, both well-intentioned owners and the less conscientious who will not be able to handle the extreme health problems to which Bernese are so prone and this, I feel, should be a most major concern to fanciers as over 2,000 AKC registered pups are whelped each year in this country (USA) alone. Lisa Allen _ STOP MORE SPAM with the new MSN 8 and get 2 months FREE* http://join.msn.com/?page=features/junkmail
re: dog with eye socket problem
Please, people who write to the list about Bernese with eye problems, consider taking your dog(s) to a specialist who has the kind of highly trained and developed skills and sophisticated equipment necessary to make a firm diagnosis. Your veterinarian can refer you to a specialist in your general area. To the person with the Berner with the eye socket problem; can you be a little more specific? Is this entropian? Has the breeder actually seen the dog's eyes? I was, for a long while, always wiping Yoda's goopy eyes and putting various prescribed ointments in them. My Yoda (1992-2002) had runny eyes from day one and eventually required about five surgeries (three in one eye, two in the other) to correct entropian. Although his breeder's advice was always very valuable to me, she lived three thousand miles from us and saw Yoda only two or three times, at Nationals. Since some eye conditions can cause or lead to loss of sight, an appointment with an eye specialist would be best for the dog and put your mind at ease. Lisa Allen _ MSN 8: advanced junk mail protection and 2 months FREE*. http://join.msn.com/?page=features/junkmail
Fraternal Gross-Outs
For the person who is interested in obtaining fake doggy poo-poo; I would be glad to send you a "pattie" or two. I bought them at a summer street fair. I, too, am guilty of attempting a fraternal gross-out. Having an acute case of the all day giggles several weeks ago, I found myself desperate for catharsis and, well, Sis was visiting from New York, don't you know! So, I strategically placed some rubber doo-doo on the floor of the back seat of her car, which I was quite disappointed that she quickly found and, in her camera bag; Sis is a professional photographer. She did not discover this particular "pattie" until she had returned to New York and she told me, more or less, that her heart "skipped a beat." Tee hee, hoo-hoo, ha ha! I truly love Sis, really I do! Lisa Allen _ The new MSN 8: smart spam protection and 3 months FREE*. http://join.msn.com/?page=features/junkmail&xAPID=42&PS=47575&PI=7324&DI=7474&SU= http://www.hotmail.msn.com/cgi-bin/getmsg&HL=1216hotmailtaglines_smartspamprotection_3mf
reaction to 2nd chemotherapy treatment
Moses was very subdued yesterday, did not eat much, and was whimpering a bit. The same this morning. He underwent his second chemotherapy treatment on Thursday for osteosarcoma, to which he lost a leg. I spoke to one of his doctors on the telephone and was told that a dog sometimes will not "bounce back" as quickly after the second treatment. He is not febrile. He has begun to eat, although not with his usual "vacuum cleaner" intensity and does appear to be "picking up" a bit. I slept on the floor next to him last night; I know that he takes comfort in being near me as, when I gently massage him, he emits a relieved half moan, half contented sigh. I cannot sleep in my own bed when I am concerned about one of the furrykids as I am too worried to fall asleep so I set up bedding near or next to the dog and then rest more comfortably. The weather was no help yesterday, either; heavy rain and strong winds; this bothers Moses because, I think, it bothered Yoda and he saw that extra coos and kisses were common; not that I catered to Yoda's fears but... Lisa Allen _ STOP MORE SPAM with the new MSN 8 and get 3 months FREE*. http://join.msn.com/?page=features/junkmail&xAPID=42&PS=47575&PI=7324&DI=7474&SU= http://www.hotmail.msn.com/cgi-bin/getmsg&HL=1216hotmailtaglines_stopmorespam_3mf
Moses' second round of chemo. for bone cancer
Our day began, officially, at about 5:30 AM, when we left Southeastern Massachusetts for the trip to Boston. This can take from 45 minutes to two hours, if the traffic is heavy. It only took an hour to drive there this morning, to Angell Memorial Animal Hospital, the place where miracles occur. Moses' admission time, for the day, was at 7AM. Our early arrival gave me time to carry the huge plush stuffed animal Berner, which Sandie H. from W. Virginia sent me, into the hospital, as this was always intended as a present for Moses' internal medicine specialist. Thank you Sandie; he was delighted! I left Angell with a heart heavy with worry and a lonely spirit as Moses would spend the usual 12 hours there for his second round of chemotherapy for osteosarcoma, to which he lost a leg. They treat Moses like the prince he will always be! The doctors always ask me to bring a urine sample from Moses so that they can perform a renal profile. Too, they do blood work on a STAT basis. Moses' blood work was fine; WHEW! Moses spends the day in the Critical Care Unit where he receives his Cisplatin and Adriamycin and fluids and other medications and he also received Torbugesic today. When I arrive to pick up Moses, at about 7PM, and I see the nurse walking him down the corridor toward me, my heart grows wings; I bend over to hug him and he leans into me and wags his tail with vigor and joy and my spirit sings. Lisa Allen _ MSN 8: advanced junk mail protection and 3 months FREE*. http://join.msn.com/?page=features/junkmail&xAPID=42&PS=47575&PI=7324&DI=7474&SU= http://www.hotmail.msn.com/cgi-bin/getmsg&HL=1216hotmailtaglines_advancedjmf_3mf
Berner on television "reindog" parade
Berner on TV news this morning in Cincinnati, Ohio "Reindog" parade. Lisa Allen _ Help STOP SPAM with the new MSN 8 and get 2 months FREE* http://join.msn.com/?page=features/junkmail
Eye Think This Will Be of Interest
I got this in the US mail: Changes to "Ocular Disorders Presumed to be Inherited in Purebred Dogs" 2000-2002 Genetics Committee A.C.V.O. It says for Berners that for Distichiasis and Cataracts, mode of inheritance is not defined Breeding advice for cataracts is NO Breeding advice for distichiasis is breeder option Lisa Allen _ MSN 8 helps eliminate e-mail viruses. Get 2 months FREE*. http://join.msn.com/?page=features/virus
re: dog with neuro. problem
I would urge the owner of the dog with neuro. symptoms to take the dog to Angell Memorial Animal Hospital in Boston, where several of my own Berners have received or are receiving wonderful care for non-neuro problems. It is quite a drive for you and you might have to leave the dog there for a diagnostic work-up, but I have found that they leave no stone unturned, as the saying goes. Maybe Angell or Tufts can refer you to vet. neurologists, too. For an especially fine internist at Angell, e-mail me privately. Lisa Allen _ MSN 8 helps eliminate e-mail viruses. Get 2 months FREE*. http://join.msn.com/?page=features/virus
Soup, Feline Osteosarcoma
Who is the lovely Berner on the "Progresso Soup" commercial? Cats fare better than dogs in regard to ostoesarcoma from what I have read at http://www.talktothevet.com/ARTICLES/DOGS/dog_bone_cancer.HTM It has a lower rate of metastasis in cats and longer term survival can be expected with complete excision. Many cats with bone cancer outreach the two year median survival rate. Radiation therapy can play important role in bone cancer not completely excised, due to slow rate of spread in cats. Can consider chemo. depending on case but not usually warranted due to slow metastatic rate in cats. Moses is doing well after having lost one of his legs to osteosarcoma; he is truly an inspiration, so motivated and so courageous! Chemo and aquapuncture continue. Lisa Allen _ Add photos to your messages with MSN 8. Get 2 months FREE*. http://join.msn.com/?page=features/featuredemail
"You should take such good care of yourself!"
My mother of blessed memory, when she would come from Detroit to visit, upon opening my fridge, exclaimed, "Where's YOUR food? (was tucked between dogs' various menu items). When I would describe the various treatments, therapies, social events, classes, and foods enjoyed by the Berners, she used to say "You should take such good care of yourself!" Anyone else experience this with a sibling, parent, spouse? Mom adored my dogs, singing to them, cuddling them, sending them gifts! Lisa Allen _ Add photos to your e-mail with MSN 8. Get 2 months FREE*. http://join.msn.com/?page=features/featuredemail
Feeling like a "new man"
I feel like a new man today, I do! My massage therapist worked on me for half an hour yesterday and I "had my hair done" for the holidays today; my human, Lisa, ooohed and aaahed when she picked me up at the "salon" of my "stylist." Feels nice, especially after all the surgeries and treatments of late! Love, Moses "Allen" And, my primary care veterinarian called to chat about how I am feeling! _ Tired of spam? Get advanced junk mail protection with MSN 8. http://join.msn.com/?page=features/junkmail
Dog on Mountain:Rare Breed
I shall take a guess at answering the cancer question; I think that it has to do with the general fragility of the Berner immune system and the fact that the population of the breed is exploding will only make things worsen. As I said, this is only my theory; my answer to the question posed by Jordan. I like to be happy. I like those whom I love to be happy. The world should be a happier place. I do not believe Bernese should be bred for the specific purpose of making people happy. To me, this makes them like a product on a conveyer belt, perhaps similar to a toy desired by children. Let us suppose that the popular toy of the moment was a doll and every child wanted one or more of these dolls. Let us imagine that it is two weeks before Christmas and weary parents are lining up outside stores so that their children will be able to play with these dolls on Christmas morining. Let us suppose that a shopper takes one of these dolls home and, in wrapping it for his daughter, finds a significant safety problem. The honorable thing to do would be to take the product off the line until changes were made, though the company would lose money and cause children to be sad. I believe each life, including those of our pets, is sacred. Therefore, I must put my happiness on the back burner, I feel, until I am guaranteed that which might not be perfect BUT, due to the most stringent quality control (inspectors, testing, etc.); if this means waiting, then that is a small price to pay given that in the end, the result will be that with which I shall be happier BUT, more important, the life for which I have accepted responsibility, having been treated as sacred and having intrinsic value, will possess more stability and longevity. And, no, I am not comparing the Berner or any dog to a doll; QUITE the contrary, I believe that dogs have souls, that God trusts us to exercise our dominion over non-human creatures in a moral and gentle manner, and not mass produce them, use them to satisfy our greed such as in the puppy mills, and more. In other words, if an agreed upon authority, hypothetically, told me that by the time I was 80 years old, that particular year would be the time when the breed could be offered safely in terms of drastically decreased disease, longevity, type, etc., as desperately as I might want one prior to then, I could not justify being a part of the demand, possibly "forcing" an unethical person to become my supplier. The Shar Pei lady whose first pup who came from a pet store died of pneumonia, yesterday, told my friend, a local business proprietor, that if a person wants, say, a black toy poodle, the pet store calls a Hunte? warehouse and tells them to ship one and if the store has run out of say, Yorkies, might demand that a few of these be delivered in the truck as well. This lady has made a committment to never again be a part of this process, now that she has studied it and has the most admiration that I can summon. Instead, her new pup was shipped from an ethical, established breeder, whose accomplishments she described in detail. Personally, I am striving to be a part of the solution and not of the demand, which will spell the downfall or, as Susan A. has more or less srated, the salvation of the breed. Lisa Allen _ Protect your PC - get McAfee.com VirusScan Online http://clinic.mcafee.com/clinic/ibuy/campaign.asp?cid=3963
My dogs' very favorite ramp/a new "teacher" to the "masses"
A carpenter friend of mine built a beautiful, carpeted dog ramp for my Bernese to assist them in entering the van. If they used it at all, it was with reluctance; they let it be known to me that the ramp of their choice was MamaliftmeorIwontgetin! Interesting experience today; I was at a local business and began to listen to a conversation between a customer and the proprietor, a friend of mine. I listened because I heard the word "Shar Pei" (excuse spelling) used. Woman had bought a pup at pet store and pup succumbed to pneumonia; at this point, I "jumped in" and added the explanation that pup likely hailed from mill in Missouri. I was glad to hear that this lady had researched such as a result of her experience and knew about Hunte, etc. Turns out pup had been taken from dam at six weeks of age. Her new pup was purchased from a reputable breeder, whom she described in detail. As terrible as it was that this lady lost her first pup, she now can teach others about the best sources for healthy, well-bred pups. Lisa Allen _ STOP MORE SPAM with the new MSN 8 and get 2 months FREE* http://join.msn.com/?page=features/junkmail
The Eyes Have It!
Some of the ways to get the dog back up on the top of the mountain, roaming about the farm, would be to appoint breed wardens (I would like these to be no-nonsense kind of gals like Mary Alice, Debby Mulvey, and Esther Mueller (excuse spellings), rules that allow no leniency such as you may not breed a bitch before age two years and, should anyone think I am picking on breeders, home inspections required for every potential owner of a new pup and also required in other circumstances as well, and stringent requirements for health, temperament, conformation, etc. before breeding and only allowing a dog or bitch so many pups. It is a discouraging and disheartening "given" that this will not happen in the USA. If the breed continues, I feel in my heart, on its present course, it MIGHT face near extinction, perhaps not in our lifetimes but, as it becomes more frail and shy and unhealthy due to a population grown beyond control and less reputable breeders outnumbering the conscientious breeders, there might be an overwhelming failure to thrive among these most noble of dogs driving either a small group of fanciers to pick up the pieces and try to rebuild or, even these most dedicated of dog people to contemplate giving up as the task will be so monumental and they can not ascertain that others will be eager to carry on their work. Too, a mindset "should" be adopted that each life is so sacred and so worthy of consideration that the most stringent of considerations must be adopted before any breeding occurs so that the lives created have a good chance of thriving. But, on to other topics that do not involve speculation. Folks, if your dog's eyes are runny and do not seem right, please, take your Berner to your vet. and perhaps get a referral to an eye specialist. My Yoda (1992-2002) had runny eyes from the beginning and required multiple surgeries to correct entropian. There are eye conditions that can result in blindness if left untreated so let the doctors have a look! Lisa Allen _ The new MSN 8: smart spam protection and 2 months FREE* http://join.msn.com/?page=features/junkmail
Berner on Swiss Mountain:becoming rare breed?
To me, Angell Memorial Animal Hospital in Boston will always be a place where miracles occur. The staff is always helpful and kind. Moses' internal medicine specialist and surgeon are considerate, gentle, brilliant and available to assist dog and owner. Pat is correct; we must not moan about what is wrong with the breed but, rather, seek to help where assistance is most necessary. Due to the closeness I shared with the humans of Yoda's littermates, I was able to get a clearer picture than many of health trends. A good many of Yoda's littermates died from histiocytosis and there was also kidney cancer, hemangiosarcoma, and meningitis suffered by littermates. Yoda lived for nine years six months and died from synovial cell sarcoma, to which he lost a leg sixteen months earlier. This information was quite crucial to have for Yoda's veterinarian and specialists. I fully agree with Mary Ann Bowman; I journeyed 6000 miles, twice, the second time to escort Yoda to his new home with me in New England; I could never imagine shipping a pup without his or her human accompanying pup. Back to Yoda's litter; very carefully planned, producing magnificent, typey dogs; Yoda was a bear of a Bernerboy, my soulmate; we figuratively finished each other's sentences. I do feel that the basic constitution of this breed is so fragile(Jordan having to take out a second mortgage and me spending thousands and thousands of dollars; I mention such because this should not be necessary or at least it should be a rare exception in a rigorously protected breed; to ascertain the wellness of family, of course I shall ALWAYS spend what is necessary, the issue with which I emotionally struggle is that the breed has or is evolving in such a direction with astounding and alarming alacrity that this is going to become the norm) and the population is exploding such that the future is not bright. If we can clone Pat, Joye, and others, than I, for one, would certainly sleep better at night. Lisa Allen By the way, I am curious as to what is fed to Berners in France? _ STOP MORE SPAM with the new MSN 8 and get 2 months FREE* http://join.msn.com/?page=features/junkmail
Immunopathologist response to report re: amputated leg
I was so relieved when I heard the following that I was speechless and began to tremble slightly... finally, a piece of good news regarding Moses' bone cancer, a light in the darkness that is this disease... I had the opportunity to communicate with one of Moses' doctors who helped us this summer, before Moses' was diagnosed with bone cancer. This gentleman is a veterinarian, a PhD, a professor, and a highly regarded pathologist in central USA. I e-mailed him the pathology report regarding Moses' amputated leg and, God bless him, he contacted me and said, "There is no cancer in the lymph node. The lymph node has been draining a region of hemorrhage, probably secondary to the neoplasia. This is what they do and considering the situation is normal. No osteosarcoma in the lymph node is a good sign as it means the neoplasia was caught early. Osteosarcomas metastasize or spread predominantly through blood vessels and not the lymphatics. Involvement of lymph nodes and lymphatics with osteosarcoma is only seen late in well developed disease. Therefore, you got it early, which is great!! Your veterinarians will most likely routinely monitor for metastasis by taking X-rays of the chest (lungs) or perhaps ultrasound of the chest and abdomen (rather than paying a whole lot of attention to the lymph nodes)." Lisa Allen _ Tired of spam? Get advanced junk mail protection with MSN 8. http://join.msn.com/?page=features/junkmail
TV CAN yet be entertaining AND educational!
I thoroughly enjoyed "King of the Hill" last night. Bobby did an amazing freestyle routine with a terrier mix and Hank did a less spectacular, but equally delightful, program with the family hound, "Ladybird." The show ended with a formal freestyle competition. VERY cute, entertaining, and quite true to form! This morning, on "Good Morning, America," a mother whose child, she said, had spent his first three months of life crying, was interviewed. The doctor? on the show showed her how to "wrap" the child, how to "swaddle" the infant. And, he said that saying S... to the baby and running the vacuum cleaner would calm the lad because, for the second, the sound in the womb is like a vacuum cleaner. This reminds me of the "anxiety wraps" we have discussed. I should probably wrap myself in about twenty sheets or blankets when I go to the dentist and just roll into the office! . Lisa Allen _ Tired of spam? Get advanced junk mail protection with MSN 8. http://join.msn.com/?page=features/junkmail
the dog on the mountain in Switzerland:becoming rare breed
How can we possibly expect to improve health in the breed if over 2000 per year are bred in the USA alone, and these are ONLY the Berner pups registered with the AKC! And, a problem which is going to become more and more frequent: Let me preface such by saying that I would crawl from one end of the Earth to the other for my dogs, if need be Moses' has been "sick" for one year six months; it began as immune mediated polyarthritis, became degenerative joint disease, and now we are fighting to save his life from the ravages of osteosarcoma. This means that I have slept with one ear wide awake for the last eighteen months and my mind is on Moses 24/7 and my emotional turmoil has been beyond measure. Moses' medical care has cost, SO FAR, between ten and fifteen thousand dollars; I post this because I believe we tend to "sugarcoat" too much the problems in the breed, which, in my mind, have become dire. I would spend any amount to ascertain my family's wellness and my dogs are very much members of the family. Too, Moses' joy in life is inspirational; he is NO HOW, NO WAY ready to cross the "Bridge." With a population of Berners, regardless of source, exploding, perhaps an understatement, and with, in the USA, no rules to prevent anybody and his brother from breeding 'em, folks, there is going to be a flood of Berners needlessly euthanized or abandoned because people will not or cannot spend the money to ascertain the dog' wellness. I feel so strongly that this has or will become the breed's reality that I shall even say that those pondering this weighty problem would do well to mark my words! I hope that, at least, buyers deeply concerned about the cost of pups are being informed, currently, that the purchase price is a drop in the bucket compared to the costs of treating an unwell Berner and the emotional price is even higher, to watch one who is loved so much and has such spirit be hindered by illness. Lisa Allen _ Protect your PC - get McAfee.com VirusScan Online http://clinic.mcafee.com/clinic/ibuy/campaign.asp?cid=3963
the dog on the mountain in Switzerland:becoming rare breed
How can we possibly expect to improve health in the breed if over 2000 per year are bred in the USA alone, and these are ONLY the Berner pups registered with the AKC! And, a problem which is going to become more and more frequent: Let me preface such by saying that I would crawl from one end of the Earth to the other for my dogs, if need be Moses' has been "sick" for one year six months; it began as immune mediated polyarthritis, became degenerative joint disease, and now we are fighting to save his life from the ravages of osteosarcoma. This means that I have slept with one ear wide awake for the last eighteen months and my mind is on Moses 24/7 and my emotional turmoil has been beyond measure. Moses' medical care has cost, SO FAR, between ten and fifteen thousand dollars; I post this because I believe we tend to "sugarcoat" too much the problems in the breed, which, in my mind, have become dire. I would spend any amount to ascertain my family's wellness and my dogs are very much members of the family. Too, Moses' joy in life is inspirational; he is NO HOW, NO WAY ready to cross the "Bridge." With a population of Berners, regardless of source, exploding, perhaps an understatement, and with, in the USA, no rules to prevent anybody and his brother from breeding 'em, folks, there is going to be a flood of Berners needlessly euthanized or abandoned because people will not or cannot spend the money to ascertain the dog' wellness. I feel so strongly that this has or will become the breed's reality that I shall even say that those pondering this weighty problem would do well to mark my words! I hope that, at least, buyers deeply concerned about the cost of pups are being informed, currently, that the purchase price is a drop in the bucket compared to the costs of treating an unwell Berner and the emotional price is even higher, to watch one who is loved so much and has such spirit be hindered by illness. Lisa Allen _ Add photos to your messages with MSN 8. Get 2 months FREE*. http://join.msn.com/?page=features/featuredemail
Pathology of Amputated Leg
Angell Memorial Animal Hospital sent me, per my request, a copy of Moses' pathology report. Of course, Moses' regular veterinarian will also receive one. Left distal femur: Osteosarcoma Left popliteal lymph node: Moderate diffuse sinusoidal hemmorrhage, erythrophagocytosis, and hemosiderosis Haired skin, inked proximal soft tissue margins:Within normal limits Scott Schelling, DVM, D.A.C.V.P. AMAH called me and told me that they found no cancer in the lymph node; is that what the above more or less means? Many thanks! Lisa Allen _ MSN 8 helps eliminate e-mail viruses. Get 2 months FREE*. http://join.msn.com/?page=features/virus
