4 Hours Post Op

It started as any other day for a puppy.  Seeing new things, meeting new people, and just having fun.  Winston did note that he didn't get any breakfast or that cool drink of water he always enjoys in the morning.  He had no idea of the trauma that lay ahead.  Actually, he thought he was going to the vet to get tutored.

Friends, I'm not going to sugar coat it for you. There was considerable pain, fear, and emotional scarring, but I want everyone to know I will be OK.  Kelli should be OK too with substantial emotional counseling.   Winston was not so lucky.  He was in surgery from 10 am to 1:30 pm and came out wishing he had only been hit by a truck.  He suffered 2 broken bones, 4 incisions totaling about 8" in length, not to mention losing the precious family jewels.

Dr. Mary McDaniel briefed us before surgery and showed us on xrays what was wrong with Winston's legs, what needed to be done, and how she was going to fix him.  After surgery, she debriefed us and showed us new xrays with Winston's missing bone mass.  We didn't know it, but Winston was both the donor and recipient of the necessary fat pad bone spacers.  For some reason, we thought Dr. McDaniel would order the fat pads along with lunch and an order of fries.  There is a 2 1/2" cut along his flank where she found 'plenty of fat'.  His front legs are wrapped only in bandages and he doesn't have a cast or splints.

Dr. McDaniel was pleased with the surgery and expects an excellent outcome.  We will know much more in about 6 to 8 weeks when we see followup xrays.

He was just waking up when we were permitted back and Dr. McDaniel allowed us to stay with him all afternoon into the evening.  He looked really rough after surgery and was in considerable discomfort despite inflammation and pain meds.   At quitting time we discussed whether we should leave him at the unattended clinic alone or if he should go home with us.  We really didn't like either scenario.  Dr. McDaniel then asked if we would feel better if Winston went home with her.  Yes, yes, and yes.  Isn't this the kind of vet we all wish for?  We didn't want him to be alone at the clinic and at the same time we were worried that if we had him at the inn and something went wrong, we wouldn't know what to do. We said goodnight to Winston knowing he will be in the best of hands.  If you aren't safe with Mother Mary, who are you safe with?

Kelli and I headed out for dinner and before we got back to our room, the phone rang and Dr. McDaniel name popped up on the caller ID.  Worry flashed through our minds as Kelli answered the phone.  She tentatively answered hello and Dr. McDaniel happily reported that Winston was at her home, doing fine and had just consumed a whole can of dog food!  What on earth is better than a Glen with a hearty appetite?

Kelli and I wish to thank Dr. McDaniel and her staff for taking such good care of our boy today.  You have no idea how much it means to Winston, Kelli and myself.  Words cannot express our gratitude.

Tomorrow morning we will pick Winston up and head back to Pensacola.  It will be a tough 10 hours for Winston.  We will keep you updated.  Please say a little prayer for Winston tonight.