Survivors and Celebrations

Smokey's Story

My beautiful dog, Smokey, came into my life October, 2007. She belonged to my neighbor. He adopted her from a shelter after his dog died. Smokey was surrendered to the shelter after her family lost their home. Lucky for me, my neighbor adopted her. A year after my neighbor adopted Smokey, he became ill and ended up in the hospital. He had no family, no one to take care of the dog while he was in the hospital. I took her in thinking it would only be a week or so before my neighbor was released from the hospital. After four months of being in the hospital and nursing homes, my neighbor passed away. It only took a few weeks, but I became very attached to Smokey. She was the best companion I could ask for. She was the most gentle and loving dog. Every time we went on our walks, someone stopped us to say what a beautiful dog she was. After 1 1/2 years, Smokey suddenly became sick during one of our walks. She could bearly make it home. I took her to the vet, and after blood work, xrays, and an ultrasound, it was discovered that there was a mass on her spleen. My vet suggested surgery, as it was not certain that Smokey had cancer. Her red blood count was dropping at a dangerous rate, and it appeared Smokey would not last through the weekend. The vet put her on prednisolone, which stablized her blood count. Smokey's spleen was removed, and during the surgery three other tumors were found and removed. Smokey was diagnoised with the worst type of cancer a dog could have, hemangiosarcoma. I was devestated. I was told she had three to six months. I decided not to treat Smokey with chemo, as I was told it was not effective with this type of cancer. Smokey lived for five months after her surgery. During that time Smokey had a good quality of life. She was happy, alert, still liked to chase squirrels, and go for walks (shorter ones). The last week of her life, we could see she was slowing down. Her breathing was heavy, and I knew it was time to do what was right for Smokey. She died November 20, 2009. I never dreamed that I could have such a wonderful relationship and connection with a dog. I loved her and I know she loved me. People told me that the dog came into my life for a reason. The unconditional love and joy that I got from Smokey is more than I could ever have imagined. She will be in my heart for the rest of my life.