also sorry to read:( but agree she is stinken cute espec in her new red collar:)

Does the vet already know? I wonder if Jazz might just be okay, bulge and all, as her muscles tighten up as she matures? I just wanna hear good news, after all you've both been through!

And YES to the gorgeous red collar!

I have been wondering the same thing. Maybe this will resolve itself as she gets older.

Awww!!! Red is a good color on her

Stitches are out, yay! The area is a bit red, where they were starting to dig into her as she started moving around more, he really stitched her good, knowing what a spaz she is, so I bet she feels really good to have them out.

The vet happened to be there in non-work clothes, just checking in on a Sunday I guess, so I was able to show him the picture of the other side, and talk to him about it. He did say not to worry, that he would take care of it, but when I told him I was worried about the weakness in her entire abdomen, after he examined her, he kinda saw what I meant.

He knows the rehab vet that she will be seeing next week (Thursday). I think he's a bit skeptical that anything can be done, but definitely had an open mind about it. I guess they have a meeting this week where he will be seeing this vet, so if he remembers, he will probably talk to her about Jazz.

For right now, I am going to increase her activity in increments. I have xpens around the bed and the couches, etc. so that she can't jump, so I guess I'll just keep them up for a little while longer. A little tired of sitting and sleeping on a mat in the middle of the floor, but if it means maybe one less surgery for her down the road, a small price to pay.

We went to work today after getting the stitches out. Walked a lot, compared to the last 10 days, and she's beat. I have about 2 months of stuff I'd like to cram into the next 2 weeks - not sure if either of us are up to it

Well that sounds like progress! I'm so sorry for you both that you are having to go so slowly

Would swimming be good for her now the stitches are out? Just trying to think of exercise for her.

Oh, you are one dedicated dog owner! Jazz is pretty darn lucky to have such a careful mom.

Yippie for the stitches being out! I'm glad you got to touch base with the vet regarding your concerns. I'm just hoping that
1.) Jazz's tummy muscles will tighten and firm a bit on their own, and that
2.) She will live a long and healthy, happy life as is-- no problems or concerns to worry you!
You are such a great Mom to have her going to the rehab vet. Jazz is in great hands with you!

Jazzie must be much more comfortable and maybe Lisa, too.

OK, you will see the rehab vet who will surely have knowledge about such conditions, if she has a condition. Like Patti says, maybe things will just tighten up naturally, or maybe specific work is required. One way or another Lisa will find out.

Oh and yes, you both are up to your challenges.

MJ

Hoping this sorts itself out and that if it doesn't the vet takes good care of her!

Thank you everyone, I'm just tired!

Hoping things get better, but for now, I'll take any spare "don't get worse" vibes that folks have. If it gets worse, back to surgery sooner rather than later.

You got it Lady. Thinking about you two all the time. Sending lots of good thoughts for healing and recovery.

Thanks Elvi!

I think I will try to start her swimming soon, if she'll take to it. I think she will. She tires out a on our walks in what seems to be a short time. I guess everything has taken it's toll on her. I have no idea what an almost 10 month old small breed dog should be able to do in the heat...

Lisa, remember that vacation you talked about? Hope the swimming works out for Jazz.

Ha! I've been thinking about this, yes. Not looking good, height of tourist season everywhere, working up to 108 degrees this weekend, so everyone is trying to beat the heat.

I am working on a few day trips. I was going to head west to the coast, but can't do that yet - tomorrow is Max's 6 month anniversary, and that last coast trip with him was pretty special. I miss him so much.

But, thank you, yes, I need to do something. I hate starting the school year as stressed as when it ended, because it just gets worse.

so please give yourself a break. If it's something that works for you and Miss Jazmine, so much the better. But Jazz had a great time with your sister, I think. Maybe you just need a day trip for Lisa. I don't know.

Then again, maybe Jazz wants to meet some East Coast board members who want to try controlled dog introductions.

all the best,
MJ

I will echo what Mary Jane has said. Whatever works. It's so hard.

Lisa, you sound really run down. I hope you find a way to take off for a few days. Any chance your sister could puppy sit Jazzy and you could take a long weekend?

Or, any state parks with dog friendly cabins you can rent? Should be water nearby for Jazzys' swimming. That should be great exercise for her.

I hope you find a way to recharge soon. You have had too many months of worry.

Sending you both so many good positive thoughts Lisa. I hope you can manage some quality 'you' time What about even book a couple of massages?