I've put off writing this post for a long time... a very long time. I've put it off mostly because I miss Tysie so much, that even looking at pictures of her makes me sad. But it's time and I've healed a little bit and my T dog deserves a blog posted dedicated to her.
On a Friday in September, I was putting Hattie to bed when I noticed that Tysie was acting funny. All of the sudden she was panting and standing really close to me. She couldn't/wouldn't sit or lie down. I got really nervous and called the emergency vet nearby. They asked me to check her gums to see if they were pink or white. They were mostly white, a very light shade of pink. They said it was likely serious and she needed to be seen immediately. My sister rushed over to watch my girls because Ryan was out of town and I took Tysie in. I was terrified that it would be her last night with me.
After an X-ray of her abdomen, the vet said she was probably suffering from arthritis, but she also had fluid in her belly that could be from an internal bleed. He gave us pain medication and muscle relaxers and Tysie came home with me.
After several thousand dollars and several further tests, it was discovered that Tysie wasn't suffering from arthritis, but instead she had a tumor on her spleen. This tumor was very dangerous and could/would rupture at any minute. The vet said we could remove her spleen and give her chemo for several weeks and Tysie would live for up to 9 more months. That option had a cost of around $10,000. Another option would have been to let Tysie continue to live with the tumor, trying to help her avoid running and jumping, but knowing the tumor would rupture within 6 weeks and she would die a painful death. The third option was to let Tysie go peacefully and without pain in the vet's office when we were ready. None of the option were ideal, but we knew what we needed to do.
On Friday, September 9, 2016, we gave Tysie the last gift we could, which was a peaceful and painless end. Ryan was with her through the entire process and even though it was so painful for him to watch, I know having him there made it easier for T.
We all struggled losing Tysie. Her absence left a giant hole in our family. No more snuggle-buggle puppy in bed with us. No more snoring dog in the corner as I put Hattie to bed. No more jingling of the bells to go outside and play. Our house was sad and quiet for a long time. Gracie talked about the pain she felt in her heart and the anger she had when she thought about missing Tysie. We talked about the paw print Tysie left in her heart and how nothing will ever fill that hole, but the pain will get easier with time.
Tysie was an amazing dog. Ryan and I invested so much in her. She was well-behaved, well-loved, and well liked by everyone. We still miss her every day, but we're so grateful we got to have her for 9 happy years!!
The days before she died, we spent lots of time snuggling with her and giving her love. Of course, I also took several pictures to remember her sweet face! I will always remember my sweet T Lou!
