Ella the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

Embee Cavaliers: Beating the odds - Mitral Valve Disease

2011-12-20T09:55:00.000-08:00

Embee Cavaliers: Beating the odds - Mitral Valve Disease: Mitral Valve Disase or MVD is the leading cause of death in the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel. Almost all of our beloved dogs will eventua...

Seeing Elton Run Brings a Smile and Tears

2011-10-06T14:12:00.000-07:00

Recently, I've been having a blast with Elton. We have discovered the parking garage at my apartment is the perfect backdrop to the city skyline and also is prime property for ball chasing. He has quite the personality.

I have been sad today because I think of Ella. I think of how she loved chasing the ball and the day I threw the ball to have her just stare in the distance, frozen and unable or not willing to run. I am thinking of the dog stroller in my closet. Would she be in the stroller, in my arms? I think about how nice it has been to have Elton next to me snuggled up on the sofa or in the bed letting me touch him. How I longed for just a few minutes of Ella to be close to me but she didn't like to be touched anymore. I would be on the sofa and she on the top and I would just have my arm stretched just to touch her and be connected.

I will leave work and wipe my tears and take Elton to the top of the roof tonight. I will throw the tennis ball and watch him run but I will imagine Ella in the wind next to him running just as fast and smiling with me.

but mommy, i'm special too

2011-09-06T21:34:00.001-07:00

When I was thinking of adopting elton, I was scared that no matter how perfect or special another cavalier was, they would never be as close to me as ella was. Would that be fair? Would I be able to give another cavalier enough love? I figured that there is always a special cavalier or dog that no dog or anyone will replace, but that should not mean that I will never have another.

Elton looks at me and his say, I need you too. I cry thinking about why have I not given up the fight for SM, when I have a little boy that gives me so much joy but he needs me in a different way. I took him to the vet last Friday because it has concerned me about him chasing his tail. Yes, some think this is a cute quirk but I'm starting to feel sad. Is he still anxious with the adjustment? Have I not made the transition easy or have I not given him the classes and attention that he needs because he needs?

I decided to get a referal to a behavioralist. He is one of the best in the country. I think it would be good to talk to him to see if his behavior is related to OCD. I don't think I'm over reacting but I want to give him my all. I've been sad lately. He needs more activity than ella did but have I not gone on enough walks? I need to adjust things for him.

I have been talking about obedience training and getting involved with activites like agility and other things, but classes have just come out with a fall schedule.

I am sad because some family meet elton. They said that ella was just so special. I know she was but so is elton. He is different but he has his own special qualities. I know I felt the same way but I started to get upset. Elton isn't ella but he is a ball of fire. Ella was extremely docile and inactive but a lot of that had to do with her SM. Elton needs more attention, stimulation and playtime. He can't sit at the front of the vet's office like ella but he can run, jump, dance and is a monkey.

My nephew saw his special quality when he stayed with them recently. He was so happy because he taught him a trick. He said he taught him to dance. He said he has to do it in the morning because he is "more wild". He could not say elton but called him "hellton". Yet he is just active and wants to play. He would run outside and go to the birdfeeder to make them all flock. He loves playing tug of war. He does all of these cute things but is never "bad". He just wants to play.

I am worried about his behavior a little bit because he growled and I don't know if something is going on. So my little munchkin is special too. He also has stolen my heart and I know we will learn together how to adjust to each other. He has made his place here and has his favorite toys and his own mark here. I couldn't imagine my home without him.

I miss my cavalier friends that I got to know because of ellas SM, but maybe I will meet others that can help me with learning how to train and what fun things we can do or I can to help stimulate his wild, active personality.

Happy Days Again! Meet my new Munchkin Elton!

2011-08-03T14:29:00.000-07:00

I don’t know why it has taking me so long to post the news but I have been wanting to make his introduction “paw”fect, but I just gave up because he has been wanting to make his debut! \

Elton lost his family and needed a home and someone to love him. I had Ella and needed to have someone to love. It was a match made in Heaven! Elton’s family had to move overseas due to being in the military. What a sad thing for him to come from a loving home and for his parents to have to give him to another home because he could not come with them  I hope that I can make him happy even though I am sure he misses the family he once had. However, from the way we bonded so fast and his constant smiles, I think he is okay!

Elton entered ACKCSC Rescue Trust and was staying with a friend of mine Sharon who was fostering him. She posted pictures on Facebook but I don’t know if something told me to e-mail her and ask about him, but I did. She told me he was very social which is a must for any Cavalier I would want because going to the Dog Bar and dog pawties are some of my favorite things. I am getting excited just thinking of planning a pawty or going on a dog social outing.

Elton is a very small package with tons of energy! He only weighs 11 lbs! This is smaller than the standard but it matches his frame so he is not underweight. He is definitely keeping me on my toes! He jumps from the chair to the coffee table down the hall and it is amazing to watch!

Last night, I was eating something but wasn’t quite done so I put it on top of my computer desk. I left the room and was told he had climbed from the sofa and was trying to get the food on top of the desk!!! I think he might be a good candidate to try agility.

His previous owners told Sharon that he loved going on walks. That is perfect since I live in an apartment without a yard so we have taken many walks around the neighborhood. Since he came from a military family, I was told that they said “last call!” right before bed and he would run to the door to do any last minute “business”.

I can’t quite understand but he loves to get completely under the covers at night. I am just so thankful to have a snuggle buddy. I feel like Elton brought energy back into my life. We are learning things together and might try our hand at rally or obedience classes. There are many things we can do together and this is looking like the start of a beautiful journey.

More about Rescue, pictures and adventures to come

A Dog’s in Pain, it’s in Pain. Know What’s Going on and Treat Symptoms

2011-07-15T15:44:00.000-07:00

Ok, my post title is not the best but I think this is a very important topic. A couple of things have been bothering me lately. You would think that when Ella passed away, I would forget about SM but it’s on my mind everyday like the awareness bracelette a kind friend gave me.

Sometimes we need to look at things from what your dog is saying.

There's nothing wrong with Ella, she's not like those videos! You and your neurologist are wrong....

Look at Ella's eyes in the picture above. It's not the best picture but maybe you can see something in her eyes? You can't make it out but I could look into her eyes and know how she felt. Just because Ella did not scream in pain, scratch so much, or some other things, did not mean that she did not have this sad look on her face. I knew something was wrong deep down and that is why no matter what people said, I knew she needed help. She was able to get treatment and things were adjusted to have days where she was so happy.

Does the picture above look like a dog in pain? She was being treated and that treatment had to be adjusted accordingly. First and foremost she needed to be treated. So why am I telling you all of this? Well when Ella was first diagnosed, I was hung up on the words "severe SM". I looked at books, tried to figure out her syrinx location, how wide it was, what her prognosis was etc. but take all of that away and what really mattered was this SMILE.

Now I know that Severe SM are just words. This may shock some but I never thought about her true diagnosis CM/SM. I just jumped to the SM. You see the word Syringomyelia talked about a lot and now little by little people are starting to talk more about CM (Chiari Malformation). Sometimes I don't know if it was her CM or her SM that was causing her pain. Why does it matter now? Well, I have friends that have Cavaliers with CM alone that act like Ella did.

I can not describe what it is like to have a dog with CM only and still exhibit signs of severe SM? I can tell you that I DO know what it was like when people thought I must be wrong and Ella is fine. Whether it was severe SM, the CM she was not fine and that is why you need to know what's going on. Here is the best post and a must read so you can understand that SM awareness should be CM/SM awareness or just support for those that have dogs in pain. You know even if a MRI says it's mild, if the Cavalier or dog is not doing well, then well that's not good. Next time you hear someone say the MRI should no SM or mild, but they were describing a dog with severe symptoms, think of that and not just the diagnosis.

Please read Miss Kodee's Blog Post below and this wonderful post and also check out link for "How to Tell if Your Dog is in Pain"

That Dirty Word in the CKCS Worldl; Chiari-like Malformation

Below is a picture of Ella and I on her last day on Earth. CM/SM did not take her life, but more on that later...I knew something was wrong but did I miss something?

learn from ella; the 4th of july. take time to enjoy life

2011-06-29T21:43:00.001-07:00

Enjoying the water and surfing (not quite)

This is a tough time for me because every year my family goes to pawleys island for the 4th of july. All my brothers and sisters (besides my half-brother on my fathers side) is there with their husbands or wives along with their children. I don't have a husband and children, I had ella. That why its hard but I want to tell this story because there is a lesson learned from last year.

Last year ella had a blast! She would spend part of the day at day care because mom didn't want her in the house, but I would pick her up and drop her off several times a day. Its very hot so she couldn't be outside all day. I was extremely protective of her with her SM, but I let that go when I saw how happy she was playing on the beach with everyone.

These memories are so valuable now but also was what I learned. She had several days of activity which can aggravate some and it had a toll on her. All those fun times we had added up and when the 4th of july came, she had one of the worse days.

This is the post I wrote last year that explains exactly what I was feeling at the time. http://fightforella.blogspot.com/2010/07/4th-of-july-and-suddenly-dont-feel-like.html She would not move and she was rubbing her face. I could see the pain in her eyes and it killed me. She mostly slept but she went from this happy cavalier to one that was hurting. I felt so guilty, scared, upset and I wanted to take it back. How could I do that to her? Thinking back, its not that I *made* her run. I didn't make her do anything, she did it herself and loved being around everyone and playing. If she didn't, I would have taken her back to day care because I was at this time extremely limiting her activity and protective of her.

I cried and cried all day. The night of the 4th, my sisters family and I go to my dads house. There is a dinner with tons of people, jump castles and games for the children, music, drinks and dancing for the adults. The night ends with one of the most beautiful display of fireworks that I can her the oohs and ahhs as I write this.

I don't even think I could eat. I told everyone I had to go back to the house to be with ella. Ella was asleep and was fine but I needed to be with her. I felt so bad and I just couldn't enjoy anything without her. We snuggled together and then when I started to hear the fireworks in the distance, we went outside to look. I walked a little up the street, standing on my toes and trying to see it through the trees.

The next morning ella was back to herself. I wrote to a group about this and how terrible I felt. I remember one guy said something that I will remember forever. He asked me if I ever have done something that I really enjoyed but felt bad the next day but would still do it again if you could? I thought of dinner and wine with my girlfriends staying up late chatting and having fun. The next day, I would be tired but it was worth it. We have all had those times. Maybe snow skiing and waking up sore but it was so much fun.

Granted this week was a little too much but the moral of the story is something that I valued. I started to take time to let ella enjoy things in life. She loved going to the park, playing with other dogs, chasing birds, and holding her back for fear that it would be too much wouldn't be a life for her. I was well tuned in to how she was doing and when enough was enough. I am glad I made myself not keep her from doing things and actually take time to actually do things each day.

Pawley's Island Parade

Nana (mom) and Ella

Looking for sea shells in the surf- One of her favorite things!

Look at that smile! How much fun she was having!

Looking for birds and enjoying the scene

Maybe I see a fish

Watching Bobby ride a wave in

Got to be where the action is and make sure that everyone is ok. I'm a good watch dog!

Can you spot Ella?

Some of my family enjoying the parade

Learn from ella; its ok to have fun and take a break to enjoy life.

The Angel Oak

2011-06-27T13:49:00.001-07:00

The day I met Ella for the first time was also the first time I saw “The Angel Oak.” The Angel Oak is an oak tree that is thought to be over 1500 years old. It has survived hurricanes, earthquakes, floods and is said to be one of the oldest things living or man made east of the Rockies.

My mom and I went to meet Ella’s breeder and see the puppies she had available. The trip took us on a detour to John’s Island, SC. My mom had spent her summers on John’s Island at her Grandmother’s house. She talked of those days with a light in her eyes and a youthfulness I had not seen before. Mom never talked about her past because her mom and dad had both passed away when she was young. I think the pain is still there so it hurts her to remember or maybe she doesn’t. She never really talked about things no matter how much I asked or wanted to know. However, this day was different and I could see the good memories flood through my mom’s head.

Ella gave me that. She gave me the time with mom and the memories she had that she told me as we passed over a bridge or by a market that was once there.

Our day ended at the church where her Grandparents graves were. She asked me if I had ever seen “the Tree”. I went to College of Charleston and I had heard of the Angel Oak, but I never saw it. It was right around the corner from the church so we went to see it.

The sight was breathtaking. This massive tree has limbs the size of trees that reach back to the ground. This is something that has stood the test of time and has made it despite the odds. Why is it that this one tree has made it this long? I can’t remember if we went to see the Angel Oak and then mom told me to stop at the church later? What if we never went that day together? Would I have known about this little church where my Great Grandparents graves were? Would I have learned about those summers my mom had with her grandmother who loved to play cards? Would we both travel back in time to a place filled with good childhood memories and a time that I can only imagine?

Thank you Ella for giving me that day and those moments with mom to visit the Angel Oak that was there as it has been for the past 1500 years.

Buying a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, Be Part of Solution, Not Part of Problem

2011-06-23T09:12:00.000-07:00

How can one not fall in love once they see a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Puppy? Those big puppy eyes looking at you, then you give in because they are too hard to resist. Check out this email that was sent to a Charlotte Meet-Up Group along with puppy pictures attached.

"Just wanted to let everyone know that we have 6 gorgeous babies, soon to be available, from 2 litters.

3 Ruby boys, parents are 12 and 10lbs each.

2 Blenheim boys, parents are 12 and 11lbs each.

Boys are $750 each, and will be up to date on shots and deworming before going to their new homes.

Both fathers are AKC registered and one is champion sired, but mothers are both CKC registered, as will be the pups.

I have one female, she is a rare little thing. She is white, tan and SABLE instead of black. Some also call this chocolate. This is a very rare, and has happened once before with one of this mother's previous litters. As the others online that I have researched report, the pup from the previous litter was the same: her sable coat grew out with puppy hair and it was replaced with a VERY deep dark red. She is gorgeous, and extremely unique. I am asking $895 for her.

I am attaching pictures of all, please pass this along to anyone you know who may be looking for the perfect family pet this summer! They are 5 weeks today, so there is still a couple of weeks before they can go to their new homes, but I am accepting deposits to hold a puppy of your choice"

Then my friend replied to me:

"OMG I WANT ONE SOOOOOOOOOOOO BAD"

So she sent to a friend of hers and sure enough, it worked and a puppy had a new home.

There are several things that immediately stand out to me. I will get into more details on choosing a puppy later, but want to point out some basics.

1). CKC registered. Stay away from breeders that advertise puppies from any registry other than CKCSC USA or AKC. Actually, you would want to make sure that the breeder is a member of one or both Cavalier breed clubs in the USA: The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Club, USA. (CKCSC, USA) and The American Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Club (ACKCSC).

2) Advertised weight. This weight is actually BELOW the breed standard. http://www.ckcsc.org/ states:

"Height 12 to 13 inches at the withers; weight, proportionate to height, between 13 and 18 pounds. These are ideal heights and weights; slight variations are permissible, and a dog should be penalized only in comparison with one of equal general appearance, type and quality. The weedy specimen is as much to be penalized as the oversized one."

Many potential Cavalier buyers want a SMALL Cavalier. This is why they advertise weight. Not only is it below what they should be so I would either think its false or worse, they have poor living conditions.

3) "one is Champion sired". Even if this is true (which I doubt), this was added to make them seem more attractive. Many will put pictures of other Champions on websites to attract buyers. This should not be any consideration when buying a puppy.

4) "I have one female, she is a rare little thing. She is white, tan and SABLE instead of black. Some also call this chocolate. This is a very rare," I have never heard of this at all. There are 4 colors of Cavaliers: Blenheim, Tri-Color, Black and Tan, and Ruby. Even if this is true which she "researched", a reputable breeder would know about the breed. But since this is "rare" she is charging more.

5) "I am attaching pictures of all, please pass this along to anyone you know who may be looking for the perfect family pet this summer!" This is one thing I see, "perfect Christmas present"...etc. Reputable breeders would not advertise as being a present, good for the summer, etc. They would want to make sure that their puppies are going to a good home and actually want to make sure that you are right for them. They would not consider (even in rescue) it a good idea to get one as a present.

Last weekend, another "breeder" that was on the email list sent out email about having puppies. I heard she came to the meet-up at the park with puppies and was trying to sell them.

All the emails and information I sent about Cavalier Health, went to the same people but did this matter? They wanted to make money. She even advertised she had an older boy just turned 2 that has been a perfect stud dog. So let me sell a cavalier that was bred too young to another to use to "make money". No reputable breeder would do this. I would not even call this person a breeder. They are a damage to the breed. They may have one litter a year to make money, but know nothing about the breed or health. Even if they do, they choose to ignore it.

You don't know the history, if the breeder did any health testing, how they were raised, if they are registered, but you do know that the puppy is just too cute and all that does not matter. Then reality hits and the puppy may develop a health problem, has temperment issues, etc. but can you call the breeder for health? You didn't care about all that information, all you looked at was the adorable puppy.

In Mary Beth Squirells post Embee Cavaliers: Buying a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Puppy: she sums up what I have been thinking:

"People buying cavalier puppies are just as responsible for this breeds welfare as those breeding them. If you are not purchasing Cavaliers from responsible breeders you are not doing your part to protect and help this breed."

I highly suggest reading her blog because it has several good health links, information, with some fun pictures and posts mixed in. She is a breeder that is doing what she can to help the health of the breed. She has organized scan days for help with CM/SM research and had MRI scans for her Cavaliers. Check out her post about Breeding and MRI's in Canada. Did you know that she also SHOWS her Cavaliers. Reputable breeders show Cavaliers in some aspect, confirmation, agility, obedience, etc. so they can compare to others. They are involved. Roycroft Cavalier Information Center has a lot of information on selecting a reputable breeder.

If you love the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel breed, then do your research and make sure that you are part of the SOLUTION and not adding to the PROBLEM.

How Can I Profit From the Example of Ella

2011-06-17T13:15:00.000-07:00

“Here lies DASH, the Favourite Spaniel of Queen Victoria

By whose command this Memorial was erected.

He died on the 20 December, 1840 in his 9th year.

His attachment was without selfishness,

His playfulness without malice,

His fidelity without deceit.

READER, if you would live beloved and die regretted, profit by the example of DASH.”

My life will never be the same since after My Angel Ella came into my life. I have learned so much from her.

"Dogs have a way of finding the people who need them, Filling an emptiness we don't even know we have."

Thom Jones

Ella was not just a dog. She was angel that was sent to me. She has taught me about loving one more than yourself and that I could ever imagine. She taught me about forgiveness. She taught me how to make someone’s day just by showing you care. We will forever be connected because she will remain in my heart forever. I believe that even though she is not physically here, she is an angel looking down on me and everyone. So I will ask myself:

What Would Ella Want

She would want to run after the birds.

She would want to sniff each flower.

She would want to great each person and dog with a smile and waiting for them to pet her.

She would want to run around in the park with her fur friends.

She would want to run on the sand in the beach.

She would want to run after a tennis ball and wait for me to come to her to throw it again 

She would want to spread across the whole bed like a princess.

I could say so many things but she never asked for them. I just knew these are things she enjoyed. The only time she would get the “please mom, I don’t want to” action was when we were at the beach. We slept in a bedroom that was by itself. The upstairs was where all the action was including *cough* kitchen. She wanted to be around everyone and even if they were going to sleep, she wanted to make sure she was there and not missing anything. She would sit by the door impatiently wanting to go back. She even scratched to door with her paw, looking up at me with those sad eyes.

We left the beach at 5am the Monday after Easter to return back to work in Charlotte. She immediately got sick in the car. She was running on the beach Sunday but that would be her last run on the sandy beach. The last time she would chase shells in the breaking waves. I had no idea that would be the last time she smiled at all.

That Monday she did not get better and she did not hog the bed that night, nor did she end up on top of my head and pillows. I woke up to her on the bathroom floor. I took her to the Vet Tuesday morning. She came home because they thought it was a bug. She still did not eat and again even though she always is close by, she was on the floor again. The next day when I took her back to the vet, I did not know that when she would return home, it would be her spirit.

I think Ella got what she wanted, a weekend at her favorite place before it would be her time to say goodbye.

I never thought about it that way until now. I feel like Ella was sent to me as an Angel to help me through some hard times. She saved my life and that is why I wanted to do everything I could to save hers. It seems like it was before her time, but maybe there was a reason she felt it was her time to go back to Heaven and help me and others from there.

Maybe she did not want me to see her struggle. Sometimes I feel like I was losing strength and I get so upset with myself. It can weigh on you emotionally to not know what the future holds. I loved and still love her so much that I wanted to be the one to have the pain instead of her.

Would Ella want that? Would she want me to be scared of losing her? Would she want to see the sadness in my eyes that she came to me to change?

No. She would not want that because that was her whole reason she found me. It does still hurt and the pain is still raw but I have to think of everything she taught me.

What did I learn from her?

More to come…

This is a picture of Ella at the Beach the Weekend before she got sick

Poem from a Loving Person to Comfort Me

2011-06-16T20:31:00.000-07:00

I have met some people on Facebook. In particular, some people in the Cavalier Army that have been a true blessing to hold my hand, let me cry. laugh and I am forever grateful. The army started when her beloved Cavalier Mickey was sick and needed prayers. More about the army later, but wanted to share the poem she wrote for me.

To Comfort My Mum.

The days have passed since Ive been gone

But you my sweet mummy Anne will forever mourn
It seemed so sad that I had to go, why you ask
But that you will never know.
I just want to send some comfort your way
And tell you that I wished I could stay
I wanted to forever run with you and play

But I am only lent by God,
But while I was with you we were like peas in a pod
Our time together was special indeed
You fulfilled so many of my needs
I am still with you of that you can be sure
Just look at the clouds and you will see me once more
At night my little eyes will glisten up above
And I will wink at you as I float free like a dove

Please dont worry about me at all
For I have so much love and lots more
The love you gave me was so intense
Sometimes life just doesnt make sense
But be assured that the time we had
Wasnt meant to end by making you sad

Look on me a sample from God;
he displays his love through a loving dog
The way in which I would lick your nose and snuggle close and wrap myself around your toes,
for you smelt like a beautiful rose.
You see its love that makes me do those things, and now up here that love echoes like a constant ring.

For when I watch you each day I feel the
sadness that you display
Mummy I want you to miss me but let me go I am waiting here with God and one day you yourself will come to the show.
Until that time be assured I are fine.
Gods taking care of me all the time.
I have lots of things to do and see,
but most of all I watch over thee.

So just to comfort you right now, I take a bow, and salute you with my little paw, for you my mummy could have done no more.
As I run of now to play with God, I want you to be at peace and smile for us each, for you and your love covered me like sand on a beach.

Farewell my mum until that day, when I will see you again and we can once more cuddle and play.love....

Your sweet cavalier girl Ella.

Julie Schofield

2011-06-06T12:34:00.001-07:00

Good Night Ella

2011-06-01T12:39:00.001-07:00

My sister would sing a lullaby to her son every night before he went to sleep. To me Ella was my “fur” baby so every night I sang the same song my sister did to Ella.

Good Night Ella

Good Night Ella

Good Night Ella

It’s time to go to sleep

Just a simple melody but I sang this to her since she was a puppy and it was our bonding time. If I started to sing this she would come from the other room if there were others around, and come to my bed. People would say no! Not fair I want her out here, but she was my little girl. Her eyes would become heavy as she would snuggle up to me (usually taking up all the bed) and we would go to sleep.

On May 2nd, I sang this the last time to her as I held her paw to join others in Rainbows Bridge. I can barely talk about it because tears are flowing now, but my bed is now empty. I actually can’t sleep in my bed still because it feels so empty. It’s like a hole where Ella was so I have only slept in my bed a couple of times since that day. I usually will sleep on the sofa. I try to close my eyes and feel her. One night my face felt on fire from all the tears I cried that I started to think was it her licking them away? Was that what I was feeling? I don’t know but it made me feel better and eventually I was able to go to sleep. Maybe now she is the one singing to me or comforting me because I know deep down inside she is with me still.

I Only Wanted You

2011-05-31T13:41:00.000-07:00

They say memories are golden, well maybe that is true.

I never wanted memories, I only wanted you.

A million times I needed you, a million times I cried.

If love alone could have saved you, you never would have died.

In life I loved you dearly, in death I love you still.

In my heart you hold a place no one could ever fill.

If tears could build a stairway and heartache make a lane,

I'd walk the path to heaven and bring you back again.

Our family chain is broken, and nothing seems the same.

But as God calls us one by one, the chain will link again.

Embee Cavaliers: Cavalier King Charles Spaniel breeding dogs, and M...

2011-05-26T07:47:00.000-07:00

Did you know that Molly won Best in Show last weekend! Some say breeders are more concerned with winning than health. Well I can tell you Mary Beth done so much for Cavaliers for education and promoting health, she definately is someone who disproves this statement. Way to go Molly for winning Best in Show and thank you Mary Beth for your continued dedication to this beloved breed.

Embee Cavaliers: Cavalier King Charles Spaniel breeding dogs, and M...: "Did you know? Approximately every other month, Cavalier King Charles Spaniel breeding dogs are MRI'd in Southern Ontario, at Matheson Blvd...."

Seeing Ella Smile

2011-05-25T14:52:00.000-07:00

I am going through some things I have written in the past but did not post. I think it's important for me to post these things even though they are from the past. So this is what I wrote about how Ella made everything go away. Nothing else mattered in my life but her. I learned from her that the things that others felt were important just were not the same. I am saddened that I do not have her to make the pain go away now, but l close my eyes and think of her smiling down from Heaven.

Seeing Ella smile made nothing else matter. Seeing her face light up made all the wrong go away for an instant. Watching her in complete bliss was all I could focus on and in that moment I tuned everything else out.

I took Ella to see her “boyfriend” Kennedy who is a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel a few months older than her. They have a unique bond and it is apparent when they are together. Someone said I needed to meet Kat, the new girl downstairs. Not only was she fun but she had a picture of a Cavalier on her desk that looked exactly like Ella. Kat was outgoing and fun but she was just as crazy about her dog as I was. I knew I needed to meet her and Ella and I were invited to Kennedy’s birthday party. That was 3 years ago. We became great friends and had a lot of fun nights out and great times together. Kennedy and Ella became closer too. However, fun times were not always going to be in Ella’s cards.

Kat was there when Ella was diagnosed and went through surgery. Ella could not come over and play with Kennedy when she was recovering and I did not feel like leaving her. We grew apart for several reasons. I took her over about 6 or 8 weeks after her surgery and there were several people at Kat’s house. It was a huge party and Ella was excited to see everyone at first. I was careful and noticed her hiding under the table and said it was time for us to go. “No” “Ella’s fine” “Did you see how happy she was” “look at how much she was playing” etc. I knew for Ella’s safety she needed to go home. I cried as I had to carry her up the stairs because she could not move from all the activity.

I could not do the things I used to because any money I had went to Ella. That is all that mattered to me. Once Ella’s neurologist and I felt she was okay to not be restricted, I let Kat keep Ella. She had so much fun but I could not get over some things that were said. I kept thinking of where was she when I had to carry her up the stairs, the nights I spent crying, the days I spent searching for answers. The person it hurt was Ella. For another reason, our friendship changed and I could not talk to her anymore. When she told me that Ella’s neurologist was making all of this up, I could no longer take it. Ella was not sick but just depressed. I tried to be friends and not get into SM etc. but it had become such a part of me.

That was me and not Ella. When I found out Ella’s results from her second MRI, I let Kat know and she felt terrible. What she thought I made up, is very real. I told her that it would make Ella feel better to be around Kennedy so we put our feelings aside for her.

So seeing Ella smile, I tuned out her words “It’s just not fair”. “I can’t believe you paid that much for her” “You should turn her breeder in”. I just simply said it is much more complicated than that. Her breeder did not do this on purpose. I just said, “Look at how happy she is”.

What I do not think is fair (I did not say this to her), is that Ella’s breeder followed the MVD breeding protocol. She is a breeder that is a member of the CKCSC-USA and the ACKCSC and was heartbroken to learn about Ella. I am not sure but she said she is working on trying to get scanning done. I just like to think she is even though I probably know she isn’t. I do know she is not breeding any of that line anymore. She knows about SM. When I got Ella, I looked at the health records and thought I did the best and I am sure so did she at the time. Yes it could have been better and she did not tell me about SM. I will say that even if Ella came from a breeder that had her dogs scanned and everything done possible health test wise, there is still a chance for something to happen.

What is not fair is that two of her friends bought Cavalier King Charles Spaniels in the past 3 years. I did not find the breeders for them but I know that they are not following the MVD breeding protocol, they are not members of either Cavalier Club, I am not sure what health testing was done. All I know is that I heard they were a good price and had cute pictures.

Letter to Ella from Blondie and Lynn

2011-05-25T11:05:00.000-07:00

I received this sweet letter from Lynn and her cavalier Blondie (who also has SM). I really wanted to share it with everyone!

Sweet Ella,

I've gotten to know you a little bit through your mommy,

and even though I never met you, you were my best Cavalier

buddy on the forum. I shared your story and your name often with my friends

and enjoyed reading all the stories about you.

Your mom loved you very much, she was on the forum all the time learning and reading

about you and your breed, finding ways to make your life better and more comfortable.

We all learned so much from your story. You lived with this horrible disease called

SM, which my puppy has too.. yet you were so strong and brave and loved going

to the doggie bar and hanging out with your mommy, still enjoying days in the park.

When I read the horrible news on the Cavalier forum about your illness, I checked the forum ten times a day for updates, until I saw the last news that Anne had decided it was time to set you free. I was in the car from upstate NY with my boyfriend, and read him your Mom's message.

In the middle of the message the tears were flowing and I don't think he understood much else of what I said. We stopped the car, and even my boyfriend shed a tear for you coz he

felt how unsettling it was for me. You are a symbol for all cavaliers with SM and I could feel your mommy's worries and pain as if they were mine. Blondie was in the car with us too and I know se must've felt something cause she was very quiet the whole drive home.

I then quietly read all the other messages that were left for you and I can tell you: you must've touched so many hearts and souls. Never before have I seen such sadness and so many messages there. And though I know that for us, this is all so so sad:

I know, for you, sweet Ella, it is not. I know you understand the flow of life and death better than us humans do. And I know that you do not see it as something frightening or horrible.

You are now running at the bridge with Charly and all the other cavaliers that recently passed as well as Anne's family who is waiting for you at the bridge and will love you and hug you while your mommy is still hanging around with us for a little while.

Run free little angel, and keep an eye on my Blondiemonster while you are up there too.

Love

Lynn and Blondie

Loving wings

2011-05-08T01:12:00.001-07:00

Watch "DMB Benaroya Loving Wings 10.24.02" on YouTube

This song is so special to me. At a time in my life ella came to me. She showed me light and opened my heart. I owe everything to her. She was so special.

"My heart is made of broken bones

My soul a bag of stick and stone

But you along this dusty road

Come my love to take me home

I give to you my everything

Youve given me these loving wings

And angels have all gathered 'round

To hear me sing my love out load

You lightly lifted me away

Above the darkness cold and grey

Worked beneath the mid-day sun

Cool blue water you have come

I give to you my everything

Youve given me these loving wings

And angels have all gathered 'round

To hear me sing my love out loud

So take your place here next to me

Ill take my place next to thee

No matter how far we may roam

It's by your side i make my home"

Dave matthews band

She will always be with me. Its been a very tough year. I gave her all i could and i owe everything to her coming into my life. Although i have no regrets to dedicating this past year to her, being with her, learning about this condition, and fighting for her, i got to a low point. i just couldnt be without her and anything else didnt matter. It was all i thought about and cared about.

My family is amazing and i know ella touched them too. So in the end i had to give her wings to be released from pain but the bond we shared will be with me always. Its hard but i feel her with me and shes telling me she is with me and its ok. She lifted me out of darkness when i met her and even though i feel pain from losing her that i may never get over, she is guiding me back to where i need to be. I need to let that love open me up to others.

Which leads me to my next post.

My Little Angel

2011-05-05T12:27:00.000-07:00

This has been a very difficult time for me, but I think about Ella and her strength. How brave she was and no matter what she always had a wag in her tail, she made people fall in love with her all over the world. I never thought I would survive this moment but I need to live like her. No matter what pain or even being attacked by a dog, she would not change her spirit.

Many of people have had Cavaliers for 30 or so years. Know the breed more than anyone and have gone through this loss, but she made me fall in love. This breed is one that is like no other. I think the biggest compliment is how everyone that met her, then wants one. My mom and step-father who lost their lab and have said they would never get another since they are getting older. My aunt and uncle who lost their Springer Spaniel and also retired and said they would not have another because of traveling between their house in Florida and in Myrtle Beach. They all have said before she passed, that she made them fall in love again.

I know that she gave me something and hopefully others in knowing there is much more to breeding dogs and in the end there is one thing that we all have in common. A love for this breed, each other, and no matter what I am so glad that Ella has brought me to everyone. There are many things that can happen in life. You do what you think is best and pray to God that one day I will be reunited with her again.

I remember the day when I went to meet Ella's breeder. I was so scared that I would not pass her interview You see a lot of great breeders and even people in rescue, don't just want money and send a puppy off. They care too and want to make sure that they will have a home and a life that will be good for them. I was dead set on a girl but I heard that both girls were not being kept.

So I went and saw all the boys playing and there was one that was not as rowdy and she came to me. I had no idea it was the girl, but there was something special about her. She laid in my arms and fell asleep. Her breeder could see the connection. I don't know, but I heard that some breeders can tell when there is a connection. She saw that and I felt it. My heart filled with love. She came to me when I needed her like a gift and I truly believe in my heart there is a reason.

People keep saying you need to get another one to help ease the pain. As much as I long to have her or someone in my bed, I will wait for the right one to come. I will get another Cavalier in my life, and no Cavalier will ever be like her. At the right time, the right breeder, and the right moment, I think God will send another angel to me. For now, I just want to thank everyone who has been touched by her and know that this breed is unlike another and Ella is no exception.

World's Smallest Hunting Dog

2011-04-18T07:38:00.000-07:00

“Be who you are and say what you feel because those who mind don’t matter and those who matter don’t mind” Dr. Seuss

2011-04-15T15:07:00.001-07:00

“In the End, we will remember not the words of our enemies, but the silence of our friends.”

Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

That is so true because it hurts so much worse when people who you thought were friends are silent.

“I’ve learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel”
Maya Angelou

No matter what one believes, it is how they make you feel at times of grief. When someone goes to a breeder when they learned their Cavalier has SM, their response to make them feel they care means the world.“Tell me and I’ll forget; show me and I may remember, involve me and I’ll understand.”
Chinese Proverbs

I don’t know about breed clubs in the UK, I do know that I have to join here so I can understand all sides. I don’t know if there are sides but if I can get involved and try to bring awareness of SM great. I may learn other things too however;

"The greatest ignorance is to reject something you know nothing about”Yet, I have been ignorant more than I would like to admit.All I want is for the best and for me, that will take some time to understand things and how they are here. I have made mistakes, don’t understand things like I should.
"A good listener tries to understand what the other person is saying. In the end he may disagree sharply, but because he disagrees, he wants to know exactly what it is he is disagreeing with.”

I have no idea what I am fighting by asking questions. What am I doing wrong because I would like to know more.

“A real friend is one who walks in when the rest of the world walks out.”
Walter Winchell

So I guess I learned what being true is. It is the people that are there for you at the end of the day no matter what you feel.

“Be who you are and say what you feel because those who mind don’t matter and those who matter don’t mind”
Dr. Seuss

It’s okay to say how you feel and if you are honest and act on your words, then at least you are being true to your belief. I open discussion because that is the way forward however it must be for the right reasons and people should be respectful of their opinions.

“Discussion is an exchange of knowledge; an argument an exchange of ignorance”
Robert Quillen

So please hold my hand as I learn for myself even if i feel like I can’t make it through this alone. I do not want more people to go through this. So there may not be a right or wrong answer but that’s ok because at least I tried.

“Being ignorant is not so much a shame, as being unwilling to learn.”
Benjamin Franklin

Reflections- Why Ella’s Birthday Means More than Just a Number of Candles on a Cake

2011-04-05T07:50:00.000-07:00

Last night, I couldn’t sleep. I had Ella resting on top of my pillow and heard the familiar sound of her breathing. I wanted to grab her, kiss her to death, and make that feeling and sound remain in time. I started to think of what it would feel like without that lump on my pillow, sound in my ear, heartbeat, and even the smell of her breathe. That’s when I started to cry and my pillow became wet.

Shouldn’t I be excited to think that she has made it to her birthday, a day I did not think she would reach? Yes we made this milestone but deep inside, I would love to prove my fears wrong that this will definitely be her last. I am so scared. Sometimes it’s easier to get consumed in other things then for me to think what does the development of scar tissue mean for Ella? So let’s go back to birthdays because that is when I first realized something was wrong with her.

It was Ella’s 3rd birthday and I invited people to her birthday party when I noticed she wasn’t playing like herself.

Did I even celebrate Ella’s 4th birthday? I remember her recovering and I had wrote a post about being excited about meeting someone in my area on a support group. That night quickly turned to tears when I noticed something was wrong and I went to the dog bar and broke down in tears.

http://fightforella.blogspot.com/2010/04/time-to-celebrate.html

I read back and I see the numbers. The size of the syrinx I thought increased from .3 to .5 in a span of 6 months and with surgery. Dr. Brofman sent more images and said he did not see that much of a difference. I don’t know but I do know that scar tissue is not a good thing. I do know that surgery gave me time to figure out medication. I don’t know what her future holds. I don’t know if I can manage my future without her.

Cavalier King Charles Spaniels: Blitz is sleeping peacefully while I'm up thinkin...

2011-04-01T06:41:00.000-07:00

Cavalier King Charles Spaniels: Blitz is sleeping peacefully while I'm up thinkin...: "Blitz is sleeping peacefully while I'm up thinking about his future. The official medical findings are in: It was found that he is in the ..."

3 Little Cavaliers… How one puppy led to three

2011-04-01T06:40:00.000-07:00

3 Little Cavaliers… How one puppy led to three

I met Shannon back in August through Cavalier Talk when she posted about her puppy Flash and being concerned about Flash showing signs of SM. Since then so many things have led up to the devastating news this week that Blitz has heartworm disease, severe CM and SM, and the list goes on. Who is Blitz you might ask since the story started with Flash. Blitz is Flash’s father who Shannon rescued after learning about Flash.

Shannon started a blog and I hope she will tell the story herself http://3littlecavaliers.blogspot.com. Here are some things that I found interesting and important through her story.

· Talking to the Breeder

I hope Shannon will write a post for me but from talking to the breeder she was concerned for Flashes parents since the breeder has several breeds and knew nothing about health issues. What if this breeder continues to breed them? Should she buy the parents which will support the breeder? How do you save them from puppy mills without supporting the person doing this?

After fighting the breeder gave Flashes parents to her. Now she was faced with two Cavaliers in very poor health. Matts, teeth being lost from chewing on cages to get out and not to mention heartworms. She took these scared, extremely thin Cavaliers and made them family.

· That bring us to today

Blitz is so much happier to be recovered from those conditions but he doesn't know that his condition is not good and will need surgery.

So please say a prayer for Shannon and her 3 Cavaliers. I will be praying for them.

Friends going through what takes me back a year ago

2011-03-18T14:43:00.000-07:00

I have had two friends recently learn their cavaliers have SM. As heartbreaking it is, I have seen the outpouring of support and comfort they have received from their friends on facebook. I have met people after Ella's surgery and diagnosis but anytime I post something about her, all these friends come together to show their concern and it makes things so much better. Whether they have cavaliers with sm/cm or perfectly healthy, they are friends for good times and bad.

This past year has been filled with ups and downs but I have developed friendships with people all over the world and that is truly amazing. Virtual friends are awesome but I have developed friendships from Facebook with people close by. I know I need to sometimes get out of my "cavalierish" world but Ella became my number one. I feel like these friendships have made me forget what it was like the first time I started this blog and knew no one. It was because of this, that I got introduced to other forums and feel like I know all these people because of one person reaching out to me.

I was reading my post where I was so excited that from a forum, I had someone say I could call her because she lived in NC. I was going to a friends to celebrate Ella's birthday and it was like I won the lottery. I have talked about SM so many times that I forgot that moment. The moment that I felt my prayers were answered and I could talk to someone who knows more and is going through what I was.

So when these friends on Facebook came to me scared and nervous and not knowing what to do, I should have remembered how it was for me. It was the most lonely, scary, emotional time in my life and I did not think I would make it. Ella is my everything and without her well... I don't want to think of it.

So I wanted to tell everyone that I am thinking of you all and we do keep you in our prayers. Sometimes I just have to stop and remember the day when someone reached me. It was like light came to me in a shadow of darkness.

Spring is Coming and So Much Fun things to Do!

2011-03-04T14:53:00.000-08:00

Every April, I do something special like a birthday party for Ella, well because it's her birthday. I really had no idea that Ella would even make it to her 5th birthday and it gives me great pleasure to be wrong. So this year, I want to have a party for all of our Cavalier friends, well all dog paws welcome. Let all the worries and just have a blast with all the people I have met the past year.

I need your help!!

How fun is a Cavalier get together with no pawty animals?

I mean can you say NO to these eyes?

So I need some Cavalier Pawty Coordinators.

Ella's friend Audra at the Dog Bar has agreed to open up one Saturday for a couple of hours of Pre Pawty

Just for US!!!!

But I don't want to let Ella down and have not many people come to the Celebration so I need your help.

We have to get her Facebook Buddies included. Sasha has agreed to model for a dog show. So any tips on that because models are needed and plus Ella is new at all the lingo. Just found out what BOL was!
We need to set a date! I thought April 30th but the Dog Bar is having an after the Bark in the Park Party. Let's set a date so we can get our wag on

Please comment, email, whatever if you would like to help. Free place just need people and ideas!

2011-03-04T14:34:00.000-08:00

Charlotte's Bark in the Park at Rural Hill

Can Ella Be Top Dog at this year's Bark in the Park April 30th?

Here's the poop:

Does your dog have what it takes to be TOP DOG? Show us! Send us a photo that captures the unique character of your dog and a brief description of your canine friend. Entries will be judged on cleverness and originality. The top 3 will be announced on March 30, 2011, then it will be up to you, the public, to decide who is the TOP DOG. Vote online for your favorite between April 1-17, 2011. On April 20, 2011 the 2011 TOP DOG winner will be announced. Entries will be accepted March 1-20, 2011. The cost is $12 per entry. Good luck to all our furry friends!

Registration

Tips

Prizes

Past Entries

Contact Information

The Top Dog winner will receive:

• A One-of-a-Kind painting by Tianna Fisher

• A year's supply of dog food from Pedigree & Food Lion

• A gift basket valued at more than $50

• will be the grand marshal of the pooch parade at Bark in the Park, held April 30, 2011

• Recognition in the 2012 Bark in the Park event through on-site display at the festival

Entries will be accepted March 1-20, 2011.

Flip side now when is awareness at the cost of emotions

2011-02-18T15:44:00.001-08:00

So i let that one out and now i feel like i said too much. I am scared that people will take my emotions and say i am cruel, how could i own a sick breed, my breeder was this that and the other. Ella is being managed on medication. I am scared of the day when it stops helping. As a pet owner it saddens me to hear people are cruel for having a cavalier especially non pet owners tell them this. For her pain to be used for political motives, i will not stand for.

I can not be afraid of saying how i feel because of what may happen. I dont want to hear a puppy owner jump to conclusions from one scratch because the heard how CM/SM is such a widespread problem in cavaliers. The fact is that many do not show symptoms and while it is good to be able to know about it, dont think that because of one scratch or if your 7 year old cavalier was diagnosed with mild SM it is a death sentence.

It isnt for a lot and it can be managed. There are several other breeds with SM but research started with cavaliers. With technology we can understand more or have mri machines to see things like we could not before. I fear people that are non breeders (breeders must have cavaliers scanned) will run and have an MRI even if their cavalier or puppy exhibits no signs and freak out.

There is a need for research. There are other breeds that have this condition and thanks to breeders dr. Marino said in the interview i did, we would not be this far. So if a pet owner like myself, fears talking about this, i understand why others may as well.

Just because a cavalier without symptoms is breed and they are following the correct protocols, please dont single them out. Please make pet owners and buyers aware that it is a reality and that there maybe a valid reason a cavalier that is graded a certain way is used.

SM is a terrible condition and CM if it is symptomatic. The frightening thing i have no idea why some cavaliers without sm have pain, why some are symptomatic and others not. I need to figure that out but we have to get over the stigma of SM and start to trust one another and not live in fear because of being misinterpreted. If a pet owner fears then i understand it must be tough for breeders that are doing and caring for the health of the breed.

so dont single people out. Dont assume before you talk to a breeder who they are. There are good and bad in everything even rescue organizations. Most importantly please support the pet owners who have questions.

Don’t let Emotions or Assumptions Get in the Way of Health

2011-02-18T14:52:00.000-08:00

Before i get into this, understand this is my blog that i let my personal emotions out. I am an emotional person and I feel for everyone. I mean I apologize to a chair when I run into it. I feel the pain people go through which it doesn’t matter what side, if they feel pain so do I. So if I see a Cavalier suffering in pain, I feel it. I feel for breeders I know that have been depressed for a year over a Cavalier with SM. I also am very trusting and believe in the good in people. I don’t think this is a bad thing and I actually like that about myself but it can also lead to disappointment.

To people buying a puppy or adopting, it is so important to not let emotions get in the way because you feel someone is nice or you think this is a rescue. Find out for yourself who the person is, what the breeder does, and make your decision on facts not heart. www.cavalierhealth.com has a list of questions to ask a breeder.

That being said, I think everyone has the right to be heard especially pet owners. Recently I have felt it was more about politics than about the actual people who are going through this. I will not be used as a case to show how Cavaliers can suffer in pain. I don’t believe in calling out breeders especially if they have a cavalier with SM because I feel for them. I feel the pain of each heart beat, each shake of the head, each time I think of Ella’s future.

When a good friend who is a Cavalier owner, told me that Ella was depressed and there is nothing wrong with her. I was the one making her that way. SM is not a problem, and then said after someone sent an email with puppies in time for christmas that they are so cute I want one, I just can't think about it. After everything Ella went through and even to have the nerve to say her neurologist was making this up because she is fine and he wants money.

Thank you Dr. Brofman at Carolina Vet Specialists for treating Ella, for giving her acupuncture when she was in pain, for speaking to a group of Cavalier owners about SM Awareness (one that this person who was my best friend) did not attend not for money at all. For support and education. I can not thank him enough. In fact she wanted to be removed from a list because she didn't want to think about or hear anything about Cavaliers, or meet-ups, because let's face it, it is not a fun topic. If you don't have a Cavalier going through pain, do enjoy the health and life of your loved one but please don't shut others out. So people may lose friends and people even pet owners can make one feel bad.

The fact remains that Ella is in pain and has to be managed on medication and to hear that my one best friend who was with me at night and has seen her in pain, told me when she was left with someone who witnessed a time she just wasn’t herself, that now people know I am not making this up.

MAKING UP MY DOG IS SICK!

I don’t need to justify that Ella is sick. I don’t want to show people here you go you see this? However, I do not want to be blamed for her so called “depression” or told by a friend that SM is not a problem.

When Ella got attacked, I was actually going to pick up her Cavalier, I have never seen so many tears. How can you be so strong I was asked, well try living with a Cavalier with SM for the past year.

So I wanted to rant because recently I have been letting my emotions get in the way.

*SM is a problem and a true condition.

*CM can also cause pain.

*I am not going to feel like I have to justify how I feel and what I believe.

*I feel that breeders need to be supported and not grouped into one category.

*I think it is vital that Clubs get involved and people get involved in Clubs

No matter what people will still not listen even when a very close friend who cried several tears when she feared Ella would LOSE AN EYE. This is not life threatening like her SM, but it is so hard to look at such a pretty cavalier that now has one eye.

So now the tears are flowing again. I need to remember this. Awareness is key. Cavaliers are not the only breed. I don’t want to fight, I do think the only way to progress is to talk openly and effectively. But I am tired of feeling sad not because I may lose Ella but because people don’t want to listen, want to talk about breeders in general as a terrible thing, want to not be open about what they feel in fear of being misunderstood or twisted.

This is not the time for that. So I am laying it out there. I have been back and forth on things and felt one way and then another. I don’t think being negative or simply focusing on the wrong is going to do anything but I don’t think ignoring the problem or telling me I am the reason my Cavalier acts that way is.

Never doubt yourself, ask for a second opinion

2011-02-01T19:42:00.001-08:00

This past week has been full of information with the wonderfull sm awareness event www.twolittlecavaliers.com that i give so much thanks for.

I want to talk about a friend that found out yesterday that her beloved cavalier has sm. My prayers are with her and i hope if she reads this or anyone else, i may not have the answers but i have an ear and can be there for you during this hard time. I want to share this not only because she is a friend but because of what she did. She got a second opinion because her gut told her something was wrong.

This week has brought awareness and i seen people ask my dog scratches does he or she have cm or sm? I can not tell you that but i can tell you what i wish i did thinking back on ella. Every dog or puppy does things (scratch, rub faces etc.) But i had a strong feeling there was more. I have told her story but i trusted my vet when he said i shouldnt worry. I doubted myself because people didnt see what i did. I know ella more than anyone else. So i should have not doubted my questions and asked for another opinion, which i eventually did.

So when a friend emailed me because she was concerned that there was something more and did not want to wait and see which a neurologist told her, i gave her ellas neurologists information. I dont think someone saying she doesnt look like she is in pain is good enough. That is because ella looked normal and fine to others. If you are concerned and think something is wrong, get another opinion, (not mine but a specialist).

I think ellas neurologist dr. Brofman is the best, the best to ella, i know, and thats what matters. She saw him and her cavalier had an mri and confirmed what she thought. Now i am not saying anything about the other one, just that it is never wrong to question.

To have surgery or not. That is up to each owner and each dog is different. There are no right or wrong answers. You do what you can and hope it is the best for your loved one.

I did that when i debated having ellas eye removed. I put off the surgery and scheduled an appointment in the future. The optomistrist is one of the best in the country. When he saw ella, he told me i made the right decision. He said he thought it was going to be terrible but he was pleasantly proven wrong. Even experts may not know what the future brings.

Sometimes you got to question and trust yourself.

Where would cavaliers be without responsible breeders? Think before you speak

2011-01-25T09:30:00.003-08:00

I have a problem of saying things before i really think about it or come up with the facts. With the two little cavaliers sm awareness event i have found that even though i have tried to get a lot of information this past year, there is still a lot i don't know and even now question. One thing i do know is that everyone is free to have their own opinion. I simply ask that people try to form their own opinions from getting information from several different sources.

I have said from the beginning, i can not tell anyone what is best for their dog. Each cavalier is different and treatment should be different, but i can only tell about ella and what i personally have learned. I have said from the beginning, i never blamed ella's breeder. Each breeder is different, so before anyone places blame or negativity to breeders in general, i hope they would talk to one. If you learn that your cavalier has SM, then responsible breeders need this information and most likely are a good place to start. Unfortunately, people may come across denial or other things but great breeders would be there for support. They are the future of this breed along with pet owners supporting them.

I need to share how i came to learn the side of a breeder and not just from the book for the love of ollie, but from a SM support group. I have heard her talk about the pain she has to learn her girls have SM . How she has lost a line and a family she has cared about. How she will never breed or give someone a Cavalier before having and MRI on the one Cavalier she has left and praying that she is okay. Until she will have the MRI, is faced with the cost of having this done. The struggle to find a place to offer low cost MRI. Should she give up on this one Cavalier? Well I think that since she is not breeding UNTIL she knows the results and can have her scanned, absolutely NO. She is one of the breeders trying everything they can to produce as healthy puppies as possible. Her friends fought to get low cost MRIs, not because they wanted to make extra money but because they would not breed a Cavalier without doing everything possible to make sure they breed for health. Sure they probably don't want to make a loss (while a lot do) but they love the breed. Many people might say breeders are only to make money, but there are some that simply love the breed and want to do everything they can for the future.

Her friend does not talk about the six months on the phone struggling to get a better cost for them. They do what they can, hope others follow, and stay out of the light. I now understand why. I would not want to be questioned, looked down on, or anything else simply when I would be speaking out.

So when faced with the problem of the cost of MRI, one person fought and got the cost lowered. Why do i feel its important to share this? I think its also important to support these breeders because without them, i am scared of who will be the ones breeding cavaliers. It is them that are the future with the support of the public and pet buyers.

It is extremely hard to breed healthy cavaliers and to see some still develop problems, but it is real easy to make assumptions before understanding more. If i was a breeder and was doing everything i could, yet still was being viewed in a negative light or questioned, i don't think i could handle it. So i am scared of what will happen if they feel that no matter what they do or try to do, its not ever going to be good enough. Should they give up and leave it to others that don't know as much?

Should i give up on ella and not want another cavalier in my future? No. I never think or regret that ella came into my life. I have cried many tears but that is because she has such a strong place in my heart. I am thankful i had someone that brought her into my life.

Get involved. Talk to the clubs (they even have health clinics), gather information before buying a puppy, and as unfortunate as is sounds, never assume that no matter how much a breeder may try, there always is a risk of SM.

should people no longer breed cavaliers even though there is a risk no matter what they do of developing cm or sm? If people speak and say how could they do that? Then that would mean there would not be any cavaliers. That is why it is tough for breeders that are responsible and care deeply about the breed. Even with the best, there are no guarantees. Puppy buyers should know this and be supportive of the ones being open and honest, doing everything they can. They can also have their own opinion and say they should never be breed.

That would mean there would never be ella.

"I LOVE this breed. I have had cavaliers since 1991 and I hope that I will never have to live a day without one. I want us to figure this SM thing out so that dogs like your precious Ella don’t have to live in pain. My hope is that there are lots of people that feel the same way we do and will jump on this band wagon to MRI their breeding dogs!!

Thank you for being a voice for the cavaliers, AND for taking the time to listen and understand the issues around SM—from ALL sides. There is no quick and easy solution. I think we all understand that. But the only way we’re going to get this figured out is by using the tools we have—and right now, the best one we have is MRI-ing!"

Take the time and listen or get more information before speaking about what a breeder did or did not do. Why not ask?

Where would cavaliers be without responsible breeders? Think before you speak

2011-01-25T09:30:00.001-08:00

For the Love of Ollie, A Story that Comes from the Heart

2011-01-22T17:35:00.001-08:00

"To the world you are just one, but to me, you are the world" is exactly how i feel about this book. How can I possibly write a review of the book that means exactly that, the world to me? I have several pages of scribbled notes trying to try to say it just right, but I think its best to just let this come from my heart.

I need to tell the story of how this book brought awareness of SM to me and saved the most important thing in my life, Ella. I did not know when I stumbled upon the website www.fortheloveofollie.com how important that day would be. I was trying to write a newsletter and was looking up something to write about Cavalier Health back in April 2009. I saw the beautiful picture of a cavalier named Ollie and a book that says is a story of compassion and courage. I saw that if you buy the book proceeds would go towards research for something called Syringomyelia so I thought I would buy it. Something called Syringomyelia would soon become something that I would soon become very familiar with because 6 months later she would be diagnosed with severe syringomyelia which I know call SM

April happened to be the same month Ella turned 3 and for that same newsletter I wrote about her birthday party. I did not understand why she seemed so tired recently and I thought she just must have played too long. Now I know there was a different reason for that.

The book tells a story from the heart from Sandy Smith (Ollie's Mom). She tells about Ollie as a puppy which still puts a smile on my face but she also tells how she went through not knowing what was wrong with Ollie until she got a letter from her breeder telling her about a condition that she should know about. I feel the same way about this book as she must have felt when she got that letter. Answers to a puzzle that you finally could put together.

SM awareness is so important to me because had it not been for this book, I would have not called in tears that one Saturday morning and demanded Ella see a neurologist. I had talked to my vet about my concerns with Ella especially after reading this book because I knew that Ella was doing several things that the book said were symptoms. We had already gone a year with thinking she had food allergies and ear infections. I even took her to the vet to have him watch her walk up the stairs because just looked funny. He said he didnt see anything strange when she walked up the stairs, which could be because its not something she did all the time. "Let's just wait and see because I dont think there is any reason to assume she has syringomyelia yet".

I thought I was crazy and maybe I was over reacting from reading the book until several months and visits later. It was a Friday in December and I had talked to him again about my concern because we eliminated food allergies but now he thought she could be allergic to smoke. He gave some drops to numb her ears and said we should still not jump into conclusions. She was shaking her head so much it just wasnt normal. Yet it was not a concern and all my friends also thought i was over reacting.

The next day i went to my cousins house and was in the back yard and was going to do what Ella loves more than anything, throwing a ball. When i threw it and she didnt move tears came down my eyes and i knew what i had known deep down a long time ago, I was not crazy at all.

The picture of him staring at his favorite toy a black plastic bowling ball popped in my head and I immediately ran home crying calling her vet but I spoke to his partner and she referred me to a neurologist to see first thing Monday morning.

The neurologist said he definately thinks she should get an MRI, i thought if most it would be mild but it wasnt. The next two weeks she tried medication but it only got worse.

Had it not been for this book and I waited I dont know how much longer, I dont think Ella would be with me know. As i say those words tears are falling and that is why this book means so much to me.

When I read it after everything it has a deeper meaning. I feel like she is telling everything exactly how I felt. Each time something else comes to mind so my book is worn from tears stains and also from referring to different things.

This book is more than a story, it also has a lot of helpful information and the book has raised a lot of money to fund research for SM.

It also has a letter from Ollie's breeder who Sandy is so thankful for, who tells what it was like to learn about Ollie and his sister Maggie May had this condition. It was devastating because she felt the pain and how much sorrow she brought but Sandy did not blame her. In fact it was her who made her aware of syringomyelia.

This is a book is what SM awareness truly is and includes and touches everyone. There is a lot of information now available on Syringomyelia but nothing quite sticks with you like a book with a picture of a cavalier named Ollie and his story.

Ollie, a cavalier king charles spaniel that will remain in my heart forever. Thank you for sharing your story to save another.

I would personally like to thank Sandy Smith who also reached out to me when I did not know where to go. She gave me the courage, strength, and helpful advice at a time when I was lost.

If you do anything this week, please buy this book. I promise you that you will never forget it!

Stop eBay from being the largest Puppy Mill or "e-mill" by Selling Animals Online!

2011-01-16T20:50:00.000-08:00

I am truly upset to hear that eBay is helping puppy mills and irresponsible breeding by having people be able to post ads under their classified section to sell animals. How much time and effort rescue workers, breeders (who actually know what they are doing and in the interest of health and education), animal lovers, people who spend several hours investigating breeding to learn that those efforts are overshadowed by the ability for people to use eBay to sell animals in order to make money!

When people search the Internet, it is so unfortunate that instead of reaching club websites and helpful information they see advertisements which is not being helped by eBay.

People hate puppy mills so why does the ASPCA say that the online is now a way to help puppy mills. http://www.aspca.org/fight-animal-cruelty/puppy-mills/puppy-scams-cons.aspxWhen

"Puppy Scams & Cons

Buyers Beware: Debunking Puppy Scams

Luckily, many animal lovers are becoming aware that purchasing a dog—or any animal, for that matter—from a pet store is a big no-no. Almost all puppies sold at pet stores come from backyard breeders or puppy mills, where dogs are housed in cramped, filthy conditions without sufficient veterinary care, food, water and socialization. Furthermore, the breeding stock at puppy mills—the moms and dads—are bred as often as possible, for as long as possible, in order to increase profits. But a growing trend among commercial puppy breeders is to cut out the middleman—the pet shop—and use online retailing to get their dogs directly into your homes.

Internet Puppy Scams

Consumers trying to find dogs from reputable breeders or breed rescue groups often turn to the Web for advice. But they soon find themselves bombarded with elaborate websites offering the offspring of “champions.” With a host of fancy terms—certified kennel, AKC registered, pedigree, health certified—and picturesque photos of tail-wagging terriers, doe-eyed Chihuahuas and every other adorable breed, it is easy to become overwhelmed with choices. Don’t be fooled: the Internet is a vast, unregulated marketplace allowing anyone to put up a website claiming anything. Scattered among the websites of reputable breeders and rescue groups, Internet puppy scammers attract potential buyers with endearing pictures and phony promises.

The Loophole

Under the federal Animal Welfare Act (AWA), commercial breeders selling directly to pet stores must be licensed by the United States Department of Agriculture. However, the AWA does not regulate breeders that sell directly to the public. The AWA was passed in 1966, prior to the Internet boom—lawmakers couldn’t foresee that commercial breeders would someday have the ability to sell directly to the public via the Internet. This loophole allows some puppy mills to operate without a license and without fear of inspection—meaning they are not accountable to anyone for their breeding and care standards. According to a recent ASPCA survey, 89 percent of all “breeders” selling over the Internet are unlicensed by USDA.

The Scams

An informal online survey conducted by the ASPCA reveals that just as many Americans are now purchasing their dogs over the Internet as buying from pet stores. That said, according to the Internet Crime Complaint Center, hundreds of complaints are filed every year from victims who were scammed when buying a dog online. Here are some of the most common scam scenarios predators use on consumers:

•The Bait and Switch

In this classic scam, the website depicts dozens of photos of cute and cuddly, happy and healthy puppies. What the consumer doesn’t realize is that these are stock photos taken from a clip-art file—or simply stolen from other websites. In this scam, virtually all contact is done via email, and the puppy is typically shipped without the buyer ever seeing the dog in person. The scam is revealed when the dog is delivered and the buyer is faced not with the adorable puppy from the photos, but a sickly dog, often of a different color or with different markings. Scammers count on people feeling guilty or compassionate and choosing not to send the puppy back.

•Free to Good Home

Internet scammers don’t just use cute photos to lure potential puppy buyers. They also resort to verbal deceit. With the “free to good home” scam, the perpetrator will often post a sad story of having to find homes for his purebred puppies immediately—he just lost his wife, they must be placed for a dying relative, he is going to Africa to be a missionary, etc. Victims are offered a puppy free of charge, and asked only to pay the shipping fee—usually about $400. Buyers are asked to send all payments via a Western Union wire transfer or money order. These methods are favorites among scam artists because they are the equivalent of sending cash—the money can’t be recovered by the victim. This scam is particularly heartbreaking because there is no real dog involved! Victims usually arrive at the airport to pick up their new puppy, only to find that they have been scammed.

•Sanctuaries or Scamtuaries?

Unfortunately, this next scam preys on animal lovers who want to help dogs in need. In this scenario, the puppy mill will actually set up its website as a “rescue group” or “sanctuary,” offering purebred puppies who have been rescued from shelters, bad breeders, even from puppy mills! The scam is revealed by the price tag—the “adoption fees” for these dogs often exceed $1,000! Breed rescue groups charge nominal fees—usually no more than a few hundred dollars—because their goal is not to make money, but to find wonderful homes for their rescues.

•AKC-Registered

AKC registry is a service provided by the American Kennel Club. While many people believe AKC registration means their puppies came from reputable breeders, being AKC-registered means nothing more than your puppy’s parents both had AKC papers. While there are some AKC regulations, they do not restrict puppy mills from producing AKC-registered dogs. The fact is, many AKC-registered dogs are born in puppy mills. "

Please beg eBay to stop helping puppy mills by acting as a way to deliver these animals from the places we have seen on TV with terrible conditions.

people see the shocking videos of puppy mills do people actually think that people would go to the place and buy a puppy in those conditions? How are they being able to function? Maybe because they are able to place ads on eBay to people who do not think of those things. eBay is such a large organization and I know there are other avenues to sell puppy mill animals or poorly breed animals online, but stopping one that is so large is one step.

Opera Winfrey did a segment behind the scenes of a puppy mill that was alarming and informative, however so many puppy mills try to hide their operations so how are they being sold? Why do people not think of that and eBay is just helping by being a way to have them post ads to have them be sold. I would like to see eBay and other avenues for these animals to be sold EXPOSED. It may be legal to add several "disclosures" but do people who don't even want to see where an animal comes from would actually be responsible to check on the breeder?

How much money is being spent on inspections and not to mention the many that end up in shelters so how can you create more work, more animals end up in homes with health problems or an impulse buy, for the people who are actually trying to do good. It is like fighting a battle that can never be solved. So PLEASE stop helping!

"Even when a site features pictures of adorable pups running through a meadow or curled up on a couch in someone's living room, the truth can be much more harrowing. Bob Baker, Investigator for the American Society for Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) emphasizes that the only way to be sure your new puppy isn't a product of cruel and inhumane conditions is to see for yourself where he lives. Even if a breeder says all the right things online, some go to great lengths to ensure that the true nature of their business is not exposed." quoted from http://dogtime.com/internet-puppy-mills.html

When I read this article it was interesting to see a very familiar name Karlin Lillington who I know from http://www.cavaliertalk.com/ however this is not just a problem for Cavaliers, it is a problem for animal welfare.

"Mass breeders may say they house the dogs in their own home and post photos to "prove" these claims. In fact, they commonly set up fake web sites to purposely mislead potential buyers. "In general, the Internet makes it very hard to know who and what you're dealing with," says Karlin Lillington, who runs www.cavaliertalk.com, a website for Cavalier King Charles Spaniels enthusiasts. "Remember the famous cartoon, 'on the Internet, no one knows you're a dog'? Well, no one knows where that dog really comes from either."

So for all of the people who are trying their hardest to make sure people do not endure heartache, the breeders who are lumped with others who actually are the most important to animal welfare, researchers promoting and finding ways to help with animal health, rescue workers, fosters, this must end!

PLEASE spread the word and we need to stop the madness because too many animals end up in homes that are not fit, in shelters, have health problems, and all so people can make some "extra cash"

By the way, I do not want to purchase an accessory for a puppy I buy through eBay classified ads. Thanks for wanting to make an extra buck, but you should be ashamed because animals are not accessories. I will not go to eBay because I feel this goes against everything I stand for. If you love animals, please write, protest and do anything to help stop this.

Acupuncture and SM

2011-01-09T10:26:00.000-08:00

Ella responds extremely well to acupuncture. Even though I know it does not benefit everyone, I am glad it does help her. Her neurologist actually does this for her but being there you can tell the difference. I have actually had acupuncture so I know how beneficial it can be. Of course now I do everything for her health! It starts out with them inserting the needles and then I stayed with her for maybe 10-20 minutes. I did not keep time but she began to slowly get more relaxed. It was funny seeing her try to hold her eyelids open and them begin to get heavy until finally she was out! When we were done she was wagging her tail and so happy. I just knew how much it helped her so it felt good to see some positive signs. Here are some pictures and a video from the visit.

AND SHE'S OUT!

Video of Acupuncture

Staying Strong and Positive- Ella Update

2011-01-09T09:55:00.000-08:00

"A strong positive mental attitude will create more miracles than any wonder drug"
Patricia Neal

Ella is a fighter and extremely brave but she looks up to me for answers. Sometimes I just feel like I want to cave in and say I can't do anything except not doing anything is giving up. We can not give up hope because it is that hope that keeps us strong. If I am not strong for her, then she is worse. I have to make her happy and enjoy every precious moment I have with her. I can not focus on the future except the positive. So many people can be negative, blame others, make excuses, but what good does that do? She is looking at me for answers and even if I do not have them right now, I will do everything in my power to keep strong even though that is the toughest thing to do.

I was talking to a friend who has a Cavalier and has gone through this and she said she spent a year depressed and it almost killed her. She told me how important it is to be strong for Ella. I have known that from the beginning. Everyone says stay strong and it is very hard. I feel like dogs and especially Cavaliers can feel what we do. I was actually looking at a book of the history of the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and the first Spaniels were actually known as "comforter spaniels". They were used in hospitals, used to help the ill, used to keep people warm, keep pests away and I know from personal experience how she has healed me in a time of illness. Now that she is sick, I can not have her be my "comforter". I have to be the comforter to her. It is time to pay back what they have done for me and others for several years.

With Ella's eye problems from the dog attack and not knowing what her prognosis will be, I had an appointment Thursday with both the optometrist and her neurologist. I wanted to see the neurologist first because I wanted him to see what our next move is and I needed to know what is best for her. If her eye is not bothering her or if she doesn't have long, do I really need to go through surgery? I don't know how long she has but I hope it is a long time. I did not want to hear him tell her optometrist her prognosis but he did talk to him. I just think there is no good to know because they can be proven wrong and I am not going to give up hope but it is important to know in order to make this decision.

Then I Hear Some Good News

The optometrist looked at her eye and said he expected so much worse! She was actually scheduled a month ago to have surgery but I waited because I just had a feeling that I needed to focus on her SM. Her eye did not seem to bother her. She was not scratching at it and if I can spend money on her other things that is where my focus would be. It was a tough decision and even though it weighed on me, I really wanted to sit down and discuss it with both before I did anything. You never know if you make the best decision but knowing that I trusted my instincts and waited makes me feel so much better.

I asked him if it had anything to do with what her neurologist said. I could not help it but I wanted to know if maybe he said something that determined what he was saying. He told me that it had improved and really without SM, he does not think he would suggest to have it removed anyway!!

So hope and trust and a little miracles can do wonders!

For the Love of a Cavalier: Come together to bring Awareness

2011-01-07T11:25:00.000-08:00

The recent issue of Dogs Today Magazine said “Health Update: Can the Cavalier still be saved?” Ella is a fighter and I wish I had the strength she has but YES we can! I have been blessed to meet so many great people on Facebook who love Ella and I love their Cavaliers and we all have the same thing in common, “We a Cavalierish World”.. I am so thankful for Felissa who has put together the Syringomyelia Awareness week on her blog www.twolittlecavaliers.blogspot.com and also Miki and the Facebook group “We love a Cavalierish World” who started the Facebook event because I feel it’s important for anyone who truly loves this breed (Cavalier owners, breeders, people who show Cavaliers, clubs) it doesn’t matter except that we all come together and recognize that SM is a problem and we can do something to help the breed we love so much.

“The greater the loyalty of a group toward the group, the greater is the motivation among the members to achieve the goals of the group, and the greater the probability that the group will achieve its goals.”

Rensis Likert

Keeping quite and not telling others and raising awareness is hurting the future of the breed and also making more people go through what I have and I would not with that on anyone.

“Being ignorant is not so much a shame, as being unwilling to learn”.

Benjamin Franklin

I did not know what SM was when I got Ella but know I know what it is like to have a Cavalier with severe SM so I did not know what questions to ask to make sure I choose a breeder that was following SM breeding protocols to help reduce the chance of her developing this condition. So many people do not know about SM but I am sure they do not know that there has been research going on for years to come up with a way to help our breed.

“Don't make excuses. Make things happen. Make changes. Then make history.”

Doug Hall

Now here is the good part. We have this outlet to help others. Learn from stories and hear how there are people that are making a difference and also what we can do to help!

Two Little Cavaliers Spreading Awareness of SM Event

2010-12-31T09:42:00.000-08:00

When I heard that http://twolittlecavaliers.blogspot.com/2010/12/syringomyelia-awareness-event-we-need.htmlwanted to do a special week to spread awareness of Syringomyelia, I was so excited. So I wanted to share again Ella's Story.

“Half of the Cavaliers here probably have Syringomyelia”, Ella’s neurologist said when I had him talk to a group of Cavalier owners in Charlotte. He began to show slides of what it is, SM breeding protocol, treatment, etc. which I listed some links of the information available but I am just a pet owner with a love so deep for an angel that was brought into my life 4 ½ years ago. The most important thing in my life is her and if her story and pain will help another then it gives me hope and something I can do to when I feel helpless.

Ella’s story begins with a Cavalier named Ollie. I was looking on the Internet and I saw a picture of this beautiful dog Ollie. At that moment, I wanted to learn more about him and I read about what he went through. I bought the book and cherish it everyday. I will always talk about the book For the Love of Ollie because the story gave me knowledge about this condition and helped me recognize what was going on with Ella. I will always be thankful for that. Sandy Smith did not write the book to make a profit, in fact the money goes towards SM research. This one book made a big change in my life. Ollie touched me and I reached out to Sandra when I found out about Ella and she offered her support.

It was Ollie’s story which put together pieces of a puzzle which several months later ended with results from an MRI which diagnosed her with severe CM/SM. I thought I heard him wrong. I knew the symptoms from reading “For the Love of Ollie”, that can not be. I knew about Syringomyelia (SM) and was able to notice symptoms that had been diagnosed as allergies, ear infections but deep down I knew there was something more and I demanded her vet refer me to a neurologist. What if I did waited it out longer as the vet told me? I thought I caught it early enough if anything he would say mild. Had it not been for Ollie, I don’t know where Ella would be right now. Ella did not act like some of the dogs I saw on YouTube so how could it be that bad? Thank goodness I did not wait because it saved her from more damage which I don’t know where she would be now.

Every dog has different symptoms but this is what I noticed with Ella

I started to notice something was off with Ella probably when she was about 2 years old. She was almost 4 when she was diagnosed. It was nothing major, it just seemed like she scratched more than usually. I tend to notice everything about her. Her vet said that it was probably food allergies so we changed her food and I didn't really think anything about it. .Then several months later she just looked funny walking up the stairs. I can't describe it but no one else could see what I saw. I even took her to see her vet to watch her go up the stairs. I felt like someone taking their car into the shop and it works only when you are their. People thought I was crazy. She would put one paw in front of the other and she always seemed to walk on one side. She always seemed to scratch at her ears, which was diagnosed as an ear infection. All of these things may sound like typical dog behavior and some of it could be but looking back on it, they were pieces to a puzzle.

It was probably in April 2009, I noticed the lack of energy at the Dog Bar. would think she was just tired from day care. I would laugh and say what is wrong with you? At her birthday party she would seemed not her playful self. She would move away at times and Ella is a very social girl. Check her out on the Bar!

The other things I noticed was the restless nights. She seemed to never get comfortable. Always making a bed or rubbing her face on the covers. I heard about the "phantom scratching" and I didn't really see that. I started to look to see if she was scratching on one side. She was always scratching on one side. I paid close attention to all the things she was doing. It then went downhill real fast. In about two weeks she was hiding under the bed, under the table, laying on the floor, shaking her head constantly, hardly able to walk up the stairs, dullness in the eyes. Again I went to my vet and he said not to jump to any conclusions it's probably an ear infection and allergies and we still want to rule those out before I recommend her go to a neurologist.

I knew she had Syringomyelia. That weekend I took her to my cousins house and the thing Ella likes to do more than anything is run after the ball. I threw the ball and she was did not move. I started to sob. I called and demanded for them to let me see a neurologist. She went that following Monday. I thought I caught it before anyone. My friends did not even think she needed to see a neurologist so when it was severe I was shocked. I think it was because of the rate of her progression.

Now that I knew she had it, the hardest part of Syringomyelia is deciding what treatment option to take.

I can not recommend which is the best option because it is different for each dog. I wish I could because you don’t know how many times I read questions asking what should they do. Her neurologist said he could not tell me she would be around in 3 months and I couldn't live with that. She had a severe case and it was progressing fast and medication did not seem to do anything. Different medications work for different dogs and I did not feel I had time to experiment and I did not want any more damage done. She had surgery a couple of weeks later. It was a tough decision but I do not regret it. She continued to be on several different medications however I started to notice some symptoms again and my heart sank. I learned in September she developed scar tissue and she was actually worse than before even continuing on medication management. Now I am faced with another decision which I still don’t know what I am going to do. I don’t regret making the choice to have Surgery because I don’t think she would be here now but I don’t know. Actually in September, her neurologist said again that since with surgery, medication, and having the results show that it actually was worse than before in just 6 months, I did not think we would make it to the end of the year and look at us now. I am constantly reminded of how lucky I was to know about this condition because if I didn't I do not know how much damage to her spinal cord would have been done.

I have written several posts about this past year and to sum it up in one post is hard. Each dog is different in regards to symptoms, severity, reactions to different medication, and progression. I have listed some helpful links because I can only tell you about her.

Ollie and Ella are not alone. Ella was diagnosed last January and this past year I have met several wonderful people, heard other stories, read research (which I still am trying to understand), heard stories from breeders, saw Pedigree Dogs Exposed, learned there is a lot of politics, tried to figure out what I could do, and I am still searching for answers. One thing I know is that it started for me with an owner and a love for her Cavalier and has led to a fight to help others not go through nights of tears and heartache and a passion to help save a breed I love so much. Any Cavalier owner who loves this breed needs to know that there are many people trying to save the breed which is in now their future is in their hands. So please take her story to heart because if you have a Cavalier you may not know it but they too could have SM and you don’t even know it or ever will. If you are not going to bred your Cavalier and they have no symptoms, then it is not something to go run and get an MRI.

I am not a researcher, breeder, expert, but I have a love for Ella which now I have a new understanding of what is really important to me. Because SM is asymptomatic for a lot of Cavaliers, it can be passed on with each new generation. That is why knowing about SM breeding protocols is so important.

For the Love of Ollie, is not only a great book and is something I am so thankful I got but the proceeds were used to help fund research for SM that should be recognized. In fact there are several research projects. Ollie helped Ella in the beginning, but it is a special Cavalier Rupert that is giving me hope for the future.

Rupert is very special to me and I hope someone else will talk about him and Rupert’s fund but you can find my post here.

So to go back to the beginning of Ella’s story, I will quote Sandy Smith.

Think Big Start Small- "to the world you are but one... to me You are the world"

I have been thinking of so many big issues and even though I think they are important, I need to be reminded of the one thing that makes the biggest change. That is knowledge, support, and spreading awareness. I have been contacted by people who have read my blog and her story has touched others. I met a very special person Tania who has the website Cavalier Matters who told me about Cavalier Talk. Through that I have met many others and have been given information, support, and will always be thankful for that.

The day I got the e-mail from Tania, I was so happy. I felt that someone cared and I know there have been many others along the way, it was that realization that helped me. I also have met Jana who writes Dawgbusiness, who wrote about Ella’s story and helped her get another MRI. She does not have a Cavalier but does know what it is like to go through loving a dog that has major health issues.

This is quoted from Rupert's Fund.

"Because SM is a progressive condition -- meaning it tends to develop slowly over time and may not be apparent when affected dogs are younger -- finding older cavaliers with little or no SM is especially valuable to determine how it is inherited and help breeders identify promising lines. But time is running out. With every new generation of dogs, lines are further mixed. Some old, probably healthier lines have disappeared already. The chance diminishes of finding the fully clear dogs that could provide a genetic rescue plan."

Please look at these websites from people active in keeping this breed around and healthy.

http://www.cavalierhealth.org/
http://www.rupertsfund.com/

http://www.veterinary-neurologist.co.uk/

http://www.sm.cavaliertalk.com/

http://www.cavaliermatters.org/

In memory of Ollie and Rupert, please share their stories and read about this condition and learn about the importance of knowing health issues.

Thank you,

Dawg Business: It's Your Dog's Health!: Please Help Jasmine

2010-12-22T12:09:00.000-08:00

Dawg Business: It's Your Dog's Health!: Please Help Jasmine

Jana was so kind to help me when I needed it to have Ella get an MRI and now I was brought to tears when I read this. Jana (Jasmine's mom) is the most caring person and has done several things to help answer health questions, raise money for others and in general listen and care.

She really needs help because it has come to a point where the unmentionable was mentioned in order to manage. Of course Jasmine is loved by both but she is Jana's heart. Please read her story even if you do not want to contribute. Her husband thinks it is time to throw in the towel, but I can not let that happen.

Anyone that has had a pet that unfortunately has a serious health problem, it can be devostating emotionally and financially. It did not seem possible to make it to the next month so to even think of paying for Ella's medication or MRI was a dream.

Luckily I was able to have her 2nd MRI and I am working on a plan to help with future costs. (I'm selling my condo).

Please pray for her and I want to say to Jasmine and Jana to stay strong!

You Can’t Put a Price on Health

2010-12-15T14:27:00.000-08:00

I hate to compare a Cavalier or any dog to an item since it is a living breathing animal but I am going to just this once.

There is a car that everybody wants, however it is extremely expensive because of the parts that go into it to make it the car that is safe, attractive, and reliable. Let’s imagine that this car company decided to produce more cars and lowered the price but did not go through all the safety tests and used broken parts. They look the same on the outside but no one would know that there is a faulty part. The cheaper one could be packaged up pretty on a nice website and sold for less, no one would know? Would you want to buy a car and drive it knowing that it has not be safety tested and the parts could fail which would put your life in danger? I don’t think so.

You can not put a price on safety and you can not put a price on health.

How could you not want a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel? They are cute, affectionate however,, there are some health issues associated with this breed. So people want them but don’t want to spend the money that some breeders charge.

I don’t want people to think just because a Cavalier costs more, the breeder or the Cavalier is better.

They see this cute puppy for a lot less and get that one never checking to see what kind of health tests were done, who the breeder is, anything, just wanted the one that looked cute and at a price they could afford.

Fast forward… This “cheaper” puppy ended up costing much more than the one that came from a breeder who did all of these health screenings from some health issues that required several surgeries. Even worse, the puppy ended up bringing tears to a child’s eyes because it had to be put to sleep at an early age.

Ella came from a breeder that did several health tests except at the time was not scanning for SM. I don’t want Ella’s story to say anything about her breeder, but if anything it shows that no matter what all tests were done and how great she is, Ella had surgery to remove part of her skull before she was even 4. Now she is almost 5 (yeah!!) but she is having trouble walking up the stairs. I feel lucky that her parents hearts were tested and the MVD protocol was being followed because her parents were 5 and 6 when she was born. However, I hate to say this but I am not worried about MVD for her right now.

Her parents have great health records (minus the MRI scans which were not done) but she inherited this terrible condition.

A lot of people are talking about if the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Breed can be saved. I feel it can be saved but pet owners and buyers can not continue to buy from people who produce litters with “bad parts”. If people can wait and not buy from someone not testing, breeders can not breed so early to meet demands and start to follow protocols, and if we all help research, then there is a chance.

There are Cavaliers that are CM/SM clear and clear hearts. If we do not do not buy from the breeders with cheaper dogs because we can afford it but adopt a Cavalier. There are a lot that need a second chance. Now is not the time to be looking to make money or save money etc. Now is the time to save the breed. There are breeders that actually spend more money to produce healthy dogs for the love of the breed. If anyone says they do not do any health tests because of price or it is not neccesary, they should not be breeding because it is hurting the breed. If you want to buy a Cavalier and can not afford one from a breeder that is more expensive that has done health tests, get a rescue because that is hurting the breed too.

I want another Cavalier but don’t have money for one that costs a lot, but I would never get in a car and put my life in the hands of something that has never been tested.

Who will Lick my Tears?

2010-12-13T08:42:00.000-08:00

It has been almost one year since Ella was diagnosed with SM. Part of me is so thankful she made it to Christmas and then the other part is scared if this is the last Christmas we will have together. No one wants to read sad stories and part of loving a dog comes, with the inevitable part of saying goodbye. Ella is only 4 years old and I never expected to be hoping for one more year. I know I can not dwell on the “what if” and celebrate each day I have with her but I have to think of when she is gone, who will lick my tears away?

I got Ella at a time when I needed someone to show me love. She lifted me up and gave me hope. I have been looking through pictures and every single picture I have with her, I have the biggest smile on my face. She does that to me. I knew when I got Ella, she would not live forever, but I thought by then I would have a family and it would be easier. It is just us and even though I am sure it is difficult no matter what, I don’t have a husband or children to come home to. My house would be empty. I read someone talking about having to take her Cavalier to be PTS and licked her tears to comfort her even though it was her last day. I began to cry. That is how they are so giving and even in pain, they want to make you feel better.

It is not just a dog that will feel pain. Think about the owners tears when they lose a dog. I have been blessed to meet some caring people on the Internet who I know will hold me up when that time comes. We all support each other and I am so thankful for that because I don’t feel so alone.

So for now, I am blessed to have someone to come home to. I make every day I have with Ella count. I will hold her head up when she needs to. I will give anything for her, because if it wasn’t for her, I don’t know if I could have ever experienced the love I have felt.

Is it the right time for a puppy- learn from my aunt and uncle

2010-11-30T04:16:00.000-08:00

My last post was about my aunt and uncle and how they fell in love with Ella but due to her medical situations made them reconsider if they would ever get a Cavalier. I need to clarify this just a bit because there are also some things to learn from them too.

Is a puppy a good present for someone?

Several years ago after they lost their dog Snoodle to old age, my cousins thought it was a great idea to get them a puppy for Christmas. I still hear about this one because although they became to love the puppy (Buck) more than anything, they were shocked and did not want this then. They were not ready to train a puppy and were not even looking for one at the time. So here they were with a little puppy to take care of, go through all the training and they were still mourning Snoodle. They had a trip planned, so what to do with the puppy? The moral of the story is a puppy is a responsibility and not just something that is cute with a bow.

Puppies are so cute and you may fall in love with a dog (Ella) but it is not something to buy on impulse without asking yourself is it the right time for a puppy.

My uncle would not let me bring Ella around because his wife would keep talking about getting a Cavalier puppy. Is that mean? No, simply because he was being rational and knew that the time was not right. So his children and I saw also how this Thanksgiving a dog was missing and could see that they kept talking about Buck and my uncle was talking about how great Ella was. That is when he said the comment. People have said comments and I saw a perfect rescue on Cavalier Rescue USA named Robyn in Kingston NC. They would be perfect because they are not wanting the puppy stage, they are retired, they do not have another dog, and believe me they pay special attention to their dogs.

I called and talked to my Uncle about Robyn because I think that Rescues are awesome and need great homes like theirs would be. One thing about Cavalier Rescue USA and other great breeders are they would want to meet the potential owners and make sure it was a fit. They would never let me get a rescue or a puppy for someone else because they would want to know the dog would be taken care of and in a great family.

My uncle said that if the dog was anything like Ella then I bet she is special but now is not the right time for a dog. They are building a house in Florida and driving down there a lot to do things and would want to get into the home and make sure it would suit a dog and with traveling it would be okay. This is one question people should ask themselves. Think about these things because a dog is a huge responsibility and to be a responsible pet owner and buyer, you need to take several things under consideration.

The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Club USA have several things about finding a breeder and some helpful tips including questions to ask yourself. When I read some of these points it made perfect sense why he would want to wait. Here are the questions they have on their website. I put in bold some things that stood out that were especially why my aunt and uncle want to wait until they are settled.

"QUESTIONS TO ASK YOURSELF

You should be able to answer all of the questions below affirmatively before you begin your search for a Cavalier.

Are you prepared to ………

Take full responsibility for this dog and all its needs for the next 10 – 15 years? This is not a task that can be left to children!

Invest the considerable time, money and patience it takes to train the dog to be a good companion? This does not happen by itself.

Always keep the dog safe -- no running loose, riding in the back of an open pickup truck or being chained or penned outside.

Make sure the dog gets enough attention and exercise?

Live with shedding for the next 10 – 15 years?

Spend the money it takes to provide proper veterinary care including, but certainly not limited to, puppy vaccinations, heartworm testing and preventative, spaying or neutering, dentistry, and annual checkups?

Become educated about the proper care of the breed; correct training methods, and how to groom?

Take your questions to the breeder or other appropriate professional before they become problems out of hand?

Have the patience to accept (and enjoy) the trials of Cavalier puppyhood and each stage afterwards?

Continue to accept responsibility for the dog despite your inevitable life changes such as new babies, children going off to school, moving, or returning to work?

Accept responsibility for the dog’s inevitable changes due to old age and/or ill health?

Resist impulse buying and instead have the patience to make a responsible choice?

Install fencing, even if you live outside of an urban area? Cavaliers are notorious for being hit by cars. If you allow a Cavalier to run in any area where a moving vehicle may pass by, there is a huge chance that your Cavalier will be killed. Many are killed by their owners in their own driveway. Cavaliers are perpetual adolescents and require constant vigilance in unsecured and unfamiliar areas.

If you answered YES to ALL of the above, you are ready to start contacting breeders. Remember, the right puppy IS worth waiting for! "

Now with Christmas coming think about how my aunt and uncle reacted to that Christmas morning. It is a huge responsibility and something that only the person taking care of the dog could answer. They are going to be the ones walking the dog in the middle of the night, puppy training, etc.

Although my aunt and uncle are well settled and it ended up okay, I know that many children want a cute puppy for Christmas. I did. When I was in 4th grade my mom and dad got me a Cocker Spaniel. I liked to dress Flip up, hug and kiss him, but it was my parents that lived with the vet bills, walks, training etc. They unfortunately did not take the time to find a great breeder. Even though we went to the persons house and saw the puppies, they did not ask any questions to the breeder. My Christmas present ended up getting countless surgeries becoming blind and deaf and lived with many health problems. That one Christmas present could have paid for my college tuition, a new car, because I can not even count up the money they spent on his health problems.

So I guess you can learn from both of us. Don't feel like you need to have a puppy under the Christmas tree. Take time to find a good breeder, know if the time is right, and it will pay off in the long run!

Learn From Ella

2010-11-29T06:50:00.000-08:00

This Thanksgiving I was with my family and I have a lot to be thankful for especially having Ella with me this year. One thing that did upset me was how my aunt and uncle had fallen in love with Ella and decided that if they ever got another dog it would be a Cavalier. They told me that because of her health condition, they are now reconsidering this.

When someone sees a person they care about go through the heartache of having a dog with SM or another health condition, it can have an impression on them too. I don’t want Ella to suffer but if she is, then it should show people how important it is to find a breeder who will breed for health. I think Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are the best breed and I will always want one and suggest the breed to others, however, it is important that if you get a puppy to make sure the breeder is doing health tests to help prevent this heartache.

I am especially thankful to have met someone on an SM forum that has shown me the side of a breeder, showing Cavaliers, health issues, training etc. and also has been a shoulder to cry on. She showed me that there are great breeders out there and that are especially concerned with this. I emailed her because I was upset and asked if she knew anyone that is following the SM breeding protocol. She said there are and gave me some names. I want my uncle and aunt to have the joy I have had of bringing a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel into my life.

I would like to point out a couple of things I think are important.

• Even great breeders will have a puppy that will develop a health condition and it is upsetting to them also. There are no guarantees but the good ones are doing everything possible to keep the number limited.

• Not all breeders are the same

• Ella did not come from a puppy mill or Back yard breeder (BYB). Her parents had several health tests done but at the time did not do any scanning for SM. This is why I feel that all tests are important.

• The CKCSC-USA and the ACKCSC are not just for shows. They have valuable information and they want to help the breed. The breeders that are members of these clubs and regional clubs are a good place to start. The clubs have ethical guidelines and recommendations but it is still important to make sure to still ask the questions to see if the breeder is following things.

• Get involved. It’s up to the pet buying public to push for breeders that do more health tests.

• The price of a Cavalier does not mean that it is better. If you want to save money and get a Cavalier from someone not doing tests, you probably will be spending more in the long run if your puppy has inherited health problems. If money is an issue, think of adopting. There are many Cavaliers that need a good home and sometimes good breeders will have older Cavaliers that they were going to show but did not end up being show quality.

• Buying a puppy is not something to do on impulse. Take the time to learn about the breed, research what questions to ask breeders and what to look for, it will be well worth it in the long run. You may have to wait if you find someone that does not have available puppies, but the wait is worth it especially if it means you may have a dog that is with you longer in the long run.

I am going to get a checklist together for my aunt and uncle because I do want them to get a Cavalier because I see how their eyes light up when they see Ella. (I gave my uncle a baby Rupert to love on). Don’t give up because now is the time to promote the people who are breeding for health. What we have gone through is painful, but it does not have to touch more and more people. Please learn from Ella and thank the breeders who are following SM breeding protocol and pushing for a healthier breed for the future.

I read somewhere that doctors would prescribe the Toy Spaniel (Cavalier King Charles Spaniel) for people with an illness. Now its time to return the favor.

We may be worlds apart…You can stand under my UmbrELLA, Ella, Ella

2010-11-23T07:10:00.000-08:00

Rihanna’s song “Umbrella” is a great song (not only because it says Ella) but it expresses how I feel about the Cavalier world and the people I have met.

When the sun shines, we'll shine together

Told you I'll be here forever

Said I'll always be a friend

Took an oath I'ma stick it out till the end

Now that it's raining more than ever

Know that we'll still have each other

You can stand under my umbrella

You can stand under my umbrella

(Ella ella eh eh eh)

I give anything for her because of how she has been there for me through everything lending support, comfort, joy and now that she is sick, I will be there for her throughout. However, Ella is not alone and when I wrote this blog it was to help others understand things, express my heartache, and maybe someone else would read this and could identify some things. I never imagined how many people I have been introduced to through this, supported me and I supported them and learned so much more each day.

Going through this, I looked on the Internet for answers, advice, prognosis, anything to help me determine what to do and what to expect. With SM you don’t have those answers. Some people are told by Doctors their Cavaliers would never live as long as they have and still are. What makes me get through each day is the support I have received from people I have met on the Internet, which are as close as my same city, to Australia. We all share the same thing, love of our little ones. The people that have gone through having a dog with SM will never forget how hard it is, but even going through any dog you love with an illness is tough.

These beautiful Cavaliers are Miki and Miki’s brother Morris who live in Rome, Italy. They posted a picture of Ella on their Facebook page and sent me an e-mail saying how touched they were by Ella’s story. Immediately, I received comments from people all over the world who gave prayers, comments, support and I was overcome by emotion. I knew Ella was a special girl, but to know that all of these people read about her was truly amazing. In this great big world we live in, the love of our Cavaliers (or other animals) brings us together to pray and support each other which I know has kept Ella and me strong through this fight.

With this I have met someone that lives close to me and also saw a comment from another person who lives near me who let Ella borrow her stroller. It is amazing how small this world is and how we all come together and support each other for our Cavaliers.

Please let me know if you want your name added to the prayer list.

trust a former shopaholic, these gifts for Christmas, birthday or to yourself are awesome

2010-11-20T08:32:00.001-08:00

I am a former shopaholic that has changed her ways in order to spend any money i have on ella, and not the trinket in the checkout isle at target. I have learned a lot about the value of a dollar or change i find in my car but i still look at things on the internet, in a magazine, anywhere. I cant help it. Its a problem but i just dont act on it. So i have to share some things i found that are not only cute, but they are not spent on things that wind up in a box with all the other impulse buys.

Baby and Large Ruperts- the best gift ever

How could you not love them. I have never seen a stuffed cavalier so cute! They would make great gifts, stocking stuffers (even if too large to fit) but other than that, the proceeds goes towards Rupert's Fund. Not only are they not pricey but you get a gift and are making a donation.

Things people buy but there are others that benefit a charity. I am going to use Rupert's Fund, but many organizations (whether it be a sexy fireman calendar or others) have things to sell for charity.

Calendars-

Every year i get the some calendar wrapped in the gift wrap from the previous year from my parents. Last year was a cavalier king charles one. Granted it was cute pictures, but some person made the money. This year ella is ms. December for the ruperts fund calendar. So obviously i like this one the best but there are others too. So before picking up a calendar at target or anywhere else, why not get one that the money is used for help.

Charitable gifts-

It was my sisters 40th birthday and i could not be there. I thought about sending flowers (which i have done in the past) but i did not want to spend all that money on something that would last a couple of days. I made a donation to ruperts fund and nicki (ruperts mom) sent her a personalized card about the donation. It was personal and meant a lot more than just going online and sending flowers.

You can go to www.cavaliermatters.com/shop and see the cute things or www.cavaliertalk for the calendar.

Now onto the good part. These gifts are not only cute, but the proceeds go towards a greater cause. I think everyone has received a gift that ends up in a closet or regifted. These gifts are not a waste because the proceeds goes towards research or help out other cavalier.

buying a puppy is and should be like buying a car part 1

2010-11-17T04:49:00.001-08:00

When I was little, I wanted a puppy. Several surgeries and years later, that puppy could have paid for my college tuition and a new car.

The puppy I wanted to dress up, kiss and hold, became a dog my parents took out, fed and ended up spending a lot of money on due to all the health conditions resulting from a poorly breed dog.

A new puppy will be with you as long as a new car if not longer, yet more people do research before buying a car that is not a life and does not hurt when a part breaks.

Before buying a puppy, think about what you might do before buying a car.

Does the dog (car's) characteristics (features) fit your lifestyle.

Sure that pretty convertable may look nice next to a minivan, but ask my sister after a long car trip what she feels about the DVD player for the restless kids.

Think about 3 hyperactive kids crammed in a car for several hours with no stimulation or breaks. I think havic. Now picture an active dog needing lots of exercise in a small space for several hours. I can see some scratched doors, broken items, maybe even holes in the walls.

You might not be the right fit for a particular dog (car) needs.

dear santa

2010-11-01T20:53:00.001-07:00

Ive been a really good dog this year. I have not complained, been happy to others, and even though i have not been going to the nursing homes since i was sick, i really would like to have comfort. It has been tough, with my SM, surguries, and not to mention the dog attack, but i have never stopped wagging my tail.

I was born to help my mother and bring light into her life. I would like for others to feel good too. I already got an early present Rupert. He is my new comfort and you can see him in the pictures. Rupert is in rainbows bridge and shining down on me and i feel comfort just snuggling with his doll.

So please Santa, let other girls, boys, and dogs and future dogs feel comfort and bring them rupert on christmas day. You would be helping future cavaliers and other dogs because every rupert, money goes towards research for what i have been so strong even though its painful.

I know santa that the elfs usually make your toys, but maybe they can work with tania at www.cavaliermatters.org in her store to make some so the children will have a new year of joy and comfort.

Thank you santa! Love the dog at the top of your nice list,

Ella

a howl of a good time... halloween was special this year

2010-11-01T20:02:00.001-07:00

i have been long overdue for a post but there is so much to say. First, pictures say it all and yesterday felt like a fashion show. We were so excited to have dogtopia of charlotte to let us have a halloween party. About a month ago, ella got bitten by a dog and we are having her eye removed.

Ella has had a really tough year so not only is she perfect as a pirate from having a battle wound, she is as tough as one. So i tried to get people together and have a reason for some fun. Thanks to the people who came (it was small but better for her) because she got partied out!

bobbing for howl-o-weenies, treats, anything with food, she jumps on it. Ella is the sweetest dog, except when food is related. She wants it all and does not like to share. She may not even want the bone but she will guard it with her life.

If you look closely you can see two stuffed cavaliers in a crate. Ella was in there some to get away from the excitement. They are baby rupert's. I have mentioned rupert but of the 4 people there everyone wanted one. Again, ella loves her ruperts.

Ella won the costume contest, but i think she had a little bit of an advantage with being hurt. Her costume was the best of the 4 dogs there anyway.

Halloween can be so much fun for dogs and children. It gave me a reason to celebrate for everything she is going through.

Overall, she had a good time and was nice to do.

A New Meaning to Man's Best Friend- Canine Genome Research not Just for the Dogs

2010-10-07T23:06:00.000-07:00

Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are not the only ones who suffer from Syringomyelia and Chiari Malformation. Humans also suffer from this painful condition but it is not nearly as common as it is with a Cavalier. Bobby Jones, a famous golfer, was diagnosed with Syringomyelia which eventually restricted him to a wheelchair.

Can Cavalier King Charles Spaniels provide the clues of this condition?

Yes, in fact recently with the Human Genome Project gave valuable information on understanding genetics. I am not a scientist but this YouTube Video explains that with we are not that much different. Dr. Clare Rusbridge along with others started to build a DNA database and has already had some major discoveries. They believe to have already found the genetic region for SM. This is all thanks to Rupert's Fund along with other organizations that have contributed. Here is a document that describes more in scientific terms.

The American Syringomyelia and Chiari Alliance Project

They wrote about how dogs might just be the answer to some of their pain. The genetic understanding and research would be extremely valuable information. Thanks to the worldwide campaign they were hoping to be able to pinpoint this gene. How great would that be for human kind! It looks like Dr. Rusbridge is on the right track.

They could get a better understanding of how things develop. How it passes on through certain generations. Since there are more Cavaliers and other dogs Friends of Lola with Syringomyelia and that the generations can be traced gives scientist knowledge and humans hope.

What a pet owner of an SM dog can learn from a human

I always wonder what Ella goes through because she can not tell me. Sometimes it is hard to hear people talking about the terrible pain but it makes me understand more. We need to learn from each other.

Don't Give up on a Breed

Purebreds do have hereditary conditions. It is easier to pinpoint these health issues because they have several generations and history. Understanding and being able to trace this valuable DNA, may do wonders for mankind.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O6MEpJK0eN8

Please see futher information

Dog's Provide Chiari Clues http://www.conquerchiari.org/subs%20only/volume%203/issue%203(11)/spaniels%203(11).asp

Dr. Clare Rusbridge Website detailing finding the gene (s) for Syringomyelia

And As Always Please Visit Rupert's Fund-

The Little Cavalier that Could

2010-10-05T11:08:00.000-07:00

This weekend a terrible thing happened to Ella, yet she remained strong, brave and a true inspiration. People said when they learned she was attacked by another dog that she has already gone through so much. It's not fair, I felt her pain but something came over me. I just knew I needed to take care of her and that she would be ok. I have always thought she was special and I knew if that nothing could change her spirit.

“God places the heaviest burden on those who can carry its weight” Reggie White

I saw everyone react to her getting attacked with shock, tears, panic, and hysteria. I am not saying it was not traumatic for me, but I knew that this was not life threatening. She would make it and she is a strong little girl. I have been going through the acceptance process with Ella and her SM. To me, that is much more hurtful to her. I was picking up Kennedy (another Cavalier) at his owners friends house. It happened and who, what, when, where, why is not important. The important thing is how we take something we can not change, and move forward. Also the importance of people being there to support you.

My friends rushed to meet us at the hospital, tears in their eyes, and their hearts filled with love.

“I've learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.” Maya Angelou

Having them want to be there and concerned meant so much to me. Everyone I have met online has been there to not only support me with this, but with her Syringomyelia. It is hard even for another Cavalier owner, to know what Ella has been going through. You can see her eye and her face with blood, but you can not see the inside of her brain and the syrinx. She can not tell someone the pain she feels inside but it is easy to see pain when there is blood.

"Anyone can give up, it's the easiest thing in the world to do. But to hold it together when everyone else would understand if you fell apart, that's true strength.” unknown

They keep saying they don’t understand how I could have remained so strong. That is very simple. Ella is dealing with so much more than an eye. Although it may seem tragic to someone with a healthy dog to lose an eye. I have posted how I felt staring into her eyes, I still know that is would be hard for me but that it would not matter to her. She will get over the initial pain but with SM there is no end. I stare into her one eye, (the other one may or may not be saved but it is shut) and I still see this beautiful soul. It did not change that and that is all that matters.

I saw people blame, say how it’s not fair, and get angry and not understand how I didn’t. I know that blaming someone else does not change anything. I am responsible for her and I need to make sure she is healthy. I knew the other owner was probably just as hurt as I was.

I have learned a lot and it is all because of Ella. She was able to forgive and keep a smile on her face no matter what happened. She looks at me with love because she knows she is loved. I have also learned to have faith. I know that she has made me a better person. I also know I have to stay strong for her.

"A strong positive mental attitude will create more miracles than any wonder drug." Patricia Neal

Please Help Ollie! Buy a Poster

2010-10-01T14:10:00.000-07:00

I am amazed at how someone could do this to an animal but there are some terrible people in this world. I saw this on cavalier Talk and the pictures speak for themselves.

From the pictures you can see that one human made his life miserable but we can help. If you go to
http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/Help-Ollie-Buy-Poster-Little-Dog-Rescue-/250704196448

Little Dog Rescue has taken him from a life of misery. Here is the story from the site:

"Little Ollie is in the care of The Little Dog Rescue and after an initial assessment and some emergency medical attention is moving into a longer term foster home as one of our "Dogs Receiving Special Care".

This poor little boy was picked up by a dog warden in a severe state of neglect, and spent 7 days in a pound awaiting his fate. He spent those days rubbing his face and body against the walls of his kennel to try and get some relief from the horrible itching and irritation his skin condition is causing. To be found in this advanced state, Ollie has suffered nelgect for a considerable time at the hands of humans. Help us show him that those times are over, and that humans aren't all bad.

Despite everything Ollie has been through he is beautifully behaved, house-trained and has clearly been loved at some point. He is affectionate and loves cuddles. He is being treated with Loxicom to reduce the swelling and irritation around his eyes but his skin condition will be a long and arduous process of baths and special treatments. Vets have ruled out mites and believe this is an allergy which has been allowed to get out of hand. The poor lad must have been in such pain for so long. Treatment has begun; steroids, antibiotics, antihistamines, shampoos and creams, but those treatments will be a long process, and a costly one. This is why we need your help!

The Little Dog Rescue is a small non profit organisation, run solely by volunteers. Every penny raised goes to the care of dogs like Ollie, but it is only our ongoing fundraising that allows us to offer the necessary medical care to some of our long-term or lifetime foster dogs. These dogs remain in our care for as long as is necessary, with all costs met by the rescue. Ollie will remain with us until his skin problem is under control and he is well enough to be rehomed; this may take many weeks or months.

We have a number of Sponsored Dogs within the rescue. Sponsored Dogs remain in a lifetime foster home due to their medical or health needs.

For every £1 we receive towards Ollie's veterinary bills we will send you an A4 poster detailing one of our Sponsored Dogs and their story. Learn how they came to be in our care, and hear what their devoted foster families have to say about them.

Meanwhile Ollie's Foster Mum said "He's a typical Cavi, pleasant natured, people friendly...there's been no problem at all with my dogs either, he's very easy to love bless him. All in all he's a lovely house guest who is well mannered and a pleasure to have around. Look past his sores and he's one very handsome dude". We think so too!"

My blog started about a Cavalier in Canada Ollie and his book For the Love of Ollie. The owner of Ollie in this book is a exceptional woman who took care of her loved one with SM. The proceeds from this book goes towards research for SM and benefits others. The other Ollie in the pictures in the UK had a much different owner. Instead of an owner who is giving back to the Cavalier community, this owner took away.

Please any dog lover help this unfortunate soul who was not lucky to a good life. Let's help him know just how good we can be.

The Dog Bar

2010-09-29T06:53:00.000-07:00

I recently posted about a photo competition to raise funds for Rupert's Fund and Cavalier Rescue and one of the pictures sparked some interest.

Ella loves the Dog Bar in Charlotte and has spent several nights there. So tomorrow is Kennedy's birthday and what better way to celebrate than at the Dog Bar. That is where they first met. I love the owner and she is familiar with Ella. She makes me feel like Ella is the most special dog and one of her favorites (but I am sure most people feel the same way).

We have gone to the Dog Bar since Kennedy's 2nd birthday. She is now turning 5! My cousin used to go there all the time but now her job is taking that time away. You can actually see her behind the bar in the picture with Ella on the bar. I miss the Dog Bar and I am so thankful to have that in Charlotte. I am looking forward to tomorrow! Even though I feel like this place is family, I saw that another blog wrote about it. http://www.ohmidog.com/

I was thrilled to see that it got this attention. Look at the video they did!

You Tube Clip of the Dog Bar

Here is there post you have got to see and when I can figure out why I am having trouble uploading pictures I will add more!

http://www.ohmidog.com/2010/08/18/chasing-the-blues-away-at-the-dog-bar-where-everybody-knows-your-dogs-name/

I want to say that this is my favorite and basically only place I like to go out. You would be surprised at how easy it is to meet people when you have a dog. It is different than coming up to a person at a regular bar, there is an instant conversation starter. Other than that the most important thing is you are around dog lovers. People who have a kind heart and passion.

It is where one time I was real upset about Ella and I walked into the Dog Bar and carried Ella in and cried to Audra. She knows the love you feel for your dog and I know she loves her. It is a place where you can let all your problems go away or even talk about them.

I have met other dog lovers online and they are great but it is also good to see some others in person over a beer. Ella will be happy to see her boyfriend and play and I know I will like to have some time to be with friends.

I am looking forward to tomorrow night! That reminds me, I am going to try to make cookies. I told Kat that I would but now I hope I can do it!!!

Cavalier's Make a Difference

2010-09-28T14:19:00.000-07:00

I have often talked about the first time I held Ella and my heart exploded with love. I was fortunate to see eyes of the elderly in nursing homes instantly come alive when in her presence. The eyes of a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel can show so much. Sometimes you can see the expression when they are about to do something naughty. The best and worse is the look they can give you when you are about to leave saying "don't go". Ella has this look mastered when she wants food. She can look like she has not eaten for days begging for a piece of cheese or any food. She fools many.

These beautiful eyes that have given so much, now tell a different story. I can see the pain asking for help.

Seeing these eyes full of pain is hard to forget. I think that is why I don’t want to make these beautiful eyes less magical. Going through this, I have talked to some extraordinary people who have a passion for this beloved breed. Tania is one of these people. She started a website called Cavalier Matters (www.cavaliermatters.org). It has everything from SM information to brushing teeth. It is such a great site for information and just to look at all the cute pictures of Molly and Dougall.

Now Tania is making a difference for the Cavalier King Charles Spaniels. There are some important health matters that are concerning for this breed. Tania has taken steps to inform the public on things to look for in buying a puppy, symptoms that could be a health concern, things being done to help the future of the breed, and turned it into (I hate to say this) fun. The most important thing is she is raising money for Rupert’s Fund and Cavalier Rescue. All of this is done to help the future of the breed we adore so much. It is a matter and a matter of the heart. Once you learn that there are some major things that need to be done, it is hard not to do anything.

So I would like to share some things that she did at the recent Bermondsey Street Festival. You can see that her tent drew some attraction. You can also see from the pictures the fun. The children with a Cavalier stuffed animal, the pictures taken in the picture booth, and all of this in an effort to raise awareness of “Cavalier Matters”. She now has a shop open on her website where you can buy your own Rupert stuffed animal along with other things that have proceeds go towards such a great thing.

Even though there are some important matters that need to bring awareness to, there also is a way to do this by coming together as lovers of the breed. Ella’s eyes are lighter knowing there are people doing things to help future Cavaliers.

Why Did I Want a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel?

2010-09-27T20:40:00.000-07:00

I could say that Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are the best breed, but a more accurate statement is they are the best breed for me. My cousin has a weimaraner but she runs marathons and is active which did not run in the family. That dog is perfect for her. Could I see her with a Cavalier, no. Then there are the dogs that have functions, like police dogs, working dogs on farms, the hunters, watch dogs, etc. None of those fit my need.

I have always been in love with dogs. I used to draw the same dog over and over again when I was young. It just so happens that the dog looked exactly like Ella. Maybe I got the picture from the move Lady and the Tramp, or maybe I knew something about the future dog that would steal my heart. When I searched for a dog, I did not look for someone who had that image. Even though I think they are beautiful, I had a different reason for wanting one. I needed a dog that would show me the affection that I needed. I wanted a dog that would be by my side and want to lay with me in my lap and by my side. I have said that my choosing to have a dog was because I was in a difficult place and depressed. Someone (I don't think of her as a dog) that loved me unconditionally would be just what I needed. That might sound selfish but it was a mutual bond that I can not even describe.

When I was young I went through my parents divorce and it was extremely difficult for me. I got my first dog as a birthday present. Okay buying a child a dog may not be the best decision because Flip (my cocker spaniel) soon became my parents responsibility. However, there were times when I wanted to hide. I would hold on Flip and every thought would make things okay.

When I read about Cavaliers and there eagerness to please, show affection, complete love was what made me know this was the breed for me. Yes, Sex and the City, made me familiar with them, but it was not the social status of this breed or anything else that was my thoughts. When I went to see the puppies from a breeder I researched, I met Ella. She instantly came to me. She was not playing with the others but fell asleep in my arms and on my chest. I heard her heartbeat, I felt the bond and I fell instantly in love. Ella was not one of the puppies for sale. Actually the breeder was going to keep her for breeding. I have said God gave me Ella and maybe another reason was because she having SM would have saved others from this condition. I guess it is more complicated but she was my angel.

I was instantly lightened with joy. I had a purpose to live, and I will always be thankful to her. As I look into her eyes, I see that closeness. I feel so strongly that I sometimes can see to her soul. A dog having a soul maybe a stretch but there is something unique about dogs.

I have read stories and heard from friends about dogs having a sixth sense. I know personally, Ella will know when I am feeling a certain way and come to me for comfort. How can a dog sense that. The amazing tales of dogs and cats and knowing things before they occur. Recently you may have read the story of Ollie the cat at a nursing home who could tell before a person died. Scientist might say it is because of certain smells etc. but any explanation still remains that this story shows that the future is known before. I have a friend that a lab found a spot of cancer and saved her owner before anything was detected. There are many stories of animals knowing people are sick before.

What about the ability to tell an earthquake is about to happen. Coming home several months later and miles away. So many stories but one that stole my heart was the story of HACHIKO. I watched the Richard Gere movie on this legendary dog in tears. It is a tail of devotion and a bond I feel with Ella. http://www.northlandakitas.com/hachiko.htm tells the legend of this dog that even after his owners death, would go everyday at the same time to the train station awaiting the return of his beloved friend.

I really suggest reading this or watching the movie. If you thought Marley and Me was a tear jerker, then it is even more.

To sum up my story of Ella is pretty simple. I wanted a dog to have a bond with. To share a mutual affection and love that I so long desired. I look at her everyday and I feel it. Some people thing of dogs as pets, some family, some I hate to think of but I think of Ella as a love that I have in my heart that will live on forever.

Politics, independent council

2010-09-23T11:01:00.001-07:00

I have been saddened by the things ive learned and read since trying to figure out what can be done to help the welfare of dogs. To even say you support breeders seems like i am cruel and dont care about all of the dogs in shelters. How could i when there are so many dogs needing homes?

I watched the animal planets last chance highway and i was brought to tears. The things they do is amazing and should be recognized. The things that stood out to me were how shelley makes sure the person fits and will be able to take care of each dog. That sounds exactly like what some breeders do. She gets them spayed/neutered which is also part of some breeders contracts.

Look, i am not trying to make this amazing woman seem anyless than that, but i am trying to say her message is important. I think we need people like her and we also need to help less dogs end up in the shape they are in and in shelters.

When i heard that a dear friend, who used to breed but now doesnt because of having SM cavaliers, was spit on because she was a breeder, i was angry. I have heard that she is the contact for cavalier rescue but when a cavalier is in a shelter, no one calls. She has found out by seeing it somewhere. How can this one person who has helped me and has so much love for the breed be treated this way? How can someone fighting and wanting the health of the breed be treated that way? Why are changes being made in the UK Kennel Club as a result of the BBC Special Pedigree dogs exposed but no one is seeing the true motivation here.

There are a lot of political organizations that have made me upset because i dont think they are being honest and there needs to be more focus on education and change. Simply adopting a shelter dog does not address the many concerns i have. Many people throw the word "responsible breeder" but really dont know what that is.

I talked about BBC PDE because i read that PETA used it to get the message across about not breeding. This is exactly what could hurt the breed the most. Dont we want to know what laws we have and how they are not enforsed. Dont we want the people who have knowledge and health concerns for the breed be supported?

Wouldnt it be great if more people supported or knew what to ask a breeder about health, so that less dogs would end up with health conditions? I am not going to lie, even if a breeder spends a lot of money on mri, tests, etc. There still could be a chance for a health problem. The thing is, they know they are doing the best and trying to eliminate the risk.

Some people argue that purebreed dogs have health problems so they should not continue. I will address this in another post. It is complicated but now you can even see health problems in labradoodles and other mixed breeds,

What i would like to see is people coming together. An independent council with multiple people that will look at what we really need. I think knowledgable breeders, vets, scientists, etc, shelter workers, all should act in unison because i dont want no one to breed anymore or the ones that do have no knowledge of health issues.

Please know that all breeders are not the same. All shelters are not the same. We need education drastically because from what i see, there is a lot that needs to be addressed before a dog ends up in a shelter. Breeder does not equal puppy mill. We should acknowledge those that are far from that.

Cavalier Calendar Competion - remembering the fun times

2010-09-23T09:00:00.000-07:00

I am sorry it has taking me so long to post. I will post an update on Ella but for the past weeks I have not wanted to get on my computer to write because I have enjoyed having her in my lap. Well I am constantly on http://www.cavaliertalk.com/ getting support and advice etc and there is a Calendar Competition. Basically you enter a picture for a fee and the proceeds goes towards Rupert's Fund and Cavalier Rescue.

I would also like to say they did something similar on the Cavalier Rescue USA called Cavalier Idol. That ends TONIGHT so vote and help the USA Cavalier Rescue.

Cavalier Rescue USA 1st Prize $1000

The other contest ends next Wednesday and the photos are posted on Cavalier Talk

Photo Contest to help Rupert's Fund Details Below. Ella has Entered!

There are not that many people submitting pictures on cavaliertalk so I thought Ella had a chance until I saw some of them. Beautiful!! I was frantically trying to take pictures this weekend and it was so much fun. The good news is it has been extended to next Wednesday. Here are the details and join http://www.cavaliertalk.com/ or look at the pictures yourself! Better yet enter so we can see your beauty.

Post from website
1. Cavalier Talk 2011 Calendar Photo competition

2. This year we are going to have a competition to choose the photographs for the calendar - to be judged by Dr Clare Rusbridge and Penny Knowler

There will be an entry fee of £1 per photo, or 12 for £10 and together with the proceeds from the sale of the calendar, this will be divided equally between Irish Cavalier Rescue {run by the owner of this forum, Karlin Lillington} and Rupert's Fund.

http://www.ckcsrescue.com/ and http://www.rupertsfund.com/

***Entries for the cover are free - for Cavaliers who have passed away since September 2009.

Each photo can only be entered ONCE into the competition, and can only be cropped and/or sharpened, EXCEPT for photos entered into the "Digitally Manipulated" Class. The photo must have been taken by yourself, and by entering, you are allowing us to use the photo for the calendars {but you retain the copyright}. The competition is open to all members of the forum in all countries - the judges are totally independent to allow everyone to be able to enter.

You MUST be able to supply large JPGs at the end of the judging {early October} - otherwise, another photo will be used for the calendar.

There will be a prize for the winner of each category - if anyone would like to donate prizes, these would be gratefully received {please e-mail me at RupertsFundRecipes@idnet.com}

Prizes need to be fairly lightweight as they may need to be posted Internationally.

Orders will be taken for the calendar at the start of the October, and payment will be required for an order to be accepted.

Holly and Lil http://www.hollyandlil.co.uk/ have been extremely generous and donated two £50 vouchers for the calendar competition as prizes

This is just fantastic - in light of this new development, and the news that the judge is currently away, we have decided to reopen the entries

So you now have until 9pm on Wednesday 29th September to submit your entries.

Here are some of mine and some others.

Think Big Start Small- "to the world you are but one... to me You are the world"

2010-09-16T10:36:00.000-07:00

About a year and a half ago, I was looking on the Internet and I saw a picture of this beautiful dog Ollie. At that moment, I wanted to learn more about him and I read about what he went through. I bought the book and cherish it everyday. I will always talk about the book For the Love of Ollie because the story gave me knowledge about this condition and helped me recognize what was going on with Ella. I will always be thankful for that. Sandy Smith did not write the book to make a profit, in fact the money goes towards SM research. This one book made a big change in my life. Ollie touched me and I reached out to Sandra when I found out about Ella and she offered her support. Yesterday I e-mailed her because she had sent me some books to spread the awareness of SM. I told her about Ella's recent news and she shared about Maggie.

I have been thinking of so many big issues and even though I think that is important, I need to be reminded of the one thing that makes the biggest change. That is knowledge and support. I have been contacted by people who have read my blog and her story has touched others. I met a very special person Tania who has the website Cavalier Matters who told me about Cavalier Talk. Through that I have met many others and have been given information, support, and will always be thankful for that.

The day I got the e-mail from Tania, I was so happy. I felt that someone cared and I know there have been many others along the way, it was that realization that helped me.

Knowledge

I can not stress enough the importance of understanding and looking into things. Ask questions, talk to someone, see why things are the way they are. In general it is better to know more than not.

I have talked about Rupert and the bright light he is trying to be for all Cavalier King Charles Spaniels. I am not asking for money. There are many ways that research could benefit with donations.

Please do this one thing. It does not cost anything, it is really easy to do, and by doing this you may help another dog the way Ollie helped Ella. Save another dog, spread the word. Look at the symptoms and learn about the issues because it would be a shame to learn about it once it is too late.

In memory of Ollie and Rupert, please share their stories and read about this condition and learn about the importance of knowing health issues.

Thank you,

The Consequence of Actions- A Story from a Teacher

2010-09-13T14:43:00.000-07:00

Sometimes it is hard for me to put into words my feelings. There are many emotions that have been building up and they overcame me this weekend. I have said before that going through this has changed me forever. What started out as something to tell her story and hope that another person could recognize the symptoms of SM, has become a cry for help. I feel not only her pain, but I feel for the many others and I carry that weight with me everyday.

This post is not about Ella, but about my pain and the questions that I wish I could answer. I could not understand how people did not see the importance of responsible breeding and being a responsible pet owner. How not understanding the importance of health can cause so much pain. I do not blame my breeder for Ella’s problem. I think that this breed has a lot of health problems and that the answers are not that simple. I will tell you that I have seen the good in people. The people who have so much love for these dogs. I have seen what they have done to speak out no matter what the consequence because they feel that this is such an important issue. I have so much respect for them. Even though I am just learning things everyday, I know I have to do something and but how can I help? I am just a pet owner. I am not a breeder, a politician, a scientist, so what could I possibly contribute? I know I am going to do everything to find out. It all begins with one step and the road is going to be difficult. I was telling my friend this and she then said she wanted to tell me a story. She wanted to tell me how being emotionally involved can be difficult and how children can be compared to animals.

This good friend is in education. I began talking about the things I see and how I much I wish I could change. I told her that I talked to many people and seen things from all different eyes. I talked about I have started to ask more and more questions and see that things are not as simple as it may seem. There are so many politics that I never thought about and until I know what the consequence of my actions, I can not say what the best thing to do is. We both felt that the way you treat an animal, should be treated as how a person would be treated. Abusing an animal is no different than abusing a child. She went on to describe how hard it is to be a teacher. A teacher that cares and then sees what can happen years later. Here is her story.

My friend’s husband was a police officer in a city that had a high crime rate. One night he returned 5 hours later than when he was supposed to be back from work. He said he decided to stay on because he had been involved in a drug deal that went bad. The result was that a teenager had been shot and was killed. She did not know why but he told her his name and to her surprise this same “child” was who she taught as a teacher in third grade.

She taught in a school in a district that had many problem children. The first day of class, she saw a boy with so much anger in his face. I can not remember why but something she did built a bond and a trust with him. One day he asked if it would be okay for him to stay after school and help her file papers. She had another boy that wanted to do the same thing. They did not want to go home. She did not know what it was like there, but she saw through his anger. She wanted to save this child and like so many others, she felt helpless and it carried a weight on her too. It was very difficult and eventually she went on to higher roles in education but she felt that she would have not been able to handle the emotions she felt for the children. She said that all he wanted was for someone to care. He did not have a happy ending and was not saved from a life that I am sure was filled with pain.

She said that there are many teachers that experience this until the get to a point to not become emotionally attached. They either can not handle it or they accept that they can not be responsible for saving each child. I was telling her how much of an emotional toll this has been for me and reading more and more about things has made me want to become more involved. Even though all these feelings have been building in me, I was able to escape it and actually have fun which I have not done in a long time.

My favorite thing is South Carolina football. I watched the game and began to think about other things. It felt good to go home and be with friends doing something I enjoyed more than anything. I could then understand why people do not want to understand the problems with the health of this breed. It is easier not to think about it or even want to know. I do know many people who have devoted their time to help animals. They can see the pain and even though it breaks their hearts, they want to do something.

When I got home that night, I then saw things from someone else’s eyes. I saw Ella looking at me for answers. Why does she feel this way? She was wanting me to do something to ease her pain. I could feel her being scared. She does not know what is happening to her and I could not tell her what her future will be. Ella can not escape her pain like I did this weekend. I may not have these answers but I can say one thing, I am not going to give up until I do everything in my power to search.

As I drove home, I listened to the words of my favorite singer Dave Matthews. The song’s words gave me an answer for now. It spoke for me all the things I have been feeling and I know one thing I can do, I can be there for her. I can comfort her but I need to remain strong. I owe everything to her and for that I will give everything I have to help these eyes and the eyes of many others no longer show fear. Like the child that my friend taught, I will do everything to make that go away.

Dave Matthews Band lyrics to the song that spoke to me.

Pig

Where are you going

with your long face pulling down?

Don’t hide away like an ocean

But you can’t see, but you can smell

And the sound waves crash down

I am no superman

I have no reasons (answers) for you

I am no hero, oh that’s for sure

But I do know one thing for sure

Is where you are is where I belong

I do know, where you go, is where I want to be

Where are you going, where do you go?

Are you looking for answers

to questions under the stars?

If along the way you are growing weary,

You can rest with me until a brighter day

It's okay (You're okay)

Ella, for now “You can rest with me until a brighter day and ‘hopefully’ you’re okay”

Meet Rupert, A Bright Flame and a Very Special Cavalier

2010-09-09T20:37:00.000-07:00

When I looked up the meaning of the name Rupert, it said it is a German-derived name that means Bright Flame. I did not know what it would say and hoped that it would somehow come close to describe Rupert, but I was amazed at the words that came before me. I did not have the privilege to meet and know who Rupert was but what I do know is that he has touched many lives. I asked his owner Nikki to tell me some things about Rupert so I could get a better picture of his personality. You know each Cavalier has such amazing personalities! This is what she told me that he loved and a little bit of his personality which made me laugh :) The italics is what she said and I added my own comments

Rupert loved

people, other dogs, particularly Cavaliers. He loved the beach but also running in the woods, we invented a game chasing pine cones"- Hmm a game of chasing pine cones. I wish I could have seen that one!

"He adored young people - used to lie back in my friend's daughter's arms, she was about 14 at the time and loved him dearly, she'd spend ages cuddling him and rubbing his belly!

He enjoyed obedience, also did a bit of agility for a while.

He loved visiting other people's houses - would sit in their dogs' beds LOL- Oh Rupert! Trying to be the man of the house!

A vegetable rack was a self service restaurant to him!- At least Rupert wanted to eat healthy!

He could be incredibly naughty, he would just get a certain expression on his face and take off when we were out sometimes, but he wouldn't go that far, he thought it was very funny!- I thought that Ella could be naughty and I definitely know the expressions but pictures say 1000 words.

Now that you can get an idea of his personality you can see why a Fund was started in his memory. I would wanted to know Rupert because of what the fund has already started to do! I am not scientific so visit the website to read a better description. Basically the researchers that have been busily trying to find a way to prevent less Cavaliers go through what Ella has, the researchers believe they have been able to pinpoint the genetic region of SM which is huge. If that isn't enough, they may be a protective element. I tried to read the report but it was very technical but this is so much hope.

All of this could not have been done because of Rupert and all the donations to his fund. I wanted to point out the success but the fight is not over. We still have a way to go and Rupert's Fund is providing a means to give the valuable research so that we can move forward.

I can not lose track of the main goal. That is bringing awareness but also stress that this is not a battle to give up on. Sometimes I get frustrated with the condition but I have never blamed her breeder. I just want pet owners to be aware and pass on the importance to know what issues are going on with our breed.

I read today from someone who has a Cavalier with SM and her first vet misdiagnosed her as having allergies. This is very common and actually what happened to Ella. What she did is something we all can learn from. Once she found out the correct diagnosis, she went back to her first vet and gave him information on Syringomyelia so that he could be more aware of what to look for. She did not blame the previous vet, but educated him so that he could help others.

Please visit Rupert's Fund website Rupert's Fund website: http://www.rupertsfund.com/

Despite everything he was such a happy boy with a real joy for life.

She continued by saying: I hope that gives you a picture of him - we miss him every day, he was our first Cavalier and was just so very special, we were honoured to have him in our lives.

I wanted to end the day on a positive note. What is being done and what you can do. Pass on the information. If you can donate to Rupert's Fund, but if not then just share his story. Pass on information about Syringomyelia and most of all love this breed.

So here is to Rupert! A Bright Flame that will live on forever. If you read his story and what he went through but continued to remain happy, that shows true courage. The Bright Flame will show in the eyes of future Cavaliers that can be more healthy because of his Fund.

Ella's future: whose hands do i turn to

2010-09-09T11:05:00.001-07:00

Going through this journy with Ella, I am constantly learning new things each day. My heart became open and filled with love when i first held her. Now my eyes are open to things I never thought about. I have gotten support and information from people that know the breed and this condition better than anyone else. Now would I depend on someone that has no experience to help her?

The reason why i am writing this is because of some things i have read and even heard from others. I am responsible for Ella and making sure I make the right decisions and to help her so i am getting as much information as possible. That is what i would imagine a lot of people would do. Now what has been on my mind is what about things i have read about the Cavalier breed. Yes there are health problems but they are the most wonderful breed and i will definately continue to want to have Cavaliers.

My question is whose hands would you put the future of the breed in? I have seen comments about "show" breeders that hurt me because i have talked to quite a few of them and they have been very supportive. In fact, i would think they are the ones that know the most about the breed. I read somethings from posts right after the BBC pde aired about people saying they would no longer buy a cavalier from a breeder that shows. Even though it rose awareness, i hate that the people are grouped together.

Who do we turn to? There is blame and things said about more things could be done by the cavalier clubs. Well i will not go into that, but they at least have ethical guidelines and know far more than a lot of people. I see ads and tweets about "healthy" cavalier puppies. I would suggest someone who is going to buy a puppy take the same caution as if they were going to be preforming a brain surgery. I am not going to just take the word of someone before i have ella undergo such a serious operation. Would you want people that are experienced and know a lot of information about this breed who are doing tests for health be the ones to continue breeding, or just put them in a category.

I saw a very disturbing post on a blog today "cavaliers: a crap breed that will stay that way" wow! Should we not be supporting the people helping the breed or should i say Ella is crap because she has a health condition. NO.

There is an article about puppy mill legislation that mentions that show breeders are a community that does everything to make sure the dogs they breed do not end up in shelters. This is another issue but my point is there are people that are doing things to not only benefit health but also there are rescue groups. I depend on the Cavalier Rescue groups to help the Cavaliers without homes. I am thankful for the members of clubs that support ethical breeding guidelines. Our breed is not a crap breed, but if people do not do research about the breeder, believe everything without getting all the information, then that makes me feel like crap.

I see ella and then i see all the other things that are just a start. Her life is in my hands and i am doing the best for her. Now lets make sure other puppies come from hands that are gentle, caring, know about the breed, have done everything they can to make sure they are healthy by doing testing, and then placed into a loving hand.

Another Surgery or Post-Surgery Soundwave Therapy?

2010-09-08T09:56:00.000-07:00

I wish things were clear but they are not. It is so important to get as much information as possible before making any decision regarding health or in general. Actually even before buying a puppy but that is another issue. I am a member of several forums and asked some people for information after I talked more with Ella's neurologist. I have read about Post-Surgery Soundwave Therapy on Cavalier Health and wanted to know if anyone had experience or could give me some input. I have also asked if anyone had gone through a second surgery. What is interesting is that no one responded to the second surgery experience but I had a couple of people tell me some positive things about Alphasonic Soundwave Treatment.

The actual machine is expensive but there is less risk. However, surgery is concrete. I know there is more risk but due to Ella's progression do I want to take the chance with Soundwave therapy? There is a local animal hospital that offers rehabilitation therapy, Steele Creek Animal Hospital. They do not have the actual Alphasonic machine but I did not get to talk to the Doctor but I did talk to the tech and it seems to do some of the same things. Ella's neurologist said I could give it a try but I would not know if it is helping and then would I need another MRI. What if it doesn't help?

Yikes!!! I know one thing for sure! I am not going to do nothing. I am not going to give up and I am going to get as much information as I can so I can make sure I feel comfortable that I am making the best decision.

Just look at her! Would you give up on her either?

Ella Update. New Decisions

2010-09-07T19:54:00.001-07:00

I met with Ella's neurologist today to go over her recent MRI results and to talk about what to do for her future. Before meeting with him, i wanted to get as much information as possible. I posted on forums and asked if they could offer me any insite. When people first learn their dog has SM, they want to know what to do. Surgery/medical management. I have people contact me about Ella and ask what they should do. I have always said that the decision is really only something they can make. You can not compare each dog because it is so different with each dog.

I wanted information and i know that the decision will ultimately be up to me. I would like to say that even with Ella's surgery not giving the results that i had hoped for, i would not change it. The reason i decided to have surgery was because i felt her SM was progressing fast and she was medication seemed to not help. Today i know i was right. Even with surgery which initially released the pressure and allowed for the csf fluid to flow and with several medications, Ella did not improve. In fact she is worse than she was before. If i did not have the surgery would she even be with me now? I dont think so.

Ella having the MRI proved what i had been fearing and even though it was not good, i have the information that many people do not. I needed this because of Ella's progression. There are many things i learned today and one thing is how i have said many times the variations with each dog. One thing i wanted to ask about was the size of her syrinx which i had learned had increased in size. There is hope that surgery will reduce the size but in Ella's case it grew from .35 to .53. That is a pretty big difference in such a short period of time.

My question to Dr. Brofman was that i have read studies with dogs with larger syrinx size and even Ella has a friend with a syrinx .9 (who just had surgery) but Ella seemed much different. He told me they have determined that it is not the size that is as much a factor but the location. Ella's is located at the top and at the worse place. He said this is why she can show different symptoms.

I knew progression was bad, location bad, medication not doing what it should so i asked about alternative therapy. I actually learned a lot about this from a couple of people but he said that this is not a solution. I would like to point out that it was not because he does not believe in it because he actiually will give Ella accupuncture, but Ella really needs something more.

He talked about another surgery that would be done to remove the scar tissue that is blocking the CSF flow. He said the risk would be if the the scar tissue has attached which he will not know until surgery. If that is the case he would have to carefully scrape or remove each tissue. This is where risk comes in. it could cause complications that result in perminant neurological damage. It is not a given and i asked what the odds were and he said that there could be swelling, hemeraging, but he could say it was not as much as i feared.

He would put in a bone cement to cover the space that was removed to help prevent scar tissue to develop again.

We briefly mentioned shunting which he said he would not consider.

So this is where my story is different. Many people dont know at first how their dog will react to medication. They dont know if it will even progress. I could say i am unlucky and wish Ella was like a lot of the others, but i am actually very lucky that i got the MRI because i know a lot of things that make it clear how fast this is for her and even with the subtle signs, i fear where she would be a month or months later.

Ella's neurologist is going to work with me and if i do decide on surgery, he will keep the cost as low as possible since he knows my financial situation.

I just found out all this information today and i would tell anyone who is going to make a serious decision to really think about it. I know i can not do nothing and watch her get worse and suffer more pain. Putting her through the risk of surgery is scary and i have to figure out is it the best thing for her.

Someone in my family said no one would blame you if you let her go. I know how much it put you through and how hard it was. It was shocking because the only thing that concerned me was not what it would put me through, but what it would put Ella through. Am i going to do this for her or for me? If she was old and not have the life i see in her would be one thing. It would be selfish to keep a dog barely alive just because i could not let her go.

Ella has a lot of life, love and so much to give. How in the world could i watch that slip away. I did put my life on hold and it has been tough on me, but looking at her and seeing her smile makes everything worth it. She saved my life. I am not going to give up. I am going to do everything i can (no matter if it is hard) for her. She is the most important thing and i care about her more than anything else

Good News- Thanks to many cavalier lovers all over the world Rupert's Fund

2010-09-06T23:08:00.000-07:00

Karlin Lillington gave me permission to pass on this email and share some good news. I have mentioned Rupert's Fund before because I feel it is extremely important and what good it is doing for our beloved breed. If you love Cavalier King Charles Spaniels, don't you want to know what is going on and what people are doing to help the future of our breed? Although I know they would love donations but I also think it is important to understand more. This is a critical condition and it is important for the future of the breed. I think of Ella all the time, I also am contacted and read stories of others. I read about the health problems but I also read about what good people are doing to help. Let me share Karlin's e-mail and what has Rupert's Fund has already done and is a promising start. I don't want more dogs to go through what Ella has. It has been noted that each generation it is worse.

"Thanks to many cavalier lovers all over the world, Rupert's Fund -- a fund to cover the costs of scanning older cavaliers for a critical phases of the syringomyelia genome research -- has just passed the $10,000 milestone today (in just 6 months, due to a fantastic and generous response). Thanks to several recent donations from individuals and groups who fund raised over the summer, the Fund's total now stands at £6,771, or $10,428 -- enough to cover the MRIs of over 34 cavaliers in the UK.

These scans are a key element in the final work of the genome project, to pinpoint in detail the areas of the cavalier genome that account for the development of SM. Results so far suggest that there is not only a gene for SM, but also a genetic area that protects against it developing in some cavaliers, offering real hope for breeders to work towards reducing the incidence of SM in the breed.

For further information on the project, on making a donation of any size, or on contacting researchers about a dog that might be a scan candidate -- please see www.rupertsfund.com.

The goal now for Rupert's Fund supporters is to reach £10,000!

Karlin Lillington"

Good job to those people spreading the word, donating, and helping our beloved breed. Also note that SM is not just Cavalier.

Ella's Visit with Neurologist Thank you Supporters

2010-09-06T22:42:00.000-07:00

How can I not mention the people who have offered support and helped Ella. These kind souls have been a pure blessing to me and I will never forget them. I wanted to mention their twitter ID's and also some people who have been there for me throughout this journey.

First I would like to thank my parents and my family. Without them I would be lost. Here is an e-mail from my mother that just shows the love she has for Ella and for me.

"You and Ella are in my thoughts tonight as I go to bed. I pray all goes well tomorrow and the MRI shows that the surgery was good. I know how you worry about her and understand because she is as much a child to you as you are to me. I wrap my arms around you and send my most positive thoughts. Please let me know as soon as you have the results.

Sleep tight and know that you are loved. Mom"

Those who told Ella's Story
Jana Rade at www.dawgbusiness.blogspot.com @dawgblogger I would also like to mention Jana introduced Ella's story and has been a personal friend. She has also contributed to SM and has on her blog a link to Rupert's Fund which is so important for research for SM and the future of Cavalier health
Lauri Huston @laurieahuston http://www.pet-health-care-gazette.com/ who posted her story and about SM
Dino Dogan @dino_dogan http://dogandogs.com/
Kim Klune http://thisonewildlife.com/

Those that helped me with Ella's journey
Sandy Smith - Most of all for Ollie and her book http://www.fortheloveofollie.com/
Tania at www.cavaliermatters.org
Rod Russell www.cavalierhealth.com
Lynn who has been there for me with questions and answers
The Yahoo support group and the www.cavaliertalk.com
Brian and Poppy the Tri, Daisy the Blen, Rosie the Ruby and Lily the B & T
Rachel Harvey who started www.friends-of-lola.com who asked for me to share Ella's story
www.doggiestylish.com @doggiestylish who wanted to sponser Ella!
http://ofcowstailsandchewtoys.com/ Who told Ella's story and shared how to donate to Ruperts Fund and Friends of Lola

The angels that offered their support for me and Ella's support

My Friends that I will be thankful forever
www.unleashmagazine.com @unleashmagazine
Shawn Kneipple @kestrelsnest
Zoe and Laura @zoethespaniel http://lauriebird.com/blog/
Karen Friesecke
Debbie House @dogloverusa
@catseyedesign http://www.savvywp.com/
Judy Dunn @catseyewriter http://www.catseyemarketingblog.com/
@mut_nut http://www.wix.com/muttnutt/muttnutt
Mister Snoop @mistersnoop
Anon in the name of Bridget Pillpoud
Michelle McCaulley @petmamma
@mut_nut
Bowie and Lucy

So as I visit the neurologist tomorrow, I have to think of the people that have supported me to make this. It has been a tough road and I know there will be a lot of things I will need to decide for her future. I would like to mention that I will have a lot more options and her pain is greatly reduced thanks for getting the results and now I can tackle this and will keep people posted.

She is fine, but she isn't

2010-09-06T20:29:00.001-07:00

The hardest and frustrating thing about syringomyelia is how it changes and is so hard to notice the signs. I personally can share how from someone else's eyes who does not know the things to look for Ella could seem completely fine. She stayed at my mother's house for a week and although she said she seemed to sleep a lot and be tired, she seemed okay. Ella has not been showing the most typical symptom of syringomyelia which is strange. She hasn't been scratching.

This is the one thing my mom knows and so she did not notice it and because they do not know the other things to look for, she seemed ok. They have a back yard and they just let Ella go outside, do her business and come back in. They do not see the difficulty climbing stairs. They are not with her enough to notice the changes in laying on the floor, shaking her head, and not wanting to be touched.

Back in May Ella stayed with a friend who has a Cavalier, and she told me nothing was wrong with her. She was the one who said the same thing before Ella got her first MRI and said the same thing. When the results came back, she said she would never doubt me again. I started to notice things with Ella even back then. I would watch her all the time. I could tell when she had enough. I could see her tuck her paw under (a sign), i saw her sometimes struggle up the stairs.

This is where I come to the part of how it changes day to day. Yesterday Ella had a great day. She was full of energy and we had so much fun at the park. Even though she was worn out the rest of the day, i was so happy. Maybe it is not as bad as the MRI said. Then she changed.

Last night and today she was running away from me. Hiding under the table for protection because she did not want to be touched. I had to carry her. I can hear faint cries.

I knew what to look for and her MRI proves that she really is bad off. Dogs can not tell you they are in pain. SM does not have things like vomiting, fever, and what seems normal isn't and it could get to a point of perminant damage to the spinal cord and paralysis in serious cases. That is another thing. Estimates vary on the amount of Cavaliers with SM (some up to 70 %) and a lot of them are asymptomatic. So each dog varies.

Ella's neurologist said when he talked to a group of Cavalier owners in Charlotte that the majority of the Cavaliers here have SM. He said most of the time it is diagnosed is by having done an MRI for another problem. A dog comes in for one thing and finds out their dog has SM which is completely unrelated to what they came in for.

Ella is an unlucky one and even because a lot might never get to the point where i am so scared of just how long Ella has, it can not be taken lightly. It is getting worse with every generation. Had I not seen these new symptoms develop as i said before, it would be too late.

I will know more tomorrow after meeting with Ella's neurologist but let's pray she beats the statistics i have read.

Look at her yesterday. She seems fine and not the dog i'm hoping for another day, month, and if a miracle many years.

Why knowledge is important even if it is not easy to accept

2010-09-06T18:53:00.001-07:00

Throughout my blog i have been thankful for knowing what syringomyelia was so i was able to see the symptoms in Ella. If you are reading this blog then you already know about syringomyelia (SM). Either from Ella's story or they are going through it with their own loved one. I have several points and realized a lot of things recently when I saw signs that Ella's surgery was not as successful as I hoped and was scared to get the results from her MRI.

Let me start off by saying how thankful I am for people supporting me and also shared Ella's story on their blogs because a lot of people have never heard of this condition. I have always wanted to spread the awareness of SM because I know how it gave Ella more time and less suffering. This also gave me the opportunity to get the information I need to see what damage has been done and what needs to be done in order to cause less damage.

How could I who has stressed how important it is to see the signs not be the first one to get this done. Well besides the issue of finances, I have to also admit I was scared to face the truth.

People want to read about happy stories. It is even an issue about how some feel that talking about the health problems with cavaliers is something that to hide. Even trying to talk to friends with cavaliers, I found they did not want to know the truth. I feel that most people feel that unless that they experience it, then they dont care as much. That is true with a lot of things.

I want to explain why it is especially important for people to know about this condition especially if they are an owner of a breed that can have this condition. The hard thing about this condition is that seem like normal behavior. I will prove this in my next post about Ella's recent visit to my mom's house who said she could see nothing wrong with her.

I said in another post that if you know about this condition what are you going to do with this knowledge? The best thing anyone can do is to spread the word. Help another dog. Tell your vet. I know that many people just want to see a cute smiling face and pretty eyes of our Cavaliers, but read on about what is being done to help less have the eyes of pain that I have looked into when I look at Ella. It may not be easy and it may not be what you want to learn about what is going on with the breed but it is important. It is important to know what is being done for the future of others with research. It is important to help another know what to look for. Please if you read this post, continue to read the next ones. They will tell the story of how SM is hard to see. I will also tell the good news about what is currently being done and has already had progress in helping our breed that is already known for health issues, have more without these problems.

Ella's results were not what I wanted to hear but I am glad because it might have caught the scar tissue before it attached. Think about it. Spreading the word might help another before it progresses. Helping with research could save the breed. Is it easier to turn a blind eye and not learn the hard truth, yes. But the truth will be what will help many others.

Ruperts fund.. support will help the future of cavaliers

2010-09-06T15:09:00.001-07:00

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Time to recognize those who help

2010-09-05T17:39:00.001-07:00

Tweet from Tweetcaster i wanted to share this because i know several people who have made an impact for animals. Time to recognize these people instead of focusing on the negative. I know that @dawgblogger website www.dawgbusiness.blogspot.com spends her time helping share health concerns with others and shared ella's story. I will always be thankful. I thank the wonderful breeders who for the love of the breed, will take steps to make sure the breed is as heathly as possible. I thank karln for www.sm.cavaliertalk.com for sharing her knowledge of sm. I thank dr. Clare rusbridge for all the research she has done to help with sm. Lets take a moment and realize who is doing and not just saying what the problems are. How can i help more? I have met wonderful people that are unselfish and have been an inspiration to me.

The Results- How much worse without support & the future

2010-09-02T07:51:00.000-07:00

I have had several people prayer for a good report from Ella's MRI and I know that I did not want the results that she had. It was worse than before and I am going to meet with her neurologist on Tuesday to look at our options. Options that I would not have been possible without meeting (online) Jana Rade and telling her about Ella through some weeks, I would not be able to know this and be able to have a plan to fight it. She took interest in Ella and kept asking her how she was doing. I know I was seeing signs and I did not want to face the truth because an MRI would cost money and then if the results were bad, I would just feel helpless. She did not want to accept this. Going through Ella's first MRI and Surgery, I was searching for anything I can do to give her the best I can. So Jana spread her story and it kept going. This blog even talks about it http://www.dancingdogblog.com/2010/08/be-the-change-for-pets-4-ez-ways-to-take-action/

Jana said knowledge is key and you can't be in denial. She pushed me and thank goodness because I really need that time.

I am thankful to the people who helped Ella but also thankful that her face told the story. A story about a lot more issues than just her. She is an extremely special dog and I know there are so many others but I want to say that it was hard for me to get and pay for her MRI and treatment. I am a pet owner but if we can help the others that are trying to help it not continue, then there will be many others that will benefit.

This post from Kim Cline really tells a story also and what she said about blame and what we do going forward is inspiring http://thisonewildlife.com/dog-health/breeding-dogs-vs-inbreeding/

"By the way, I have to thank Jana Rade from Dawg Business for introducing me to this film. Interestingly, Jana wrote a post back in January about our ability (or lack thereof) to detect a dog’s pain and how much they stoically hide.

http://dawgbusiness.blogspot.com/2010/01/word-on-pain.html

I came across it while writing this post and realized how much our dogs chronically bear before giving us a sign. It makes me hurt for those who suffer in silence from faulty bone structure due to breeding for extremes. Again, how could we know without being educated on why animals hide their pain?

At the end of the day, it doesn’t matter what we may have known on some subconscious level – although I think you’re right because it’s less than shocking when all the pieces click. What matters is that we certainly know in this moment. When we know, we are held accountable – without excuse. What matters next is what we do with that knowledge"

I can not tell you how special the people are that have given others help and care that is so important. So how do I pass this on? What am I going to do with this knowledge? I started this to tell her story and really wanted to help others going through this. I have met some wonderful people and learned a lot of information.

So I will not give up hope. I do not want Ella's story to make other people who also have dogs with Syringomyelia to get discouraged. I have said many times, each dog is different and I would not change any decision I made. I will be there for others as much as I can.

Most importantly, I want to pass on and help support the people who are doing things to help this and other breeds so that less people will have to go through this.

It is a matter of knowledge.

The knowledge of what is being done.
Knowledge to potential pet owners at how important to make sure breeders are doing what they should for the health of the dogs.
Knowledge that there are many people that are really concerned about these things.
Knowledge that there are people that are selfless and have so much love for others and give.
Knowledge that what can we do to make sure less dogs are in pain.

I have heard a lot of people say things and if Ella's story makes someone realize that there is more and there are good people, breeders, scientists, and we should acknowledge them.

So I will continue to post and thank you for all the positive thoughts, words of encouragement, prayers, and so much more that have helped me beyond words.

Others needing prayers

2010-08-31T23:39:00.001-07:00

I have met people through this blog and would like to mention some people that just need some prayers.

Corey- ella's friend had surgery thursday that went well & no complications but i pray for a quick and good recovery.

Isabelle- her mom recently found out she has sm and has been needing support and prayers to help her with this. It is so hard and so many questions and she is having a hard time. Isabelle is having an mri september 4th and we hope it is not severe and the best .

Panda- has been on my prayer list. Panda's mom is on the yahoo support group and is always helping others in those tough days when people just find out, have questions, etc. She actually helped me when i was one of these people reaching for support. Panda had surgery 2 years ago and we hope that medication changes and other things will help panda since she seems to have some trouble. Part of it can be due to weather changes, but as i know it is hard not to be scared that even with surgery scar tissue or they will start to need another operation or hope medication will help which it does for many.

Spreading Awareness of SM and Ella's Story

2010-08-30T21:34:00.000-07:00

Ella's story and the comments I read about her touching other people were amazing. This blog has many posts (which I hope people read) about some of the issues that is faced with Syringomyelia. Each dog is different and Ella is just one of many. There are dogs with Syringomyelia that never show any signs, ones that do well several years on medication alone, some that even with medication still progress. I wanted to give support for others and also spread awareness. There are so many people that don't even know about this and do not see what people are doing to try to make sure breed healthy puppies.

I was so lucky to get support and donations to help her get an MRI. Ella had an MRI which I thought was going to be covered by her insurance. That does not matter because she needed it and when I found out that it was severe, I knew I had to have surgery even though I could not afford this. I have a post about surgery vs. medical management. It is important to know that each dog is different and reacts differently to medication. Ella was not having any improvements. Even with her surgery, I am starting to see her get worse. Yes, I could keep trying different medications, but I need to know how bad or even pray good she is.

I am so thankful for donations towards her but also thankful that it brought awareness to others. Not only because of her story, but because I read comments that people have never heard of this. There are many people and organizations that have always been on this website, that I feel are important for the future of this condition. Just knowing how much it can cost me to have an MRI, think about the breeders. If a potential Cavalier or other breed did not know about this, would they know to look for breeders who are scanning their dogs to try to prevent the puppies from developing this? Those breeders should be supported.

Rupert's Fund was set up to scan older Cavalier's to find clear lines and the Canadian genome research (according to the Rupert's Fund website) has "already has pinpointed the likely areas of cavalier genes where SM is carried"

I would like to add that when it is your dog, it is hard to think of anything else but helping her. I have mentioned to others that I want to spread and help with Rupert's Fund. Things do not stop with Ella. I will always know and strive for the health of not only Cavaliers but others. I will be there for others because I know how it feels to think you may lose your beloved. Ella is everything to me. I don't know how I would handle not having her. When she is in pain, it kills me. I hope you read her blog and others understand that their are more than her.

Her story has touched others and brought awareness and I will always be thankful. Jana wrote this on her website www.dawgbusiness.blogspot.com which is the best thing and explains in words that is so important. Bringing awareness and maybe one other owner can benefit from her story. Read more about the symptoms and also the concerns. Maybe see things, like I did, that helped prevent more damage. I will tell the story about Corey next.

A response and comment Jana wrote on her blog.

"It is my understanding that it is the severity of the case that either does or does not warrant the need for surgery. Ella's situation was such that it did call for surgery.

We had been through a lot with our Jasmine in last two and there were times when we were asking ourselves whether we would be able to actually help her and provide good quality of life.

We did take some chances and they did work out for Jasmine who is now doing great!

I chose to help Ella because situation like this feels very close to home to me. I believe that whatever the decision it should not be based on financial situation. We do lose a dog in the past because we couldn't afford the veterinary expense at that time. It is a horrible feeling.

I believe that even though this is an individual cause it does a lot of global good. Having a face to go with the situation does speak to people's hearts. Many people heard about syringomyelia for the first time because of Ella. That is Ella's contribution to the other dogs suffering from this condition.

Personally I was moved by Ella's situation not only to try to help her, but I also plan on pursuing this issue further in terms the importance of responsible breeding practices and awareness of these issues.

There is much to be done, but one has to start somewhere and this is where I started.

Jana

Ella the Angel that Saved me and the other Angels that are Saving her

2010-08-30T16:19:00.000-07:00

I keep wanting to start at the beginning and tell how Ella came into my life because I believe she is an angel. She saved me and so I knew I needed to do everything to help and save her. I will always be thankful for her but recently some other angels have come to help her and I have been overcome by the kindness I have seen by the people who have been also touched by her. I started this blog to share Ella's story because I read about another dog Ollie who I have talked about a lot in my blog. I knew about Syringomyelia and the symptoms and I felt that if another owner could notice some of the symptoms of SM or if her story helps another, then what she has gone through would be worth something.

Since the time I found out about Ella until now, I have met a lot of others going through the same thing. I have talked to breeders about their struggles and also some very special people who are trying to spread awareness and help with research for Syringomyelia. These people are always on my mind and in my prayers. There is a lot to this condition which I have some posts about and I have always said that each dog is different.

There have been people that have supported me and when I started to get concerned because I started to see symptoms come back and it was like I was going through everything all over again. I was scared because I have done everything possible to help her the first time. So what do I do? When some dear angels www.dawgbusiness.blogspot.com organized a fundraiser for Ella and the response was more than I could imagine. This spread to others http://dogandogs.com/ , http://thisonewildlife.com/, http://www.pet-health-care-gazette.com/ and even others that I am going to list who posted her story. Then I had emails and donations, prayers and concerns for Ella. It was truly touching and I could not do this without everyone.

This is why I want to tell everyone that I will do everything in my power to return the help. Ella going through this changed me and helped me realize what is truly important. I will never forget what people have done for her and will do everything in my power to thank them and also pass on this generosity to others. That is what I always wanted and this blog started because of that reason but it turned out that others helped her. Please continue to follow up on Ella's story but I also want to say that Ella is not alone. I have so much to say so I will separate posts.

A day to be thankfull!

2010-08-21T07:52:00.000-07:00

I am so thankful to @dawgblogger for starting a campaign today to help Ella. The people who have just learned about this condition and have showed support is so helpful. The reason I started this blog was to bring awareness and support to others going through this. I still plan on doing that no matter what Ella's future holds. Recently I have been really scared because I am scared that she might be relapsing. Even though I still feel for everyone else, I do feel for her. Ella is needing another MRI and even though I don't know the results yet, someone said I can't be in denial.

There are many ways you can help Ella. If you could at least learn more about this condition and tell another person, then you are also doing something. I have said before that knowing the symptoms early I thought would have been less damage. Unfortunately it was still severe. You can donate money to Ella any little bit would help. If you email me and leave a comment, Ella will send you a special wish. Learn more about it because there are still many people that don't know. So pass it on and not to just Cavaliers. I have said that even though it is more common in Cavaliers, other breeds also can get it. I put a post about Winston the Pug.

Here is the blog post on http://dawgbusiness.blogspot.com/ that has been tweeted among Ella's lovers and supporters. Please leave a comment and know that I will always be concerned for all dogs. I know this is about Ella, but I will continue to support all dogs and the people who love them.

The support i have

2010-08-20T21:28:00.001-07:00

I am so tired right now because i have not been able to sleep this week. Nerves and everything has weighed on me and then i saw what people on twitter organized. There is a post that i will link from @dawgblogger on the website to get a movement to help me! I suddenly feel hope which i have not been feeling. To know people care about her and are doing something to help me is making me cry right now. I have gotten more support from people online than anyone else. I feel the weight of my eyes start to close. I feel relaxed and i feel overcome with emotion.

Location : 603 Queens Rd, Charlotte, NC 28207,
anniemac proud owner of ella

If you love Cavaliers, then know who the people are that are really helping our breed

2010-08-20T10:03:00.000-07:00

People go to the Internet to get information about breeds, buying a puppy, health issues etc. but the valuable information from people that are the most knowledgeable are often not recognized. If you do a search for Cavalier King Charles Spaniels, several websites appear. Which ones are created by people who know the most about this breed? Well I know I am no expert, but I have spent a lot of time finding out about what people are doing for Cavaliers and the real issues they are facing. People make money from online sites, advertisements, product information, etc. but what about the ones that are spending their time doing research. They have websites they spend countless hours giving information from studies, experts, and not to make money but for the love of the breed.

I have talked to responsible breeders who have told me their side of the story that are rarely recognized for their efforts. They are grouped with all other breeders. I can do a post about that but to keep politics out, I would like for you to think about who is giving the information. Anyone can put information on the Internet and I feel sad for how many people do not know what the efforts are being done and the scary truth about the future of our breed.

I am going to write the press to tell the things I learned. It is not just about Syringomyelia, it is about knowing that we should depend on these selfless people that love our dogs. I look at all of the things that I bought Ella to make her look good, feel good, be stylish and that was so much fun. Most people don't want to learn about the important issues.

The police have k-9 units that have been breed from selective lines that have qualities that are useful. It is a science I do not understand but one that is needed. Are those breeders the same as others?

How does that relate to our Cavaliers. Well, people are trying to find dogs and lines to breed so that the chances of passing on Syringomyelia is less. Each generation it seems is becoming worse. A lot of dogs do not show symptoms but can pass this on. There are research studies, websites, and health information that talks about these things.

This is quoted from Ruperts Fund.

"Because SM is a progressive condition -- meaning it tends to develop slowly over time and may not be apparent when affected dogs are younger -- finding older cavaliers with little or no SM is especially valuable to determine how it is inherited and help breeders identify promising lines. But time is running out. With every new generation of dogs, lines are further mixed. Some old, probably healthier lines have disappeared already. The chance diminishes of finding the fully clear dogs that could provide a genetic rescue plan."

Please look at these websites from people active in keeping this breed around and healthy.

www.cavalierhealth.org
http://www.rupertsfund.com/Ruperts_Fund.html
http://www.veterinary-neurologist.co.uk/
www.sm.cavaliertalk.com
www.cavaliermatters.org

If anything please ask spread the word and help those that deserve praise for what they have contributed

Dr. Shore's Swine Tissue Surgery Hope for Corey

2010-08-19T21:20:00.000-07:00

I have been reading about success stories and have heard a lot of good things about Dr. Shores at the Auburn. You can read about Abby who went to Dr. Shores and from her story my friend is also going to Auburn for Corey's Surgery. This is a blog about Abby She also has some videos on YouTube. I will let her owner tell how she is doing now but this procedure is supposed to reduce the chance of scar tissue to form. I got the following information from www.cavalierhealth.org

duraplasty using swine tissue

The alternative of a tent graft of swine tissue and body fat is called duraplasty. Dr. Andy Shores, veterinary neurologist at Auburn University in Alabama, Dr. Jill Narak, veterinary surgeon at the University of Tennessee in Knoxville, and others have performed this procedure on at least 21 dogs, most all of them Cavaliers. Swine intestinal submucosa was sutured over the cerebellum and brain stem in a tented fashion (see photo). Fat tissue from the dog's gluteal region was then placed over the site prior to routine closure.

In a report published in October 2009 at the American College of Veterinary Surgeons' annual symposium, the researchers stated: "Overall, recovery was considered to be good to excellent by owners. To date, none of the patients that have undergone this surgical procedure have required further surgical intervention due to postoperative compressive scar formation that has been reported in the previous literature. Follow-up time ranges from 1 week to 1 year. ... The use of the titanium mesh, placement of the screws, and the exothermic reaction of the overlying methyl methacrylate may contribute to tissue trauma. The authors conclude that with the results of this study, this procedure is clinically effective and the use of a titanium mesh, additional hardware and methyl methacrylate offers no advantage in canine COMS patients."

Corey's Surgery is next Wednesday so please keep him in your thoughts.

Corey

2010-08-18T21:57:00.000-07:00

I wanted to share this picture of Ella and Corey. Corey is going to see Dr. Shores and will be getting surgery for Syringomyelia. My prayers are with our friend.

Staring into the eyes of a cavalier king charles spaniel & now seeing pain

2010-08-18T21:34:00.000-07:00

One of my cavalier books from barrons said: "if the eyes are the window to the soul, the cavalier king charles spaniel has the kindest soul in dog-dom. To peer into the eyes of a cavalier is to enjoy a vision of utter devotion and to fall completely under their spell." Staring to ella's eyes when she is in pain deeply hurts me. I wrote about Ella needing a 2nd MRI and that is because surgery may not have been successful. The reason I know this is because I see the pain I once did before her surgery. I read stories of people and Cavaliers with Chiari and Syringomyelia needing multiple surgeries and I knew this was a chance, but I had hoped it would not be Ella.

Ella used to cuddle with me on the couch but now she lays on the floor. She looks at me with those eyes of pain and I can hear faint sounds of pain. I miss here and have to call her to come out from her hiding. They sometimes do this because it can be painful to be touched. How much I miss those days of her laying with me. She has good days but recently her behavior has changed. No one can tell you how hard it is to see this. I posted a video of a person who can talk about how it feels, since she can't. I will post video's of dogs that have Syringomyelia and some have lost their battle. I am so afraid that is going to be Ella. A lot of dogs don't even do surgery and manage fine on medications but some are not so lucky. I read articles about studies and they will say state dogs as cases and they will say was euthanized after 1 year or another case that has showed no new symptoms and improvement.

I know I will do anything for her but I am scared. Please pray for her. The surgery is scheduled for September 1st. I will have my paycheck then and will need to figure out next month how to manage. I am trying to come up with fundraiser events. I will be posting some items for sell to cover her treatment. Please think of all these dogs that go through pain that is tough to watch.

Here is a picture of Lucy who lost her battle of Syringomyelia

my chiari story (a life of suffering)

2010-08-18T21:16:00.000-07:00

Ella Needing a Second MRI

2010-08-17T09:09:00.000-07:00

I have been avoiding this since Ella's neurologist told me Ella would need a follow-up MRI in August. My previous post told the statistics about her chances of a relapse and even though I have seen the symptoms reappear, I have been scared. One reason is because I know I will not be able to do anything about it. If scar tissue has developed they recommend surgery to remove it. Surgery that I will not be able to afford. Knowing that she is on medication and I still see some symptoms of pain and eventually she will get to a point that I don't want to imagine and there is nothing I can do, will kill me. I will need all the support and prayers through the next few weeks.