I had so much hope yesterday seeing Brad outside trotting around, and inside bringing me her toys. She even ate some food for me and was drinking normal.

Today, I can't tell how she is feeling because there are bad storms rolling through, and she is afraid of storms. Even when she is feeling good, she wont eat or play when its thunder and lighting. Someone knocked at the door today and Brad got up to bark at the door like she normally does. That was a good sign.

Went to the vet this afternoon to get some more fluids in her. Found out her ALT levels from Tuesday morning were 12,000, which is higher than the Vet had ever seen in his 20+ years of practice. . Albumin was normal. The liver though can recover and regenerate. But he is worried there is more going on than just acute toxicity.

So I think as my "last resort" for testing, I'm going to a specialist in abdominal ultra sound on Friday. I have to keep reminding myself, even though it makes me cry, that if there is something found on ultra sound like is going to permanently diminish her quality of life (lie gall stones or a mass) I will let her go. Otherwise, if nothing is found and she is feeling okay, I don’t think I’m ready to put her to sleep.

This is just tearing me up! So thank you for the support, I really do appreciate it.

If you can, maybe just remind yourself that you know you will do what's best for her.

I know many hearts are with you, Michele.

It has helped me a little when I've focused on not causing anxiety for the dog. Helps me, helps the dog.

We're with you.

I was sure Wednesday after talking to the vet that Bradley was going to have to be put down this weekend. My MIL, bless her heart, drove down 6 hours to be with me.

Well Thursday came. Brad ate a can of Science Diet A/D, had a normal looking BM, and was drinking some water, though not enough to avoid sub Q fluids. But she was getting up more, and even went out to play. I let her chase a few balls but didnt want to get her too worked up.

Today, I'm seeing even more improvement. She is eating more can A/D and her strength is coming back. She is getting up on her own to go outside to play or just hang out where ever I go in the house. Her pissy, old lady, no nonsense attitude is back with my other dogs. I'm letting her get away with.

I decided against the ultrasound for now. I guess were not out of the woods yet but I'm hopeful that she'll make a full recovery! I know she's 12, but I truly believe we still have many more good years with each other. I just need to remind my self not to take them for granted. According to our vet, this may be a miracle. Thank you again every one for your kind words of encouragement.

Michele,
That is GREAT! My 12 year old is by my side now sleeping peacefully and there is just such comfort in his presense (when he's sleeping peacefully)

I almost lost him three years ago to cancer and I was a mess! But it gave me the opportunity to really consider what quality of life means and make some decisions going forward on when "goodbye" is the right choice for him. As Connie said; you will know and you will do right by her.

I am hoping Bradley continues to improve and you are given a reprieve like I was. Hugs to you and Bradley; Maybe she'll be a pain in the a@# tomorrow, that is a guarantee she is on the road to recovery.

Great news! This was the best news I have had all day Michele!
Wishing Bradley continued progress until she is back to her old self again!! Keep us updated.

I'm with Joyce and Sheila .... this totally makes my day, week, month ......

It sounds like a miracle to me, too!

These senior guys are so precious. Every hour is golden and every day a gift.

So happy to hear that things have turned around and she's doing so well.

Happy belated birthday Bradley! May you celebrate many more!

Michele, how is Bradley doing today?

I'm still amazed at how quickly Bradley has recovered. I'd say she's pretty close to 100% her normal self. Her appetite and energy level are back to normal. I'm going to start transitioning her back to kibble. Right now she's on a mix of can A/D, and boiled chicken and rice; and she has been gobbling that down and licking the bowl.

I'm really curious to know what her liver enzymes levels are.

Very good news. Bet you're feeling a lot lighter.