Well we're back from Cornell and as it turned out Belle' had a tick attached to her neck under her chin. This of course caused her immune system to go crazy and as a result she developed a fever, swelling of her lymph nodes as well as severe pain in her neck. She is on prednisone 60mg a day and is doing fine as far as we know. Thanks for sharing and encouraging me as I said people in my life also thought I should put her down. Her problems seemed to be caused by a hormonal change when she had her puppies. I am going to have her spay after the steroid treatment is finished. It breaks my heart as she is a good mom and has great pups but I will never be comfortable breeding her again. I am not a breeder and had no idea what complications could be involved. I just knew Belle' Amie' and the sire I stud with were capable of producing great puppies. I'm just glad that I have her back and it's good to know there are success stories of dogs who have had the same problems. I stay in touch with her Dr. at Cornell as he became very fond of Belle' and would recomend this hospital to anyone with a animal they love. Again thanks for the info and I will contact Carolann. Nancy

This is great news and I'm so happy for you. I'm also pleased that you are getting her spayed so this will hopefully never happen again. I don't believe in giving up on the dog until the dog simply is ready to go or you just can't find the money to pay (but that is why God invented the credit card). This dog didn't give up and with a will that strong and a great owner, she got through something that most likely would have killed another dog. You're a wonderful person and I would sell you a puppy any day.

Nancy, good for you that you hung in there!! I wish you and your dog a happy and long future together!! <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/laugh.gif" alt="" />

Nancy, It's great to hear that your female is doing better. As many others have posted, your dedication to this wonderful K-9 has made the differeance.

Best of Luck to both of you.