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 Duchess, "It's About Time"
"It's About Time", June 11th
There aren't words. No explanation, no rationalization, no excuse. There just are not. Her family was not sick, dead, moving, financially strapped, no new baby. The box was checked "don't want anymore" and they called for an officer to collect her from their porch. Instantly, my heart broke looking at her picture - heartworm positive, a broken rib that healed bad, a mammary tumor, emaciated, arthritic, anemic, and just so full of love with no one who wanted it from her. Fourteen years, and this is the ending they were ok with. There are not words. There are however actions. We weren't ok with this ending for her. (I couldn't shake her picture from my head. My head, which is normally pretty rational after all this time in rescue, even said "ditch rational, go with your heart"). So we took action today. Her story was NOT going to end there - alone, scared, confused, abandoned. Even if her story just ended with a blissful car ride, a bath and massage, and a fresh grilled steak, and some loving cuddles, her ending was going to be better - she deserved better. Fourteen years for a Great Dane is practically unheard of....I grew up with Danes and we considered ourselves blessed when they hit double digits. She's on borrowed time, per se, but it's almost like she just wouldn't give up ~ she just knew there was "more" if she could just hold on a little longer, the good life was right around the corner.... Even my husband, who's allergic to dogs, agreed - declaring he would just double up meds and not breathe for however long, it was a small sacrifice to him, for her. A temporary, workable plan was in place ~ enough of a plan to get her out. NOW. Today. When I got to the shelter to pick her up, she just laid in the back of her kennel and stared at me, through the gunk in her eyes, with that look. That look of uncertainty, as she was already on “that aisle” ~ was I there FOR the end or UNTIL the end? The rescue coordinator helped get a slip lead on her, and we led her out, down the aisle. She walked with her tail between her legs, wobbly, head down. We told her it would be OK. When we got to the front gate, her microchip was scanned, paperwork signed, and we headed to the parking lot. It was at that moment she seemed to realize that this was NOT "the" end. We got to my van and she sat and looked at me, with her big eyes, as if to say “am I allowed to go too?” and I helped lift her in. She immediately greeted Lindsay (my 11 year old) who then said “Hi, Duchess”. I said “Who’s Duchess”, and Lindsay said it was her new name, picked from a list Jan sent, just for her. So Duchess settled in for the ride and looked longingly out the window. We always ride with dogs crated for safety, but for Duchess we had to use a seatbelt clip attachment since we didn’t have a giant sized crate. I looked back at her in the rearview mirror, and put her window down just a little bit for fresh air. I swear you could almost hear the Hallelujah Chorus playing in her head ~ her eyes got big, and she reached up to stick her nose out ~ and just rode along catching the fresh air like it was her own little piece of heaven - and that is when I just cried. I pulled over, called my mom to thank her for raising me to love animals, texted Jan and Debra the picture of her with her head out the window (Lindsay took it, I was driving!), and just cried. With everything that has built up over the last few weeks - fundraising concerns, large influxes of rescue requests due to large numbers of surrenders, fosters starting vacations, boarding spaces disappearing, cases like Shyann and Tyla, it just all came out. Lindsay looked over at me, put her hand on my shoulder and asked if I was going to be ok. As I looked over at her, she simply said “I know you’re not ok now, but you will be, and she’s kinda worth crying over”. (I love that kid) And she’s right - Duchess is worth it. She has to be. They all have to be. I know we can only save so many, but sometimes, we just have to beg, and plead for “just that one more”. Today that was Duchess. Lynsey C. had already made the trip to animal control in the morning to give six pups a freedom ride to the vet, and those 6 made 75, yes 75, pups that she has given freedom rides to in the last 2 months - all with a baby with her! FLDR is blessed with some amazing supporters and volunteers for sure, and Mishka told her parents to make room, she was getting a big sister! Not only is she getting a big sister - but she's taking action too! Mishka said today starts Duchess's "It's about time" list!!! Starting NOW Duchess is going to be checking items off her "it's about time” (IAT) list (kinda a bucket list of sorts)……Her “IAT” list started with a “head out the window” freedom ride. Check. Vet exam to get an overall assessment and some meds to help her feel more comfy. Check. Baths and Massages (x3, lots of fleas). Check. (and about that, after her bath she came over and sat next to me, and just looked up at me, and then nuzzled next to my leg and sighed, and at that moment, my heart burst with joy for her, and shattered for her all over again at the same time). On with the IAT list: Treats. Check. Lounging in the soft grass. Check. Ride to meet her new foster sister Mishka. Check. A foster dad so excited to meet her he prepped a special room for her and was waiting outside? Check. (We adore you Rob!). A night spent on a comfy bed being fed great food with non stop loving. Check. The list goes on for what we want to check-off with Duchess. She is going to have the BEST re-written story we can give her. Period. It won’t be written with just with words, but with actions. She will hear how much she is loved and cherished now, and she will FEEL it and KNOW it. In her soul. Period. We will not settle for anything less. So as we work on Duchess’s “IAT” list, please know how much we value your continued support in saving “just one more” (or five). Helping paws still needed and much appreciated. It means a lot to us humans, but it literally means EVERYTHING to the pups. Thanks, and I promise this is my last super long novel length post. For now:) - Laurie

Cost today to save Duchess: $110 (vet trip, pull fee, meds)
That last picture?: PRICELESS
Thank you all. Sincerely. For believing in the mission at FLDR and helping us save so many, and the "just one mores" like Duchess.
 June 12th

See....she THINKS she is a little dog (notice her booty in situated in the little pink bed!!)! Duchess is still a little unsure this morning about what car rides mean for her, but we think she is going to like this one! Duchess had a good night, and slept soundly on her comfy beds, although foster parents Jan, Rob and Miss Mishka didn't sleep so well as they kept checking in on her. Duchess woke ...up with Rob this morning and they had breakfast together before he had to go to work. Jan couldn't bear the thought of her being alone today, so we arranged for Duchess to get a spa day (trust us, she still needs some baths!) with Patti and Priscilla at All Creatures Pet Grooming, so that is where she is headed this morning. As soon as she is all bathed and gets her nails trimmed, Lindsay and her family are picking her up for a special lunch, dessert, park trip, and some other special things, and they have promised to keep us posted on her adventures, as "It's About Time" to check some things off her IAT list!!!! And we would be very remiss if we didn't give a huge, amazing THANK YOU to Pam (and Kelli) at animal control - so many shelters would just euthanize an owner surrender like her, figuring no one would take her - instead, they worked after hours, unpaid, at 9:30 at night sending out her picture asking for help, for a place for her - for them it's not about wanting lower statistics or anything like that - it truly is about the welfare of the dogs. Just wanted to give them proper props, especially Pam, for their part in Duchess's life. Ok, we are off to save some more pups the list is already growing today:( and to work on Duchess's IAT list!

June 12th
 June 13th
June 13th

Good Morning Everyone! Duchess is ready for another day of IAT check-offs, and she has a great, easy day planned today. She woke up wagging her tail, and she seems to maybe, just maybe, be getting that the days are going to be better, not worse. We are sincerely hoping to wipe some more of that worry off her face. She hasn't been eating super great, but she did eat all her breakfast this morning, and her buddy Lindsay has been preparing her a very special lunch that she is delivering shortly. Updates later, but we just wanted to share her beautiful face with all of you this morning:)

 June 14th
June 14th

Good Morning Friends!!! Can you SEE the difference less than 72 hours can make? Less than 72 hours ago, sitting at animal control, Duchess's eyes were so covered in gunk that kept refilling due to her prolonged neglect and entropian eyelids, that we had to wipe them constantly for her just to see us:( This morning, look at how clear and bright her eyes are as she greets everyone before her morning walk! The gunk still comes back due to her eye issues, but it is so much less ...already. She is excited to SEE what today brings - it is Sunday Funday after all:)

(We know people will ask, and no, surgery for the entropian eyelids is not an option. Two vets have both said putting her under anesthesia is a greater than 80% chance she won't wake up, and we are not even thinking of taking that risk. Palliative care for all of her conditions is the best treatment plan, as well as the most humane to provide her with the best quality of life:)

 June 15th
June 15th

So, Duchess heard it was pretty awesome to get lots of "likes" on Facebook, so she has added this challenge to her IAT Adventure list, hoping to help raise awareness that just being old is no reason to be abandoned. She's even set up her own special post on our Facebook!!  Think we can help get this item checked off her list???? Like away FLDR Facebook peeps!!! Share like share like!!! Make sure to LIKE THE ORIGINAL POST, not the shares, for the "likes" to show up!!! Thanks everyone!   https://www.facebook.com/flldr/photos/a.10152018335877071.1073741826.286280117070/10153365867867071/?type=1&theater 

 June 16th

Duchess had an AMAZING "Glamour Shot" photo shoot with the fantastic Donna of Le Puparazzi Pet Photography!! Every Grande Dame shoud have at least one of these, right?!?!?! 

 June 17th
June 17th

Duchess had another big day today, she got to have a playdate with Denali!!! Denali wanted to say hello to Duchess and tell her all about the Great Life and what she has to look forward to, so to gather her strength and keep on keeping on:) And to think, both of these sweet pups were cast aside as unwanted rubbish......senior, puppy or somewhere in between, they all just want to be wanted and loved!!

 June 18th
June 18th

It's been a long, productive day at FLDR, and Duchess (like the rest of us!) is ready for bed! She just wanted to say goodnight to everyone, sweet dreams and much love!

 June 19th
June 19th

Duchess decided the best way to spend her Friday night was by hanging on the porch with her humans enjoying the sunset after the big storms rolled through.....and she may or may not have stolen a bite of Jan's sammich, and decided the innocent look was her best defense;)

 June 20th
June 20th

Well hello there! I'm about to head out for my evening stroll, been a bit of a lazy Saturday. A gal is entitled to some lazy days, right? Hope all my friends out there have had a great day today!!!! Much love, Duchess

 June 21st
June 21st

Evening everyone!! I am SUCH a good girl that I decided to show off my new talent of being able to climb up on the big bed and warm up my Foster Dad Rob's side for him...I may have even fallen a little asleep, but I think he's really going to appreciate his Father's Day Surprise right????? Happy Father's Day to all the dads out there:) Much love, Duchess

 June 22nd
June 22nd

Duchess is not having a happy Monday:( She didn't want to eat breakfast or lunch, or drink water, so that means a vet visit, most likely fluids and some bloodwork. We know each day we have is a blessing with her, so we are just hoping this is a case of "the Mondays".....but prayers, appreciated.

Update: We seriously just got messaged to "not ask for donations when it is apparent she will die" (in shouty capitals mind you). Today's visit to see if this is it for Duchess, or something like a URI or pancreatitis that can be treated easily will probably be about $700. If we find out this is the end for her, we will hold her, love her and sob miserably but know that we tried, and did everything non-heroic we could. Sorry, but we aren't sorry that we think she's worth that much.

Monday, you suck. Plain and simple. Our sweet Duchess is not well, and we are at the vet. She's not wanting to drink, so we are starting fluids, and running bloodwork to see what we are dealing with, organ function wise, and probably X-rays. We aren't delusional, we have known from day one our time with Duchess would be limited, but we just aren't ready, and she's not ready - you can see it in her eyes. We are praying this is just a small bump in the road, but we would be lying if we said we weren't worried. We aren't going to give up on her, not without finding out what we are up against. If you can lending a helping paw towards today's vet visit, please donate, it would be much much appreciated. Please also share this post so that Duchess's friends will see this update in their feeds. Thank you.
 

Some people are not going to like me after this post, and I am ok with that. At FLDR, we save dogs. It's our motto actually "We Save Dogs". Plain and simple. We save the leftovers, the hot mess train wrecks, the scared and afraid, the old and the sick. We try to be their beacon of hope. However, in doing so, we often need to ask for help from our FLDR friends and family, because vet bills add up. We have great, amazing vets that give us fantastic discounts, and a lot of free stuff, but they can't do everything for free - as they have staff to pay and the supplies and meds have to be paid for as well. We save a LOT of dogs that we don't ask help for specifically - we don't plead for every single dog, and we would NEVER, let me be CRYSTAL CLEAR, NEVER EVER use a dog just to "generate cash flow". Today we received a rather hurtful message accusing us, in shouty capitals, of doing just that, and telling us how people would "turn on us" for asking for donations for Duchess's vet bills today because "it is apparent she is going to die". Really. Because you, shouty capital messenger, have met Duchess, right? You have looked in her eyes, seen her spirit, her will to live??? No, that's right, you haven't. Meanwhile, as your message comes in, I am on the floor, in tears, with her at the vet, as she wags her tails and has her head in my daughter's lap, staring at me with her big brown eyes, clear of gunk, twinkling. Her body was weak, but her spirit was bright and hopeful. We all (there are multiple admins on our FB page here) took personal offense to the implications your message gave, and your ASSumption that the rest of our FB fans and friends "in today's society" would think or feel the same way. We like to think that our 32K fans and friends are here because they believe in our mission, and support us, and know that we always have the best interests of the pups at heart. They always come first. Most of the time, ahead of our families quite honestly.

Today Duchess didn't want to drink much, if anything. Passing up a meal we can play wait and see on, not drinking, not so much. Jan and I immediately changed all plans and put Duchess first. Dr. N and his staff were gracious enough to work Duchess in right away. We just wanted to get her all checked out, and find out what was going on with her. Was this her 14 years rearing it's head, and it was just time? Or was it something more sinister like cancer? Was it just something as simple as an upper respiratory from the shelter cropping up (they can take up to 14 days to incubate, so still within that time frame) or pancreatitis that we could treat and would just be a bump in the road?? We weren't going to put her through tons of tests, just the quick basics (a blood panel and a CPL, all of which was one small blood draw), and a chest X-ray. We also wanted to get her some sub-q fluids to get her rehydrated, and starting to feel a little better. We weren't going to do anything "heroic" or put her through unnecessary tests or anything to cause her undue stress or discomfort. Two hours and a lot of fluids later (great danes are big you know!) we had a tentative answer - her X-rays showed what looked like the start of pneumonia, which can come on super quick from a cold in a senior dog, after Duchess began to develop an upper respiratory infection, most likely contracted at the shelter (not their fault, it happens!!!). Her bloodwork showed pretty good organ function (yay!!) just a very elevated white cell count, and a fever. She received two antibiotics with her fluids, some anti-nausea meds and some B12. The plan is rest at home, two antibiotics and keep a close watch. If she doesn't perk up and drink normally, we will give her more fluids at the vet tomorrow, as it can take 24-48 hours for the meds to start working..If after that she is still not feeling better, we will re-evaluate our treatment plan, and do what needs to be done. However, Jan already texted that as soon as she got her home she did drink some, which is an improvement already!! We are fully aware, and so appreciative that Duchess has a LOT of friends and fans here, and we want to be honest and keep everyone in the loop with her. We are asked by lots of you "how can I help" - today it was with the cost of the vet visit, so that we wouldn't have to sacrifice saving other pups this week, so we posted we could use help, and what the estimate would be, about $700. The actual visit was $623.85, we were pretty close on our estimate, and we think she is worth every single penny of it. If you don't please don't bash our efforts and use shouty capitals on us. Just unlike our page and find a rescue that you do like. Support them. Being ugly towards us under the guise of "trying to help" isn't necessary.

To those who have said she is "overdoing it" - we know you mean well. We promise you with every breath we have - we have let her guide her activities. We had one big fun, first day with her with a few stops, and then every other day has been mostly at home. The photo shoot? Donna came to her. Days by the pool? At her foster home. Her evening strolls? The the end of the driveway or the corner of her block (which is only 2 houses away). We are taking her IAT list at HER pace. Duchess LOVES car rides - so much so that we have one planned in Jan's convertible to go to the beach - but she wasn't up to it Sunday, so we checked off "warm dad's side of the big bed" instead. Today? We decided "get an X-ray and see my heart really is big and full of love" was getting checked off the list. Odds are tomorrow is "curl up on couch for a trashy TV marathon" or something like that. Hopefully, someday soon, she can take that ride to the beach. We have hope, but that is all up to her.

To those who said today "you can see it in her eyes" or "I know that look" - you may mean well in your comments, but trust me when I tell you - looking in her eyes - you see her NOT wanting to go yet, wanting to live, trying to bolt out of the vet's office today - I personally grew up with and owned great danes for over 25 years, and I do know "the look", and when it is time, we let them cross the bridge with compassion and love. I have personally held more dogs than most people will ever even own and helped them cross the bridge. I do this quietly. Half the time, my team at FLDR doesn't even know about them until afterwards. I have a bad habit of using my birthday money, Christmas money, etc. to save a dog from animal control that is old or sick, and truly has no hope, but just deserves MORE. I pull them, take them home, bathe them, snuggle them, take them for a really bad for you McDonald's hamburger and then hold them and love on them while they cross the bridge - why? Because they just deserve MORE. I don't talk about this to anyone really, except my vet who just "gets it", and my husband who "gets me", because its not about ME it's about THEM. However, today, enough is enough and I am just laying it all out there for everyone so that it is clear, once and for all - My mother raised me that the pet's quality of life always, always, supersedes our human emotions, and we must always do right by them. The. Dogs. Come. First. Period. Always. 

Just because I said "we aren't ready" doesn't mean we wouldn't do right by Duchess. We "aren't ready" for a whole heck of a lot in life, and we do it anyhow - because it is the right thing to do.

But honestly, in all of this - here's what matters - Duchess likes me. I might even go so far as to say she loves me. She loves Jan and Rob, and is snuggled up at home with them tonight, being loved on and carefully watched, and if she can't pull through this, we will let her go - peacefully - at home, surrounded by people who love her, because we have a vet that is just that awesome to understand how much that means to us, and will take care of her very last IAT item. I absolutely refuse to be sorry for wanting to give her a chance today, and feeling she is worth the $623.85, and if that means some people don't like me, or FLDR, I am absolutely OK with that. - Laurie

Duchess drank some water (YAY!), ate a few bites of food (YAY!) and nestled up with her foster parents to go to bed. Good night Duchess, good night everyone:)

 June 23rd
June 23rd

I thought I would be lucky enough to avoid the whole "get old, take lots of pills" thing, but I guess we can check that one right off my IAT list:( I will say that having to take the pills wrapped in chicken sure makes it a little easier, mmmmm smile emoticon I took both my morning antibiotics like a good girl, and ate a little breakfast. I still am not really thirsty, but MamaJan made me drink some water with a squeezy thingee. If I don't drink much more before lunchtime, she says I have to take another trip to the vet for some more fluids; MamaJan says I need to stay hydrated to fight off this cold I have. Colds, and this pneumonia thing, are just no fun I tell ya. Avoid 'em, make sure you don't put them on your IAT lists! Thank you everyone for all your love and prayers and support, I'm going to go sprawl out in bed now and take a little nap, but I'll check back in around lunchtime:) Much love, Duchess

I got to take another car ride today:) I love car rides. I'm back at the vet to get some more fluids and some B12 and vitamins because I just didn't want to drink much. Dr. Kara says my fever is actually gone though (yay me!) and my eyes are clear and bright. I have a nice comfy bed to snuggle on and I'm getting lots of love here while I get all hydrated. Colds suck! Cross them off any and every IAT List anywhere!!!! I'm wagging my tail for everyone though, and thank everyone for their love and support for me. Thanks for thinking I'm "worth it"....yesterday was a rough day for my human friends, and your kind words and donations to help me really meant the world to them (and me). Their sad tears became happy tears too, so thanks:) Much love, Duchess

UPDATE: (from the humans) we just heard Duchess's white blood cell count has dropped by half which is AWESOME - meaning her body is fighting the infection (pneumonia) and the meds are working! The vet asked if we were ok doing the blood panels (they are about $110 each) because they really give us a clearer picture, and we said of course. She will have to come back tomorrow for a recheck to make sure the numbers keep going down, but right now we are very hopeful and its NOT "apparent she is going to die" (right now) and she is WORTH IT. So Duchess says pfffttttttt shouty capital messenger!!!!!!

No, Caity you really won't use math like that as a grown up. Sigh. Ok, let's check "homework" off my IAT list since I helped Caity with her college algebra class this afternoon while I was hanging out. My Dr. wanted me to be monitored this afternoon after my fluids and meds, so I hung out with my buddies Caity and Lindsay at their house today. I'll be back on my way home to MamaJan's and DaddyRob's shortly, but I had a nice chicken dinner here, even though I still am not super thirsty yet. Just wanted to check in with everyone and say hello, and thanks for all the well-wishes and support today. I'm hoping for a good report from my Dr. tomorrow too, paws crossed! Much love, Duchess

I am back at home with MamaJan and DaddyRob now, and of course I saw the big comfy bed needed some warming up, so I decided to "take one for the team", and do the hard work;) and I wanted to give you all big kisses goodnight and thank you for all your love and support! Good night everyone, Much Love, Duchess

 June 24th
June 24th

Just five more minutes....five more....the big bed is really, really comfy this morning:) -Duchess

We have always been upfront and honest about Duchess and how she is doing, as we know she has a ton of people that love her, just as much as we do. The last few days she has had a cold and pneumonia and has not been feeling well. We knew from the second we walked her out of animal control that she was on borrowed time, and we just want to make that time for her the best possible. Duchess is at the vet today getting a recheck on her bloodwork, and we got good news and not so good news. The good new is that her white blood cell count is almost back to normal, YAY!, and her red blood cell count is better and she gained a pound - all very good news! Her coughing is getting better, and she does have a little appetite, and is pee'ing and pooping well (sorry if too much TMI, but we are just laying it all out here so to speak). She still doesn't want to drink, but with the fluids she is getting, she is staying hydrated, and the fluids can actually trigger her body to not be thirsty, so that's ok for now. The bad news is that her amalayze (sp?) went up, and she tested positive for pancreatitis. The upside is the treatment for that is fluids, and other meds she is already on. However, Dr. Kara feels, and we agree, that we should have an abdominal ultrasound done to ensure there are no masses in her pancreas or throughout her abdomen that would also cause the test to be positive now (it was negative Monday) and for her amalayze values to continue to rise before we keep giving her fluids and injections every day with repeated vet trips. The cost for that, her fluids, CBC and CPL (one blood draw), vet exam, and injectable meds today is $825.80, which includes a $150 emergency fee for having the ultrasound doctor come to her. The ultrasound is non-invasive and is done while she is resting on a bed, just like when she is getting fluids. It will honestly feel like a gentle massage/belly rub, but will let us know clearly what we are up against, and if it is time. As we have been forthcoming since day one with her, we will continue to be. Please know we love Duchess dearly, completely and would do anything for her that needed to be done, including letting her cross the bridge with grace and dignity if it comes to that. We made arrangements to have her ultrasound done at our vet's office, rather than have to move her to AVS or the VEC, and have it done today, so that we can help her feel better, one way or the other, today. The hardest part in all of this is that she curls up in your lap, wags her tail, licks you, leans on you while standing on your toes, and just gives the best nuzzles. She is so full of love for her humans, and frankly anyone else she meets. Everyone who meets her falls instantly in love with her, and finds her utterly adorable and charming. And from Beth who is sitting with her right now at the vet,to Jan and I, at 4:14 pm: "I want you both to know she is wagging her tail and doesn't want me to stop petting her. She is still happy right now guys. Laurie she is worth it!"

PRAISE!!!!!!!!!!!!! There are not enough exclamation marks to describe how we feel right now. Our sweet Duchess has no major masses, her body is not riddled with cancer, her lungs look like the pneumonia is clearing, and her pancreas just looks "angry", perfectly inline with just a case of pancreatitis, which is treatable!!! The upside is the treatment is fluids (preferably IV rather than sub-q for better absorption) and a medicine regimen that is almost identical to the one we already had Duchess on. This is just hitting her harder because of her age, and being in rough shape to start with, but everyone, vets included, agree that this is worth treating, and NOT to give up on her yet:) So here's the plan: tonight Duchess will be at home with MamaJan and DaddyRob, under their watchful eye in the big bed, all comfy and pampered. Tomorrow she will head over to spend the day with Dr. N and his great staff and get IV fluids and meds, and have her CBC rechecked. At the end of the day we will evaluate if she needs to go back Friday, or if we are OK to hydrate her sub-q, or, all paws crossed, she will have perked up enough to be drinking on her own. The key to battling pancreatitis is controlled re-nourishment (a special diet) and keeping hydrated, and some good pain meds and anti-nausea meds (both of which she already has:) Just another bump for our Duchess, but one that with help she can hopefully just glide right over. My husband asked me this evening: "So what will it take to get her better, honestly?" My reply: "Prayer, love, time and great vet care". His reply: "So, ok basically faith, love, patience and money. Alright then, go Team Duchess. Let's do this." So, all paws in, ‪#‎teamduchess‬. -Laurie

MamaJan, I'm so tired from being a good girl and eating my chicken and rice, won't you please wipe the rice off my nose so I don't have to use your pillow as a kleenex? Please:) Oh, hey there everyone. Today has been a bit of a roller coaster, but I am home tonight and ready for bed. Hopefully you all can get a good night sleep too. Night everyone! Much Love, Duchess

 June 25th
June 25th

Morning everyone! I had a pretty good night (especially after MamaJan got that pesky rice off my nose!). I ate my chicken and rice like a good girl, and I slept really really well, at least I did after those pesky storms left - I am not a fan of thunder! I'm going to be hanging out at the vet today getting my fluids and meds from an IV instead of sub-q, as my Dr. says they absorb better that way. I just wanted to say good morning to everyone and check in. I know that I'm running up a vet bill, and I don't like having to have people ask to help me, but a girl's gotta do what a girl's gotta do I guess, and I just want to feel better and say thank you so very much for helping an old gal like me know what it is like to truly be loved and cherished. I haven't ever really had that, and man, I am so blessed to know it now, and be able to have that in my life. Last night, I got up in the big bed with MamaJan and snuggled up next to her, and I may have given her a hug and fallen asleep with my paw across her chest. She just let me lay there like that, and hugged me back, and that is about the best feeling ever:) Much love, Duchess

It's 5:00, that means it is time for me to head home from my visit today with Dr. N. I was a very good girl of course, and everyone loved on me, but I really was happy to see MamaJan come in to pick me up! Now hurry up with everything, and let's go MamaJan! Kisses, Duchess

Duchess is back home for the night and all snuggled up with MamaJan. All paws are crossed for a good vet visit for her tomorrow, and Canelo is having his FHO surgery tomorrow, so paws crossed for that as well. On Monday we will start heart worm treatment for Ella, Dash and Domino, so lots of special needs pups needing extra special care right now, but just like Duchess, they are all worth it and deserve *more*. Today we are just super thankful to have support from our amazing FLDR friends and family, and to have Duchess have another day of love and snuggles:) Good night everyone!

 June 26th
June 26th

Good morning everyone from FLDR's Dynamic Duo!!!! Duchess and Canelo are getting all checked in at the vet this morning - Duchess for her fluids and meds and Canelo for his FHO surgery today:) Paws all crossed for an easy day for both of them, as well as Laurie's daughter Caitlin who has a big visit with her hematologist today too. Caity swears she's going to ask for a port wrap to match Duchess since hers is so pretty:) Happy Friday Everyone!!!

MamaJan, tell me the bedtime story again about all the friends I have that care about me.....it's my favorite:) Night everyone! Love, Duchess

 June 27th
June 27th

Morning everyone:) The big bed is comfy so I'm just gonna nap here a while with Miss Debra who came to visit with me, and maybe plan something special for later......Happy Saturday Everyone!

It's been a Super Saturday for me!! I spent the day in bed resting and getting snuggles and belly rubs:) Rumor has it my Sunday Funday will be about the same - yessssssss!!!! I'm resting up and recovering from these yuckies and MamaJan and Laurie told me if I get better we can plan a "Meet The Duchess" Party for my IAT List, so I am resting up....cause I heard if you have a party you get a special party hat (not the cone of shame kind!) and I am kinda hoping mine is a tiara:) Night everyone! Sleep well! Much Love, Duchess

 June 28th
June 28th

Seriously MamaJan...."Tiny House Nation" is this morning's TV watching??? Have ya seen me? Not gonna happen. I mean, I know Mishka and the chihuahuas would be fine, but me? Let's watch "House Hunters" instead please. Preferably the beach edition ones, thanks, love ya, mean it. -Duchess

No one gets to disturb our Duchess and her sleep, are we clear? Good night everyone, Sincerely, Mishka and The Chihuahua Defense League

 
 June 29th
June 29th

I'm really glad the storms are over and I could get a short stroll in tonight. To the mailbox and back and I'm ready for bed! I hear some new pups might get freedom rides tomorrow, so I'm going to dream about lots of lives getting better like mine did. Goodnight everyone! Much love, Duchess

 June 30th
June 30th

Tonight it's my turn to be "on watch" as DaddyRob fell asleep early after a long day of work and taking care of me....guess House Hunters International wasn't exciting enough, LOL. However, I love looking at houses. I will say though, this home I get to call mine now, is the best:) Good Night Everyone! Much Love, Duchess

 July 1st
July 1st

Hey there everyone...This is me and MamaJan...it's one of my favorite pictures ever:) MamaJan and her family have had a really rough day today, so I wasn't able to post my normal selfie today, and may not be able to for the next few days, but I pawmise to post every day, and let you all know how I am doing:) I'm fine, but MamaJan and her family could use some extra love tonight, so I'm gonna go snuggle her. Much Love, Duchess

 July 2
July 2

I am sooooo glad it's a long weekend!! Remember to enjoy life, and get some rest too:) Good Night Everyone! Much love, Duchess

 July 4
July 4

I'ma just gonnna curl up under my blankie until all this noise stops outside, I am just NOT a fan:( Please everyone go hug your pups, they might be a little scared like me tonight. Thankfully, this year, I am blessed with DaddyRob and the Chihuahua Defense League to keep me all safe and sound. Night everyone. Much love, Duchess

 July 5
July 5

The Puppers aren't supposed to be on this rug....but it's soft and comfy and if I lay really still I bet they won't even notice me here, right? Shhhhhh. Our secret wink emoticonNight everyone! Much love, Duchess

 July 7
July 7

Busy day making some big plans:) have some news to share with you tomorrow!! Until then, good night and much love, Duchess

PS...the pups aren't allowed here on the "good couch" but the whole lay still thing worked for the rug, so I'm giving it a try up here too;)

 July 8
July 8

Alright my friends, listen up, I have some big news to share with you, and my guardian here from the Chihuahua Defense League wants to make sure you are paying attention! First, we have a lot of new pups joining FLDR this week, over ten from what I hear, and they will all need your help, so please make sure you like and share all the FLDR posts. Easy, right? Second, I have been feeling much much better, and eating pretty good. I'm on a special diet of just chicken and rice right now, and MamaJan and DaddyRob are great about cooking it for me, but it gets pretty expensive with the amount of food I need to eat, so I've decided to try and help them out. Donna from LePuparazzi took some great pictures of me, and a lot of my friends have asked how they could get them, so, with every $25 donation to FLDR, to help me or the other pups, I can send you five of the pictures on beautiful notecards. Just use the link on the homepage of www.floridalittledogrescue.com with my story or the link on my page on the site, and I will make sure you get a set. And, if you are local, you could even pick them up from me and I'll give you a pawtograph at my very own PAWTY!! That's right, I get to have a PAWTY to meet all my friends! It will be Saturday, July 25th in Orlando, and we will post more details soon, my humans just have to finalize everything, but I just had to share the news so you all could save the date:) My doctors say there are some special rules I will need to follow for the PAWTY, but I'll let the humans deal with all of that:) So, to keep the Chihuahua Defense League happy, let's recap so they know you paid attention- lots of new dogs, please like and share posts, lend a helping paw and get some awesome notecards featuring yours truly, and prepare to PAWTY. Got it? Great:) Much love, Duchess

 July 9th
July 9th

It seems the Chihuahua Defense League is truly set on making sure you all get my messages, as they feel the need to have a representative present at all times these days, so please pay attention:) Today was a VERY busy day for my humans at FLDR. They saved 11, yep, 11, double digits like me, pups from animal control. All of them on their last day, most with medical issues. Its going to take a few days to get them all settled and assessed, but they will certainly need some helping paws. Summers are a struggle in rescue, so we need all paws on deck please:) FLDR saves a lot of special pups, kinda like me, and tries really hard to not leave many behind. I have tried to not take resources away from the other pups, and my diet is a but pricey, so I am lending my own helping paw and doing some fundraising! If you are able to donate $25 or more to the Duchess link either on the homepage of www.floridalittledogrescue.com or my very own Duchess page (HERE!), I am sending out 5 professionally printed notecards from LePuparazzi from my photo shoot. If you are able to come to my Pawty you can pick them up there, or we will mail them out to you right after the Pawty. I'll even give you a pawtograph! Pong told me that was the cool thing to do, so I will trust her on that. Also today, while the humans were saving more pups, the "Guardians of My Galaxy" (aka Chihuahua Defense League) and I were working on the details of my PAWTY:) Here is what we have so far - Saturday, July 25th from 12-3 pm in Orlando. I can't have any canine visitors come (vet's orders, except maybe a Guardian or two from the CDL), only humans. I will be able to receive pawty gifts from my friends, just no food or treats due to my pancreatitis. My humans said they may let me make a pawty list on Amazon Smile, I'll let you know:) Ok, so to recap - lots of pups saved, help feed me and get some awesome cards, and pawty planning in full swing! Whew, busy day. I hear tomorrow and this weekend might be busy too, and that my pal Caity has a very special rescue project on Saturday, so make sure you keep liking and sharing my posts to see all the updates:) Good night everyone! Much Love, Duchess

 July 10th
July 10th

TGIF!!!! That is all:) Much love, Duchess

 July 12th
July 12th

Saturday our very own Caitlin had the privilege and honor of being invited to work at Broadway Barks, a rescue event in NYC that brings Broadway stars out to support rescue groups and raise awareness of homeless pets. Caitlin was the only "minor" invited to work this event:) It was hosted by Bernadette Peters, who is a HUGE rescue advocate, and Andrew Rannels, and stars from every Broadway show attended. Caity was lucky enough to get to spend some time with Bernadette, and rather than picking her brain for theater and acting tips, she instead told her about Our Duchess and told her all about her "It's About Time" List. Bernadette told Caity we are to give our Duchess big hugs from her, and she even signed a picture for Duchess that will hang in her room (she may bring it to her Pawty to show it off too!) - Sorry for the bad photo of it, but the picture says " "It's About Time!!!" With Love, Bernadette Peters". Caitlin can't wait to get back home and give Duchess that hug and tell her all about another one of her new friends!!

 July 13th
July 13th

No doubt about it, Mondays are exhausting. Much love, Duchess

 July 14th
July 14th

Nothing quite like snuggling up on the couch after a long day and settling in for some loving:) Night all, Much Love, Duchess

 July 15th
July 15th

Well, aren't you going to join me here on the comfy couch? Come on, you know you want to:) Good night my friends, much love, Duchess

 
 July 16th
July 16th

So, I decided tonight would be a good night to have a movie date with my buddy Denali, and as usual, the Chihuahua Defense League just had to step in and supervise, so any guesses what we are watching tonight? Yep. Beverly Hills Chihuahua. This better be good or I am making them watch a Marmaduke marathon tomorrow;) G'Night everyone! Much Love, Duchess

 July 19th
July 19th

Good evening everyone! Hope you have all had an amazing weekend and a super happy Sunday Funday! I'm headed out for my evening stroll, and then headed in for some snuggle time! Much love to you all, Duchess

 July 20th
July 20th

I can sleep right here on your lap right MamaJan??? Ok, thanks:) Night everyone!! Much love, Duchess

 July 21st
July 21st

DaddyRob let me snuggle up on the good couch....he promised not to tell the Chihuahua Defense League that I was granted special privileges:) Night everyone, much love, Duchess

 July 22nd
July 22nd

MommaJan why do the CDL always get to pick what we watch on TV?? When will it be my turn? Sigh. Night everyone, Much Love, Duchess

 July 23rd
July 23rd

Good MORNING everyone!! That's right, today I have taken over the computer this morning while MamaJan is at work (shhhhhhhhhhhh!) to make sure that you are all invited to my big PAWTY on Saturday!!!!! It's a big part of my IAT list to meet all my fans, so here are the details: I am checking off another item on her IAT list - a Pawty to meet all of my friends!! It's this Saturday, July 25th from 12-3 p.m. My friends at Pawsitive Prosthetics (115 W Columbia St, Orlando) have generously offered to host my Pawty in their lobby so that I can enjoy herself and my friends inside and out of the brutal Florida heat! This has been approved by my doctors, BUT there are a few rules for my health I have to follow: due to a risk of germs, no four legged friends can join me:( I can receive pawty gifts, just no food or treats due to my recent pancreatitis:( small children and loud noises scare me, so we ask that no children under 5 that I haven't already met visit:( Now that the technicalities are out of the way, who's ready to join me for a PAWTY???? I hear pawties are lots and lots of fun, and maybe I can talk MamaJan into getting me a tiara or get Miss Laurie to bring me home one from SuperZoo since she is out there working on behalf of FLDR and rescue this week....hmmmmm....need to find out how to use iMessage on this computer.....ok, gotta run!!!! Much love, Duchess

 July 24th
July 24th

Good Afternoon everyone!! That's right, today I have taken over the computer again while MamaJan is at work (shhhhhhhhhhhh!) to make sure that you are all invited to my big PAWTY on Saturday!!!!! It's a big part of my IAT list to meet all my fans, so here are the details: I am checking off another item on my IAT list - a Pawty to meet all of my friends!! It's this Saturday, July 25th from 12-3 p.m. My friends at Pawsitive Prosthetics (115 W Columbia St, Orlando) have generously offered to host my Pawty in their lobby so that I can enjoy myself and my friends inside and out of the brutal Florida heat! This has been approved by my doctors, BUT there are a few rules for my health I have to follow: due to a risk of germs, no four legged friends can join me:( I can receive pawty gifts, just no food or treats due to my recent pancreatitis:( small children and loud noises scare me, so we ask that no children under 5 that I haven't already met visit:( Now that the technicalities are out of the way, who's ready to join me for a PAWTY???? I hear pawties are lots and lots of fun, and I heard Miss Laurie brought me home some super special stuff from SuperZoo since she is out there working on behalf of FLDR and rescue this week!!! I can't wait to see what she brought back, and to meet all of my friends TOMORROW!!!!!!! Much love, Duchess

 July 25th
July 25th

Good Morning Everyone!!!!!! It's MY PAWTY DAY (and yes, the CDL is already supervising)!!!!! I am so excited to have my very own Pawty and meet so many of my friends!!! I want to make sure you know that you are all invited to my big PAWTY TODAY!!!!! It's a big part of my IAT list to meet all my fans, so here are the details: I am checking off another item on my IAT list - a Pawty to meet all of my friends!! It's TODAY Saturday, July 25th from 12-3 p.m. My friends at Pawsitive Prosthetics (115 W Columbia St, Orlando) have generously offered to host my Pawty in their lobby so that I can enjoy myself and my friends inside and out of the brutal Florida heat! This has been approved by my doctors, BUT there are a few rules for my health I have to follow: due to a risk of germs, no four legged friends can join me:( I can receive pawty gifts, just no food or treats due to my recent pancreatitis:( small children and loud noises scare me, so we ask that no children under 5 that I haven't already met visit:( Now that the technicalities are out of the way, who's ready to join me for a PAWTY???? I hear pawties are lots and lots of fun, and I heard Miss Laurie brought me home some super special stuff from SuperZoo since she was out there working on behalf of FLDR and rescue this week (she apologized to me in advance for being a little sleepy at my Pawty - her flights got delayed due to a bad plane and she was stuck in someplace called Minnesota on her way home)!!! I can't wait to see what she brought back, and to meet all of my friends TODAY!!!!!!! I am SOOOO EXCITED!!! I do have a last minute request.....MamaJan *may* have run out of rice for me this morning after my breakfast, and with my Pawty and all she can't really stop at the grocery to grab some before we get back home, so if anyone is able to bring a few boxes of Success Boil In Bag White Rice I will give you a few extra kisses and nuzzles:) Thank you so much and see you soon!!!!! Much Love, Duchess

You know what? Pawties are SO MUCH FUN!!!! I am having the best day!!!!!!!!! Much love, Duchess

Thank you all for one of the best days ever:) My pawty was awesome!!Night night everyone!! Much love, Duchess

 July 26th
July 26th

What a fantastic weekend!! I am just going to snuggle up under my new blankie from my Pawty and get some zzzzzzzs. Night everyone! Much love, Duchess

 July 27th
July 27th

Anyone else ready to call it a day on this Monday??? Tuesday is going to be busy at FLDR, stay tuned for some updates:) Exciting things are underway........Night everyone! Much love, Duchess

 July 28th
July 28th
Everyone says "Limited Editions" are special, right? MamaJan tells me all the time I am a Limited Edition 1 Special Pup, and it makes me feel good:) I really want to help fundraise for my special food and special care, as well as lending a helping paw to the whole flurry of new pups arriving at FLDR (and wow, there are a whole lot this week), so I got together with Le Puparazzi and ordered some Limited Edition Notecards featuring me! With any donation over $25 using the special links on the homepage of www.floridalittledogrescue.com, or the special Duchess page, you can have a set of these awesome cards mailed right to you! (for those that donated when I posted this a little bit ago, all cards not picked up at my Pawty have been mailed out!) We only have a limited number of notecard sets, so please donate right away to help me and the new pups! Summer is so slow for donations, I hate to keep asking, but well, someone has too, and I figured I could add "save some more lives" to my IAT list, right? Please like and share this post, and help spread the word! Thank you SO much everyone!!! Much much love, Duchess
 

I'm ready to call it a day....don't forget to order a special set of my limited edition notecards before you turn in for the night....I'm ready to dream about lots of pups being saved like me:) Night everyone! Much love, Duchess

    Florida Little Dog Rescue Group

    A 501(c)3 Charitable Organization

    Serving the Central Florida Area

    PO Box 702364
    St. Cloud, FL 34770
    Phone: 407-279-1127
    E-mail: littledogrescue@gmail.com
    Please note, we are not a shelter. We do not have a kennel or facility that you can visit and see all the dogs. Each dog is fostered in an individual home. We do rescue out of our private homes and in our spare time. So, you cannot come visit our dogs until you have gone through the application and interview process and we have contacted you about scheduling a visit.  We do not have set "hours" and we answer all calls and emails as quickly as we can!
    A COPY OF THE OFFICIAL REGISTRATION AND FINANCIAL INFORMATION MAY BE OBTAINED FROM THE DIVISION OF CONSUMER SERVICES BY CALLING TOLL-FREE 1-800-HELP-FLA OR ONLINE AT www.FloridaConsumerHelp.com, REGISTRATION DOES NOT IMPLY ENDORSEMENT, APPROVAL, OR RECOMMENDATION BY THE STATE.  REGISTRATION #: CH36615
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