I got to believe Rylie had quite the fan base during her time in RAGOM foster care, so it's about time I fill you all in on how she’s been.
Well, before I get to the fun stuff I got to tell ya, we had a really scary winter. Mid November she started throwing up. It took two months, three vets, guesses from intestinal infection to thyroid cancer, before we finally got the right answer. It was really scary spending all that time with bills nearing $1000 with no answer. My current vet spent nights and weekends researching what could be the cause. We were literally on the last test before Rylie would need to go to a specialist in the Twin Cities. I probably could not have afforded the specialist. So while I was waiting for the test results I could really relate to those who have surrendered dogs due to medical reasons. And that SUCKS!
Rylie suffers from Myasthenia Gravis, a neuromuscular disease causing a condition called megaesophagus. The muscles in the esophagus lose tone causing the esophagus to enlarge and thus food can get trapped. There is a chance of remission, but unlikely. What this means for Rylie is a liquid diet, drastically elevated food bowl, and sitting head up for at least ten minutes after feeding. She handles that all like the champ that she is.
Now… for a guy to tell cute stories… this is tough. I’m sure a woman could go on forever, but here’s one. A couple blocks down the road there is a group of kids that are always outside playing. Whenever we come walking up I hear them shouting “Rylie’s coming, Rylie’s coming.” The littlest girl, I would say about 5ish, is always the first one to come running up. Every time she stops about three feet away puts her hands behind her back and asks, “Can I pet Rylie?”
Yep, a beautiful three-legged golden is quite the showstopper. Take her for a walk and everyone that sees her has to meet her. I’m not gonna lie, I love showing her off. She is no question a blessing and a blast to have. My old man, who was anti-three-legged dog, is singing a new tune. He loves walking and showing her off more than me.
There’s probably nothing I could do to repay RAGOM, but I sure can try. I recently became a RAGOM volunteer. I’ve done a couple transports, including a pick-up from the surrendering owner, and once trained in I’ll do home visits too. I also volunteered to work the state fair. So everyone can come meet Rylie Friday September 4th. We will be there from 4 to 8.
What a fantastic group that no one can say enough good things about. All I can say is thank you.
