January 8, 2005
It is such a wonderful feeling knowing that people all over the world are supporting us with kind thoughts and prayers. I believe that Polar has never doubted anything that was done, he seems to be promising me that will adapt to the new leg with time. Recently, he got to do his favorite thing in the world—something he hasn't done since before the surgery. That is getting to go along with me to feed the horses!

He raced up ahead of me so he would get there first. While it wasn't as fast as before the surgery, I know that it will come with time. He was so happy and proud of himself, and he really didn't seem to be struggling or appear uncomfortable. So, that makes me feel good.

Polar is still adjusting to his new leg and it is taking time. I just hope we finally gets to a point where his functioning is up to what it was before the surgery. I'd like him to feel comfortable with it for longer periods. And even though it may never be an all day thing, it would be nice if that could occur. I started doing some Physical Therapy with Polar's leg and stump—bending and stretching stuff as I notice he seems to be pulling his prosthetic across and under his belly. So, it is actually hitting his remaining leg when he walks or runs. I also called the Aquatherapy folks in Maryland to see if we can have a consult with the Veterinarian there for more rehabilitation activities for us to do. They haven't seen him in a long time, and it might help strengthen his remaining limb.

Polar is such a good boy about everything, I can't imagine having a dog that has gone through everything he has and have him fight the entire way. Polar is always ready for the next challenge. He just amazes me everyday!

Take Me Back for More

January 1, 2005
Well, we got home yesterday, and we were both exhausted. It was a great trip, and hopefully this new leg will allow Polar to have a normal life without so much pain. He is in the process of getting use to it, which will take some time. His skin on the inside of the stump has to toughen up. So he will be wearing the leg in by using it for only small bits of time!! He did far better today than yesterday. We will probably have to go back up to Long Island for future re-adjustments, as his stump will shrink and change size in the next year.

Mary Jane is such a great hostess, making Polar and I feel right at home! We love being able to have someone to help with everything, and making this really difficult time so much easier. Please enjoy the following photos of Polar and I sharing our time with Mary Jane, Golden Gus, and Ragdoll Cat Larry.

Here are some photos of Polar in Mary Jane's bed, and sleeping with Golden Gus's woobie. What a spoiled guy he is! And, look at how relaxed I look taking a little break as well.

Here's kitty Larry, resting Gus, and Polar sharing some kitchen time.

Polar looks pretty content resting on Mary Jane's deck.

Mary Jane's bed sure does meet up to Polar's requirements for comfort.

Polar sure needed his rest, as well as that of Gus' woobie and Gus' bed, no less.

And Mary Jane's chair was comfy for me as well.

Here is Polar just before we left for home.

Take Me Back for More