My Buddy Fritz

[PaulineMi]

Fritz, my 9 year old Dobe, started coughing two weeks ago. He's been diagnosed with dilated cardiomyopathy...a common killer of Doberman Pinschers. He spent Thursday night at Michigan State University.  On two separate occasions his heart rate had to be controlled with Lidocaine...once when it went up to 220 and then when it went up to 270. He came home wearing a 24 hour holter monitor.

He's now on seven meds that he has to have on a strict time schedule. The meds are to keep him comfortable. The veterinary cardiologist explained that Fritz may last for a few months. The frightening part is that this condition can cause sudden death.  The vet explained that sudden death, while hard on the owners, is the easiest way for the dog to pass. Of course, if he shows signs of discomfort we'll let him go.

For now Fritz is comfortable and acts like a quiet, older dog. He was a crazy man up until two weeks ago. Of all the dogs I've ever owned not one has been as tuned in to me, and me to him, as this guy. Now we'll be cherishing each day he's with us and continue spoiling and loving him.

[wsantia1]

Fritz, my 9 year old Dobe, started coughing two weeks ago. He's been diagnosed with dilated cardiomyopathy...a common killer of Doberman Pinschers. He spent Thursday night at Michigan State University.  On two separate occasions his heart rate had to be controlled with Lidocaine...once when it went up to 220 and then when it went up to 270. He came home wearing a 24 hour holter monitor.

He's now on seven meds that he has to have on a strict time schedule. The meds are to keep him comfortable. The veterinary cardiologist explained that Fritz may last for a few months. The frightening part is that this condition can cause sudden death.  The vet explained that sudden death, while hard on the owners, is the easiest way for the dog to pass. Of course, if he shows signs of discomfort we'll let him go.

For now Fritz is comfortable and acts like a quiet, older dog. He was a crazy man up until two weeks ago. Of all the dogs I've ever owned not one has been as tuned in to me, and me to him, as this guy. Now we'll be cherishing each day he's with us and continue spoiling and loving him.

Pauline I am so sorry to hear about Fritz. My thoughts and prayers are with you guys.

[Mugwump]

I'm so sorry to hear that Pauline...our thoughts and prayers go out to Fritz, and his family.....

[BallAquatics]

Sorry to hear about Fritz not doing well Pauline.

Dennis

[LizStreithorst]

I'm sorry, Pauline.  This will be hard on you but not hard on Fritz.  Take comfort in that.  He knows that he's loved.  That's all that matters to him.

[ilroost]

So sorry to read this Pauline

[Barb]

Your time with him will be extra special.  I will be thinking of you and Fritz and Doug.  Take care,
Barb

[Rjb3]

A million thoughts are running through my mind, but I'm not sure any of them would make you feel better. Then it hit me. You said it yourself. Cherish each day he's with you. Spoil him. Love him. Those are all good things to do. Happy thoughts headed your way.

[BillT]

Sorry to hear about Fritz. Sounds like you are great friends.

[PaulineMi]

Thanks everyone. You all are what makes this forum so special...the support and caring are wonderful spirit lifters. Your words come from the heart.

Captain Bob because of your recent loss I will keep "Happy thoughts headed your way" at the front of my mind and am sending the same back to you.

[b125killer]

So sorry to hear about Fritz.

[Ron Sower]

Pauline, that's really tough on you. I'm sorry it's that way. Hug Fritz once for me.

[PaulineMi]

Thanks Ron and Scott. Fritz got that hug. 

[wiggs]

Pauline, sorry about Fritz, give him a hug from me also.

[PaulineMi]

Thanks Jan...Fritz got that extra hug.   

Some good news...meds have definitely made him more comfortable. He's become the reverse of his usual self....play and interact for a short while, rest and sleep all other times. It's great to see him bright eyed again.