Harrison, our beloved little guy with a big heart died on May 5, 2009.

 

Harrison was taken in by DAWG just a few months beforehand. We knew Harrison had heartworms, a common condition in many shelter dogs. We figured he would make it through the treatment and be the delight of a future adopter, and in the meantime, we would enjoy having him with us. What a fantastic dog!  He was hilarious and had a blast at the few adoption shows he went to before treatment started.   

 

Sadly, after Harrison started heartworm treatment, he began struggling for breath. We rigged a large aquarium with oxygen to create a home oxygen unit, enabling to Harrison to breath easier.  Here is Harrison in it while it was being tested at the veterinarian's office. Be sure to click on HD (high definition) so the video is as clear as possible: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VlCbqCuJZIo

 

In late April, Harrison went to a cardiologist who diagnosed severe pulmonary hypertension. Although Harrison seemed to respond to the oxygen therapy and the addition of other medications and an inhaler, he has a good day followed by a bad day. We knew we were in it for the long haul, but Harrison was worth it.

 

Harrison's foster mom said he was peppy the day before he died. He played with his ball and even "growled" at another dog (in good fun) over the ball. Then, on May 5th, he seemed tired. His foster mom said he went out to potty, came in and collapsed. Before she could do anything, he took a few labored breaths and was gone. His heart must have given out.

 

Now our Harrison belongs to the universe and is pouncing on balls on Rainbow Bridge. The sorrow we feel is shared by so many who were hoping for the best. We thank you all for your thoughts, prayers and donations, and hope you believe we all will see Harrison bounding to greet us when we cross Rainbow Bridge ourselves.