What A Trooper!

Dear Sophie,

A week ago we were groaning, "Here we go again."  Cancer.  Gosh, I hate that word almost as much as I hate that disease.

It was tiny, about the size of a tick bite; in fact, I didn't know for sure it wasn't until it didn't go away.  I kept an eye on it for a couple of weeks and then suddenly noticed it was getting a little bigger.  Right into the vet's office you went!  Dr. Melissa was impressed that I found something so small but it was pretty routine for me.  I've always been obsessive in checking you over for ticks at least once a day, and pay even more attention since your last mast cell tumor.

Your surgery was a week ago but, looking at you now, you'd never know it.  You romp and run all over the back yard, paying no attention to your incision and twelve stitches.  I'd rather you wouldn't do that quite yet, but who can stop you?  When you get wound up and start running circles, the only thing I can do is stay out of your way!

Today we got a message from both of your vets ... the tumor was low grade and completely excised!  Once again, thanks to Dr. Katie, Dr. Melissa, and the whole staff, you're in the clear.  God bless those wonderful people!

Now, Sophie, I really need you to stay healthy and fit because you're about to embark on the most important job you've ever done in your life.  You're going to raise a puppy!  Cubby will look upon you as a surrogate mom.  He'll imitate you.  He'll learn from you.  And most of all, he'll climb all over you and cuddle with you.  Your service dog career is almost over, but your teaching career is only beginning.  I think you'll shine!