Miles needs Pet talk Prayers Update on miles

OMG!!! What a night I missed. I was sick and went to bed early. So much happened. I am glad that Miles was seen and that surgery is an option for him. I know he wouldn't be loved any less if he only has 3 legs, but if his leg can be repaired that would be the best solution. I hope and pray for strength for both of you and I am glad that he has pain killers for now. Gina, I hope that you will hear something soon. Please update as soon as you can. Continued good thoughts, (((((Hugs))))) and prayers to both of you.

OMG I can't beleive the nightmare you've been through.Especially being lost at night in a strange city...having to except a strangers ride to the vet.God is on your side.Prayers for Miles and especially you for all your going through.Please take care.I know everything will work out in the end.

Just to add a little something to this nightmarish drama, I found out when I called the original vet's office this morning that the receptionist who had taken my credit card details yesterday afternoon had put them in her pocket and left without telling anyone. She said it had been a "crazy busy day". Words pretty much failed me. I hope Miles can be fixed up without any more chaotic twists and turns.

Gina - you go with what is best for Miles, even the plate and pin. Many people here will chip in a bit, and will get you covered!

Hey - Miles can be the Bionic Cat! And set off metal detectors at the airport!
(Just trying to give you a smile, hon.)

The Emerg Vet info is in this thread. So np. Hope you got something to eat!

hugs
Catty1

Gina ~ I'm so sorry for all that you and little Miles are going through. I have mailed you a donation for whatever treatment is decided upon.

I'm still not clear on whether IMOM has denied your application or if after reading their instructions, you decided not to apply because you believe you don't qualify. If they did deny you, what reason was given?

I'll PM you with my contact information. Unfortunately, I'm away at work (in Prudhoe Bay, Alaska) until March 19th. So, I won't be on as much but I can access my home e-mail. I'll send you that info.

Here's a list of other organizations that may be able to help. If anyone knows of others, please post them. Let's help Gina and Miles!
I got this list in an e-mail, so I can't verify the legitimacy of these places-and I know some are listed in the other sources page of the IMOM site, but figured I'd post for you.

Add www.omaspride.com as they help rescues.

American Animal Hospital Association
www.aahahelpingpets.org/home/
"The heartbreak happens all too often a pet owner is unable to afford treatment and their sick or injured companion animal pays the price. If the owner is elderly, disabled or on a fixed income, the cost of care may be too much of a stretch for their pocketbook. Perhaps they have been victimized by crime, property loss or a job layoff and are experiencing a temporary financial hardship ? making it too difficult to afford pet care. And some animals, brought to clinics by Good Samaritans, don't have an owner to pay for treatment. Whatever the situation, the fact remains the same: When sick or injured animals are unable to receive veterinary care, they suffer. Through the AAHA Helping Pets Fund, veterinary care is possible for sick or injured pets even if they have been abandoned or if their owner is experiencing financial hardship."
Maybe would help rescues?

Angels 4 Animals
www.Angels4Animals.org
"Angels4Animals, a non-profit organization and a program of Inner Voice Community Services, has a mission to serve as the guardian angel of animals whose caretakers find themselves in difficult financial situations. At Angels4Animals we believe that animal owners should not have to say goodbye to the animals that they love. Our work is accomplished in conjunction with veterinary clinics across
the country, eager to assist as many animals, and their owners, as possible. Our services range from financial aid to complete treatment to those pets and pet owners in need."

Help-A-Pet
www.help-a-pet.org/home.html
"Our efforts focus on serving the elderly, the disabled, and the
working poor. For lonely seniors, physically/mentally challenged
individuals and children of working parents, pets represent much more
than a diversion."

The Pet Fund
thepetfund.com/
"The Pet Fund is a registered 501(c)3 nonprofit association that provides financial assistance to owners of domestic animals who need urgent veterinary care. Often animals are put down or suffer needlessly because their owners cannot afford expensive surgery or emergency vet visits. Companion animal owners must often make the difficult decision to put an animal down or neglect urgent medical needs because of the costs involved. The purpose of the Pet Fund is to work towards a future where decisions about companion animal
medical care need never be made on the basis of cost."

United Animal Nations
www.uan.org/lifeline/index.html
"The mission of LifeLine is to help homeless or recently rescued
animals suffering from life-threatening conditions that require
specific and immediate emergency veterinary care. We strive to serve Good Samaritans and rescue groups who take in sick or injured animals. In certain cases, LifeLine can also assist senior citizens and low-income families pay for immediate emergency veterinary care."

Just heard from Gina. She has a 1:00 p.m. consultation today, she is there now waiting to see what options are available for Miles. She'll update as soon as she knows the choices they have. Fingers crossed that something can be done for him soon.

Quote:

---

Originally Posted by Gina's Ark Inc

I'd stick with option number one! not that I wouldn't love him less if he's three legged, it would be so sad if he had to lose one.

---

What a journey you have been on over the last 48 hours Gina! I hope you get the right diagnosis that you are comfortable with from the doctors.

From my experience, and from everything I have read regarding similar situations where cats are involved, please don't rule out amputation of the leg. Cats are very adaptable creatures and pull through just fine with an amputation. There may be less pain and surgeries with this option as well, instead of trying to keep the leg and having more pain and recovery in the future.

Sending many positive thoughts your way that Miles will be on the road to recovery soon.

How'd I miss this????

First off, being that I have Flutter, I can tell you100% unequivocally (sp?) that 3 legs will not stop a cat. They get around just great and don't even know they have any problems.

Second - the surgery with plates and such. Angel went through that. She came through with flying colors but will always have problems with her leg for the rest of her life. She will most likely need additional surgeries and the vet said she will most likely get terrible arthritis in that leg. She will be in a lot of pain as she gets older thanks to the broken leg that needed surgery. I was determined to save her leg, but now that I see Flutter doing as well as she is, I realize how much happier Angel might be if she could live completely pain free. Her new parents report that she still does not walk on that leg, and she'll occasionally act sore on rainy/cold days.

I have to be honest and say I'd prefer amputation if I had to face it with any of my cats. Its one surgery, one healing and he'll never feel pain associated with that leg again. I would not want to impose a life of pain associated with that leg just because I feel he needs his leg. Truthfully, that a selfish wish on us humans. We want to see complete animals. When we all know animals adapt well to physical changes. I honestly forget she's even 3 legged.

Good luck in whatever choice you make and I'll be praying that he comes through with flying colors. ((((hugs))))

I was on this site:

http://kenpope.com/index.php

and read about a cat that can only use her front legs but plays happily with the other cats. She has a cart for her back end but refuses to use it, preferring to haul and slither. There are lovely pictures of her on the site. Actually the whole site is inspiring.

I've been very inclined to think that Gina should go for the extensive reparative surgery, simply because I don't like accepting compromises myself. But these new posts have made me think about what that can mean to Miles; I didn't realize that the surgery could mean more pain and distress. My vet's office has two dogs that are three-legged, and they romp around all the time. I hope Gina gets a really good consult with her vet so that she fully understands the results of both options.

Gina, could you update us please. I know everyone is wondering how things went. More ((((Hugs)))) to you and Miles!

I just wrote to Corinna, asking if she has heard anything but she hasn't. She said Gina was having problems with the internet, so that may be why we haven't heard - I certainly hope that's all it is.

Update on Miles
gina just got in touch with me she apoligises for not returning the Pm's and messages both her computer and sidekick crashed . (figures huh)
She went for the consult but they had a big emerency happen and so as luck would have it the deaf vet was there. (cool huh she must be following her)Haha any way she got to "talk " with her and they decideed after laying out all the things seen on the xrays , that amputaion was the best option for Miles . (I did read her catnappers post and she felt even better ) So no consult but surgery to be monday the 6th. They gave her plenty of pain meds for him so resting as well as can be.
Gina assures me as soon as she can fix electronics she will answer you all. Wants me to thank all for prayers and support. If she can't up date she will have me do it.

I was hoping for amputating.No more pain for Miles.Good Luck and More Prayers on the way for Miles on the 6th.

Thank you for the update. I have been worried all day and have not been able to check Pet Talk. (Can you believe, they expect me to work? Don't they know that Gina and Miles are more important?) :)

Gina ~ I sure wish I lived closer. I'm sorry for all the troubles you're having. Please let us know if we need to do some more fund raising. The PT'ers always come through!

Oh good - less pain for Miles. And with the inspiring examples of Snoopy and Flutter - Snoopy having four legs, but three good ones - Miles has mentors!

Ready to help with some funds when needed. Will watch this thread.

hugs
Catty1

Oh my Gina! I just read this post too, and wanted to add my two-cents. I have multiple handicapable cats, and my (hing leg) amputee Impy is the best off of all my three (and one 2) legged kitties. Miles will feel 100% better not having pins and plates in his leg, which do set him up for problems down the road as catnapper Kim mentioned. Animals adapt very well to amputation, and especially being a hind leg, Miles should be feeling purrfectly fine in a few weeks. ;) If you have any other concerns or questions about Miles recovery this is a terrific website to ask them on...http://www.handicappedpets.com/cgi-b...bbbs_config.pl
There are many persons in the same 'boat' as you dealing with accidents, and they also have a fund to help out as well as IMOM etc. ;) Sending purrayers that all will work out for Miles.

I was sooooooo hoping that Catnapper would see this and respond and am I ever glad she did. Just reading about the difference between Flutter and Angel was very encouraging. I am so happy, but sad at the same time, that Miles will go through the amputation.

Gina, my heart goes out to you with all that you have gone through.

((((((HUGS)))))) to you dear girl and gentle kisses to Miles.

I am so glad to hear that my post helped soothe your anxiety! Honestly, I sometimes want to cry when I see the difference between Flutter with the half leg and Flutter today. Cry with happiness knowing my little sweetheart is now completely happy. You might remember the guilt I felt by putting her through the amputation. I now know it was the best thing I could have ever done for her.

As for Angel, I know her new family will do anything and everything to keep her pain free... but that doesn't stop me from feeling guilty that I made the decision to do whatever necessary to keep her leg. I tell you honestly, if I knew then what I know now, I would have pushed to amputate Angel's bad leg.

Gosh, after Flutter's surgery, I hated seeing that sewed up wound and her shaved areas. It just made me feel so... so.... I don't know how to describe what it did for me emotionally. I felt guilt. I felt like I failed her. But now that she's all healed and the fur is all grown back..... I see her running and playing in ways she never did before the surgery, I feel nothing but happiness. I honestly do double takes when I see her without the 4th leg. She does everything my other guys do, except sitting on my lap. I finally figured out that she doesn't do that because it upsets her sense of balance. I can deal with that and accomodate her! :)

Good luck and please keep us updated - sorry to hear about your computer woes.

Very late getting in here. I'm so glad Miles will get the help he needs. Amputation is one of the options we considered with Grady last year. We did opt for intramedullary nailing for his horrific left femur fracture. It was done up at MSU Vet School. He is totally fine - just wanted everyone to know that hardware insertion doesn't have to be a bad thing.

I am sorry to hear that he will lose his leg, but perhaps as others have said it is probably the best choice. At least there will be no pain. Glad he has pain medicine to get him through the weekend. Poor baby!

Continued good thoughts and ((((Hugs))))

I'm so sorry I'm late in responding. I haven't been around much lately. I hope Miles comes through his surgery with flying colors! If there's anything needed please let us know. We'll help where we can. Good luck and I'll watch for the updates. I don't have any 2 cents to throw in since I've never experienced anything like this, but from what I'm reading it sounds like all will be well.

Late as well,

Is there an address that we can send a donation to?


All the best for Gina & Miles

seems my net is working allright for now, still a bit slow - hopefully will get my post in when finished! golly, a lot links to look at, wish time didn't have to rush me away. thank you!

whew. yesterday was just another crazy day when I got to VSR (my apology, mispelling earlier - veterinary specialists of rochester) - the deaf vet was there, told me that unforunately it will have to be waited until next monday, the sixth. I gave a big sad sigh in tears! surgeon had another emergency operation came in. however, we discussed a bit - reassured me that my decision would too be best for miles as if it were hers and she could get me an estimate, fax over it to IMOM. (the good news, miles will be accepted for donations too once I make a decision!) :rolleyes:

thank you all furamputees for encouraging words, I love you all! - actually, amputation was my deep true choice but was feeling like I'm a bad mom for even thinking to take his leg away - the decision wouldn't have been harder if two vets didn't say intramedullary pin would be the best prognosis.. best option they say because where the crack is, it's a bit lower than where the amputacrack is 'suppose' to be - I understand and am in all heart to think what's best for miles but what hesitants me, a permenante pin/plate in him? I just felt it would be a forever nusiance to me for him - you would probably feel his pin sometimes, imagine him feeling clinking, laying on it uncomfortably, I thought he would just feel 100% free and comfortable without something else 'drilling & fix' him. and of course, much less chance of aftersurgries risk. I'm still not sure whetever to follow my heart or vets' heart? :confused: time is running out - poor miles with a broken leg for A WEEK, I wish he'd tell me what HE wants. I can't hear, see or feel his pain. :( :( that's so terrible but at 2PM again soon this afternoon, I'll be seeing both, miles' vet and deaf vet at pittsford (for extra buprenex - GOOD pain killer, you couldn't feel a thing!) and discuss more there.

I know I have a several PMs to respond and I only have one more before it gets full! never realized it has spiked up. :eek: after the mini-consultation, I (hopefully if net isn't grouchy today) will get back to you all! you too, rosethecopycat - I'm so sorry for delay everyone.

one thing I forgot to mention in last post - from phred's post - the second option, kim was talking about FHO (femoral head and neck ostectomy), it's very different from amputation, FHO is where you only take ball/neck out, put a formed ball/neck in between leg and pelvis - can be done at a regular vet hospital. amputation, you take all out.

jeez, I said "quick check in" but wanted to fill you all in entirely - too good for net! and as promised, pictures are coming up next then gotta get miles and I ready! all of posts came in are greatly appreciated.

(((((thank you)))) and pray that net will still be in a good mood when I get back!

here's miles! first one, very very original picture of him, I use it everywhere - one of my favorites. second/third of him in roasted california and last of him as of right now - poor that little sweet face. :(
I wanna squeeze him.. but not after he already is broken!

catty, he became three last october! also here's his fiiirst thread - my baby miles, (who formerly named micro) when I first got him, the same week I registered pet talk! :D wow, at that time I only had two!

this morning miles had me scared - when I walked out, assumed miles would stay in bed, waiting for me to bring him food/waterbowl as usual - preparing food without realizing he was out, running around.. when I called everybody .. :eek: picked him up quick and calmed him, he was purring naughty. ;) now I can imagine him three-legged, he assured me that he had four legs without using the broken one! oh what my little brave boy! http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b1...d/pinkgrin.gif

hugs again, we'll be back!

Miles is the most gorgeous cat.What kind of guy or girl hurt him anyway?I would have him or her hunted down.By bigger people than me of course.It would be worth it.Gosh...unbelievable.Cowards.Only Cowards hurt animals.

Miles is beautiful, and very, very like my Macduff. I'm glad things are more settled for both of you and look forward to hearing that Miles came out of his surgery well. I just showed your photo of (almost) the entire ark on the sofa together to a friend at work and she was amazed.

Miles is such a beautiful boy! How could anyone hurt any animal. Happy to hear that IMOM has accepted you! Let us know when you have decided on a procedure.

Hope the Net is kind to you today, so you can update more.

I'll be checking back looking for an update!

glad net is working to day . I still say you know Miles better than any one do what you think is best . I think he has told you buy coming out on 3.
Lovingly you secratary :D

Gina, sent ya pm, hopefully you can read it soon. Anyways I'm here now if you need me, got a charger so my phone works.
You & miles are in my prayers
hugs to you all sweetie

OMG!!!!!!! :eek: I am just seeing this thread! I have been swamped at work and home and not been able to really look at all threads! Poor, poor miles and Gina. It sounds likae you have been through so much.

I am glad that you have been approved by IMOM, and that Miles will soon get to have his surgery. I know it will be a long couple of days for all of you in your ARK! But there is so much love and tenderness that you will all be fine.

I am reassured that the amputation will be best, although I have absolutely NO experience with that. I know that those on here have so much advice (all good!) :) to share.

I wish I could be there to help and give you a hug. I know I always need one when I have been through something as traumatic! Hang in there. Give Miles a kissie know that you are in the thoughts and prayers of me and my girls!

I will keep watching this post all weekend and hope to see more updates.

okay, it was a pretty long discussion and we just got back.

I spoke with miles' vet (and deaf vet as well too) - they both still want monday surgeon's feedbacks. miles' vet is quite not positive that the pin would be the fix too. I also asked what would they do if miles were theirs - one says amputation and one is not sure and would may stick to specialist's opinion.

so... sigh, my decision's still more likely leaning to amputation but who knows I realize pin/plate would be best option. doubtfully?

at least I have extra metacom (advil the like) & buprenex (morphine) for miles until tuesday and got home to him relaxing, streeetched out only half of his front body (too funny to see) and most importantly, turned on his little rusty engine! :D aww..

lizzie, thank you for showing your friend - by the way, in that picture, that's my entire ark! :) or did you not think miles wasn't missing?

allright, going to read your PMs now, it's full - yikes - miles would need that inbox to zero!

first, I can not thank you all enough for being here with us and sharing hugs! I'll be sure to shower miles (gently) with all of your kisses & scrigges.

miles says, thank meowu too!

Quote:

---

Originally Posted by Gina's Ark Inc.

lizzie, thank you for showing your friend - by the way, in that picture, that's my entire ark! :) or did you not think miles wasn't missing?

---

I thought you had a dog also, or is he considered non-Ark? I'm still very new and getting everyone's animal companions sorted out.

You will probably find that after a few nights' sleep, the best decision on Miles will be bright and clear in your mind. I'm inclined to think that unless I've spent my last dime on a cat's treatment, I haven't done the right thing - but that's not always the case as many here are saying.

Quote:

---

Originally Posted by Lizzie

I thought you had a dog also, or is he considered non-Ark?

---

Crayola, the golden retreiver, is Gina's official Service Dog, so probably doesn't count as an Ark inhabitant, more as Gina's partner!

Quote:

---

Originally Posted by Gina's Ark Inc.

at least I have extra metacom (advil the like) & buprenex (morphine) for miles

---

Gina, be very careful with the Metacam, it has to be dosed very precisely.

My Malfi had his broken leg, and unfortunately, they were never able to 'set' it due to the infection on his skin. Just keep Miles comfortable and he'll be o.k. till he sees the Docs.

Singing our Meezer hearts out for Miles.

of course crayola is part of my lovely ark! :) lizzie, now think am confused of which picture you used. . . did you used the first one or second. I know you said "on couch together" but in second one, crayola is in.

rosethecopycat, he is finished with it anyway. buprenex is stronger one, but it seems is affecting miles. :(

just had my new better update made here and thanks again deerly everyone!