Need your thoughts, suggestions and support on this

[catnapper]

Jazz, I had the most realistic dream last night... I dreamt that we went to the shelter and adopted a little white girl kitty. It wasn't til I was long awake that I realized the kitten in my dream was yours! I even remember coming home, adding her to my siggy and starting a new thread announcing my new kitty!

Your post somehow has affected me because even though my parents are still young (mom was very young to have me, and my step father is younger than she is) but my parents mean the world to me. I saw my step-father's dad die of Alztheimer's three years ago and it was heartbreaking, so I know the long road ahead of you. My step-father got sick 6 months ago and never got anybetter, so after a few tests in the hospital, they found out he has a heart condition as a result of the virus that gave him a cold - the virus weakened his heart muscle and he will be on heart meds the rest of his life. Its so hard to be there for someone and then have to deal with the stresses of everyday life on top of that.

PS: My husband gave me no arguement over taking her home, he just knew it was inevitable and fell in love with her. In true life, I know that he'd kick and scream, then deal with it!

[jazzcat]

Thanks for the support and advice everyone. It really does help to have people who understand listen.

Good news on my mother, she is not in congestive heart failure at this time but the dr. is at a loss for her swelling and fluid retention. She has gained 15 pounds in water weight in less than three weeks. He said her heart size has not changed and her lungs and chest are clear plus her pace maker is working perfectly so he is going to increase her diuretic a to try to get rid of the excess fluid, especially around her heart. It was very good news seeing how I had packed her bag expecting him to admit her to the hospital today. To top if off, she felt so much better today that we went to her favorite restaurant for lunch and she walked all the way in on her walker - Yeah!!!!

As for the kitten I've thought and prayed on this and I know it is not the best time. I know that adorable little girl will get a home quickly so I will try not stress too much about not getting her. Anyway, I'm going to be adding to my care another four legged addition. This may sound insane but we are probably getting a dog for my Dad. He had really bonded with his neigbor's dogs and spent many an hour with those dogs (female beagles) until they were tragically killed two weeks ago - a terrible story. He's been very upset about it and has expressed wanting another - which our neighbors still have the parents and the brother of the females. So we've decided to ask the neighbors for the brother which I'm sure they'll be glad to give to Dad. I plan to post about him on the Dog side when we get this worked out. For now I will be getting estimates on a fence and having it installed before we bring him over. My entire family believes the dog will be a good focus for Dad and when the time comes that Dad can't keep him I or my sister who lives a couple hours away will take him.

Thanks again everyone!

[CatDad]

Ok, my advice is mute at this point, however that is a good thing. I am happy that you made a decision that you can live with at this time and did not push yourself. It really does sound like you have a full plate at this time. I hope the little girl finds a good home soon, from your description it sounds like she will.

I am happy to hear that the news from the doctor it good, even if it is a little puzzling. I hope that they find the answer soon.

Congratulations on the new puppy for your parents. I personally believe that animals are a great idea and will help them.

Prayers for your mom and dad. Also for you and your family.

[jenluckenbach]

I am glad your mom is ok. And I must say that I believe a dog is good therapy, but may I ask, do you think your dad can handle the care of a dog? That would be my only concern, otherwise it is a great idea! Sorry you are not getting the kitten, but you are correct, that one should be able to get a home quickly.

[sirrahbed]

Take care Lori - sounds like you have made wise decisions. There is a future time for a kitten if that is to be...I am also sorry to hear you are dealing with aging parents. I have been there and it is SO HARD. My mom also had Alhzheimers and it is CRUEL disease. Glad to hear your mom seems to be doing better! Hope a dog will be therapy for your dad, as well. The dementia patients respond so well to animals although the actual care will fall to another - you?

[kimlovescats]

It sounds like you have reached a comfortable decision .... and I support you 100%. Thank God that your Mom is not in heart failure, and what a BLESSING that she was able to walk herself in to her favorite restaurant! Can't wait to hear how excited Dad is with his new dog! Please keep us posted and hugs to you and your parents from me!

[lovemyshiba]

I'm sorry you couldn't get this kitty, but it sounds like you made the right decision for you and your family.
I'm glad your mom is feeling better--great news!!!!

Did I read your post correctly?? A BEAGLE??!!!!!
Your dad will love him!!!!
I can't wait to see pictures!!!!!

Your family will be in my prayers!!

[jazzcat]

Thanks for the support everyone!!

I think the dog will be great therapy for my dad too. He so loved the female beagles. They were kind of wild and he worked for hours at a time till they learned to trust him and would eat from his hands. They would come to only him. The brother that we are getting isn't as wild and already eats from my hands and trusts both dad and me.

I've promised to take on the responsibilities of the dog - getting everything he needs. vet care and more. We have a lady who helps care for my parents and she has promised to take care of the dog too. She thinks the dog is a wonderful idea. My dad's disease is not so advanced right now that he can't care for the dog and with so many others helping it should not be a problem.