Not so good news

The blood test results were back today. Not good at all. Sabbath is severely anemic, has a very low platelet count and high white cell count. There is a good bone marrow response - however, it cannot keep up with what is affecting the cells as they are produced. There is no baseline - because the blood could not be taken on admission - she was too ill. However, even if there were some improvement from the day of admission, the present readings are on the serious side.

A blood transfusion would probably help, although not a 'cure', just to give her own body a few days to recover. The transfused blood will last just over 3 days. And a repeat transfusion is too risky for dogs.

I have been asking around for a donor dog. Have to get one that is medium sized - 12 - 20kg. Most of my friends' dogs are the small breed type. Managed to ask a dog rescuer - who is open to the idea. Waiting for a reply from a friend who has medium sized dogs. But as it is, I have to find out from the vet when the best time would be - it will be within the next few days, and be able to coordinate the timing with the donor dog's owner being available.

My time with Sabbath is precious, as it may not be for long. A couple of people tell me 'think positive' but I find that unhelpful. I prefer to be a realist and face the seriousness of the situation upfront. I know how attached I am to her - and also how good 'gifts' should not become unhealthy dependencies. There is a price to pay for caring. It requires one to bid painful goodbyes. But in the end, it is well worth it. The memories will remain good ones, however painful the loss.
For now, her appetite remains fairly good - maybe that's what gives her some strength through the physical stress. There seems to be no physical discomfort for now. And maybe my presence for a couple of hours a day gives her some comfort too.