They say its a dog's life...this is ours!

Mild mannered and curious, when I am not lying in the sun chewing on a sprinkler head whilst waiting for my owners to come home, you'll find me gently easing my way onto the nearest couch or bed. Always up for a game, I remain true to my breed - socks, shoes, underwear...no problem for me - I'll always bring you something. My name is Sally, my brother is Baxter - welcome to our blog.

[goldenfriendz]

The time to say goodbye to Miss Sally has finally come. We made the tough decision earlier this morning, after watching her struggle for the past few days - with walking, with eating, with life. How do you say goodbye to a companion of 14 years? Not very easily.

Sally was our first fur baby - the original child - who has watched three additional pack members enter (and one leave) her world. She has been the greatest teacher to them all - and a faithful, dignified and constantly present gift to us. A fighter against all odds, a communicator on behalf of the pack, and a smiler her whole life. Its time for rest now, precious girl. No more aches. No more pain. Send our love to Baxter. Goodbye Golden Girl.

[goldenfriendz]

This toy is kinda cool. Think I’ll just play here a bit guys.

[goldenfriendz]

Hmm…water…I like this stuff!

[goldenfriendz]

Another day…another new family member. This is Brody - latest addition to the wolf pack we call home. I’ll do my best to show him around - knowing that Lucy is more interest in having a new playmate than doing a tour of the digs. Hopefully this new distraction will give me some much needed peace and quiet in my golden days.

[goldenfriendz]

Been feeling really good this last week. Getting the hang of this chemo thing. My appetite is back, I’m walking around and exploring my favourite places in the garden and even barking again. 14 years old ain’t that bad…

[goldenfriendz]

It’s been a tough few days. Haven’t been eating much and finding it hard to stand on my own. Last night was the worst - just couldn’t get comfortable. The docs wont give me any more chemo until I’m fully recovered - and in the meantime, this tumour on my right side is getting huge.

On the brighter side, tomorrow is my birthday - yup, 14years old.

[goldenfriendz]

I’ve been home for a few days now - spent the weekend in hospital recovering from my pneumonia, and I’m feel much better. We’ve decided to postpone my next round of chemo for another week so that my body can fully recover - and then we’ll give it another go. It’s my 14th birthday next week - wonder what mom and dad are making for dinner :-)

[goldenfriendz]

Meanwhile, back at home - Lucy continues to miss her big sister. ‘Get better and please come home soon Sally’…

[goldenfriendz]

So, the journey continues - only this time, from the hospital…

I was checked in a few days ago, when mom and dad noticed that I wasn’t really feeling well and had developed a cough of sorts. Turns out that cough was coming from the pneumonia infection sitting in my chest. Seems like the chemo has knocked my immunity and yes, I picked up pneumonia as a result. The good news though, is that my tumours have shrunk significantly - nearly 50% in size. Seems like that chemo dose has done its thing. They tell me that I won’t be cured, but if I can shake this infection now, and get checked out of the hospital, I have a strong chance of being comfortable, and having a few more good months of garden, pool and family time.

[goldenfriendz]

Today wasn’t a good day - lost my appetite. Didn’t each breakfast. Been wheezing a bit. Feeling weak. Hoping for a good nights rest and a bit more spring in my step tomorrow.

[goldenfriendz]

Had my first course of chemo a few days ago. I’m feeling ok actually - tail wagging, healthy appetite. Just seem to be losing a bit of weight. My mom and dad are spoiling me with lots of good dinners and love.

[goldenfriendz]

They got me this ball to play with, but that fern outside is much better, I can tell you that much…

[goldenfriendz]

Another day, another year…just thinking about things. Seems like I have a few challenges to navigate this year. Went for a scan the other day, and they found two big tumours growing under my right arm pit. The doc says they’re ‘aggressive’…so mom and dad have decided to try help me out with some treatment. Hoping to feel a little better by the time my 14th birthday comes around next month. Really looking forward to that chicken dinner…until then - just taking each day as it comes. Feels like this is a really hot summer - can’t stop panting…

[goldenfriendz]

In fact, she’s really getting big. The games are getting serious now….

[goldenfriendz]

After swim chilling with the little Lucy. She’s getting big - but I’m still queen of the garden…

[goldenfriendz]

It’s hard work being the young one…

[goldenfriendz]

I think I like this place.