Bodyguard! Welcome Back!

We had been monitoring Bodyguard’s arm for slight swelling along with the amount of food he was consuming. The food intake never changed, but his arm swelling looked like he was starting to go down. Bodyguard’s arm seemed to take a turn for the worse when we arrived home on Monday evening. So we decided to make an emergency visit to a Veterinary Specialist. We made a call to the Veterinary Office to inquire about our dilemma. We were advised to bring Bodyguard in the office that evening. So we wrapped in a towel and he sat in my lap in front of the PT Cruiser. He looked very happy as he sat in my lab staring out the car window at all the passing street lights and trees. We were pleased with his great behavior during the car ride. We parked in the back and walked into the front door relieved we were the only clients in the waiting room. He sat in my lab while we waited for the Doctor to see his new patient. He meowed once he saw a small Golden Retriever behind the counter lying on his soft bed. We were taken to a small room in the back where an employee examined his arm. Bodyguard stayed calm while his temperature was taken. I kept reassuring him with my voice hoping he would continue to trust me. The Veterinary Doctor arrived to examine his arm and give us his evaluation a few minutes later. We knew in back of our minds surgery was a big possibility. We were told an incision would be made to allow his arm to drain. We were also told a small tube might have to be placed into the side of his leg to help continue the draining. We returned to the waiting room with anticipation, concern, and relief. All the employees took an interest in their new patient. What a great combination of people gathered together to help pet owners give their pets the best health possible.  Several hours passed and I kept looking at the doors hoping someone would tell us he was fine. One of the Doctors came out to advise us that Bodyguard was fine and should be ready to go home once the anesthesia wore off. We were guided to the very back of the office were all the other pets were resting. We notice the tube resting on the side of his arm which already looked smaller. We noticed twelve different cats and dogs residing in against wall in separate cages being very quiet. Were told this was an unusual night and the silence was a nice change. I noticed they were all awake as I glanced at their faces while taking Bodyguard in my arms. He was extremely glad to see us while still under the slight influence of anesthesia. We were given a white collar protector for Bodyguard to wear so he would not pull out his tube. He was fine with the white collar until he meds were off. We took turns holding him throughout the night in several hour intervals. Ranger was so gracious and took over the early morning shift so we could go to work. We purchased a new collar and leach to take him on walks to take his mind off his arm. Bodyguard is very healthy thanks to the Veterinary Specialists, Mark and Ranger.