Summer is a survivor.

[Heidi]

I wanted to say thanks for all your support also with our loss of Cleo. It has been so much more difficult then we ever expected. I've never grieved like this before in my life, not even family and very close friends. Well, she was family.
Summer has really been improving and I wanted to share some of her new pictures with you. Without knowing her they probably don't mean much but Summer is not exactly what most would call the cute, cuddly, loving type baby. She is very selective on who she gives her love to and she gave herself completely and truely to Cleopatra. When Cleo died I had major concerns that Summer would survive. There is still a long way to go and I'm noticing some problems that I'm concerned with but I'm also noticing some improvements that I've never seen before with her.
First, she loves my husband but is not a cuddle dog at all. And, she is petrified of cats and always has been. She has been reluctantly letting this sweet little boy get a little closer to her for the past week.

and enjoys taking over Walters spot on the couch whenever she gets the chance. Here he moved her out of the way and she just sat there refusing to really move. This is just the position she ended up in after he pushed her big ol' butt over.

She also has never used a dog bed, EVER. She loves concrete and has been secluding herself for about 13 or more hours a day for the past few weeks, BUT....lookie, lookie, lookie!!!!!

We still have a long way to go. She is still very reclusive and showing some health problems that I'm concerned are coming from inactivity despite majorly increasing her walking time to make up for her new inactivity. But, small steps and I'm feeling pretty confident that the old girl is going to make it. I'm sad that I'll probably never see her run and play again. I hope and pray that somehow it will happen but I'm happy with the progress of this week.
Again, thanks to everybody for your supportive and caring words.

[mpgt]

That's good news Heidi. Thanks for sharing the pics. She looks sweet!!!

[Sleepy_FF]

heidi, that is SO awesome. im so glad for you!

[Stargazer]

Hi Heidi,
I don't know the stories of Summer and Cleo but want to extend my support also. I know how devastating it is to lose a pet. I am sorry for your loss. Summer is so sweet! Is there another thread I can read your story?

[Cristina]

aww..She has to go through the grieving process..Send her lots of positive,uplifting energy..Take her on nice walks. Try not to be upset around her..Dogs are very in tune w/ are emotions. Show her you can be strong,even if its hard, and she will be too.

[MED04]

Oh, Heidi...that is truly GREAT news. I'm going to go light a candle for Cleo now.