2 months ago, on January 9th, Bruiser had emergency spinal surgery (to the tune of $6000) at the Ontario Veterinary College in Guelph to repair two ruptured discs. They were unsure if he'd ever walk properly, or at all, ever again. He surprised everyone and made a full and complete recovery - we brought him home only two days later and he quickly regained almost full mobility within a month. He went for a re-check a month ago, February 11th, and they were super-pleased with his progress. They told us to try to keep him from jumping up and down off the couch/bed and from going up and down the stairs. We did our best, we carried him, we gated the stairs, we crated him. But of course, we couldn't keep him chained up 24/7.
Somehow, someway, he ruptured another disc this week. We had hoped that the first time was an isolated incident - could happen to any dog, any breed. Now we know it wasn't. And it could keep happening again and again. We opted out of another expensive surgery since a) we can't afford it b) we weren't sure how well he'd do with this one because they discovered a restricted airway (common in French Bulldogs) and urged us to get that fixed when he was recovered and c) we're scared it will just keep on happening over and over again until he has no spine left.
The vet tried steroid injections and said that was our only hope. It didn't work. He no longer has deep pain sensation meaning the nerves are likely damaged beyond repair. He won't be coming home. We have to say goodbye to him today. He is only 4 years old. He was our wedding present to each other - our anniversary is on Tuesday. Mercedes loves him oh so much and now she won't even remember him when she's older. Some of you may have seen my monthly Mercedes vs. Bruiser pics on facebook - I didn't even make it to 13 months (which is Saturday).
Andrew and I are completely and totally devastated. We cried all night long last night, fearing this inevitable conclusion. He is/was such a wonderful little dog. Full of personality and love and snuggles for anyone who crossed his path. He touched the lives of everyone who ever met him - neighbours, doggie daycare, the vet, the OVC in Guelph, my friends, our whole family - even the cats took to him after a while.
I am so sad that my daughter won't grow up with him. I am so heartbroken that our house, and family is incomplete. I've had to say goodbye to a dog before, but she was 17 and it was sad but not tragic. This, is tragic. I'm numb.
We'll always love you Bruiser :(
April 28, 2006 - March 11, 2010
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