First and foremost, I must thank everyone who helped Magnus along the way. The Doctors, Students, Technicians & Staff at Washington State University - who believed in this incredible dog, never gave up, and worked unbelievably long hours - going way, way above and beyond the call of duty on his behalf; my wonderful "local" vet, Dr. Val Beimborn at Mt. Stuart Animal Hospital and all of her staff - who put up with my constant fretting, many requests and who so lovingly helped Magnus be free when it was time; my friends and family without whose help, love and encouragement I myself might not have made it; the wonderful folks in the Swissy Community for being there for us; the "K9KidneyDiet" online discussion group for filling in so many of the gaps in my relentless quest for a better way to help Magnus; and of course and most of all Magnus himself - whose incredible spirit, will, love and determination inspired us all.

This will be the most important and soon-to-be comprehensive page on this site, and will contain details of Magnus' injury, his surgeries, complications & numerous challenges, along with informative links and references for issues pertaining to the health and well-being of our beloved canine friends.

Please check back frequently for updates

 

 

At his Going Home Party thrown for him after 8 weeks in the Intensive Care Unit at WSU, Magnus received some parting words of wisdom and important instructions  from Dr. Jane Wardrop, Chief of Clinical Pathology.

 

 

After a recovery period which included range of motion exercises and some amazing  physical therapy,  Magnus was finally able to walk on his own -  with a little help from friend Mandy Contreras (now Dr. Contreras!). Photo taken about a week before his release in October, 2004.