Solving Socks: Update

[rolanni]

Since yesterday, several people have reached out -- publicly and in private mail -- to say that, were there a fundraiser set up to cover Socks' medical bills, they would contribute; that, if there was any way that they could help keep Socks with Steve and me, they'd be willing to make that effort.

Truly, Socks has the best fans in the world.  Steve and I are humbled and grateful.  Socks would be. . .well, not humbled, exactly, but pleased that so many people want to skritch his ears -- but at the moment he's napping on his special quilted piece, in Steve's office.  Must keep to the schedule, you know.

So, here's the thing:  Socks' vet did offer us the option of megacolon surgery.  This is a procedure that shortens overlarge colons (apparently not an uncommon problem in cats), and which is the solution for the constant  bouts of constipation/need to rush to the vets/emergency vets at all hours for emergency enemas.

Our vet made no secret of the fact that this is an expensive surgery, involving, as it does, Specialists in  Portland.  We are simply not up for an "expensive" surgery.  I'll be frank -- the money tree doesn't have that  many leaves on it.

However, we've started to think that we can do this thing, thanks to the people who have offered to help.

So! We've begun research into this procedure, and talking to people whose cats have undergone the  operation.  Socks has a follow-up appointment first thing Monday morning with his primary vet and we will delve  into such things as costs, success rates, and convalescence care.

After we have all of these ducks in a row, I will lay it all out here, and we'll see if this is possible/desirable.

I want to thank everyone for their caring, and their sharing, and their willingness to help.  You guys are awesome!

Comments

[badgermirlacca.livejournal.com]

Fingers crossed that this works out! (Frankly, I was worried that if he went back to that breeder, she'd just have him put down.)

[cailleuch.livejournal.com]

More than willing to contribute to a Socks fund. Having a "rescue" Maine Coon myself I know the problems but they are such sweeties I cannot do without them.

[barbinbandon.livejournal.com]

I'm in!

[cgbookcat1.livejournal.com]

I'd also be willing to chip in to a surgery fund for Socks.

[doccolt.livejournal.com]

I'm in. Hope it works out.
Sam

crossing my fingers re: Socks

[ednaemode.livejournal.com]

I am in also...

[attilathepbnun.livejournal.com]

I might not be able to contribute much but would definately be willing to add my bit! Just leave directions.

[kalimeg.livejournal.com]

I'm so glad. The poor boy should not have to get used to new people again. He is family.

at home care?

[ext-1689164.livejournal.com (from livejournal.com)]

Perhaps you could treat Sock's condition at home? I found lots of examples of how to give your cat an enema instructions - although do take in the warnings of http://www.catenema.com/catenema.com/cat.html

There also seems to be much regard for dilute chicken soup, aloe vera powder and probiotics (together or separately).

Best regards,

Huge Socks Fan

[catherine ives (from livejournal.com)]

Huge socks fan here. Very willing to contribute. Let us know how exactly.
Crossing fingers and paws for Socks future excellent health.

[the wol (from livejournal.com)]

I'm in, too. It would only be a little bit, but every little bit helps.

Me, too

[libertariansold.livejournal.com]

Happy to contribute for something with a reasonable expectation of success.

[catlinye-maker.livejournal.com]

Delighted to help with a medical fund, be it for surgery or continuing care, whatever's determined to be the best course of treatment.

[ariaflame.livejournal.com]

Should be able to chip in.

Socks

[nocal-kathyf.livejournal.com]

I would be happy to help support Sock's health (and happiness) to allow him to stay with his people who appreciate him properly. So sorry you are all going through this difficult situation. Also hope Steve is now over his bronchitis. All my best wishes.

[scarlettina.livejournal.com]

I'd be happy to contribute to a "Sew Up the Holes in Our Socks" fund. :-)

[sfminou.livejournal.com]

Or just, "Darn it!"

A little bit from a lot of us (plus some from Mozart's fans, etc) should make it a possibility to consider. Abdominal surgery (feline, canine, or human) requires us to think long and hard!

[drammar.livejournal.com]

Count me in.

Socks Fund

[edgreenberg.livejournal.com]

I'm in for a contribution. Assuming that the vet gives good answers, let's get Socks into the Autodoc.

[zola.livejournal.com]

I would be glad to help.