So we have answers on Pepper. After her ultrasound, we were told she is critical, her situation is severe. Pepper has degenerative valve disease and severe pulmonary hypertension. Both of which are progressive, incurable, and will eventually take her life. She also has fluid in her lungs and abdomen, and significant inflammation in her heart and lungs. They believe there are still other issues besides those due to her very high white blood cell count. We are hitting her hard with many medications, hopefully there will be some improvement soon. They currently don't know how long she may have, it's different with every dog. The vet said if she responds well, maybe some months, maybe years. The average seems to be between a month to a year. I've talked to some others who's dogs lived just over a year with hypertension.

Pepper just turned 8 on the 13th. I never imagined I'd lose her so young. It was all so sudden, out of nowhere. I had planned on having her well into my 30s. Every extra day I have with her is precious and beautiful. My gorgeous Pepper, none of this feels real. I don't think I've processed the finality of it all yet.

Cherish your babies. Every day. Love them, because they might leave you too soon someday.