Being a pet lover came late for me 11 years ago when a little black, female Schnoodle (Schnauzer/Poodle) entered my life.  

She is aptly named (by my wife Joanne) Charcoal and pictured.  

To be honest, it was not love at first sight, but, day by day, she grew on me until she stole my heart. To say I love her is an understatement!

That brings us to the present where we 3 are snowbirding in Key West.  
Last weekend Charcoal, after being found with a dead bird in her mouth, stopped eating and began losing weight from both ends. Sunday night was the worst, as she slinked out into the back yard and hunkered down in a very difficult to reach recess. Jo was compelled to voice her fear that our Charcoal was laying down to die.  

We rescued her, but she spent the rest of the night leaving her marks all over the house.  

I got up early the next morning and was so relieved to find her curled in a lethargic ball and, as soon as the local vet opened at 8:30, I called for an emergency appointment and I was able to bike her over for diagnosis (Parvovirus) which was treated with injections, IV hydration and prescriptions.  

The purveyor is Key West Vets and Pets (1118 White Street, 305 294 0099), owned by Dr. Tom (Householder) with his amazing staff: Micki Simonet, Jon Genthert and Anzhelika Kameneva, pictured.  

On Tuesday we had a follow up visit and at this writing Charcoal is on the mend.  

We are so relieved that our puppy has been returned to us due to the highly professional and compassionate care dispensed by Vets and Pets. We extend to each of the staff our gratitude and highest recommendation!!!

The tie between a pet and its companion is sublime. It challenges description!