04/16/2026
This is a post from a puppy Momma named Connie. It's heart breaking. When I tell you I'm here for you 24/7, I mean it.
"We met Pat Farnsworth, our mal breeder and owner of San Tan Valley Malinois, when we got Harlow 2 years ago. The two of us stay in touch, laugh about how we're so similar and were meant to meet, and wish we lived closer to each other. When Harlow got sick she was an incredible support. The vet had no answer as to why Harlow was withering away to ribs sticking out. We knew she was hurting - and also knew she would continue losing weight until her organs shut down. Euthanizing a 2 year old pup is brutal. Not euthanizing a 2 year old pup who is suffering is more brutal.
Today I want to thank her in a way I've never thanked anyone before. Anyone who has a dog, PLEASE read this and be aware. Pat wouldn't rest until she explored every possible thing that could have caused Harlow's deterioration. I knew she was using all of her connections and resources to try to put some sense to something that made no sense. Last night she did it.
A retired military Colonel, and veterinarian Pat has known for a long time, and gave him all of Harlow's medical info hoping he'd have an answer. The one he provided gives us peace and confidence that we did right by that girl. Here is what he believes...
"He thinks the thickening may have been the result of the rocks.
In either of her surgeries did any of the rocks get removed from her intestines?
The rocks would have damaged her digestive tract and the thickening would be like scar tissue or like “proud flesh.” That’s what grows quickly in injuries instead of the normal tissue healing. And that Harlow went into surgery twice because of the rocks put her in a wicked bad position for complete recovery.
As we know, Mals drive us all nuts particularly when it comes to hiding their discomfort and pain.
So what this all means is that there is absolutely nothing you could have done to divert the inevitable.
He said she definitely lived WAY longer than he would have thought. I can almost hear you saying but “I should have known.” Well Connie, unless you’re God and could see the future there’s not a snowball’s chance in hell you could have known.
Col Nye said you did exactly as Harlow was hoping and wishing for. Surgery was absolutely NOT an option.
He said 3 words that I hear in my head over and over in my head.
THESE DAMN MALS!!!"
The two of them gave me peace and helped put my heart back together.
I'm adding some pics of the rocks and xrays. Harlow had 2 surgeries for being a rock eater - and almost had her leg amputated due to a compound spiral fracture before she was 6 months old. That girl was tough.
PLEASE pay attention and watch your pups...I had no idea that two surgeries and what looked like a full recovery could result in this.
THANK YOU, Pat!!!
Run free my princess...no more rocks and no more pain."
Harlow, you will never be forgotten! You will always be loved. You were one tough little sister. We know you feel great now and are investigating every nook and cranny in Heaven. We'll see you again but until then, have a blast. Stop by and visit Connie, but please don't eat anymore rocks!
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