Manchester – A Golden Boy

Manchester is one of the fluffiest orange boys I have ever seen! This handsome fellow is a Chow/Golden Retriever mix with some hair to spare. :) He is certainly one to cuddle up with on a cold winter night.

This gorgeous pup has been by his mom’s side for everything – moving, vet school and so much more. However, this past year has been a very trying year on Manchester (and his mom). At the end of December, he was unfortunately diagnosed with cancer. He went through chemo and certainly didn’t feel like himself. He lost his precious sparkle but managed to come out cancer-free in the end. He remained cancer-free for 8 months. When the cancer recently made it’s ugly return, he was put back on chemo. This time, Manchester is having oral treatments instead of IV. Fortunately, the oral route has left him feeling much more like himself and he is even smiling again! This is such great news because he has such a fabulous smile!!!

I don’t know if I love this image because of the light or Manchester’s smile or a combination of the two. I think the golden light of the sun symbolizes the gorgeous light that is still shining within Manchester. He doesn’t want his mom to worry about him. I know that’s what he’s thinking right here as he glances back at her… Manchester’s mom was worried he wouldn’t be too active for his pictures. Well, he must have been saving his energy because he had quite a lot of spunk! This is Manchester’s impression of a fluffy orange bear! Manchester’s mom joined in for a few images. I was thrilled to capture these two together. Evidently, so was Manchester… :) The epitome of love… In the image on the left, Manchester is sporting his bandana from Upstate Veterinary Specialists. Everyone that worked with Manchester during his treatment signed it and wrote him well wishes.

Of course Manchester gets lots of goodies since dealing with his cancer. One treat his has always loved is licking out a finished jar of peanut butter. Don’t judge…it’s reduced fat…

Yum! Back home, Manchester has a couple feline friends to keep him company. First there is Winston… and also Madison… They are just as gorgeous as Manchester!

Best of luck to Manchester and his mom during his battle. I hope his spirits stay up and he keeps that golden light in his eyes and a huge smile on his face! {{hugs!}}