Some of you know of a wonderful dog whom we called Warrior. Warrior was found at large in June and no one ever bothered to claim him. He was thin and dehydrated but so sweet. We were asked if we could take him in and a wonderful foster home agreed to care for him. Warrior had some fear issues concerning small spaces and being enclosed. He also had very little muscle strength in his body, particularly in his hind legs. X-rays, blood workup, and other tests revealed, too, that Warrior had some kidney and liver damage. With extra supplements, lots of good food, an exercise regime, and an endless supply of love and support, Warrior began to improve. He was neutered and on the road to being eligible for adoption.
Unfortunately, Warrior suffered from 'gastric dilatation and volvulus syndrome', commonly known as bloat. Warrior's foster rushed him right to the veterinarian where x-rays diagnosed him and he was rushed to life saving surgery as soon as it was possible. Warrior did not recover as quickly as she had hoped and, unfortunately, 2 days later, Warrior passed away. There was no explanation for Warrior suffering from this condition such as the typical factors of excess eating or drinking, swelling foods, excessive exercise. This happened first thing in the morning, after he was sleeping all night. The vet acknowledges that with Warrior's other concerns he could have had another complication but we'll never know. Poor Warrior was never able to find his new home but we were glad to let him know that he deserved love, like all dogs should have.
So, please, make yourselves aware of the signs of 'bloat'. Warrior's foster's quick thinking gave him a chance but even with this and a short trip to a vet, Warrior could not be saved. Here is a reference chart you should keep handy:
http://www.gdca.org/Bloat%20Chart.pdf
Although we would do what we can for any dog, the extensive cost of Warrior's treatment and emergency surgery has halted us from this. His total cost has totalled almost $4700 that we just don't have. Although we've been lucky to have a great list of applicants for most available dogs we do still have others in care who are what we call 'permanent fosters' because of health ailments which makes them unadoptable.
We've had to switch gears and go full steam ahead with fundraising now. We've added a store to our website with collars, hoodies and raffle tickets for a beautiful oil painting. We would appreciate any help and, as always, are thankful for your support.
You can donate directly using the PayPal "Make a Donation" button found on this page, or visit the store above. In addition, FaceBook users can join the group page Collars for Critters, and take part in the current collar auction, which also includes the very wonderful Oomaloo toys!
yours in rescue,
Boxer Rescue of Atlantic Canada
www.boxerrescueatlanticcanada.com
No comments:
Post a Comment