Casper and Diamond came to us in April of 2012 from a man who stated his daughter had originally purchased the pair for breeding, had moved over a year prior and was unable to take the dogs. She left them in his care and for that year the dogs had lived outside in a pen. When the man and his wife traveled south for the winter, the dogs were cared for by neighbors who gave them food and water. The man told our volunteer that they let the dogs out of the pen occasionally but were too “wild” in the house so they could not keep them indoors.
Upon intake into our rescue the pair was groomed and seen by our veterinarian, Dr. Martin Ramm of Rockbrook Animal Clinic for spay/neuter surgery, vaccinations, and fecal and heartworm tests. At that time there appeared to be no medical conditions with either Casper or Diamond and they were deemed happy and healthy. Upon settling into their foster homes it was observed that both dogs drank unusually large amounts of water and urinated frequently. We also came to believe that these two lovely, engaging dogs were at one time very well-loved and well trained. Both walk beautifully on leash and are kennel trained, they know what furniture is and that sitting on the sofa is much preferred overlaying on the floor. They adore people, young and old alike and can’t seem to get enough attention!
Dr. Ramm performed blood and urine tests on both dogs and tentatively diagnosed both had kidney problems and suspected Fanconi’s Syndrome. They were referred to the Midwest Veterinary Specialty Hospital in Omaha and were examined by Dr. Christopher Byers. The initial visit, which included specialized blood and urine testing, for both dogs combined, was $1450.00. Dr. Byers is recommending further testing for Diamond estimated at $550-700 as he believes she is suffering from Stage 1 renal failure. The results on Casper’s testing will not be available for 2 more weeks as the specimen was sent to Penn State for review. If Casper does indeed have Fanconi’s Syndrome, management in the form of medication, supplements, and prescription diet will be implemented.
These expenses have severely strained our limited budget and we are struggling to remain solvent in an attempt to assist other terriers in our community that need our help. Casper and Diamond have shown us their true terrier spirit as through all the testing, poking and examinations, they remain happy and loving little dogs. We at Wag N Train have made a commitment to them for continued care for the remainder of their lives if they are not adoptable, whether that be 2 weeks, 2 months, or 2 years, or hopefully much longer!
Janeal Dominico, CPDT-KA
Wag N Train Terrier Rescue
Update January 7, 2013
Diamond is still in foster care in my home. She attends adoption events and many have inquired about adopting her by shy away when informed of her diagnosis, even though she is a happy, lively and spunky terrier girl. She is showing no other symptoms of renal failure except the excessive thirst and frequent urination.
Diamond is a true joy to be around and daily reinforces that we humans can all take lessons from our dogs…play the hand that life deals you making the best of each and every day! We continue to be optimistic that she will one day find a forever home to love and adore her until the end.
Casper was adopted on Dec. 7, 2012, by Molly Tamayo. Molly works as a technician for Dr. Christopher Byers DVM who is Casper’s specialist at Midwest Veterinary Hospital in Omaha NE.
WestieMed had been a valuable partner in our organization, providing the necessary funding to help us treat our rescue dogs with special medical needs, such as Casper and Diamond.
Janeal Dominico, CPDT-KA
Wag N Train Terrier Rescue
Update June 10, 2013
Diamond is still in foster care with me and is doing well. She recently had her annual vaccinations at which time Dr. Ramm drew blood and took urine. They found some blood in her urine so prescribed Amoxicillin for 10 days, after which we will repeat the urine test. Dr. Ramm did suggest we take her back to Dr. Byers at Midwest Veterinary Specialty Clinic for another check-up too.
Diamond remains an active and happy girl. She attends all the adoption events with me and gets so excited when she sees me packing the car because she knows she gets to go for a ride and gets a lot of attention at the events. She loves people of all ages! The only symptoms she continues to exhibit are excessive thirst and urination.
We recently received an email from a potential adopter who lives in MN and is very interested in Diamond. This lady always adopts older or special needs dogs and her sixteen-year-old Westie is failing. We are cautiously optimistic that Diamond may have found a forever home! I have also attached the most recent photo taken last week after her visit to the groomer.
Respectfully,
Janeal Dominico, CPDT-KA
Wag N Train Terrier Rescue