Angel’s previous owners reached out to WSRH, asking us to take her in because they no longer have time for her. At 12 years old, they were not surprised that she slept much of the time, but they wanted her to get more attention.
Our vet’s initial exam revealed bradycardia, meaning Angel’s heart beats at a slow rate which could account for her lethargy. Further testing showed that Angel had Chagas Disease, an infection transmitted by the bite of a “kissing bug.” Chagas can affect the heart, so the cardiologists wanted to make sure the infection was no longer active before determining the next step for her.
While Angel is being assessed for a possible pacemaker, she is on heart medication and living a Westie’s dream life in her foster home. Angel already has more energy, thanks to the good care she is receiving. We are hopeful we can continue to make her life better.
Kind regards,
Maggie
Volunteer
Westie & Scottie Rescue Houston
Update September 3, 2015:
Life has changed a lot for Angel since coming to Wescue. She no longer sleeps all day. Now known as Girdee, here is what her furever mama has to say:
“Girdee’s life was basically a hot mess until she scored the ultimate upgrade by being taken in by WSRH. This little furball had a laundry list of health issues, including a heart condition and Chagas Disease from a kissing bug bite – talk about a bad date. But now, she’s living her best life, busting out bunny hops, senior zoomies, and launching herself off the couch like a tiny, adorable ninja. Her days are packed with all sorts of shenanigans, like helping out with farm chores and hanging with the horses, pygmy goats, turkeys, chickens, and barn cats. After a long day of causing chaos, she unwinds with her four Westie siblings, basking in the joy of her new, ridiculously amazing life.”
Getting Angel/Girdee checked out by the cardiologists at Texas A&M changed everything! Now that she is on medication for her heart, she has the energy to live life to the fullest and we are reminded of the refrain from many vets: Age is not a disease. Thank you to WestieMed for helping us get Girdee/Angel the help she needed!
Update December 1, 2025:
