March 2005:
Dear Members of the Board of WestieMed,
I want to thank you for approving the funds to help me with the medical expenses for Annika’s heartworm treatment. Your generosity is graciously appreciated to help Annika back to health. Here is Annika’s story:
In February 2005, my friend Elizabeth, who owns two Westies and is affiliated with the Westie Rescue of Texas organization told me about a breeder who owned and operated a kennel in Fort Worth, Texas. Elizabeth had previously purchased two Westie puppies from this breeder. Elizabeth was aware that conditions at the breeder’s kennel had become deplorable and asked permission to take possession of three dogs that were no longer used for breeding.
Elizabeth brought me one of these dogs, a five-year-old Westie female, originally named Sneakers, who I renamed Annika. She was grotesquely dirty with feces in her snarled, mangled hair. I bathed her repeatedly attempting to eradicate the overwhelming odor. After special whitening shampoo and vigorous scrubbing, Annika’s coat turned from a foxy brown to a dusty pearl white shade. The groomer completed Annika’s make-over with a sheering job straight from the Australian sheep station. Stephanie, my friend who helps Elizabeth rescue Westies, brought Annika a flashy pink girly collar. Now, Annika at least looked GOOD and was house-worthy. Next stop: The Vet!
Annika had a multitude of nasty intestinal parasites but never fear, the multi-talented vet had the perfect elixir for that! However, Annika’s troubles didn’t end there. She tested positive for heartworms on February 25th. I am now going to be able to get the heartworm treatment started, which will save Annika’s life. She is a precious, mild-mannered, loving dog who deserves a fair shake. She is part of our family now.
Following the heartworm treatment, she will need vaccinations and spayed. Annika proudly wears her new stainless steel, bone-shaped tag and smiles because she is adopted and part of a loving family who is generous with their time, energy, and, yes, her favorite word: TREATS! Thank you again, Westiemed.
Sincerely, Dawn A. Logan, Annika’s new Mom
Update, April 2005:
With the heartworm and intestinal parasite treatment that Annkia has received, she has been transformed from a docile creature who had been kept in a breeding kennel all her life to a marvelous, fun-loving, affectionate, energetic fivew-year-old who seeks out toys to play with and hovers in anticipation that I will throw the ball so that she can happily retrieve it in a speedy fashion. The heartworm treatment done two months ago was successful; I am now able to end her confinement in the crate so that she is able to follow me from room to room, go on rides in the car, and take regular walks, which is part of my daily routine. Annika has responded beautifully to the care which she has received during the heartworm treatment and we have bonded very closely. She knows I am her Mom and that I will take care of her needs and most of her wants! She is willing to please and is learning a few basic commands. Her appetite is ravenous and she is getting stronger.
Annkia’s future will be bright because of the medical assistance from WestieMed. Thank you for your approval of her application.
Annika is now a very happy, loving dog who has people around her who shower her will affection and provide for her safety and well being.
I will continue to help with Westie Walks like the one we had this past weekend at Veterans Park in Arlington, Texas, to help raise money for WestieMed so that other Westies who need medical assistance can have the care they deserve.
Sincerely, Dawn A. Logan
Update, September 4, 2005:
Annika is a well-behaved, happy five-year-old, and has endeared herself to both my husband and me. She is currently in obedience training and from our point of view, she is at the head of the class. We are extremely appreciative of the help from WestieMed and will continue to contribute to WestieMed at the sanctioned Westie Walks each year.
Sincerely Dawn A. Logan