Taz - WestieMed Recipient July 2009

Taz (formerly Hallie)

In August of 2008, my husband of 26½ years passed away from cancer. He became ill and was gone in three weeks. For the previous five years prior to his passing, he was home every day with our seven-year-old Peek-a-Poo, Bernie. Following his death Bernie suffered from severe separation anxiety, manifested by self-mutilating behaviors of scratching and chewing herself raw, resulting in three months of treatment with Anafranil. I began considering the possibility of acquiring a companion pet for Bernie; however, was hesitant as I was still trying to figure out how I was going to manage with my now limited income. My husband’s military pension and Social Security retirement was greater than my working income.

A co-worker who knew I was considering a companion pet asked if I would be interested in accepting Hallie, a fourteen-month-old Westie. She informed me that Hallie was left with her in hopes of finding her a new home. The individual that gave Hallie to my co-worker told her that she had taken Hallie from her daughter as she was being abused and neglected, to include being housed outside and fed only every other day. She chose my co-worker as my co-worker had taken Hallie’s sister the year before under the same circumstances. My co-worker was informed that although Hallie was healthy except for allergies if she could not find her a new home the owner was going to “put her down”.

After two days of consideration, I brought Hallie home; I could not stand the thought of having a healthy fourteen-month-old pup being put down for no good reason. Fortunately, although Bernie was apprehensive about this energetic ball of fur the two were playful and seemed to enjoy each other’s company almost immediately. However, on that first night, I noticed that the more active Hallie became, the more she coughed. They continued playing, but when Hallie began coughing Bernie would back off. When Hallie stopped coughing she again would initiate play and Bernie would oblige. At one point Hallie began coughing and gagging, and her breathing was obviously labored. As I was massaging her throat and rubbing her chest to calm her, I soon realized that she was suffering from more than allergies. I could actually feel and hear fluid moving in her lungs. In spite of this, once the gagging and coughing stopped, she returned to play.  The following day I took Hallie to my vet where chest x-rays revealed she had pneumonia. She was started on antibiotics and Lasix. As a precaution, Bernie received a vaccine for kennel cough.

On Hallie’s first day alone at her new home, I confined her to the kitchen as her kennel was too small to accommodate her, and she needed to have the water available to her because of the Lasix. The floor was covered with “pee pads”, and I said goodbye to “my girls” as I left for work. Upon my return from work, I was shocked. This loving little girl had “peed and poohed” ALL OVER the place; not only were the “pee pads” torn up, so was my kitchen rug, as well as the chairs and TV, stand to be out of place. It looked like a tornado had struck. It took me the next six hours to clean the kitchen, which included pulling the carpeting up. Hence, her new name”TAZ” (Tasmanian Devil). I also acquired an oversized kennel that same night from my nephew.

Although Taz’s condition seemed to improve somewhat, on her follow up visit to the vet the x-rays showed limited improvement with her lung congestion and antibiotics were continued.  Throughout it, all Taz continued her playfulness and showed her winning personality. She never hesitated to go into the vet’s office, always prancing right in with her tail wagging.

On the next visit to the local vet, plans were to discuss a “tracheal wash” in an attempt to identify the cause of the infection. Instead, our vet recommended that Taz be scheduled for an appointment at the Pittsburgh Veterinary Specialty and Emergency Clinic (PVS-EC) and I agreed. The antibiotics were discontinued so as to not compromise any tests that the clinic might want to do. Our vet made the referral, and our appointment was scheduled.

However, with the antibiotics discontinued, Taz’s condition began to deteriorate. Her appetite lessened, she became lethargic, her playfulness disappeared, breathing became increasingly labored, and she eventually developed two large open draining sores on her right shoulder area. Unable to get an earlier appointment at the specialty clinic, I took Taz to the Emergency Clinic. Following the initial exam, to include x-rays and blood work, the emergency room vet informed me that test results indicated Taz was “showing many interesting pathologies” and recommended that she be kept overnight so that she could undergo additional testing and palliative care to keep her comfortable; again I agreed. I informed the vet that I wanted to give Taz every chance possible, but I did not want her to suffer needlessly. Taz spent two nights at PVS-EC. She was diagnosed with “blastomycosis”, a systemic fungal infection, endemic to the Missouri, Mississippi, and Tennessee Valley areas, which was affecting the lungs, skin, and possibly beginning in the bone. Her prognosis was “fair” as with significant lung involvement, additional inflammation in the lung tissue may develop as the fungal organisms began to die within the first two weeks of treatment, which could cause significant breathing problems that would require hospitalization with oxygen therapy and can sometimes be life-threatening. Antifungal medications are typically needed for months to successfully treat blastomycosis.

I took Taz home not only with the hopes that we could successfully treat this precious pup but also with a sense of anger and frustration. Although information regarding this loveable and loving pup was limited, one piece of documentation I received with her was from an emergency vet clinic in Knoxville, TN. It noted she was bought to this clinic due to wheezing, coughing, gagging, thick green nasal discharge, and decreased appetite. The same symptoms I noted almost eleven months later. At the visit in Knoxville, the vet discussed with the owner his desire to rule out kennel cough, pneumonia, etc., but the owner declined to agree to any work-up to include x-rays and blood work. So it seems this poor pup had been fighting this infection for almost a year without treatment. The idea of her suffering for so long broke my heart, and although I was told treatment was long term, expensive, and without a guaranteed outcome, I was more determined than ever to give this little girl a chance for a happy and healthy life, one that she apparently had yet to experience in her short life.

It was obvious that she was a fighter with a spunk. In spite of her health problems she remained adorable and loving, and all she wanted was for someone to love her. It’s obvious she thinks everyone she meets should love her as she greets them with a wagging tail. She has won my heart and has stolen the hearts of all she meets. I now understand the true meaning of the phrase “for the love of Westies”.

Due to my limited income and anticipated cost of Taz’s care, I sought out the assistance of another co-worker in an attempt to locate an organization that could help offset the expenses; WestieMed was found. I held off in submitting an application for assistance, hoping for the best.

Taz’s response to treatment for blastomycosis was mixed. The first three weeks were tough; she remained lethargic and had to be encouraged to eat, most often needing to be hand-fed, along with a nutritional supplement. She again began wagging her little “carrot-shaped” tail, but energy levels waxed and waned, and she would occasionally initiate play with Bernie. All the while she continued to give and seek out love.

After the first three weeks, she seemed to be well on her way to a slow but sure recovery. We had a couple more follow up visits with the vet, indicating a mild improvement in her condition, and her liver was tolerating the medication. She was again playing with Bernie on a regular basis, with increased appetite and energy levels.

Then Taz experienced a rapid onset of open-mouthed breathing. I rushed her to the local vet hospital where she was hospitalized for two days and treated with oxygen therapy. She was discharged with additional medication, a bronchodilator. Again she was playing and showing few signs of her illness, but for the occasional cough.

However, Taz again experienced a sudden onset of open-mouth breathing and was rushed to the local vet hospital and admitted for oxygen therapy. Within an hour of returning home, I received a call from our vet informing me that an appointment was available at PVS-EC the following day. I immediately accepted this appointment and submitted an application to WestieMed requesting financial assistance.

Before I picked Taz up the next morning to take her to our appointment at PVS-EC she received a breathing treatment from the local vet. Following her exam. at PVS-EC, it was believed that her recent episode of respiratory distress was due to aspiration of vomit and an antibiotic was added. Additionally, because Taz’s lungs had not significantly improved, her antifungal medication was changed, and a second antifungal med was added.

Today, Taz’s prognosis has been upgraded to “good”; her quality of life is described as good also.

Taz - WestieMed Recipient July 2009
Taz – WestieMed Recipient

Although treatment is expected to last for at least another six months, with regular follow-ups, Taz has shown considerable improvement. She and Bernie play each day, sometimes for hours at a time. They growl at each other and chase each other around the house, and Taz doesn’t always play fair. Taz is coughing very little now, and it is usually Bernie that ends up panting with her tongue hanging out.

Taz is finally learning to be a puppy. She is fascinated with daddy long legs, she barks at fireflies, tries to catch moths, and is starting to get into things she shouldn’t. Her terrier personality is starting to come through.

With continued treatment and the assistance from WestieMed, I am very optimistic that Taz will enjoy a full recovery and enjoy a happy and healthy life in a loving home that she deserves.

On behalf of Taz, Bernie and myself, we extend our thanks and appreciation to the wonderful folks at WestieMed.

For the Love of Westies, 
Janine L. Jackson

Update August 18, 2009

Bernie and I took Taz for a check-up today at the Pittsburgh specialty clinic. Good news and bad. Chest x-rays were performed along with blood work to check liver function. Lab results are forthcoming but I anticipate those results to be satisfactory.  There is a “continued increase in lung sounds but improved from the last exam”. X-rays show “Diffuse interstitial infiltrates have improved since the last exam. Alveolar pattern/atelectasis of right cranial lung lobe persists relatively unchanged”.

We are to schedule a recheck of radiographs and blood work in three months. “The majority of Taz’s lung fields have improved. She continues to have a consolidation of one lobe on the right side. If this area fails to improve, despite normalization of other lung lobes, we may have to consider removing this lung lobe at some point in the future”. It was explained to me that this lung lobe was similar to being “collapsed” The fear is that if all other lung lobes improve but for this one, that some infection may remain in this lobe, that it will cause a relapse and we will then have to start over from the beginning. So, we continue to hope and pray.

Thanks again to WestieMed for your kindness and support.

For the Love of Westies, 
Janine

Update September 21, 2009

We went to the vet specialty clinic today for follow up on TAZ’s elevated liver enzyme level. Won’t know the results until tomorrow. However, no signs of jaundice yet, so I guess that’s good. It’s been a tough month with TAZ though. She developed an ear infection with several bacteria involved- we’re now on an antibiotic for that. We need to follow up with our regular vet in three weeks for that. She also went into heat. And her energy levels have been pitifully low as has her appetite. So she is also now taking a high-calorie nutritional supplement. She needs a lot of encouragement to eat, even snacks and people food. But she still is weighing in at eighteen pounds. Tonight she and Bernie played for the first time in a month, only lasted about five minutes, but she showed some life. She’s wearing me out. The next appointment with the clinic is in two months. We’ll let you know of the lab results tomorrow. 

May God Bless you and yours.
Janine

Update September 23, 2009

Good news! Lab results for Liver enzymes came back as normal. Next appointment for x-rays and complete blood work scheduled for 11/16. Appetite still not what it should be, but improving with hand feeding. Activity levels still low but showing some improvement. Unless there is a significant change, I’ll send the next update in November. Thanks again for your assistance. 

Greatly appreciated.
Janine

Update November 17, 2009

Well, I took TAZ to the vet yesterday for her check-up. X-rays showed that most of her lungs are clear – all except that one lobe, which is still collapsed from lack of air. And her blood work showed that one of her liver enzymes is again slightly elevated, along with her white blood count. We go back in six weeks for more blood tests to check the levels again. The plan now is to continue her meds for three months. Then try to discontinue them. If her infection returns, as it might because some infection may be lingering in that collapsed lung portion, we have two options. Continue her on meds for life, with regular lab work to check her liver enzymes, or have that collapsed portion of her lung removed. I guess that is probably the route we’ll take. They say it’s only about 1/4 of her lungs, and she really only uses about 1/2. So removal of that lobe really won’t affect her much at all. It will save her liver and in the long run. it will be less costly. So that’s the update. I wish I had better news.

Janine

Update January 20, 2010

Bernie and I took TAZ to the specialty clinic on 12/30 to follow up on her liver enzymes. They came back as normal. TAZ is doing really well over-all. She and Bernie are playing on a daily basis: chasing each other inside and out, growling and wrestling and teasing each other. TAZ is really learning to play by herself as well. She really likes playing with the tennis balls, tossing them into the air, chasing after them and sometimes even tripping over them. She has become my shadow, following me wherever I go. And if I take a nap on the recliner, she generally sleeps right on top of me. She and Bernie can also occasionally be found snuggling together on the recliner. The hunter terrier comes out in her when she is outside. She will bark like crazy and scratch at the fence trying to get at the squirrels, rabbits, deer, and even the birds. Good thing she is not a digger! And these small animals that she sees and barks at are usually a good 30-40 yards away. She doesn’t often listen to me when I tell her “no bark”, so sometimes Bernie will go out after her and it’s like Bernie tells she had better come in as TAZ will suddenly become quiet, turn around and come running into the house with Bernie. They really have become friends.

Our next appointment is Feb 19th. I’m still concerned with her outcome. She is scheduled for x-rays and full blood work. At the last appointment, the vet suggested that if her x-rays were the same, we would try to discontinue the meds and see if the infection returns. I’m afraid it will as her one lobe remained essentially collapsed, likely still harboring an infection. And then I will have to make that difficult decision of continuing her meds for life or electing surgery to remove that portion of her lung lobe. She still has congestion, sometimes worse than others, but her wonderful spirit still prevails. She is such a fighter.

For the Love of Westies, 
Janine (and Bernie)

Update March 9, 2010

Well, Taz’s appointment was moved up as she had an episode of vomiting and the local vet put her on Lasix to again clear her lungs. Had a blasto antigen urine test completed. Came back as moderate-high. Which means the blasto is still fairly heavily concentrated. I called today and we have a surgery consult scheduled for 3/22 to discuss possible removal of her lung lobe that is collapsed. There is no guarantee that the surgery will allow her to eliminate the blasto infection, but we are sure that she will not be able to eliminate the infection without the lung removal. I was so hoping the meds alone would heal her. Please pray for her. She is such a wonderful little pup and she has been thru so much in her short 28 months.

Janine

Update May 3, 2010

Well, folks, TAZ had her surgery on 4/2/10 to remove the portion of her lung that did not seem to respond to treatment. The surgery was a little more extensive than the vet or surgeon had anticipated. She was in surgery for a little over two hours. Apparently there were some lesions on the lung that had connected to a major blood vessel and to the lining around her heart. However, in spite of that, the lung reportedly separated without difficulty. She ended up staying at the hospital for five days instead of the three they originally planned. Biopsy of the removed lobe indicated old and new inflammation, no evidence of Blasto or micro-organisms were found, but did show moderate chronic neutrophilic bronchopneumonia.

On the 15th Bernie and I took her in for a follow up with the surgeon. He removed her staples and pronounced the surgery to be a success. He did mention that little TAZ was a fighter and had won the hearts of everyone in surgery and the hospital. OF course, that was no surprise- she’s a Westie after all.

TAZ seems to have been doing OK over the past four weeks. Her appetite is up and down. She has lost two pounds since her surgery. She continues to show her spunk and spirit. Over the last week or so, she has made several attempts to play with Bernie. The play periods, however, only last a few minutes before TAZ starts to cough and her breathing becomes labored.

Today, Bernie and I took TAZ into the clinic for a follow-up appointment with the internist. X-rays indicated that her lungs to be “the best they have ever been.” There was no indication of any lymph node enlargement or progression/development of any new lung changes. Follow up will depend on results of the blasto urine antigen titers. We are hoping to be able to change to a less expensive anti-fungal med.

It has been a long road for us. I often wonder if I chose the right course for all of us. But, every time I look at that cute little, white fluffy pup, that is always wanting to give and receive love, no matter how bad she seems to be doing, I know I am doing the right thing. There may not be a place in Heaven for me, but there will definitely be a place in Doggie heaven for me.

As always, For the Love of Westies, 
Janine and Bernie

Update July 1, 2010

As you know, TAZ had her surgery to remove a right lung lobe in April. She recovered quite nicely. A month later her blasto levels went from 8.9 to 2.19!! This month her liver values were checked and were good. As she was doing so well, we switched her anti-fungal meds to Fluconazole, a med significantly less expensive than the Itraconazole.

All seemed to be going well, but TAZ was started on an antibiotic in early May due to an upper respiratory infection. Shortly after, due to limited response, a second antibiotic was added. She was on this regimen for five weeks and the infection seemed to clear up and little TAZ was doing great! She was back to being my shadow. And she and Bernie were playing again: wrestling and chasing each other around the house several times a day. It was such a pleasure seeing her activity levels increase and the two girls again playing with gusto.

And last weekend, we all went on a camping trip with my brother and his family, to include two Boston terrier pups. TAZ went on three walks without any problems and she and Bernie even romped with the two pups in the pet run area. I was so proud of my girls, especially TAZ. She also took it upon herself to introduce herself to her campsite neighbor, a Burmese Mountain dog.

Unfortunately, TAZ woke me Wednesday at 3:15 AM with heavy abdominal breathing. This was followed by occasional open-mouth breathing and three episodes of vomiting. Needless to say, it was off to the hospital at 4:00 AM. TAZ was admitted, remains at the hospital, being treated for pneumonia, thought to be from aspiration. Spent about 24 hrs in the oxygen kennel with IV antibiotics.

Bernie and I visited with  TAZ last night and tonight. She has been without the oxygen therapy for the last 24 hours, has begun eating, barking at the other patients, and wagging her carrot tail at the staff. They are going to try to switch her to oral meds tomorrow, and hopefully, we can bring her home over the weekend.

They are suggesting that since she seems to be experiencing so many apparent episodes of aspirated pneumonia, it might be a good idea to explore the possibility of a bronchoscopy to see if her trachea is working as it should when she swallows. If that is the recommendation, I suppose that is what we will do. In spite of the multiple setbacks, the vets still feel she has a good quality of life and is not suffering needlessly.

Still, we ask for your prayers and positive thoughts for TAZ. Thanks much.

For the Love of Westies,
Janine and Bernie

Update August 29, 2010

I hope we have finally turned the corner on TAZ. She may have to be on some meds for life, time will tell. She has been on her anti-fungal meds since April ’09 and antibiotics for most of that time, continuously since her lobectomy in April ’10.

She was released from the hospital on 7/3. She still had some congestion at that time. But the good news… They did a blasto urine antigen test during her stay and it came back as a .09!!!, which is essentially considered to be blasto free!!!

Bernie and I took her to PVS&EC for a scheduled follow-up on 7/12. As she has experienced several episodes of aspiration pneumonia, it was recommended that we try a hypoallergenic diet to see if food allergies might be a component of her recurrent vomiting problems. Otherwise, lab results were unremarkable and there was a continued slight improvement with her chest x-rays. We were allowed to switch over the anti-fungal med Fluconazole, about $220 less a month than the Itraconazole. We then went to our local vet, Rainbow Vet, for a supply of hypo-allergenic foods- dry food, wet food, and snacks. TAZ wanted nothing to do with it, But Bernie sure liked it! When PVS&EC called to check on TAZ’s condition several days later, I informed them that we were back on her regular diet.

TAZ’s condition continued to seem to improve; however, she did continue to have episodes of vomiting. I truly believed that her vomiting was related to all the meds she was taking- 5 in the A.M. and 6 in the P.M. I chose to discontinue the Lamisil, as it was one med that warned that it may cause stomach upset.

We followed up again with PVS&EC for a scheduled appointment on 8/9. Again lab work was unremarkable and chest x-rays again showed some improvement although she continued with a lot of congestion, which apparently was limited to her upper respiratory function. All meds were continued, the next follow up has to be scheduled for November, when her chest x-rays will be repeated and another blasto urine antigen lab will be done.

I am happy to say that TAZ has not vomited since we discontinued the Lamisil. Well, there was the night she tried to eat a toad. Vomited at least 12 times in a 1 1/2 hr time period, poor thing. BUT, she did not aspirate and did not develop pneumonia!!!

She continues with upper respiratory congestion off and on. On 8/17 she did start with abdominal breathing, which again went into open-mouth breathing and a run to the local vet. However, once we arrived, her breathing was pretty much back to normal. We are wondering if she experienced an asthma attack…..

She continues to be my shadow, her appetite remains good, as well as her water intake, she is beginning to cough more when congested-which is good, and she is playing with Bernie several times a day. And after 18 months of daily meds, she is finally taking them w/o a fight. She still enjoys going to the vets, walking in with head held high and tail wagging, but she is now barking at the other dogs that are there. I guess that’s a good thing. And every time I let her out at night, I always have to search for the “toady”. If she sees it before I do, she will back off when I tell her “NO”.

We continue to ask for positive thoughts and prayers for her. Thanks.

For the Love of Westies,
Bernie and Janine

Update November 18, 2010

Bernie and I took TAZ to the Pittsburgh Specialty Clinic on 11/1. I do believe there is finally light at the end of the tunnel! Chest radiographs were unchanged. Visible alterations at this time are most consistent with chronic scarring from related to chronic Blasto and lung lobectomy rather than aspiration pneumonia.

She does seem to have chronic upper respiratory congestion, also like a result of her lung scarring and lung lobectomy, but does seem to clear considerably when she is on antibiotics. However, the vet does not wish to continue these meds as she has been on them for so long, we do not want her to become resistant to them. So, I will have to keep a close eye on her nasal discharge. Obviously, if the discharge becomes yellow-green, then we will have to look at restarting the antibiotics.

I also received the results of the Blasto urine lab work. Her Titer levels came back at .061!!!!! Yippeee!!! The vet wants to continue with anti-fungal meds for another 6-8 weeks. But we did get the go-ahead to have her spayed!

I talked to the local vet today. She is scheduled for spaying on 11/23. Initially, they wanted me to bring her in at 7:45 A.M. However, after talking with the staff and consulting with the vet, I am will be taking her in at 10:00 A.M. I will have the opportunity to give her a kiss and a hug and tell her I love her before they prep her for surgery. I will then wait until after she starts to come out of the anesthesia before I leave her to allow the staff to do what they do. Hoping before I leave, I will get another chance to see her and give her another kiss and again tell her I love her. I am happy to be able to finally have her spayed, but at the same time, due to her chronic congestion and impaired lung function, I am also very nervous and worried. We have been thru so much, I would hate to lose her over a “routine” procedure. Of course, she is a fighter and did well with her two hour plus lung lobectomy. Still…

Please pray for her. Thank you so much!

For the Love of Westies,
Janine and Bernie

Update November 24, 2010

TAZ had her surgery, but not without complications. She will be spending the night at the hospital as “she is not out of the woods, yet”. First, we had to consult with the internist because she had a rather high WBC count. It was decided it was ok to go ahead with IV antibiotics during the surgery, as her WBC generally does run high. And I guess as is common, since she had recently come out of a heat cycle, things were said to “be gooey and messy” inside. Two vets were doing the surgery, and after they sewed her up inside, there was still some seepage, the further exam showed they had snipped a small section of her spleen. So they closed that up. And finally, when they removed the breathing tube, they noted some slimy substance.. discolored with specks of blood. They are sending that off to a lab for analysis. Hoping with that we may find a reason for her chronic upper respiratory congestion. I was able to see her after her surgery, she was awake but obviously groggy. From the beginning of surgery till I got to see her afterward, it was about an hour. They will call tomorrow with an update, sooner if any problems are encountered. I am pretty much exhausted at this time. Continued prayers will be greatly appreciated. Thanks for all of your support! I will post any updates as I receive them.

Just called the vet. Was told is “doing ok” and they “just took her out to pee and she did ok”. So hopefully, the plan to bring her home tomorrow is on schedule. Expecting a call from the vet tomorrow sometime after 8:00 A.M.

Janine

Update November 25, 2010

TAZ IS HOME! Vet says she is doing great. Still seems a bit lethargic, but I guess that is to be expected. She does not seem to be in any pain or discomfort, is not paying any attention to her incision, so no collar of shame at this time. They said this morning she was up and wagging her tail at everyone. When the techs changed shifts, they let her out of her kennel and she played with them a little. Gave them all kissies. Of course, they said she was a sweetheart and a good patient. When they brought her out for me, she was prancing, head high, and tail a-wagging! But of course, no kissies for mommy…:(  Follow up appointment scheduled for 12/2, although she does have self-dissolving sutures. Hopefully, they will have the results of the culture of the goo they got from her breathing tube and we can put her on some meds that may help to eliminate her chronic upper respiratory congestion.

Janine

Update January 10, 2011

Taz - WestieMed Recipient July 2009
Taz – WestieMed Recipient

After TAZ was spayed on 11/24/10, we got the results back from the analysis of the gunk that was recovered from her breathing tube. It came back identifying the presence of three different bacteria. The vet switched her off the Clavamox and we started her on Keflex and Erythromycin in an effort to defeat the bacteria, as she had been on the prior for ages and we were thinking that maybe the bacteria were becoming resistant to the Clavamox. At present, she is finishing up on the Erythromycin.

Bernie and I then followed up with a scheduled appointment at PVS-EC in Pittsburgh on 1/3/11. We had blood work done along with another Blasto urine test. Unfortunately, her WBC remains high. The good news is that after three weeks of being off her anti-fungal meds, her blasto antigen titer level remains at .061, which is considered to be negative for blasto. The vet wants to check her blasto levels again in three months. If her titer levels remain in the negative range, we will be done with monitoring for blasto unless she develops new symptoms to suggest a relapse.

The vet feels she will always have a high WBC, with infection being caused by chronic inflammation due to the lung scarring from the blasto and her lobectomy. Continued treatment with antibiotics is not recommended due to concerns of her developing resistance and then the antibiotics not working when really needed. So we will be back to monitoring her nasal discharge, food intake, and energy levels to determine if and when antibiotics are needed.

So, all in all, I guess the good news with regard to her blasto is tempered with the fact that she will always be battling the infection.

However, she has proven to be a fighter through it all. Her overall quality of life is good. She continues to give Bernie a run for her money. She has started to play with toys, sometimes with Bernie, sometimes with her self, and sometimes even with me.  She and Bernie continue to have wrestling matches and she chases Bernie around the house- often with Bernie crawling under the love seat with TAZ sitting atop the seat, watching like a vulture for Bernie to come out. She has even on occasion given Bernie a few warning growls. She continues to show unabashed enthusiasm when she meets others or it’s time to go for a ride. Even when going to the vets or the groomer. She is definitely a sweetheart, wanting to give kissies to all but me… Maybe someday I will get that kiss from her…

For the Love of Westies,
Janine and Bernie  

Update April 15, 2011

Feb 26: Hey folks, for those of you following TAZ’s status, we took a step back today. She had been doing really good for some time now, all things considered. Well in the last couple of days, she began to develop quite a bit of congestion along with her little snotty nose. Energy levels were down a bit, but her appetite remained good. she was very congested this A.M., I tried several times to get her to cough by coupaging her chest without success. After breakfast, took her and Bernie in for scheduled grooming.

Well, when I went to pick them up, I noted TAZ was experiencing heavy abdominal breathing and open mouth breathing. I called the local vet and informed them we were on the way. The vet that saw her was new to the practice and unfamiliar with TAZ’s history. Took x-rays and blood work along with oxygen therapy. Blood work ok but WBC high, nothing really unusual, they say her WBC will always be high due to the inflammation from the scarring in her lungs. On the x-rays, the left lung looked very clear, but right lung cloudy. He also suggested the heart looked a little enlarged. He wanted me to take her to the specialists at PVS-EC to determine if an echo was needed of her heart. However, because he did not see any signs of CHF, and a vet once before mentioned an enlarged heart and other vets, to include the internist at PVS-EC, discounted this, I opted to keep her at the local vet to be treated in oxygen kennel with antibiotics and whatever else they feel appropriate for the moment, to include possible consult with PVS-EC.

Of course, if they call later and strongly recommend taking her to PVS-EC ER, I will take her. My plan right now is to talk to the local vet who is most familiar with her history, ask her to review the x-rays and possibly consult with PVS-EC and go from there. I imagine an echo will be done at some time in the future. 

I do hope I made the right decision today in leaving her at the local vet. 

Update March 1, 2011

TAZ is home!!!! She spent three nights in the oxygen kennel. They say when they brought her out this morning, she was ready and rarin’ to go. They always say she is a sweetheart, one of their best patients, and a happy puppy. “Sweetheart” and “Happy puppy”- two of the many reasons I will continue to do all I can for her. Poor thing has had such a hard life. Without checking records, I think this is the fifth time in two years I have had to rush her to the vet for respiratory distress. So that is five hospitalizations, at least, for respiratory distress, one at the time she was diagnosed with blasto, another when she had her lobectomy and an overnight stay after her spaying. And that doesn’t count all the vet visits in between. In spite all of this, she remains a sweetheart, a happy pup, and shows no fear of going to the vet, always walking in with head held high and tail a waggin’.

They still don’t know what caused the recent episode of respiratory distress. We are awaiting the lab report to determine if she has had a relapse of the blasto. She had been doing so well, down to 4 meds twice a day. She is now back up to 7 meds twice a day. In addition to the theophylline, Pepcid, cough tabs and Benedryl, Lasix, Baytril, and Keflix have now been added to her regimen.

She still has a lot of wet upper respiratory congestion, but she is now coughing, which is good. She was definitely happy when she saw me and Bernie tonight, and happy to come home. Since dinner and meds, she has been sleeping. Which sounds like a good idea to me.

Between work over the last couple of weeks, TAZ’s hospitalization and other issues, if I had a tail I’d be chasing it!

Oh, and the vet most familiar with her case reviewed her x-rays. She did not feel that there was any enlargement of the heart. She did mention that it appeared “something” was “pushing” her trachea up a bit. Unable to see anything on the x-rays that would cause this.

Update March 3, 2011

Blasto titer levels: NEGATIVE!

Update April 14, 2011

Well, folks, another set back for my TAZ. Another episode of respiratory distress tonight. At 9 P.M. she suddenly developed abdominal and open mouth breathing. I gave her her meds and she soon showed some improvement in that the open mouth breathing resolved but the abdominal breathing continued. I was hoping that too would resolve itself. Unfortunately, that was not to be. Instead, the open mouth breathing resumed. Another trip to Rainbow Veterinary Hospital-Mobile Vet, our local vet. The left lung sounded clear, no airflow heard in the right lung. As they did not want to stress her anymore, it was decided to place her into the oxygen kennel immediately and given some meds. They will do x-rays in the morning. I will let you know additional info as it is received. Once again , thoughts and prayers are requested and appreciated. Thank you.

Janine

Update June 9, 2011

I just want to let you know that I had to TAZ to vet yesterday morning due to another episode of respiratory distress. So far she is not showing any signs of improvement.

I’ve been on the phone today with vets from Rainbow Veterinary Hospital & Mobile Vet and Pittsburgh Veterinary Specialty and Emergency Center. Rainbow is recommending I take TAZ to Pittsburgh, where the plan would be to evaluate her to see if she is a candidate to be anesthetized for a bronchoscopy and biopsy of the lung tissue, to see if whatever is causing this particular episode can be treated. To take her there, we would have to set up an oxygen kennel in my car. And due to her lung condition, there is no guarantee that she would survive the surgery. There is nothing that can cure her condition, except for perhaps a miracle, it is all scarring from the blasto, which was successfully treated. And with each episode of respiratory distress, there is likely additional scarring. And due to the scarring and chronic inflammation that it causes, these episodes will continue until one day her little body will no longer be able to handle the strain. I am afraid it is coming close to making the decision to send her on her way to Rainbow Bridge. I am hoping they can get her well enough so I can bring her home for a while and send her off from here, as our vet does house calls. Of course, if they can turn this episode around completely, we will just wait for the next one. I will keep you posted. Bernie and I are going to go visit TAZ now.

For the Love of Westies,
Janine L. Jackson and Bernie

Update June 21, 2011

Please send positive thoughts and prayers for TAZ.  I just spoke to the vet.  She will be here in approximately 1/2 hour to send TAZ off to Rainbow Bridge.  Godspeed little one!  I will surely miss you but I can no longer justify watching you suffer.  You will have a great time at The Bridge.  I love you, sweetheart!

Janine and Bernie

Scrappy - WestieMed Recipient June 2009

Scrappy

Scrappy came to Oklahoma Westie Rescue (OWR) in rather sad shape.  Scrappy came to us as a result of the diligence of some of our great OWR volunteers.  We have several volunteers who are always watching, the newspapers, the internet, etc. for Westies.  One of them notified me that she had seen an ad for a FOUND Westie.  I immediately went to the ad which stated that a male Westie had been found injured on the side of the road.  He needed medical care and the lady who found him was trying to find his owner.  I called the lady and told her who we were and what we do.  She reported that, sadly, after two weeks no one had called to claim this little guy.  She had taken him to the vet for some preliminary first aid care but indicated that his leg was badly broken and would need further care. I told her we would gladly take him and get it taken care of if she wanted us to.  She wanted to wait one more week to see if a family called to claim him if not, she would turn him over to us.

A week later I went to pick up Scrappy.  What a sad sight!  He had head wounds, body wounds, and a green cast on his front leg.  He had been shaved so they could treat his wounds and was named Scrappy because of the condition of his body.  Little scraps of wounds everywhere!  He was a happy guy and had already begun to run around with his cast.  He was very affectionate and loved people!  He was sad to leave this wonderful lady who had saved him but he went along with me anyway.  He soon took to me and followed me everywhere.  We scheduled an appointment with a veterinary orthopedic surgeon to have his leg examined.  Sadly, the surgeon said that while the one bone was healing the second bone was fragmented and would not heal without surgery.  With the help of WestieMed we were able to do surgery immediately and took Scrappy home the next day.  A long plate and six screws were needed to hold the bone back together.  Scrappy was an excellent patient and was quickly on his way to recovery.  He never seemed to mind being crated while he recovered and he was ever so grateful for the love and care.  He soon was up and around running and trying to chase the kitty, not much kept him down.

We believe Scrappy to be about two to four years old.  He is very alpha and loves to boss around the dogs in his foster home.  He is very much a people person and he loves to give kisses and sit in your lap.  Scrappy met an approved couple last week and paws are crossed that he will be adopted by that family next Monday.  He will be in hog heaven as the lady wants a dog that will sit with her and take car rides with her.  Scrappy certainly fits the bill!

OWR tries hard to cover its own expenses without outside assistance however we have had MANY sick and injured dogs this dump season and we just have not been able to cover all the vet costs.  Thanks to WestieMed we were able to get Scrappy’s little leg fixed up!

We are also happy to report that on Monday Scrappy is being adopted by a lovely couple, the wife says she is looking for a lap dog, the boy has she found the right boy!!  LOL

Thanks, WestieMed!

Update August 7, 2009:  Scrappy has been adopted!

Little Scrappy is showing more of his personality with each new experience!!  He is so precious.  He loves to play fetch with his toys, and sleep on our laps.  He isn’t sure about the car rides yet, but we are working on it slowly.  He has nicely put our other two dogs in their place, only took a bark or two with a couple of growls and they got the message!  Rix, the German Shepard, had decided he would like to be a little lap dog also!!

We took him to our vet to get his heartworm/flea and tick pills.  He said he looks great, and his son, Dr. Jeff, told us why he loves little Westies.  He loves their stubbornness and their spunk!  He did tell us that usually, an adopted Westie will give you a couple of months honeymoon period and then you will see more of his personality every day!  We already love what we have!!  A little more will just make it more interesting!!  He doesn’t play with Rix yet, so I would like to see that.  I think that only takes time.  Do you know he sits for treats!!?? Like he’s begging??  He just started that yesterday for Glenn!  Without prompting.

He lays on the bed and watches me get ready for work.  Pepsi isn’t doing very well, the medication is wearing off.  The vet told us he was glad we got little Scrappy because we wouldn’t have her much longer.

Oh, we did take him for a walk with Rix and he loved it!  It wore him out, and we didn’t go the three miles we usually do!  When it cools down, it will be ritual for him, but we will have to build him up!

I will keep you updated!
MJ and Scrappy

Update March 3, 2010

I wanted to give you guys a Scrappy update!  He is doing sooooooooo good!  I am so in love as is Glenn!  He is the most lovable dog!   He plays with Rix, and our daughter is living with us on her move from New York to Texas, for about two months, with her Australian Shepherd and her two years old.  Her husband is a Border Patrol Agent in Texas.  Scrappy loves the Australian Shepherd, and loves being a part of a “pack”!!

He did have a biting incident.  He bit Caleb, our youngest son who has the Westie himself!!  Our daughter in law was petting Scrappy on her lap and Caleb reached over to pet him and Scrappy growled!  (He did warn him after all!!)  Caleb tried again and Scrappy BIT him!!  Caleb should have paid attention to the warning!

Scrappy talks to us, as you know.  But he is getting more and more vocal.  He growls a friendly growl, howls, and makes all kinds of communicative noises!   He loves to play tug of war with the other dogs, he still loves his little mouse.  He is such a perfect fit!!  He walks really well on a leash, and his endurance is building as we go.  He is learning to love riding in the car and isn’t scared anymore.  HE IS THE PERFECT PUPPY!!

We did have some dog food issues, however.  We were feeding him the Wellness Whitefish and Sweet Potato, and he had the most awful gas!!  A lot of it and it stunk so bad!!  He only gets really healthy natural, no wheat treats, and it was just terrible!!  So, our son and his wife shared with us that they had tried several brands on their Westie and they use Eagle Pack brand from Britton Feed and Seed.  We got that, and we feed him the fish-flavored.  He absolutely loves it and has no more gas.  His hair looks better too.  It has flaxseed in it.  The other two dogs love it too, so they are on it.  Just a side note, Britton Feed, and Seed said that Wellness just bought out Eagle Pack, so it has a new package.  I guess that is a good thing, but I hope Wellness doesn’t change the recipe!

(Aren’t we on the learning curve?)

Sorry, we missed the roundup, too many other obligations!  We will check for other activities and try to get a family pic with the three of us together!

Thank you all so much for our precious puppy.  My dad and his wife love him too!!  I am encouraging my dad to adopt a Westie, so we’ll see!

Mary Jane and Glenn Gottschalk

Harry - WestieMed Recipient May 2009

Harry

Harry’s story begins like many other Westie rescues, on the streets.  He was found wandering around in the snow in Richlands, North Carolina, back in February and brought to Carolina Westie Rescue in the spring of 2009.

He was brought to us by a wonderful good Samaritan named Susan Collins.  Even though he seemed to be a throwaway dog, Harry still had a good spirit and personality.  Susan informed us that Harry had heartworms and that a previous vet had recommended that the dog be euthanized.

Well, Westies never give up without a fight, and we were not about to either!  We carried Harry to another vet and had a thorough exam performed.  Other than his horrible ear infections, our vet told us that Harry’s heartworms were pretty advanced and that we could try and kill them with the slow-kill Immiticide treatment, but that he might not make it.

Our vet suggested we take Harry to the state veterinary school in Raleigh which has a team of cardiologists.  And so, a few days later, that’s exactly what we did.  We left Harry with those folks all day, and when we returned, we learned that Harry’s heartworms were not as advanced as we had been told.  Now, heartworms of any sort are not a cause for celebration, but here we were thinking Harry was in an advanced stage of heartworms and that surgery was the only solution.  The doctors at NC State told us that the slow-kill method was the correct course of action to take, but that Harry would have to be perfectly still during treatment.  No running around the yard chasing the girl Westies, like he usually does.  Harry should be beginning his first of three Immiticide injections very soon.

As of this writing, we are pretty upbeat about Harry’s prognosis and his making it through the treatment.  We are looking forward to the days when he can run and play with the other Westies and not be winded.  Carolina Westie Rescue would like to extend our warmest heartfelt thanks to WestieMed for all you do for these little white dogs.

Carolina Westie Rescue

Update March 7, 2010

Harry - WestieMed Recipient May 2009
Harry – WestieMed Recipient

I want to thank Westie Med for helping to save Harry’s life. You are all wonderful for helping him.

The long and grueling process of killing the heartworms took months and after going through treating Harry for Heartworm Disease Harry was hit with an acute attack of pancreatitis.  Harry was left with an enlarged heart and breathing problems that appeared to be Westie lung Disease. Westies as we know are very resilient and Harry has a strong will to live.  Harry has always been a happy, loving, wonderful Westie even during the times when he was so very sick.  He has always had a strong will to live.

After having Harry for almost a year we found Harry a great home with a retired couple who had a sweet little girl Westie. They knew that Harry was left with some health problems, but were willing to give Harry a forever home.  I miss Harry, but it is comforting to know that he has a great home and can live out the rest of his life with people who can appreciate Harry for the wonderful Westie that he is.

Harry now lives on Hilton Head Island and walks on the beach almost every day with his new forever family.  Harry loves the beach and also gets along well with his new little sister.

He is living the good life.  Thank you WestieMed!

Sincerely,
Sydney Christian Carolina Westie Rescue

Tavish McPeanut - WestieMed Recipient May 2009

Tavish McPeanut

Dear WestieMed Folks:

I got an email about another Westie in need of rescue, but when I looked at the picture I knew that this was no ordinary rescue.  I knew immediately that this would be my dog.  Another member of Westie Rescue stepped up to foster first, but circumstances led him to my house shortly thereafter.  Thank God for small miracles.

Tavish, as he was named, is unlike any other dog I have had the pleasure of knowing.  He was so small and fragile.  Because he was kept in a cat carrier all four of his legs were bowed at the knee.  His hair was almost non-existent due to stress.  This also caused alopecia.  He had nasty skin irritations and infections.  He had an eye infection.  Who knew what else was lurking just below the surface.  This poor little soul was just the most pitiful and worst case of abuse and neglect I have ever seen.  But, there was a spark there.  After all, he had been through, his giant personality still managed to shine.  That is what fortunately saved his life.  The Bridgeport, Texas Animal Services’ workers saw it.  Westie Rescue of North Texas saw it.  I saw it.  This was a dog who deserved a second chance.

When he got to my house the first thing I wanted to do was give him a name like no one else.  This little guy had a sort of élan that was bigger than life.  He needed to be distinguished from the pack.  I did not want him to be lost in a sea of Tavishs.  He was so little – just a little peanut of a dog.  Well, we can’t give a Westie a non-Scottish name, can we?  So it was born  – Tavish McPeanut  – thank you very much!

Every day we held our breath.  He had so much to overcome.  Could he do it?  Was he strong enough?  Well, the answer was yes and yes.  He could and would overcome.  He could and was strong enough.  Every day he came more and more alive.  McPeanut was a legend by now.

Tavish McPeanut - WestieMed Recipient May 2009
Tavish McPeanut – WestieMed Recipient

We take daily walks as a pack and this little guy would prance out in front of everyone else.  What a hoot!  He knew he was special and everyone else was just beginning to see for themselves just what a terrific guy he was.  All the neighbors would stop and pet him.  He went and stole everyone’s hearts.  He will give you a quick kiss but then he is off – he has things to do, places to go, things to mark. . . after all, he is a little boy.

McPeanut has been the spirit of this family.  He is goofy and silly and always up for whatever is going on.  He is quick with a tail wag and a kiss.  When you call his name he dances around in a little half-circle kind of shaped like a little peanut.  This would be the Peanut dance.  He is the first one to start playing.  He is also quite the Casanova having a wide variety of lady loves from a Chinese Crested named Lola to a black Lab named Lady.  He loves to walk and sniff and hike and sniff and run and play and sniff and love.  We cannot imagine life without this little firecracker.

Thank you, from the bottom of our hearts, for helping McPeanut, who stole our hearts, to complete all of his medical treatments so that he can truly thrive and become the Westie he was meant to be!

Sincerely,
Kelly Flanigan Feuling Tavish McPeanut’s Mom

Update July 9, 2009

I just wanted to briefly update everyone about little McPeanut.  I picked him up today from Dallas Vet & Surgery Center in Grapevine.  Dr. Wells was our physician.

I have good news and bad news.  The good news is that McPeanut does not need surgery at this time.   They performed a CT scan and then a myelogram.   The myelogram is a procedure where they inject dye into the spinal column to see if a disk is ruptured or herniated.  So, the good news is that he does not have a condition that can be rectified by surgery.  The bad news is, they cannot explain his x-rays.  They show such a drastic narrowing in two places and he cries out in pain sometimes when picked up.

Tavish McPeanut - WestieMed Recipient May 2009
Tavish McPeanut – WestieMed Recipient

Dr. Wells thinks there is soft tissue damage due to his being kept in that tiny cage.  She said we need to continue to manage the pain and see if he won’t improve over time.  Poor little guy.  I just hate it that he is having to suffer like this!  It is a terrible reminder of all this little baby went through. 

I am currently giving him Carprofen and Tramadol twice a day to keep the pain at bay.  He has been given orders to keep quiet and rest.  Not a problem with this heat.  As you can see in the picture, he is doing okay now that he is home and in his favorite chair.   Oh, and his appetite is great – that is always a good sign!

Blessings, Kelly

Update August 12, 2009

I am sending out this update on little McPeanut hopefully to bring attention to a major health issue.  With all of these horrific puppy-mills around, we might start to see more and more of these specific eye problems.  If you look at any of the tapes of the busts, the majority of dogs have obvious eye issues.  We need to closely and carefully check these puppy-mill dogs who have eye irritations/conditions.

We took McPeanut to the veterinary ophthalmologist, Dr. Munger, today.  He has had eye problems from the beginning, but because no one every fluoresced (stained) his eyes this was not caught until last Monday by Dr. Paul Hendon at Westcreek Animal Clinic.  McPeanut had the most unusual pattern of damage to his cornea that Dr. Hendon had ever seen.  He immediately recommended the veterinary ophthalmologist and put McPeanut on several different medications.

This is very serious and McPeanut could very well lose his left eye.  First, he has been diagnosed in both eyes with uveitis (which is very serious and painful in humans) which is a swelling of the uvea – the middle, pigmented vascular layer of the eye.  Second, his left eye has posterior synechia, pupilo seclusio, iris bombe, and glaucoma (caused by the uveitis).  What all this means is that his iris is adhering to his lens (synechia), the bulging forward of the iris (iris bombe) has caused swelling blocking the aqueous humor from draining (glaucoma), and he has evidence of hemorrhagic uveitis.  The hemorrhages on his eye were what alerted Dr. Hendon to a serious problem.

This did not happen overnight.  This condition should have been caught earlier.  The first vet that saw him should have noticed his eyes were very red, he squinted a lot, and he had the hemorrhages on the left eye and so the condition could have been treated in its earlier stages.  I am just sick over this.  This poor little dog has suffered immensely with so many other health problems, and now this.

I am hoping to save another little one from going through the same thing.  The fluoroscope is not that expensive ($16.00)-$19.00) and should have been performed on the first exam in this case.  Now, we are looking at hundreds of dollars of medical care and the worst-case scenario of his actually losing his eye.  Dr. Hendon is our primary vet and he caught it on the first exam.  He contacted Dr. Munger and got us in two days later.  Meanwhile, Dr. Hendon gave us pain medication, antibiotics, and an anti-cholinergic (to stimulate vasodilatation).  This would increase blood flow and healing.  Now, McPeanut has additional medication to reduce the swelling (steroid) and to reduce the aqueous humor (Cosopt – a combination of a beta-blocker and carbonic anhydrase inhibitor).  I sold Cosopt for Merck for almost ten years so I know that it is a great medication.  The dorzolamide part of it is actually more effective in dogs than humans.  So, now McPeanut is using four eye drops and four oral medications to try to manage his conditions.

Please pray for little McPeanut.  We are hoping for the best – that he responds well to treatment with medication.  We will discuss other options if and when they are necessary.  Keep your paws crossed!

Kelly
Saving one dog won’t change the world, but it will change the world for that one dog!

Update August 17, 2009

Dear WestieMed:

I want to thank you for your help with one of our recent adoptees McPeanut.  He was just the most pitiful little pup when he came to us.  Unfortunately he was the victim of severe neglect, but he had the most wonderful spirit that saved him from being euthanized.  He is just so precious and wonderful to us.  He courageously has battled severe infection, spinal disk narrowing, orthopedic deformity, and eye problems.

Everyone who meets him falls completely in love with him.  As he is going through his various medical procedures, tests, and treatments I have to keep an army of people informed of his progress.  Yes, this little wonder has stolen the hearts of hundreds of people.  He dances and twists and kinda yodel/growls at you when you call his name.  He is just so absolutely awesome and unforgettable!

Tavish McPeanut - WestieMed Recipient May 2009
Tavish McPeanut – WestieMed Recipient

Something I want to tell you all is that I only adopt the sick, elderly, or special needs dogs.  I have some medical problems of my own, and so I have a special place in my heart for the little ones who are suffering with illness or issues no one else wants to deal with.  I keep my dogs for life – theirs or mine – and they are provided for in my will.  “Re-home” is not a word in my vocabulary.  In the two pictures, let me introduce our pack from left to right:  Gabriel (foster), Peanut, Queenie, Badger, and Winston.  Each has health challenges and a story of their own.  Queenie has defied the odds and is 17 1/2 years old – despite being from severe neglect and abuse in a puppy mill for the first five years of her life.  Physically, you can not see any signs of her previous life.  She has been with me for 12 years and is now quite fat and happy.

WestieMed also helped us out with a dog who was given up almost five years ago because he was “defective.”  Winston had extremely thinning hair, dull, lifeless eyes, thin and bony, and was lethargic.  The previous owner’s vet had recommended that they euthanize him.  Well, I could not sit back and let that happen.  I promptly took Winston to my vet who after a thorough check-up recognized, and tested to confirm, that he had a severe pancreatic enzyme deficiency.  This poor dog was not absorbing and benefiting from any nutrients he ingested.  Everything he ate came right back out the other end.

Tavish McPeanut - WestieMed Recipient May 2009
Tavish McPeanut – WestieMed Recipient

With a strict diet and diligently supplementing every meal with additional enzymes, Winston is now thriving.  He just turned six years old and is as vibrant and healthy as can be.  He will always have to be on food that is low in carbs, protein, and fats.  He also will have to continue to use the enzymes every time he eats.  Also, he does have some other digestion issues that require him to be on different medications.  You would never know of his conditions when you meet him.  He is active, friendly, and quite the ambassador to every foster dog who comes to our house.  He is a handsome dog now who has bright, shiny eyes, a beautiful coat, and loves to hunt by sitting on the back of the couch and waiting and watching for the squirrel to try to get to the bird feeder.  The second picture is of him and Twinkie (we lost her in June 08) watching for that darn squirrel.

From the bottom of my heart I want to express my deepest gratitude for the help you have given these two Westies of mine and the many others you help with your organization.  Financially, it can become overwhelming when all of your pets need special care.  I am fortunate to have the time and expertise to give 24 hour care to these pups.  We will continue to care for and love them all until they cross the Rainbow Bridge.  Thank you for helping to off-set some of the lifetime of expenses.  We sincerely appreciate it.

Blessings, Kelly Flanigan Feuling

Update August 26, 2009

I took little Peanut to see Dr. Munger, the veterinary ophthalmologist, today for a recheck of his eyes.  His left eye was of great concern as it had several issues:  glaucoma, iris bombe, uveitis, posterior synechia, pupilo seclusio, and hemorrhaging.  First, the bad news, his left eye will most likely have to be removed.  He had some slight improvement with the iris, synechia, and hemorrhages, but his pressure was still very high, 40, even with diligent use of the medication.  Dr. Munger said he has no vision in the left eye.  His right eye looks good with definite improvement in the uveitis.

I am physically sick over this.  Poor little Peanut has been through the wringer and now this.  I had hoped and prayed he would not lose his eye.  We go back in four weeks, but we would need a miracle between now and then.  He is in good spirits in typical Peanut fashion.  What a wonderful, sweet, spirit.  He has managed and compensated for this very well.

We are not sure just what procedure we will do, but Dr. Munger said if this was his dog he would go for the enucleation (removal of the entire eye) and put in a prosthetic.  I just cannot imagine this at this moment.  We are doing all we can to keep Peanut healthy and pain-free.  Thank you for your continued prayers for little Peanut.

Blessings, Kelly
Saving one dog won’t change the world, but it will change the world for that one dog!

Update September 17, 2009

Tavish McPeanut - WestieMed Recipient May 2009
Tavish McPeanut – WestieMed Recipient

Hello, all of Peanut’s wonderful supporters!  I have to thank all of you for all the love, support, and words of encouragement that you have given us since this little angel joined our family.  We appreciate all of you more than you know.  It has been quite a difficult road for this little guy and we have been very busy lately with the most urgent health issue of trying to save Peanut’s left eye.  I warn you that the pictures are quite graphic at this point in time.  The picture to the left shows how inflamed, enlarged, and hemorrhaged the eye was.  It does not show was what caused the eye to be so damaged.

I have been diligently doing around the clock care this entire last month trying to desperately save this little guy’s eye.  Unfortunately, the diseases were many and had progressed beyond what could be successfully treated.  So, yesterday Dr. Robert Munger at the Animal Ophthalmology Clinic removed Peanut’s left eye.  He was in severe pain and distress due to this condition and this was our only alternative at this point.  The final diagnosis was intractable glaucoma, secondary to uveitis with iris bombe and buphthalmos.  It was treated with enucleation with an orbital implant.  We chose not to have a prosthetic because that was more about aesthetics than what Peanut needed to get along.

I cannot say enough good things about Dr. Munger.  He is an amazing physician as well as a human being.  He lives near us and even offered to bring us medicine if Peanut needed it.  He came highly recommended by Paul Hendon at Westcreek Animal Clinic – and I really respect Dr. Hendon.  I hope none of you need ophthalmic services for any of your pups, but if you do this is the man to see.

Tavish McPeanut - WestieMed Recipient May 2009
Tavish McPeanut – WestieMed Recipient

I want to say a special big “thank you” to WestieMed and to John and Stacy Workman who have generously donated to Peanut’s medical fund.  When he came to us we knew we would have some medical costs and struggles ahead of us, but after you meet this little guy you have to do whatever he needs because he is so special.   All of our dogs are special needs and our veterinary costs have averaged $362 per month for this year.  Mark and I sincerely appreciate the monetary support as it lightens our burden.  We also appreciate all the moral support.  I cannot wait for the Texas Westie Walk (October 24, 2009) so everyone can see a healed and happy Peanut.  Thank you all for your prayers and support!

Blessings, Kelly
Saving one dog won’t change the world, but it did change the world for this one dog!

Update October 3, 2009

I wanted to give you the good and bad news about our little McPeanut.  The bad news is that we had to remove his left eye this past Wednesday, Sept. 16th.  The eye was not responding to treatment.  We were so heartbroken because this little guy has been through so much that we did not want to put him through any more medical procedures.  Dr. Munger told us all we needed to know to make the decision:  McPeanut was in pain and he had no sight in the eye.

The procedure went well.  The eye was sent to the University of Wisconsin for pathology because we wanted to be sure that whatever this was it would not affect his only remaining sighted eye.  The diagnosis was chronic glaucoma secondary to granulomatous and lymphoplasmacytic endophthalmitis and retinitis (no cause was found), posterior synechiae and iris bombe, retinal detachment (extensive) optic nerve hemorrhage, and a break in Descemet’s membrane with retrocorneal membrane formation.  It sounds horrible and scary, and it is, but that is now over.  We will closely monitor his right eye to make sure that this is an isolated event.

The good news is he is back to the spunky little sweetie that steals hearts!  It took him a couple of days to recover from the surgery – it was pretty major.  The biggest challenge, as you all know, is keeping a Westie “quiet”!  I just love it when vets tell you to keep them calm.  Good luck.  I felt like the mean school teacher constantly stopping him from playing with all the other boys.  We have a poodle right now and he is exactly McPeanut’s size and energy level – oh someone help me!

So, we had our two weeks follow up at Dr. Munger’s Wednesday, Sept. 30th and McPeanut is now “coneless” and thriving. He is running the backyard again and giving the other boys a run for their money.  Just so you know, Queenie (our 17½ yr old) just sits with me and watches all the foolishness going on. We are truly living in one continuous YouTube video!  I wish I was better with technology because we have some absolutely hilarious moments as you can imagine.

Thank you all for your prayers and support.  It means the world to us and, of course, to little McPeanut!  If you are coming to Westie Walk (in Texas October 24, 2009) he would love to give you a big personal thank you!

Blessings, Kelly
Saving one dog won’t change the world, but it did change the world for this one dog!

Update April 15, 2010

Tavish McPeanut - WestieMed Recipient May 2009
Tavish McPeanut – WestieMed Recipient

McPeanut did remarkably well after surgery and surprised all of us.  His entire body is all healed up and he spends his days laying in the sun, barking at everything that moves, chases and plays with the other Westies, then eats and sleeps then does it all over again.  We love it!

We had to put McPeanut back on some eye drops to ensure his good eye (right side) stayed healthy.  Other than that, he is great.  He has a thick, luxurious coat, gained weight, and is very athletic.

It is quite difficult to catch him being still enough to photograph!  McPeanut is such a good dog and gets along so well with everyone else.  He has a new playmate, Stubbs, who came from an eerily similar situation.  Stubbs is just now getting his hair and energy back.  In the picture below you can see McPeanut stalking and playing with Stubbs.  We have a little window in our fence so all the dogs can see what is going on in the street and sidewalk and McPeanut loves to look out and bark just like everyone else.  He is as active and sweet as ever.

I am still stunned at the progress he has made and continues to make.  We cannot thank you enough for helping out with his expenses.  We only take in Westies that are sick and/or special needs.  Every one of our dogs has health issues, but we are blessed with the best vets ever.  Dr. Hendon actually has Westies himself so he is amazing with our pack.  He also understands when I bring all of them in at the same time because everyone always seems to need something.   Westcreek Animal Clinic spoils and loves them all like they were their own.  We thank you so very much for your kindness and generosity!

Tavish McPeanut - WestieMed Recipient May 2009
Tavish McPeanut – WestieMed Recipient

Mark and Kelly Feuling Westie Rescue

Bailey - WestieMed Recipient April 2009

Bailey

Bailey was an owner release from a family of Pearl City, NY to Westie Rescue of NY.  Bailey is eleven years old.  When his previous owner contacted us, we were told that Bailey had some “skin issues”. They let me know that they tried to help him, but he needed more time and attention that they were able to give him because they have three small children.  We were sent a few photos, which we later found out were about nine months old.  Upon contact with their Vet, we found out that Bailey had always had skin issues that were addressed sporadically.  It seems that they took him into the vet, but didn’t always follow through on treatments.  It was the Vet’s opinion that Bailey desperately needed treatment and follow through.  We agreed to take Bailey in and deal with all his issues.

Through the great generosity of the volunteers of Westie Rescue of NY, we were able to coordinate transportation across NY state from Pearl River, just outside NYC to Rochester, NY, approximately 325 miles away.  Upon meeting Bailey for the first time, my heart broke.  This Westie had the worse skin condition I had ever seen.  His left eye was almost completely sealed shut.  Just to the left of his mouth a large sore broke through his fur.  His underbelly was completely black with very tough skin.  But, through all this Bailey was a sweet boy.  The lady who transported Bailey let me know he was very good during the whole trip.

Bailey arrived in Rochester, NY on a Sunday.  The next day I made an urgent call to our Vet and was able to secure a late afternoon appointment.  Bailey was diagnosed with an eye infection, chronic Dry Eye, UTI, Malassezia and skin lichenification.

Bailey was put on Clavamox for his infections, for his eyes he was prescribed Mycitracin Ointment and Optimmune Ointment and he was to be bathed with Malaseb shampoo on a regular basis

It’s been over a month since Bailey has been with us.  The sore next to his mouth is gone, his eye infection is gone, although he will have to have Optimmune Ointment administered to his eye twice a day for the rest of his life.  His skin has greatly improved, although I have been told that he will always have skin issues.  We are committed to seeing everything through.  On his next Vet appointment, we hope to find out his UTI has completely cleared up.

We will be updating again soon.
Gloria Mueller, President, Westie Rescue of NY

Webster - WestieMed Recipient April 2009

Webster

I write a column for our local newspaper, the Columbia Daily Tribune.  Here is the story of Webster, our little Westie boy currently living at Happy Tails Animal Sanctuary, Columbia, MO.

Several weeks ago, Happy Tails assisted in the rescue of thirty-five West Highland white terriers from a puppy mill. Some dogs were placed in the Kansas City area; we took some dogs; some went to St. Louis, and others went on to rescues in Chicago. It’s so distressing to me to know that these wonderful animals live their whole lives in cages with no social or human interaction.

I met the transport group out on Interstate 70, and as we loaded up our rescues, I noticed there was a little Westie puppy on the front seat. He was only a few pounds and not in the best shape. The rescue group told me when they picked up the original 35 dogs, the breeder wanted “to get rid” of this pup, also. They had already arranged placements for the others but weren’t sure where this sickly pup would go. I scooped him up and away we went along with the other dogs in the car. This is the story of Webster.

He was about two and a half pounds with all sorts of health issues. Most noticeable was a severe breathing issue. He had no hair on his feet and legs or underneath his stomach because of standing in unsanitary conditions since birth. He fit in the palm of your hand.

We treated him for several weeks with little improvement for the breathing problem, so we decided to visit the University of Missouri School of Veterinary Medicine for further tests and consultation. It was determined that he has a congenital disorder called choanal atresia. Basically, what this means is he has a structural abnormality in this nasal passages that does not allow much air to flow through his nostrils. His breathing is labored, and it makes me nervous when he overexerts himself and can’t catch his breath.

Although most of his other health concerns have been cleared up, his breathing problem remains at the forefront. Because this is a fairly rare condition, not many veterinary schools in the United States perform any corrective procedures. We will most likely be working with a veterinary school located out of state and must raise the necessary funds to pay for the procedure. Webster has been a fighter since he arrived, and we will not give up on him. We have made a commitment to him to make his life better.

He will need to grow a bit more before any procedure can be undertaken for the reconstructive surgery. In the meantime, we will nurture and watch him. Care and love him. Comfort and heal him. People sometimes ask me why we put forth so much effort as “it’s only a dog.”

I’m reminded of a tale about a man who is walking on a beach and sees lots of stranded starfish and a boy throwing one back in the ocean. The man asks what difference that makes, and the boy answers, “It makes a difference to the one I threw back.”

Webster deserves this chance for a happy, normal life. Happy Tails will give him that chance.

I will be sharing “Webster Updates” in my columns as he progresses through his surgery, treatments, and recuperation. This is where we are to date…After further consultation with the two out-of-state vet schools we are working with, we have learned that Webster’s condition is more challenging than originally thought.  In most of these cases, it’s usually the tissue mass that blocks the way for breathing.  In Webster’s case, it is thick bone.  They will need to perform an additional surgical procedure prior to stent placement.  We are continuing to fundraise to help with his expenses as, with this news, the cost estimate has risen.  Thanks to those who have already given to help with his care.  Webster is not giving up – neither are we.

Susan Hatfield
Susan Hatfield is the president and co-founder of Happy Tails Animal Sanctuary. 

Update October 1, 2009

Webster ran into severe complications and he went to the Rainbow Bridge about two months ago. It was devastating for our program and for me personally.

Because his condition was so rare we are hoping that the vets who worked with him gained knowledge that they can use on other dogs that come after him with this rare condition.

Thanks for helping and giving him additional “lifetime” that was very precious to me, my family and the individuals in our program.

Susan Hatfield/Happy Tails

Zero - WestieMed Recipient March 2009

Zero

A young lady that worked in a pet store at the local mall had gone into the restaurant that a friend of mine worked in and asked her if she wanted or knew of someone who wanted a free puppy. She text messaged her mom and it so happened that I was over and she asked me if I was interested in a free puppy. Well at first I was hesitant in saying yes because first off a puppy is a lot of work and also my thoughts were “what’s wrong with him”? Fifteen minutes later she texts again saying it’s a West Highland Terrier…still with some doubt I said to tell her I want him but first to ask the girl what was wrong with him. Her reply was that he had a low immune system and that he was kept in the back away from the other puppies and that’s why they couldn’t sell him.  So I figured ok a low immune system that’s something simple that can be taken care of.

When he came home with her that night he was interested in all of us but still not too sure. The little guy had a crusty nose and smelled. As he sat there taking in his new surroundings he started coughing this retched cough. And when I held him to comfort him I could hear he was wheezy. Right away I felt bad for this little guy and I was glad that I had taken him in and was going to love him. That night at home I decided to name him after a character in one of my favorite movies, The Nightmare Before Christmas, I figured Zero was a perfect name for a Westie.

The next day at the vet I told him the story of how they were giving him for free and how they told me he just had a low immune system. To make a long story short turned out the Zero more than likely came from a puppy mill, had surgery to fix his hernia and at the same time, he was neutered. The “low immune system” turned out to be two ear infections, which one ear was already yeasty, and the cough was already turning into pneumonia. Zero was treated with two different types of antibiotics and an ear ointment plus an ear wash every other day. While Zero was on the antibiotics his cough did settle down.

About two weeks had passed when one early morning he started up again and the runny crusty nose and the coughing at this point were back full force again. I took him back to the vet as soon as they opened. Turned out that Zero’s bronchitis was back and he was going to need a treatment that I wasn’t able to afford, so the vet gave us the option of putting him back on a stronger dose of antibiotics for seventeen days with weekly check-ups. The vet did say that if the cough came back I had no other choice but to do the recommended treatment for his lungs to get rid of the cough.  And two weeks later his cough was back again with the snotty crusty nose.  He was not able to run around like he does because starts to cough and at times causing him to throw up and depending on how he feels his breathing at night is very rapid.

I have only had Zero for a short time but during this short time he stolen my heart and I would be devastated if anything were to happen to him. That is why I am very thankful and blessed that I came across the wonderful people at WestieMed! Because of them, Zero will soon be able to sleep well at night and run around like I know he wants to without the need to stop because of a coughing spell.

Update June 25, 2009

Zero - WestieMed Recipient March 2009
Zero – WestieMed Recipient

I just wanted to update you on Zero. Zero had his treatment the very next day we receive the check in the mail. The lab results had revealed that he had a really bad case of kennel cough and his vet prescribed a much stronger dose of antibiotics to clear him up of the infection.

Well, the antibiotics helped Zero while he was on them but once he was done with the medication his pesky cough came back along with the snotty nose. So Zero is taking antibiotics almost every day to keep the infection from getting worse.

His Vet said the next step is taking him to a specialist (which I know it is going to cost me money I don’t have) because it seems that his respiratory system isn’t functioning properly by “filtering” out the icky stuff he breaths in. He fears that it could possibly be the death of such a good pup like him. But Zero doesn’t let this bring him down! He still loves going out for walks to the dog park and play fetch or just crawl into my lap for a quick nap.

I want to thank you again for the help!
Ana & Zero

Update October 8, 2009

Zero - WestieMed Recipient March 2009
Zero – WestieMed Recipient

Zero still, of course, has his cough, but that will always be part of him. He currently is on a two week round of antibiotics since the weather change has had a little effect on him and just to be safe we decided to put him on antibiotics.

This time he went three months without any medications, thanks to his vet’s suggestion of giving him a children’s chewable vitamin C tablet every day to see if it helped to strengthen his immune system and it has helped him extremely!

We will keep you posted on his well being in a couple of weeks once he’s done with his antibiotics.

Meanwhile, enjoy a picture of him on his first birthday! What a milestone for him considering how he was when I first got him!

Thanks once again to you guys!!!
Ana

Update July 10, 2010

Zero - WestieMed Recipient March 2009
Zero – WestieMed Recipient

I just wanted to let you know Zero is doing great!

He had his second comprehensive vet exam a few months back and the vet said he was great!

Of course, he still has his little cough but that makes him special! He hasn’t had a need for a round of medication, so that’s good.

For now, here’s a picture of him getting out if the bath.

And we will be celebrating his second birthday next month, yay!!

Thanks!
Ana and Zero

Tavish McPeAllie - WestieMed Recipient March 2009

Allie

March 16th started out like any other day.  Woke up, let the Beagle man out, made coffee, checked email – Subject caught my eye: WHO CAN CARE FOR ME? I’VE BEEN ABANDONED!!! – I had to read on….

 ‘… as people struggle in this difficult economy, it is often our loyal and loving animal companions who suffer the most. This sweet little girl was found abandoned on a blanket, in a park in Framingham day-before-yesterday. The dog officer surmised she had been there all night, in the 19 degrees cold and rain. She is a sweet young dog who, as you can see, has a skin condition. She has had three skin scrapings to test for mites and they were all negative, however, the results of the tests confirmed a yeast infection.  If no home or foster can be located for her, she is scheduled to be euthanized this coming week.”

LOOK at that face! I was smitten!  When I arrived at the Framingham Animal Control office that day, she was standing in the back of the large concrete kennel — she had no hair, her skin was red, full of sores and lesions, her nails were long and curled, and HOW, HOW could a small dog smell so terrible?  The Officer walked her out to my car – every three to four steps she would stop to pee — what was wrong?  To be honest, I was wondering if she would make it at all… she was bleeding.  Off to the most amazing Vet in MA – Dr. Holly Kelsey – her techs took this little one from my arms, washed her and soon after the Dr. started the examination, blood work, urine cultures, skin scrapings, x-rays, etc.  Beenie was so agreeable.  She was, no doubt, in pain yet not one growl, bite, or flinch.  She had just surrendered.

Results: yeast infection, allergies, skin infections, bladder infection, ear infection, anemic, underweight, and the worst was the X-ray showed a bladder full of large stones.  Stones that were too large to dissolve or pass; surgery was needed immediately.  (I started to panic)  I want to help, but how can I do this?  What is going to happen to her?  I can’t afford a $1,400. surgery…  I wanted to cry. I thanked the Dr. and I took Beenie home.  That evening she curled up on my lap on a towel and slept – I could feel the weight of her little tired body.  For the next three hours, I made phone calls and emailed and I learned of WestieMed – and soon of ‘Bette’ – wonderful, unbelievable – with their support and this little girl’s determination, I thought pffft…she’s going to MAKE it!

After surgery, staples, antibiotics, allergy medication, special food, ear drops, medicated baths, up-all-night peeing, diarrhea, vomiting, etc… I can say that seven weeks later…

Tavish McPeAllie - WestieMed Recipient March 2009
Tavish McPeAllie – WestieMed Recipient

She’s the boss!  She’s my little CEO. (True to this breed I’m told)  She talks a lot, and she’s quite the conversationalist, she has opinions on EVERYTHING! She’s definitely a ham and a camera hog, but the best thing is her spirit. She is just so happy to be alive that it shows in her face every minute of every day.

I would have expected her spirit to be broken, or fearful of people, or overly aggressive. I mean, I would have more issues than The Reader’s Digest if I’d been in pain for that long.  If you could translate her ‘Beenie-speak’, I would bet she says “LOOK, I’M SMILING!  I HAVE SO MUCH TO DO TODAY! I LOVE MY FRIENDS, BROTHER, MOM, NEIGHBOR, MY FENCE DOG FRIEND JOYCE, PETCO, BELLY RUBS, PARK, CHICKEN, BALLS, EAR SCRATCHES, NURSING MY STUFFED MOUSE TOY, CHASING, RUNNING…’ She stole my heart from the very first time I met her!

She’s gained plenty of weight (because her Mommy is definitely qualified to fatten up a dog!) and now I can’t feel her ribs or backbone anymore. Her skin is healed and soft, her fur is completely back thick, shiny, soft and full.

We could all take a lesson from Ms. Beenie – happiness is a choice, a state of mind, not the result of your current circumstances. She’s made it!!   Lucky me.  My little Been Bag today! twelve pounds!

Crystal

Tavish McPeAllie - WestieMed Recipient March 2009
Tavish McPeAllie – WestieMed Recipient

Update September 22, 2009

Allie is my heart!

She has a chronic urinary problem, but we address this every day with antibiotics (two pills a day), and one allergy pill every other day, with a side of prayer that bladder stones do not form again.  She sleeps in bed on a towel and she knows just where to go when she’s allowed up.  Of course, the towel is right on the passenger side of the bed at the pillow for comfort. 🙂

She looks extra cute these days and super feisty with the weather change.

Kind regards,
Crystal

Update February 22, 2010

Allie’s SUPER!

She has had no further problems.  At all. Nothing. Not one thing.  No bad urine samples, no stones, no allergies, etc…  She’s on a daily regime of one chewable vitamin C, bottled water, and WD Chicken crunchies.  She snacks on carrots, apples, cucumbers, and the occasional biscuit.

She’s as healthy and happy as could be.

She’s the most determined little girl ever… sometimes I get frustrated and then I look at her (and I say this out loud), ”I LOVE THAT ABOUT YOU”… she wags her tail….

Little girls are made of sugar and spice, mine has spirit and moxie…. I LOVE HER

Thank you WestieMed…

Kind regards,
Crystal and Allie

Hope - WestieMed Recipient March 2009

Hope (Now Bonnie)

From Elizabeth Pierce:

Hope came in to rescue on March 6th, 2009 from a puppy Mill release located 3 hours North of Montreal.

She arrived together with another female Westie and 57 various breed dogs, when she arrived she was still a lactating Mom I am told by the inspector that she had her litter taken away from her and that however hard the SPCA inspector tried to plead with the puppy miller, she would not release her puppies, she planned on force feeding them to plump them up and then sell them to a pet store, poor little Hope, we placed her in our ICU room and had the veterinarian administer her medication to dry her milk up, she sat there in total shock in the back of her cage and would not eat or drink volunteers took her out and cuddled her.

CWHWTC president Monique Courtois was called immediately to see if she could take both the Westie rescues without any hesitation she informed me she would come and get them ASAP.

Hope has since had surgery to remove large stones in her bladder and have dental work done to improve her health conditions and is awaiting a new forever home.

From Monique Courtois:

When I first saw Hope on March 7th in the early afternoon, she was crouched in the back of a crate, in shock, not daring to move, shy and afraid of us and of any human contact. She was thought to be about 2 to 5 years old.

Her hair had never been cut and was matted with feces, urine, whelping matters. Her mammary glands were full of milk. Her teeth were in horrible condition: they were crusted with thick tartar and the root of one molar was exposed because of severe periodontitis despite her age.

She smelled so bad that it was unbearable. Because her nails had never been trimmed, her feet were splashed and she could hardly walk. The toenails dug into her skin. She was too much in shock to be groomed the first day, so she was left to rest, given water and moist and appetizing food over some kibble to entice her to eat. She refused it the first night after her arrival, but the next morning accepted to do so. This is when she was groomed for probably the first time in her life. The hair was so bad, tinted and burnt with urine, that she had to be clipped to about ½ inch long. She was then washed with soft soap and dried. Throughout all this, she stood still, patient and grateful, still trusting us despite the terrible conditions she had been kept in.

She had 2 luxated patellas for which the vet didn’t recommend corrective surgery at the moment.

The worse was that she was peeing blood every five minutes. She was in obvious pain and made efforts to urinate a few drops at a time. The vet at the SPCA wasn’t sure whether this was due to a mass in her abdomen (tumor?) so she was taken to a vet hospital where a clinical exam and x-rays show 2 large stones the size of small prunes in her bladder. She was scheduled for surgery (cystotomy) in a week and given antibiotics and some medication to reduce the inflammation. The vet preferred to wait until the antibiotics were effective to operate to reduce the risk of contagion to the abdomen during surgery.

Hope - WestieMed Recipient March 2009
Hope – WestieMed Recipient

After a few days of rest in a calm environment with classical music and with frequent but short positive interaction and social contact, she began to respond by slowly approaching us by herself instead of hiding in corners.

On March 11th, she had her surgery: teeth cleaning and tooth extraction, cystotomy and spaying. She received new antibiotics and some more anti-inflammatory medication. She will have to be on a special diet all her life to prevent the reoccurrence of stones in her bladder.

She came back to her foster home on March 13th. Free from pain for the first time in months, Hope was a completely different bitch. She could now pee normally, without pain, and she showed her contentment and her relief by happily greeting me each time she saw me, standing on her back legs to be petted and licking my hands. She is starting to learn how to walk on a leash, and is now ready to have a loving forever home.

Update September 26, 2009: Hope is now named Bonnie.

Bonnie (formerly Hope) is doing wonderful.  She went to the groomer a couple of days ago and looks so beautiful.  Her Dad just came back from the doggy nutritionist and the nutritionist says that Bonnie has to lose a few pounds. She’s a little on the pudgy side.  She’s had to have her food and treats cut back because she tends to pack on the weight.

Hope - WestieMed Recipient March 2009
Hope – WestieMed Recipient

Bonnie now has a big fenced yard to play in and goes out for regular walks. Bonnie walks really well on the leash.  She still has some shyness issues and doesn’t like to be away from Dad when she is in new areas and with strangers. She tends to be very clingy with Dad in such situations. With time, hopefully, Bonnie will forget her previous life at the puppy mill and feel more confident.

She truly is one of the most beautiful looking and best tempered Westies Dad has ever had.  Bonnie was very fortunate in that her owner adopted two Westies from the same puppy mill.  The other one, Braiden, is about a year old now and the two are good company for each other.  Here they are shown with their Dad (Bonnie in pink and Braiden in Blue).

Brigitte Dimock

Update March 4, 2010

Just a little email to let you know that Bonnie Bundle and Brady Bundle are doing very well. Today is March 4th and yesterday was Bonnie’s seventh birthday. A year ago Bonnie spent her 6th birthday at a puppy mill in Quebec. Unlike her 6th birthday, this year Bonnie had a wonderful day. Both she and Brady got a nice long soapy bath the night before so that they were fresh and clean for Bonnie’s big day. After their baths they got towel-dried and blown dry and brushed. Brady isn’t a big fan of baths but Bonnie is an angel. She loves human contact even if it is kisses while getting her bath. On her birthday we went for Bonnie and Brady’s favorite activity – Walkie Walkie. When we got back after lunch they both enjoyed some nice white mozzarella cheese for a snack b4 resting for a while with their Dad and cuddling and getting lots of cuddles, loving and kisses. Because it was Bonnie`s first birthday out of the puppy mill we celebrated with a bbq. Brady, Bonnie, and their Dad had a beautiful beef tenderloin each. Bonnie and Brady had theirs done blue rare, just the way they like it. Both little munchkins appreciated having Dad cut up their steak in very small pieces for them. For dessert, they both had some fresh baby carrots and organic plain yogurt (Bonnie`s favorite dessert). After an hour or so we had a bit of nightly fun time with ‘Ballie’. Brady is a bigger fan of playing ball than Bonnie, however. Bonnie does play a little by herself with the ball, She is so cute to watch playing with the ball. She always seems so amazed at how the ball rolls when she pokes it with her nose. Bonnie continues to come out of her shell, a bit every day. Brady doesn’t know what shell means, he’s such an outgoing little Westie and so full of self-confidence.

Bonnie and Brady continue to exhibit lots of signs of happy healthy little Westies. Carolanne, their canine nutritionist, continues to be very pleased with their weight, health, and socialization. This weekend is my weekend off and Bonnie and Brady and their Dad are going to visit Bonnie and Brady’s nanny and poppy. That’s always good for a few extra treats for them. I haven’t taken any new pictures of them in a while but will try to get some in the next few weeks. Will forward them when I get them.

Hoping this email finds you and all your Westie Bundles healthy and happy as we are.

We remain eternally grateful for helping us find each other.

Bonnie Bundle, Brady Bundle, and their Dad…Des.

Dolly - WestieMed Recipient February 2009

Dolly

Four-year-old spay female.  I received a request to surrender from the owner in May 2008, however, they changed their mind.    I asked them to please surrender her over to me when they called before her operation would be more costly the longer they waited.  They wanted to try other options, changed dog food, and so forth.   I tried to keep in touch, alas it was a cell phone and the calls went unanswered.   Nine months later a four to five-old female showed up in Tacoma Shelter as stray on the street.  (aka the name Tacoma Dolly)  I am certain that this is the same dog as the odds of two dogs, same age, same tumors, same-sex, and same geographic location are probably impossible.   In our state, the Humane Society and Shelters charge you $75 to dump your pet.  If it is found as a stray then there is no charge.   Since the people who FOUND Dolly said they had taken it to Banfield vet for an estimate, and since I know the previous owners had taken her to Banfield vet for surgery and that was the same vet the owners told me they went to.   It is the same dog hands down.

Dolly - WestieMed Recipient February 2009
Dolly – WestieMed Recipient

As you can see from the tumors she has a severe calcification of tumors in both ears and which are also coming out the back of her ears.   After speaking to four Veterinarians and understanding the surgical skill of the procedure, we have found a specialist for this operation (see description of the procedure below).  Four Vets in two separate clinics agreed that Dr. EB is the best to do this operation and he ironically was the cheapest.   We are also getting a discount from the clinic.

Diagnosis:  Dolly has had chronic ear infections and underlying Malassezia.  The chronic ear infection was not kept in check and this is the outcome.  Otitis Externa.  This disease is mostly seen in floppy-eared dogs like cockers, and such.

These are tumors that have calcified.  You cannot un-calcify tumors so no amount of antibiotics or medicine will make them go away.   Alas, we are very far past the simple solution for recovery.  The middle ear has built up an infection and has now burst through the inner ear canals and is seeping pus.  The calcification of the tumors are the consistency of stone.

My primary vet explained this operation in layman’s terms for me.  Since she gives me a discount on surgery –  I asked if she could perform this operation.  She said it is a very specialized operation and you must have an experienced surgeon to perform this procedure.  Ironically there are only four in the Seattle area, and one who works out of both the Clinics I use for my rescues!

Procedure: Splay/cut open the ears and work off a CT scan or an X-ray to see how deep the tumors go (as she now has them jutting out the back of her ears)

Remove the outer tumors (which have calcified into rocks) and lay open the ear and remove the inner ear canals  (I believe the middle and inner are also scaled/removed) which the infection and tumors grow out of.    Go deeper into the eardrum and microscopically shear layers of the skin off the eardrum slowly so you can make sure it forms scar tissue and nothing can grow on it and no bacteria can ever form on it/in it? .. then they come back out.  The inner canal is now gone… which has produced all the poison/toxin of this disease, and they sew it up.   The dog has loss of hearing but can hear muffled sounds

She will be at the vet for three to four more days after surgery due to the pain of this surgery and she will be heavily medicated.   She will be released into foster care, and come back in fourteen days for suture removal and then have a six-week recovery.

She also suffers from a bad immune system, and she is being treated for and of course Malassezia and she is on antibiotics.   Dolly also needs dental care and has some bad teeth but we have rescue funds to cover that.

I have never in my life seen anything this gruesome and Dolly is in a lot of pain, but she is a very happy and sweet dog, is great with kids and other dogs even in this pain.    She is fifteen pounds.   She is happy and cheerful and pleasant and will make someone a fabulous dog.   We are grateful to have you as our safety net and guardian angels.   Sometimes in life, you are our only way out of a situation when we are pinned against the wall for funds.

Karin Parish, Rescue Coordinator Seattle Purebred Dog Rescue, Westies Westie Club of America, Rescue Rep for WA/OR/ID Westie Rescue USA Rep for OR/WA/ID

Update April 13, 2009

Dolly is doing well after surgery.  Her ears are healed and she can hear – not clearly but she can hear!  We are waiting a bit longer and then going to have her dental work done.  Then she will be ready for adoption.

Karin Parish

Update May 26, 2009

Dear Dolly Supporters:

Before you check out the photos….

My question was  … are you going to keep her?   …. and the answer was “what do you think?”

WELL, she finally got adopted but my gosh have we had more setbacks with this little girl. Our little tumor girl.

To date, she has cost me at least $3700 with one trip to the ER… (However, we had the funds to cover it with the two grants and money raised by donors)  … And she had her dental done, and her ear on one side never was cleared up  (which we weren’t too sure of).

However, after she was adopted, her other ear became infected again and the new owners had to take her back into the vet… Lo and behold if she didn’t have estrus.. and go into heat!  There is no hum-drum in the life of Westie Rescue!

Two vets told us she was spayed.   Apparently it was a c-section scar!   Poor Dolly is like the “never-ending story”.

She is getting spayed in a month, and she is back on antibiotics, and the new owners adore her.   Here are their latest photos of her.  Her new owners will be RV-ing around the country and she will be a copilot. I do believe she has her driver’s permit as we speak.   Since her recovery, she has a stellar coat and no allergies to speak of.

Before you check out the photos…

My question was … are you going to keep her?   …. and the answer was “what do you think?”

Look at the photos.

Enjoy!

Thank you again for all your support… hope to see you at the Westie Walk on June 27th.

Karin Parish 
Westie Rescue Rep (OR/WA/ID) 
Scottie Rescue Rep (Seattle)