Mac first came into our rescue network in January 2000 as a five-year-old owner- surrendered Westie. The family had adopted him in 1999 from the local shelter where he had been dumped by a former family due to snapping at a child who withheld a treat. The second family had him for a year, during which Mac developed aggression toward the husband, and also some allergy issues. That family surrendered him to me in January 2000. Mac settled in with me and my other rescues.
In Feb. 2000 I was contacted by a retired woman who was ready to adopt again after losing her previous westie in 1999 due to old age. She was given Mac’s history and was willing to give him a try, since she was a widow with only an adult son who came by infrequently. She felt she could deal with Mac’s allergies since her former Westie also had allergies.
Over the ensuing years, Mac continued to have allergies, especially ear infections, one right after another, which his loving adopter treated as best she could with the country doctors she had access to. Mac was even taken to Texas A & M for ear scoping and underwent two major surgeries to clear out the ear canal of infections and blockages during 2004.
But the problems have persisted, although only in one ear. The last surgery was abruptly ended when the vet encountered a “bleeder” and could not get beyond the blockage. It was recommended that Mac undergo a complete ear canal ablation, which meant removing the ear canal, and the tympanic membrane, and closing the ear completely so no further contamination or buildup of fluid would occur. The cost of the proposed surgery was far more than Mac’s adopter felt she could handle, so she contacted Westie Rescue/Austin and surrendered Mac back into our rescue program.
Mac is otherwise a healthy, affectionate 10-year-old Westie gentleman. While in the care of his surrendering owner, he got over his fear of men and became a curious, outgoing Westie again. Mac gets along great with the other rescues we currently are sheltering, although I can tell he misses his “Mommy” as he looks at the door she departed from.
On 10/21/2005, Mac’s ablation surgery was performed, and he is recovering nicely. He looks a bit funny with his one side all shaved, but hey, he’s cool with it! He did not like the E-collar but stoically endured it while his ear recovered. Mac and I are grateful to WestieMed for their assistance. The surgery did cost quite a bit, more than we normally can handle with our rescued Westies, but WestieMed came through to help this loving and affectionate Westie, who has been through a lot of changes over his life. He is now ready to settle down once and for all times in a final, loving home of his own.
Thank you so very much, Barbara Ott Westie Rescue/Austin, TX
Breezey and Woody are seven-month-old siblings Westies. Born in a puppy mill, they are from a litter of four …all of which were very sickly. Breezey and Woody are the only two that survived but have remained sickly since their birth. Of course, sickly puppies do not sell, and veterinarians cost a lot of money. Inasmuch as the breeder could not sell sick puppies and did not want to pay the vet costs needed to help them, the pups were released to rescue.
Breezey and Woody are tiny…less than half the size they should be at this age. Both suffer from stunted growth, respiratory disease, conjunctival discharge, a degree of lethargy and depression, anemia, marked leukocytosis (inflammation), mildly elevated serum globulins, and nucleated red blood cells.
Test after test after test has all come back negative for what could be causing their illness. Distemper, toxoplasmosis, Ehrlichia…all negative. No vomiting, diarrhea, or urination problems. No evidence of liver shunts.
It is possible that they could have been exposed to some sort of toxins early in their life. It is also possible that the combined effects of drastic malnutrition and some prior viral illness and possibly the use of steroids early in life could have caused these problems. Their symptoms best toxoplasmosis or similar type of organism…but so far, the things for which there are tests have all come back negative. There are disorders for which there are not adequate tests, such as sorcocystis. They are currently living at the hospital and being treated with antibiotics and vitamin supplements. They have good days and bad days. It is very frustrating.
These pups have fought to live for this long. They have a will to live, and we want to give them every chance possible to recover. The pups are still very ill, and more testing may be necessary to continue to try to determine a cause. We simply do not have the funds to continue medical care for these pups as it is costing a small fortune…and the vet bill is growing every day they remain at the hospital. Without question, if WestieMed had not agreed to help, these pups would not be alive today.
We are very grateful to WestieMed for enabling us to give these pups a chance at a healthy life. We also appreciate the public’s response upon hearing about the pups’ struggle to live. If anyone would like to help us help Breezey and Woody, please consider making a monetary contribution to WestieMed. WestieMed is Wonderful!
Thank you WestieMed and your supporters – From all of us at Westie Rescue of Greater Washington (D.C).
Update, September 25, 2005:
It is with great sadness that we share the news that Breezey passed away. Please keep Woody in your thoughts and prayers as he is still fighting for his life.
Update, September 30, 2005:
Sadly, Woody has joined his sister Breezey at the Rainbow Bridge.
We’d like to thank everyone at the Greater Annapolis Veterinary Hospital and the University of Pennsylvania Veterinary Hospital for all of their efforts to save Breezey and Woody. We’d especially like to thank Veterinarian Dr. Daher and Vet Assistant Wendy Opel for their tireless efforts and personal commitment to the pups; and to WestieMed, without whose assistance the top-notch veterinary care would not have been possible.
And to everyone who donated toward Breezey and Woody’s vet bills, thank you from the bottom of our hearts. We certainly encourage you to continue to support the efforts of WestieMed. WestieMed’s commitment to helping the most seriously ill rescue Westies may one day benefit the entire Westie community; for someday, treatment may be found for something which otherwise would have necessitated a Westie being euthanized because it would otherwise be too cost-prohibitive to diagnose and/or treat.
Rest in peace sweet Breezey and Woody….’till we meet again…
Misty is eight years old and was owner surrendered to Westie Rescue/Austin when her former family felt they could no longer deal with her medical needs since she is an Addison’s disease dog. She was not receiving her medication on a regular basis and would “crash” before they remembered to get her back to her vet for her next shot. The costs of her shots were more than they wanted to absorb, too.
So the family contacted Laura in Shreveport (Louisiana Westie Rescue) asking for help. Laura was full, so she put out a request for a new rescue/foster home for Misty and the Austin, Texas, Westie Rescue program had space for Misty and a foster home that already has another Addison’s Disease Westie!! Misty had the perfect foster home just waiting for her.
A transport network of eight volunteers brought Misty from New Orleans, on Saturday, the 27th of August, just ahead of the arrival of Hurricane Katrina, to her new foster home in Austin, Texas. Misty arrived weary but ready for her new adventure.
Westie Rescue/Austin turned to WestieMed for help and assistance with Misty’s medical situation, and WestieMed has been wonderful to underwrite Misty’s health care as she is being treated and monitored for a stabilizing condition. Misty’s prognosis is positive.
Misty has now been evaluated by her new vet and is on a regular maintenance regime that will keep her at her peak of energy. Misty and her new foster sister, Nessie, are having the times of their lives playing together, under the watchful eye of Nessie’s mom, Linda. Soon Misty will be ready for a new forever home.
Update, March 2006:
Dear WestieMed,
I wanted to give you an update on Misty. I adopted her and she is doing great!! She adapted instantly to her new name, Christie.
Christie’s new Vet insisted on examining her the first day here and planned Addison’s treatment and appointments. Before Christie got her first scheduled shot, she began to crash and was rushed to the Vet. They acquired the Percorten injection from an emergency clinic and monitored her all day. Since October, Christie has been successfully treated for serious bladder and ear infections, cysts on her head, and Addison’s disease is under control. The Vet calls me regularly to remind me of appointments and just to check to see that all is well. The Vet’s being so talented, thorough, caring, and five minutes away has been the best I could hope for my new girl!! They have also given me a discount on Christie’s treatment because she was a Katrina dog.
As her medical condition has improved, Christie has become more and more playful, affectionate, and beautiful- her hair is thicker, softer, and whiter. And Christie is closer with my other three dogs- her two Westie sisters, Gracie and Maggie, and brother Nicholas. As of March 1st, Christie is very happy and loved!!!
Thank you so much, WestieMed and all of the people that came through for this wonderful girl!!!
Anne-Marie
Update March 13, 2011:
I adopted Misty in 2005 after her rescue from New Orleans and WestieMed’s care. Very, very sadly my Christie (Misty) died in December. I am grateful for the time that I had with her. She was very special and handled her Addisons, ACL surgery, cancer, and other medical problems with the best attitude and gave back every day. Thanks again for the care you gave her before I adopted her.
We had a wonderful Westie girl named Kelsey for fifteen years. When she died we explored the idea of a rescue dog. We applied for a couple of dogs through Westie Rescue Missouri but did not hear anything. We eventually got another girl (Dixie) from a breeder.
Just after Dixie had her first birthday, WRM contacted us with the news that there was a three-year-old male named Tucker ready for adoption. His original owner died and he was placed with a shelter. The shelter then adopted him to a family with two small children. Well, we know what happens with Westies and small children… yes he bit them and he was surrendered to Westie Rescue Missouri. WRM placed him in a foster home. On the 4th of July weekend, we arranged to meet the foster family halfway and brought Tucker home.
Tucker was very quiet and slept most of the way home. Upon arrival home, he took an immediate dislike to Dixie. He snapped at her and growled. He was very un-Westie-like. He did not run, jump, bark or play with toys. He had difficulty getting up from a prone position. Our first thought was that he was a very old dog. Not the three-year-old we heard about. We contacted Angie at WRM and she indicated that this was the information given to them and the foster family did not notice anything amiss.
We made an appointment with our vet for a follow-up. He did not think he was old and could find nothing wrong on the surface, so took some x-rays. The news was not good. Tucker had severe hip dysplasia in both hips. No wonder he was crabby, his poor little bones were so misshapen and arthritic, it hurt just to look at them. We were referred to a specialist for an appointment the next week. I asked the vet for alternatives and he stated that some people choose euthanasia.
We again contacted Angie at WRM and they offered to take Tucker back, but we did not think another placement would do him any good. She also told us about WestieMed and what a wonderful organization it is.
Tucker – WestieMed Recipient
We took Tucker to Veterinary Specialty Center in Buffalo Grove, IL. Dr. Claude Gendreau examined Tucker and stated he thought surgery was the only option. He could perform it that very day. We decided to go ahead as we had become too attached to Tucker to put him down or put off the inevitable. That evening Tucker had a Femoral Head Ostectomy on his right hip. The surgery went well and the Dr. indicated his prognosis was good and maybe the left hip would not have to be operated on if he heals well enough to compensate with his right. The procedure has been very successful in small breeds.
We thought it was too late to apply for aid as we went ahead with the surgery. Angie from WRM put us in touch with Bette from WestieMed and she assured us it was not too late. She helped with the application procedure and we just got the terrific news that the board of directors had approved his expenses.
We cannot begin to thank the generosity of WestieMed and the donors that made it possible to defray the huge expense incurred.
Tucker looks a little sad in his picture but is improving daily. He and Dixie are pals now and roll around together. He is even starting to play with some toys. It will be a long recovery but we think he is going to be every bit the happy Westie.
Thank you so much for the overwhelming generosity,
Julie, Tim, Dixie & Tucker
Update: June 2006:
Tucker is doing very well. He is a happy dog. We found out that he is much older than we were told (at least ten) and has the beginning of kidney disease. In spite of all that (he is on prescription food and being monitored) he has dramatically changed from the sad little rescue we picked up last July.
It has been a long road for Tucker, who knows what happened before we adopted him, but he has healed well after the surgery. He loves to go for walks, he loves to eat, and even loves his veggies for treats as traditional biscuits are out because of kidney disease. He has several beds around the house where he settles in as he doesn’t leave our side. He and his sister Dixie play often and he now initiates play which never happened before.
Thank you Westie Med for helping to make Tucker the happy dog he is. The generosity is still overwhelming.
Sincerely, Julie
Update: October 2006:
To all the kind people at Westie Med:
It is with a heavy heart that I must give you a sad update on Tucker. Tucker suddenly stopped eating one day in September but we weren’t immediately alarmed as we had just changed his food to a different prescription kidney diet. He would accept food from my hand and would occasionally eat treats. He stopped playing with his sister and then began vomiting and diarrhea. We took him to the vet and they kept him for tests as he had a high fever and all his blood tests were way off. We took him home the next day pending the results of further tests. The news was not good. He had pancreatic cancer. He was hardly able to stand and was degenerating quickly. We decided that poor Tucker had enough and made the difficult decision to put him down. We stayed with him and stroked him and told him how much he was loved.
WestieMed helped make the last year of his life the best one. Before the illness he had recovered from the surgery so well he was acting like a typical silly Westie, playing, loving his walks, meals, and enjoying tummy rubs. We really fell hard for Tucker in the short time we knew him and miss him terribly.
Thank you for giving dogs like Tucker a chance at happiness.
On February 22, 2005, we received a call from a vet in southwest Kansas saying that she had a seriously ill eight to ten week old Westie puppy that was about to be euthanized, and she asked if we could take him. She believed that he had a life-threatening liver shunt, but she didn’t have the specialized equipment to diagnose or treat such a problem. We discussed the experience that Westie Rescue of Missouri has had with treating liver shunt dogs, and the vet agreed to speak to the owners about releasing the puppy to Westie Rescue. She later called back and said that the puppy was ours if we could transport him from southwest Kansas to Kansas City, Missouri. Fortunately, we have a wonderful volunteer who agreed to make the run and who christened the puppy “Little Joe”.
We took Little Joe to the Veterinary Specialty Clinic in Overland Park, Kansas, where they confirmed the diagnosis of a liver shunt and determined that, although he only weighed five pounds, Little Joe was a good candidate for surgery. On April 6, 2005, he had surgery to repair the liver shunt. He was released to his foster mom on April 7, 2005. But, on April 11, 2005, he began having trouble retaining fluids, so he was re-admitted to the animal hospital for observation. (It is not uncommon for liver shunt puppies to have trouble with fluid retention until their livers get accustomed to the increased blood flow). After a couple of days in the hospital, Little Joe was pronounced well enough to return home.
Little Joe has continued to progress under the careful care of his foster mom and his foster sister, Wendy the Westie. While he has been waiting to go to his adoptive home, Little Joe has been spending his days helping his foster sister train some of the other foster dogs that have been through that foster home on their way to forever homes. Little Joe likes to go on wonderful backyard adventures with Wendy and particularly likes to help Wendy chase squirrels. He likes to race up and down the fence line with the border collies who live next door. He likes to play with his favorite ball, and he has just learned how to go up and downstairs. He is now sleeping through the night and has gained three and a half pounds.
Little Joe’s bile acid tests are almost back to normal and we expect that he will have a long and healthy life. Little Joe is still in foster care, but we expect to pick the lucky family who will get adopt Little Joe sometime in the next few weeks.
Rescue groups would not be able to give beautiful little puppies like Little Joe the chance for a life without the wonderful help and support of WestieMed. Thank you so much!
Luann Johnson, President Westie Rescue of Missouri, Inc.
Update: June 2006:
I fostered and then adopted Little Joe a.k.a., Mr. Brodie B. I just couldn’t let him go after all we had been thru with his liver stunt surgery.
He is a very happy, full of energy, and curious boy. His build is still very small, but he thinks he can take any other neighbor dog on and win. Mr. Brodie gets along great with his sister, Miss Wendy, and all the other foster Westies that come in and out of our home. Our vet thinks he will never grow any larger, and the bio acid tests keep coming back high, but he looks and acts very healthy. Brodie loves to the car ride, play with toys, play tug-of-war with the fosters, and run and bark at the squirrels in our back yard.
He is very sweet, gentle, and loving when he wants to be, but acts like the “man of the house” all the time. Brodie will cuddle up next to me at night and wakes me in the morning with a cold nose to my neck.
We hope we can someday meet those who helped in saving Mr. Brodie’s life. Have a great day.
My name is Duncan. I haven’t always been called by this name, only since March 30, 2005. That was the day I joined my new family. What an eventful day that was! In the morning, the kind folks at the county shelter who had been taking care of me sent me to be neutered. Later that day, my new mom showed up to take me home. She looked very happy. I already knew a little bit about her because she had come to visit me almost every day since she first spotted me at the shelter. You see, my mom thought of herself as a committed Dachshund person. In fact, my new brother is a fiftenn-month-old miniature Dachshund by the name of Albert. My mom originally came to the shelter to apply for a little Dachshund whose picture was posted online. Well, he was already spoken for and my mom was getting ready to leave the shelter when a volunteer informed her that the cutest little guy had just arrived as a stray. Of course, I’m referring to myself. With one look, my mom knew I was the one for her. She filled out all the necessary forms and waited for seven excruciating days to see if my former owner would come to claim me from the shelter. My mom was both glad and puzzled when no one came for me. I am not only adorable but also exceptionally well mannered. I respond to many commands, am completely housebroken, and am a much better listener than my new brother. Boy, it’s true when they say that Dachshunds are stubborn!
When I joined my new family, which not only includes my mom and dog brother, but also a grandpa, grandma, uncles, aunts, and cousins, I was instantly welcomed and loved. Everyone, without exception, commented that I was the best. My cousins, who are young children, adore me, and I am very patient and playful with them. I even have a Westie girlfriend who lives right across the street from me. My mom takes good care of me. I eat well, sleep in the big bed, and have a big, clean backyard to play in. She rarely leaves me home alone. I love riding in the car. I get to go to many fun places with her. (In fact, when my mom took me to a pet adoption event where she was helping out with Dachshund Rescue, I turned out to be the star attraction!) My favorite place is this huge field that folks around here use as a dog park. I like to walk and run with my mom and brother along the trail. I also enjoy greeting people and playing with all the dogs. I’m a good big brother to Albert; he gets beat up a lot, so I have to defend him on many an occasion.
Duncan – WestieMed Recipient
Since I was a stray, my mom doesn’t know anything definite about my background. The shelter staff and my veterinarian estimate that I’m around two or three years old. While it’s clear I was trained by someone, it’s also evident that I was hit a lot. I clench my eyes and lower my head, preparing to be struck, whenever people lift their hands near my head. It makes my mom sad to see me do this. She hopes that with time I will learn that no one will lay a hand on me again. The other noticeable behavior I exhibit that concerns my mom is the way I use one of my rear legs. I have a tendency to have a hitch in my gait when I walk and run. My wonderful veterinarian, Dr. Taylor, informed my mom that I have a condition called patellar luxation that affects both my knees, causing my kneecaps to slip out of proper alignment. Unfortunately, this is a problem that is not uncommon in Westies. This causes me pain and, if not corrected, will likely lead to more severe problems later. One knee is worse than the other. Dr. Taylor strongly advised that I have an operation to fix my knee as soon as my mom could afford the expense. The good news is that the best orthopedic surgeon would perform the surgery. The bad news is that the operation costs a lot of money. My mom fretted about how she would manage to pay the bill.
Then, she discovered something truly wonderful: WestieMed! With WestieMed’s generous support, I can have my operation sometime soon. I will let you know how everything goes. Everyone who knows and loves me is certain that I will handle my operation and recovery with courage and grace. My mom and I are extremely grateful for WestieMed’s assistance. We will not forget your generosity in our time of need.
Poppy (aka Roxie) was born with a congenital liver shunt. She was a sick puppy and showed signs of neurological problems such as running into walls and being confused. She also had problems gaining weight.
Her first owner was a relative of the breeder who bred Poppy. They took her to an emergency clinic and they diagnosed her as possibly having a liver shunt and recommended more tests. She was then taken to their local vet and where was once again told the puppy most likely had a liver shunt and would need more tests. The veterinarian advised them that this was a sick puppy and would likely not survive without surgery to repair the shunt. The owners said they would think it over.
Approximately three weeks later on May 4, 2005, Poppy was found by a very nice Animal control officer. Poppy was only three months old, cold, thin, and filthy dirty. She was very disorientated and the Animal Control officer brought her to the local Animal Hospital. One of the staff recognized her and contacted her owners. The owners said neither they nor the breeder wanted to deal with the puppy so she was released to the animal hospital. Of course, all that met her fell in love with her, and the Veterinarian decided to do the surgery.
On May 6th, weighing only five pounds, little Poppy had her surgery. Carole – one of her soon to be foster mothers – took her home that night for observation.
That is were I come in.
I used to work at the clinic and still remain a sucker for a cute face. The day she came in, I was called to come to see how cute and needy she was. I became the second foster mother. Carole drops her off at my house on her way to work, where she hangs out until Carole gets off work and picks her up.
A week after her surgery I mailed a friend some pictures of Poppy and her story. Within 4 hours, I was bombarded with emails interested in Poppys well being. One of the emails was to inform me of WestieMed. Carole and I knew whoever adopted Poppy may face future financial responsibilities, so it would be nice if they were not burdened with a large medical bill to start with.
We are so grateful for the financial help WestieMed has given us for Poppy. As I am writing this, I am watching the little princess play with her tail, and I think how much I will miss her. But I know we will find the right palace for her.
She now weighs eight pounds and is four months old. Her last liver test showed an improvement, and she acts like a typical four-month-old terrier. She shows no signs of neurological or any other problems. No one knows if she will live a long normal life, but she at least now has a chance. The veterinarian has given us the okay to place her, and with the help of Westie rescue in finding just the right home, we will have to give her up.
Poppy – WestieMed Recipient
From everyone who has helped Poppy, I wish to extend my gratitude to WestieMed for helping, as well as to all who have contributed to such a great organization.
I have enclosed a current picture of her after her first hair do.
Brenda
Poppy – WestieMed Recipient
Update: July 2005:
Princess Poppy went to a new kingdom on June 6th. Her new servants are Charley and Sue from Washington. Of course, they have realized she is very smart as she has taught them many tricks. Such as pick me up, let’s go for a ride and you can watch tv with a dog on your lap. She has also taken up gardening and is very good at weeding. She also has her own room as well as taking over the entire household. Her new doctor is very pleased with her health and she has already received more vaccines and a microchip. I have enclosed a picture of her new parents on the day they picked her up. Sue and Charley also pass on their appreciation for the help WestieMed has given to Poppy. Yes of course we miss her and keep in touch.
Just a couple of weeks before my fourth birthday, my first family gave me away. They said I bit their toddler. They didn’t want me and thought I should be put to sleep. I sleep every day so that didn’t make sense to me. For the longest time, the Dad in that family was mean to me. He made me scared of men. When no vet in town would put me to sleep, he called Westie Rescue, Houston, and asked them to come and get me right away. He said it was the one bite that made him do it. But they had been not nice to me for a while. They made me feel very bad because I am a good dog and wouldn’t try to hurt anyone.
Foster Mom, Barbara, came and got me. She has a young Westie, Duncan, and had been eager to help Westies anywhere. I was her very first foster dog. Duncan thought another dog (or more) in the house was a great idea. I was very, very scared. I hear that I was like a statue when anyone tried to pick me up. My tail was firmly placed between my rear legs and no one could touch the back half of my body without me growling. I did not let Rob, my foster Dad, get near me. (That made him sad because he wanted to pet me and make me feel at home.) The word to describe me was “traumatized”.
I can’t remember what it was like at that first house. When I got to Duncan’s house, I couldn’t even stand in the grass. It didn’t feel familiar. And Duncan tried and tried to get me to play with him, but I didn’t know-how. Mostly, all I did was a growl and snap into the air.
There were a few problems with my body. The biggest one being that I have cataracts and couldn’t see very well. The vet I used to see said that I did have some vision and that it wouldn’t get worse. (He was wrong. Very quickly I could only see light and dark.) Since I don’t know what’s coming at me, I am scared all the time. That makes me act unfriendly. No one really knows yet if the reason I like to pee on every corner, or doorway, or the furniture, is because I like a little scent trail to find the doggie door. When a piece of furniture is moved or Barbara does too good a job of cleaning it up, I just have to pee some more.
I scratched all the time. It seems my first family had me tested, when I was a puppy, for allergies. Like a lot of other Westies, I am allergic to corn and wheat. Also some grasses and outdoor things. They gave me food with corn and wheat in it anyway. I don’t know why. I also had a yeast infection. I smelled a little “off” and my back end was kind of crusty. There were dark places on my skin. And, boy, was that itchy!
Barbara switched my food (not all at once) to tasty kibble with no corn and wheat. And then she started making me a high protein stew to starve the yeast. I had medicine in cheese ball treats to make the yeast go away. I started having baths a couple of times a week. There was even a special paw rinse, with water, after running around in the grass.
We were all so happy when I was adopted. On my birthday, no less. The new house had two other dogs who had very jingly collars that made a horrible noise when they ran back and forth in front of me. I couldn’t see them. I only heard them and felt them near me. I was startled all the time. I had to nip a few times (and landed a nip, too), trying to get them to mellow a bit. In less than eighteen hours, they didn’t want me either and wanted to bring me back. When I got back to my foster home after less than 48 hours away, I acted kind of like I did the first time I got here. Duncan was so happy to see me but the whole thing had been traumatic and it took me some time to stop growling and baring my teeth. It was all very confusing for him, too.
After that, no one ever even applied for me. I had “no children” and then “special needs” attached to my profile. At least my foster home liked me, even when I didn’t like another foster dog that came here. She and Duncan wrestled and made noises that made me think she was hurting him. I wanted to fight her. So she had to leave.
My skin got much better and now I look mostly white. I still have stew every day and the yeast infection is pretty much gone. My itching is still a problem, though.
Duncan taught me to play with him. Now I can even play fetch. As long as the ball makes noise and doesn’t go far, I can get it! We wrestle some and patrol the backyard together. Duncan runs after squirrels and I run after him because he seems so excited (and then I can smell those pesky squirrels).
I really want to see things like Duncan can. I want to run a long way for a ball and not have him take it away just because I can’t see it twelve inches away. I want to go off-leash on our special walks and not run into twigs and bushes and little posts. Or walk in the wrong direction. I want to beat him to a tree when a squirrel is nearby (and maybe even learn to stalk). Maybe I won’t be so afraid all the time of all those things that startle me now (which is pretty much anything that moves) and maybe then I will stop nipping at people, and little children, and go nuts when I know another dog is nearby. I’m tired of being scared all the time.
My long term foster Mom and Dad (and Kathy, the head of the Rescue group here) are so incredibly excited about me seeing. They are grateful beyond words to the people at WestieMed. I don’t know what all the fuss (and this happy crying) is about. Barbara promises it will be a wonderful surprise. She has a surgery appointment for me on April 27th and says I’ll find out then.
Love, Murphy
Update May 1, 2005:
It’s Sunday, May 1st, and four days since I had my cataract surgery. I can see! I’ve taken to stopping and staring at everything. I’m not really jumping for joy, yet, because I’m not allowed to jump. Or run or play or even get up on to the couch by myself. The special eye doctor doesn’t want me to jostle my eyes too much. And he says “no scratching”, not even after drops are put in my eye, which seems like all the time. For some reason, there is a clown collar or something around my neck. I can’t touch my face or my head. That’s very frustrating.
The word is that I have to keep the collar on and stay in my crate a lot (even when Barbara goes to the store) for another three to four weeks. I’m feeling a little bit depressed right now. But every day is a new day, so “week” means nothing to me. I promise to send another note to the wonderful WestieMed people after the clown collar comes off and I can run and jump and keep up with that wild puppy, Duncan. There’s a whole other life waiting for me!!
I want to thank you for approving the funds to help me with the medical expenses for Annika’s heartworm treatment. Your generosity is graciously appreciated to help Annika back to health. Here is Annika’s story:
In February 2005, my friend Elizabeth, who owns two Westies and is affiliated with the Westie Rescue of Texas organization told me about a breeder who owned and operated a kennel in Fort Worth, Texas. Elizabeth had previously purchased two Westie puppies from this breeder. Elizabeth was aware that conditions at the breeder’s kennel had become deplorable and asked permission to take possession of three dogs that were no longer used for breeding.
Elizabeth brought me one of these dogs, a five-year-old Westie female, originally named Sneakers, who I renamed Annika. She was grotesquely dirty with feces in her snarled, mangled hair. I bathed her repeatedly attempting to eradicate the overwhelming odor. After special whitening shampoo and vigorous scrubbing, Annika’s coat turned from a foxy brown to a dusty pearl white shade. The groomer completed Annika’s make-over with a sheering job straight from the Australian sheep station. Stephanie, my friend who helps Elizabeth rescue Westies, brought Annika a flashy pink girly collar. Now, Annika at least looked GOOD and was house-worthy. Next stop: The Vet!
Annika had a multitude of nasty intestinal parasites but never fear, the multi-talented vet had the perfect elixir for that! However, Annika’s troubles didn’t end there. She tested positive for heartworms on February 25th. I am now going to be able to get the heartworm treatment started, which will save Annika’s life. She is a precious, mild-mannered, loving dog who deserves a fair shake. She is part of our family now.
Following the heartworm treatment, she will need vaccinations and spayed. Annika proudly wears her new stainless steel, bone-shaped tag and smiles because she is adopted and part of a loving family who is generous with their time, energy, and, yes, her favorite word: TREATS! Thank you again, Westiemed.
Sincerely, Dawn A. Logan, Annika’s new Mom
Update, April 2005:
With the heartworm and intestinal parasite treatment that Annkia has received, she has been transformed from a docile creature who had been kept in a breeding kennel all her life to a marvelous, fun-loving, affectionate, energetic fivew-year-old who seeks out toys to play with and hovers in anticipation that I will throw the ball so that she can happily retrieve it in a speedy fashion. The heartworm treatment done two months ago was successful; I am now able to end her confinement in the crate so that she is able to follow me from room to room, go on rides in the car, and take regular walks, which is part of my daily routine. Annika has responded beautifully to the care which she has received during the heartworm treatment and we have bonded very closely. She knows I am her Mom and that I will take care of her needs and most of her wants! She is willing to please and is learning a few basic commands. Her appetite is ravenous and she is getting stronger.
Annkia’s future will be bright because of the medical assistance from WestieMed. Thank you for your approval of her application.
Annika is now a very happy, loving dog who has people around her who shower her will affection and provide for her safety and well being.
I will continue to help with Westie Walks like the one we had this past weekend at Veterans Park in Arlington, Texas, to help raise money for WestieMed so that other Westies who need medical assistance can have the care they deserve.
Sincerely, Dawn A. Logan
Annika – WestieMed Recipient
Update, September 4, 2005:
Annika is a well-behaved, happy five-year-old, and has endeared herself to both my husband and me. She is currently in obedience training and from our point of view, she is at the head of the class. We are extremely appreciative of the help from WestieMed and will continue to contribute to WestieMed at the sanctioned Westie Walks each year.
Tess was pulled from a local kill shelter – her coat horribly overgrown, her past a mystery – all I was told was that she had been abandoned.
This dear little Westie suffers from tremors, or mini seizures daily, many times throughout the day. It is heartbreaking to see this sweet little girl staggering about and falling over when they strike.
She can’t play as other dogs do. It took her two weeks to realize what a toy was for. Even now she will only play with one, a little plush teddy bear. When she shakes it to ‘kill’ the teddy, in only a few moments she will drop him, staring blankly ahead of her, and then the tremor will begin.
Tess – WestieMed Recipient
Starting at her ear tips, it works its way down her spine. If she is standing, she will stagger, then lock in place. If she was walking at the time, her legs will be locked in the walk stance. When the tremor works its way to her rear section, it frequently knocks her off balance and she lands on her side or her rump.
It has happened while coming back indoors, where she is locked in the walk stance – half inside, half outside. We must wait until the tremor releases her from its grip to continue coming in. I have noticed that her episodes are more numerous during times of drastic weather change.
During times of stress, I have noticed she would have a tremor every seven to ten minutes as we were trying to relax on the couch. They gradually dissipated in their intensity and allowed her to finally get some rest.
Her quality of life could be so much better. This is why I am requesting WestieMed’s help. She should be able to play like other dogs. She should be able to enjoy the outdoors without it bringing on such impingement in her life. She should be able to relax without her self-annoying leg kicks waking her repeatedly. Something is clearly wrong with her, something that is not showing up in the diagnostic testing we have already had performed on her.
Tess – WestieMed Recipient
It goes without saying that to us she is a very special Westie, she has our hearts and our home regardless of what the future may bring for her. As her caretaker, naturally I want her future to be a very bright one. There is a world to see and experience, and I want for her to be able to enjoy it as fully as possible.
Tess deserves no less than my very best efforts at making her quality of life as complete as possible. With WestieMed’s assistance, she can be seen by a Neurologist and get the diagnosis and treatment she needs.
Thank you for your approval of our application on Tess!
Sincerely, Linda Juszczyk
Tess – WestieMed Recipient
Update March 25, 2005:
We have excellent news!
Tess is going to lead a normal life! With daily medication (Bromide), Dr. Parker feels she will do just fine. I asked if she will be able to play like other dogs, and he said absolutely.
He did say that what she exhibits is ‘very rarely seen and that she has quite a bag of tricks’. He said they are considered seizures, not tremors and it is definitely not White Shaker Syndrome.
He also said this is not in relation to a tumor in the brain. (Thank heavens!) It is also not a hereditary sort of seizure activity. It was likely brought on by either old head trauma or virus, something ingested once upon a time, maybe even low calcium in her mother’s milk when Tess was a nursing pup.
So no x-rays were ordered, no MRI. He sent us home with liquid Bromide to begin at a very low dose and do a gradual increase monthly until we find her optimum level. We see him again in three months unless there is a need before then.
Dr. Parker said the seizure type where you actually witness them traveling as hers do (from ear tips to tail, quite quickly) are very rare in humans, and even more so in canines.
Something which had been an unusual occurrence for Tess had become frequent this week. Her front legs slide out from her body doing the splits, and she will fall very suddenly and very hard. When she gets up, it will only happen again, and then a third time. It has been a rough week for her.
As her blood work previously done showed slightly elevated protein levels (which he said may just be normal for her) the decision was to not place her on Phenobarbital but to go for Bromide which is known to be kinder on the liver and other organs.
Tess – WestieMed Recipient
Update May 2005:
Tess had been acting out of character, and I phoned her Neurologist to see if it could be a side effect of the KBr. He was unavailable, so I was referred to our regular vet. He opted to cut her KBr in 1/2, and add a very small dose of Phenobarbital (1/4 Gr) ~ see how she does, and recheck with our Neurologist.
The addition of the Phenobarbital did nothing in helping the seizure control. It did however give her signs of ataxia, where her hind legs would camp out behind her and did not wish to respond to her efforts to get them back under her and walking. She began doing the splits again with her front legs, falling hard face first. Due to the meds, she was sleeping much of the time, and in her waking hours, she was very uncoordinated, walking around the house as if drunk.
When we saw her Neurologist, he decided to drop the Phenobarbital completely as it was not helping her seizure control. He upped the KBr, which has been significantly lessening her seizures.
The irritability we thought was a side effect of the meds, was not. Upon exam, the Neuro found her hind leg response is not right. Her brain isn’t registering where the feet are, thus the unsteadiness and inability to place them correctly. This wasn’t the case the last time he saw her.
He palpitated her neck and spine very well and found extreme tenderness of the back. It had not been like this last visit. He took two x-ray slides of her spine, thinking she may have some degenerative bone disease going on.
As he throws the slides on the viewing screen, he said there was quite a surprise. Clear as day on the screen is the form of a solid, round metal object lodged against her spinal column. A ‘BB’. The vet said the BB stopped when it struck bone and lodged there. It may have been there for many years, we don’t know.
For some reason, this area has now become inflamed and is causing her a great deal of back pain. For one month she is to be on total crate rest, no jumping on the sofa, no stairs ~ we must lift her to go outside, etc. He’s giving her Prednisone to reduce inflammation and rechecking in two months.
Tess – WestieMed Recipient
Someone used her for target practice at some point in her life. I can’t express myself freely, but I’m sure you can guess what I think of people who treat animals in such a way.
If anyone thinks BB’s are no big deal, they should see this and what she is going through.
WestieMed, thank you for your continuing support as we work through Tess’s health concerns. I don’t know what we would do without you. Due to your help, Tess is now receiving effective seizure control which is greatly restoring her quality of life.
Tess – WestieMed Recipient
Update July 2005:
Hello WestieMed!
I want to thank you for all your help!
Our regular vet checked me recently and determined I have a urinary infection going on. They took my blood (!), and I sure didn’t like that! Also, they peered deep into my ears. The things they expect us to put up with! humph, I think they are checking my hearing. I did hear mum say much later that the blood test shows I am not at my ‘therapeutic level’ for seizure control. She told me not to worry, we’ll get there yet.
Mum took me back to the Neurologist (whatever that is) and he checked me out really well. He said my lower back is not bothering me as it did before…but he’s keeping a check on my upper back. They upped my meds for the seizures, and I’m feeling so much better! I’m not seizing as hard as before, and things seem much more clearer to me. Suddenly I have more energy ~ I play longer, and you should see me canter across the yard now! Mum says I remind her of a little pony.
Today I went back to the regular vet for a recheck. They said I still show a urinary infection, so we went home with some more meds. Would you believe they peered into my ears again?! What the heck is up with that? I heard them say I need another recheck in two weeks’ time. If it weren’t for the treats mum brings along, I’m not so sure I would go.
Mum says she sure can see a difference in me now! She was holding me at the vets and said I’ve got moves Madonna hasn’t even thought of yet! I don’t know what that means, but it seemed to make everybody happy. (Well, they did look a bit frazzled, but happy.)
Thank you WestieMed for assisting me to get the help I need to feel all better once again!
Tess
Update August 2005:
With your help, Tess is making remarkable progress! She is seeing a Neurologist and he is adjusting her Potassium Bromide levels to find her optimum dose. I can report that this week she is making great strides. The ‘drunkenness’ effects of the meds have worn off. This week she is stronger, more mentally alert, and aware of what is going on around her.
When the seizures strike, it now looks as if she is having a Charley Horse while walking. Her back legs tend to cramp and lock into place, but it only lasts a moment and then she is right back into doing her own thing. Huge progress! A stranger would not think it was a seizure. Her true sweet personality is in evidence; what a wonderful little girl someone threw away!
At her last checkup (last Friday) for a urinary infection, her tests came back that she is still showing signs of one. She has been under antibiotic treatment for a month for this. This Friday, Aug. 12th she is to go back in and have some urine drawn by the vet via a needle. He wants to see if the urine in the bladder is showing infection, or if her samples are being contaminated by her coat as it exists. She has been kept clipped to 1/4″ length for the summer and bathed. I am hoping for good results.
I can also report that her walks are doing her a world of good! Last week she cantered up and down a small grade in the park, all on her own with a huge smile on her face! It made my soul soar to view that, the pure joy of her running like that. No wobbles, no falling over, no blank stares – just a little body enjoying stretching out for a bit, feeling the wind in her face.
When she tires she is perfectly content to sit back in the stroller and let me take over, her little form happily laying upon my refrigerated knee pack. Since our park outings have begun, she has lost 2 lbs and looks so much better. It is obvious she is feeling better too, she is much more playful and responsive. She even got to go to Doggie Beach a few weeks ago and feel the sand beneath her toes, probably for the very first time. I’ll attach a photo from her outing.
Thank you WestieMed, for your continuing support of Tess. You have already made such a tremendous turn around in this little dog’s life! There is no doubt her quality of life is vastly improved.
Sincerely, Linda
Update December 2005:
I am very happy to relate to you that Tess is faring well! She has made great progress in her recovery – even more than I dared to hope she would. Her seizures are very close to being eliminated now. We’re awaiting the results of her blood drawn last week, so her meds may still require a little tweaking – but she has noticeably made tremendous strides!
On a recent walk last week, a friend commented she couldn’t believe she was the same dog! She is smiling, happy, coordinated – able to run and enjoy herself. A very far cry from the weak, trembling wreck who used to seize many times throughout each day.
Her seizures resemble just a little hitch in her stride most of the time now. Her mental clarity has improved vastly. At the park, she is the first to run up to greet new dogs – each one being a potential new friend in her mind. She is just a happy little sprite, eager to explore her world and surroundings.
I just can’t get over the change in her. What a wonderful companion animal she is making. Very sensitive to her surroundings, she is first to lend her support if you are having a bad day. I guess she knows how it feels!
Your funding for her recovery means much more to me than I can relate. I wonder how many years she had lived like that; which must have felt like living a half-life.
Thank you WestieMed board for giving Tess a whole new lease on life! Her future is looking very bright indeed.
Also, special thanks to Tess’ Neurologist Dr. Alan J. Parker of VCA Berwyn Animal Hospital, and her small animal Vet Dr. Joseph Caffarini of Lockport Animal Hospital for the magic they have worked on this little scamp.
Sincerely, Linda
Tess – WestieMed Recipient
Update February 2008:
It is with an incredibly heavy heart I write to inform you and the WestieMed Board that Tess has passed away.
There is so much I would like to say in thanks to all of you, but I am finding difficulty in relaying just how much of a difference your help has made to her life, and ours. You gave her quality of life back. I can’t express the effect your sponsorship made, and how many lives have been touched by this abandoned little girl.
Tess suffered a stroke in June of 2007. Her vet determined her age to be at least 14. As she was adopted, we’ll never really know. The following months were a series of ups and downs, but I was determined to keep her comfortable and her dignity intact as long as she wanted to be here. On January 23, 2008, she was put down by our small animal vet. We were the last clients of the day, it was a peaceful passing. Her little body had just plum given out and she was in a final decline she would not overcome.
I do believe this is the most difficult letter I have ever written, as my heart is very full and my home seems so empty without her.
Thank you again for everything. I wouldn’t trade my years with Tess for anything in the world.
