Stories – Page 17

Gus - WestieMed Grant Recipient January 2013

Gus

January 1, 2013December 24, 2020 by westiemed in Stories

All Westies at WROC are special, but Gus is a very lucky boy that had a lot of people rooting for him. This sweet boy, that we believe to be approximately five years old was picked up by Animal Control as a stray and taken to a high kill shelter. Not knowing he was injured, Gus sat in the shelter for several days, sharing a kennel with thirteen other dogs. Our friends at S.A.F.E. Animal Rescue took him home, fed him a warm meal, put him on antibiotics and tucked him in safely for the night in preparation for his long drive to WROC the next day where he was taken to our vet immediately. X-rays indicated a ruptured abdominal wall that allowed his intestines and fatty tissue normally found behind the muscles in the abdomen to push through, most likely sustained from being hit by a car. Gus underwent emergency surgery and while he was under anesthesia, his blood pressure was dangerously dropping. His surgical team had to close him up quickly in order to save his life. Gus needed time to get stronger, and a week later, he underwent a second surgery to finish repairing all of his internal injuries. Gus was released from the hospital a week later and is now resting comfortably. Throughout his ordeal, one would have never known Gus was hurting. This brave little dog will make a full recovery. Gus is a very happy boy that enjoys life and is looking forward to finding his forever home.

Thank you WestieMed for assisting with Gus’ expensive veterinarian bills. We are so appreciative of all you do!

Karen Simondet
Westie Rescue of OC & Beyond

Update March 4, 2013

We are so pleased to let you know that Gus was adopted by a wonderful adopter that had been following Gus’ story from the very beginning.

Gus made a full recovery and is now enjoying a wonderful new life filled with family outings, lots of walks, vacations and is one very spoiled Westie.

Thank you WestieMed for your assistance with our very sweet boy and for your generosity with countless other deserving Westies.

Karen Simondet
Westie Rescue of OC & Beyond

Update July 15, 2013

It has been six months since Gus was found at a high kill shelter suffering from life-threatening injuries after being hit by a car. After two surgeries, rehabilitation in foster care and being officially adopted in March, Gus continues to thrive! His new person dotes on him and there isn’t a want or need that goes unfulfilled. Gus travels quite a bit between Southern California and San Francisco to visit family and friends and it was recently discovered that Gus is a water dog! The first time he saw a pool, he walked around it for about 1/2 hour and then decided to jump in at the steps. His family cheered him on as he swam back and forth and it was quite obvious that Gus was very pleased with himself. He loves to chase squirrels up trees, he gets home-cooked meals, absolutely loves his toys and he even gets blueberry facials with his regular grooming every six weeks. He is sweet, gentle, happy and his personality just lights up a room! But the best part of Gus’ journey is that he is safe and he is living an incredible life!

Thank you WestieMed for helping us make Gus’ dreams come true!

Karen Simondet
Westie Rescue of OC & Beyond

Lola

December 1, 2012December 24, 2020 by westiemed in Stories

Lola came to us in late September as an owner surrender. I picked Lola up late in the day after traveling for several hours and we headed for home, another four hours away, with two syringes of insulin in a cup of ice that the owner handed to us as we were leaving. Lola was very quiet until we made our first stop to meet with Steve & Mary Lou Mercurio, our very first volunteers for our new rescue that we had begun a mere month prior. We were meeting them on the way home to get some sorely needed supplies they had picked up and a collar they brought for Lola since she was surrendered without one. While I got out to stretch my legs, Mary Lou took Lola into the grass for a little walk and some relief while Steve went in search of insulin for our newest Westie. Once Lola had her potty break and some water, Mary Lou opened the bag of special kibble they had picked up for me and we gave a bit to Lola. When she smelled the food, she went wild and ate it so fast that she worried us. So we waited a while and then gave her another small bit; the same result. She would become frantic the moment she smelled the food. We were afraid to give her any more at that point, not knowing if or when, she had last had her insulin, as that information was not forthcoming from the person who surrendered her. She was scheduled for a vet to visit the very first thing in the morning, and we felt we’d given her enough food to get her through until the vet could give her a thorough exam. The rest of the ride home with Lola was not as quiet, because she knew that food was there and she was frantic to get to it, and she was just as bad with water. We finally made it home at about midnight and after another walk around the yard, it was time to turn in. Since it was her first night, I put Lola into her crate and put it in my room. It was not to be. The crate made her crazy so I let her out. We both needed to sleep. She cried and cried until I picked her up. Once in my arms, she settled down and fell asleep whimpering and twitching. She slept next to me the entire night as close as she could get.

The vet visit the next morning showed that Lola was significantly underweight at only 12.8 lbs. Her blood glucose levels were extremely high and she had a bad case of conjunctivitis in both eyes. It was at that point that we discovered that she was almost completely blind, a far cry from the “slight problem with her vision” that we had been told. The vet figured that she might be able to distinguish light, dark and possibly some shadows. She was also dehydrated and suffering from a really bad case of diarrhea and loaded with internal parasites of every possible kind. Through all the poking, prodding and needles, Lola was a champ. She stood still and let the vets and the techs do whatever was necessary with never so much as a growl or whimper. We left the vet armed with medications and a regime for her insulin, Lola leaning into my leg as we walked. She had become my little white shadow and remains so.

Upon returning home, it was time to collect the rest of the pack and bring them home. Lola was introduced to them one at a time and was very good with all of them. Never a growl or snap, no matter how exuberantly the others sniffed at her. She was equally good with Louie, the bulldog as she was with Shakti and Maggie, the other Westie girls. She sniffed Keeks the kitty very thoroughly and then groomed him, much to his dismay.

The first few days were a learning experience for both of us, me mostly, I think. I learned that Lola thought it was okay to potty in her crate and then eat and drink it. She soon learned that she could have all the freshwater she could drink and would be fed regularly and given healthy treats. I learned to recognize symptoms of low blood sugar in a little creature that couldn’t tell me how she was feeling. I learned not to underestimate the value of a dedicated veterinary team. She learned to use puppy pads when she couldn’t wait and to potty outside when she could. I learned to walk carefully so as not to tread on tiny white paws that were never more than a few inches from me, ever. She learned to trust and I learned that my heart could break multiple times a day watching a little dog who wanted to run and play and couldn’t.

As time passed, Lola’s diet was adjusted and blood sugars brought under control. She still suffers from some bouts of colitis occasionally but is doing much better now that she has been on a grain-free allergy diet and getting some additional home-cooked Westie diet. She still has a hearty appetite and will eat just about anything, given the chance, so vigilance is a must. She takes her insulin injections very well, stands still and never flinches or cries.

As she began to feel better, Lola wanted to be a part of the pack playtime. Unfortunately, because she cannot see, she wasn’t very successful as a playmate, always bumping into the other dogs and not being able to see the ball or whatever toy they were playing with. She would try, and then after getting a couple of growls from the others, would sit back with a wistful look on her face. When outdoors, she tried to run with the others but would stumble, bump into things, or trip and finally, give up and come back to my side to become the little white shadow once again. She no longer tries, although she sometimes forgets herself when she gets excited that someone’s come to visit and runs to greet them only to bump into the door. We’ve nursed more than one sore nose these past couples of months.

Lola has a very sweet disposition and has never met anyone she did not like man or beast. She is a very lovable, social little dog; no longer shy, timid, frightened or frantic. Lola is happiest cuddled in your arms or next to you, but she does like to be outside and feel the wind in her fur and sniff the places where the squirrels have run. She is the sweetest, most gentle little creature I have ever been blessed to know.

Her life will change now, thanks to WestieMed and the incredibly generous Westie community around the world. She is scheduled to have her cataract surgery on December 27^th. She will “see” the New Year in, in a new way; and I believe that we will see a new Lola, as she discovers the world around her. I may lose my “little white shadow”, but she will gain a whole new world of wonder. That’s a very good thing.

Thank you, thank you, and thank you. Those words are inadequate to express our gratitude for the gift you are giving this sweet, gentle, 3-year-old little angel dog. We will continue to keep you updated with Lola’s story and progress.

**Lola is currently sponsored by Steve & Mary Lou Mercurio. They provide the funds for her insulin and supplies every month in honor of their dear Chloe, who was also diabetic and now runs free at the Rainbow Bridge.

Josie Myers-Smith
Westie Rescue of Western and Central New York

Update January 18, 2013

Lola and I arrived at the vet yesterday morning, 1/17/2013 at 7 am. When I pulled into the parking lot, Lola started to vomit. I wasn’t surprised, because she had fasted, and with her colitis, she sometimes spits up a little bile if her tummy is empty for too long. We were ushered into the exam room almost immediately and Dr. B took another look at her eyes to make sure that all was well. Everything looked good to proceed with the surgery. She had the surgery yesterday afternoon and it went pretty well. I say pretty well because there was a slight problem with her left eye.

In young dogs, the area that they call a capsule that is behind and around the lens is very thin. In Lola’s case, this capsule tore a bit. Dr. B attempted to implant the new lens but was unable to make it stay in place because of the tear. So she did not get a new lens in that eye. However, the cataract was removed and she does have vision in the left eye, it is just a bit less clear than the right eye, which got a new lens. So she does have vision in both eyes and he said that she probably won’t notice much of a difference in her sight because of the missing lens. Many people who have this type of surgery for their dogs, don’t even bother with new lenses and the dogs are able to get around just fine.

She has a couple of different kinds of eye drops that she gets throughout the day and evening. One is an antibiotic type and the other is atropine, which dilates the iris. This is to ensure that it doesn’t get “sticky” and consequently not move which would affect her sight. She is also on an oral antibiotic.

She is wearing the cone and will have to keep that on for a week minimum and how long ultimately depends on how well she is healing. She managed to slip it off this morning, but it’s back on and more secure now. I ran her collar through the loops instead of the hunk of gauze that was holding it in place.

Her near sight will be fuzzy until the inflammation from the surgery subsides a bit and then it will correct to becoming as perfect as it can be. Her distance sight is very good now.

She has been doing well, doesn’t fight the eyedrops and takes her pill like a champ.

She has been “talkative”, alternating between earsplitting howls, barking and a strange little noise that sounds like she is talking.

She runs around looking at everything and then just wants to be held. Right now she’s on my lap and if I put her down she will complain – loudly. In a bit she will want to get down and then will run around again, just looking and looking. The funniest thing in the world was when she looked at Louie across the room this morning. He is her snuggle buddy and is a large American Bulldog mix. I wish I could have captured the expression.

Her eyes are a little sensitive to light right now and I notice that when she is on my lap she is keeping them closed. This sensitivity should subside as she becomes accustomed to the light that for a long time, she hasn’t seen in this way.

We are using wee-wee pads and keeping her indoors for now because it is VERY bright outdoors today and extremely windy. We must protect those little eyes.

We will go to the vet today at 5:45 for a recheck to make sure that everything is doing as it should and then she will have to go back again next week sometime and several times thereafter until he declares her fully healed.

I am extremely impressed with Dr. Burgesser, who did the surgery, and Lola adores him. He clearly loves the animals and is very thorough and concerned about them. When he talks softly to Lola, he picks her up and holds her and she simply melts in his arms. It’s pretty funny to watch actually. When he is examining her, he is talking softly to her the entire time. He does not address me until he is through with the exam and has picked her up to cuddle her.

Yesterday when we picked her up, he had Tom (who went with me to get her), hold her while he took the time to show me the inside of her eye and the new lens. He doesn’t make you feel rushed at all and makes certain that all of your questions are answered before you leave the exam room.

He also gave us a nice discount on his services. The last thing he said to me was “You are going to end up keeping this one, aren’t you?” I told him that unless a very special angel came along, she would likely remain in the sanctuary with us.

Josie Myers-Smith, Director
Westie Rescue of Western & Central New York

Update January 18, 2013

Lola saw Doc Burgesser tonight for her 24-hour recheck and he said she is healing nicely and all is as it should be. She’s doing very well and so we don’t have to go back now for a whole week! He also waived the office call fee today. He also SAT DOWN ON THE FLOOR and played with her for a while before he let us leave, lol! I think I might be in love with this vet….

Josie Myers-Smith, Director
Westie Rescue of Western & Central New York

Update January 26, 2013

Lola had her one week follow up with Dr. Burgesser yesterday. She is doing VERY well, with less inflammation than expected and healing properly. He allowed me to take the cone off and said now that she is free from that, we should see even more improvement. She is already watching animals on TV and following my movements as I go through the house. On the way back from the vet yesterday, she was looking out the window and watching the lights. It gets better every day. We haven’t had her outside much (she’s using wee wee pads) because our temperatures have been in the sub-zero or just slightly above range, and more importantly, the winds have been ferocious, so I didn’t want to take any chances. She has a few more days of the antibiotic drops and atropine to keep the iris from getting sticky and then it will be prednisone drops for about a month. We’ve had two follow up visits so far, and he has not charged me for either of them. I don’t expect that to continue, but it was a nice saving on top of the already discounted fee for the surgery. I’m thrilled with how he treats Lola, he is kind and sweet to her and she just loves him. It is hard to fake that kind of caring. We hit the jackpot with this vet!

I will continue to keep you apprised of her progress as each recheck happens and when she does something that shows the improvement. Thank you again so much for helping this sweet little girl.

Josie Myers-Smith, Director
Westie Rescue of Western & Central New York

Update June 20, 2013

Lola had her appointment with Dr. B and got a clean bill of health.

Josie Myers-Smith, Director
Westie Rescue of Western & Central New York

Luzi

November 1, 2012December 24, 2020 by westiemed in Stories

Luzi was a dream rescue Westie girl for the San Francisco Bay West Highland White Terrier Club’s non-profit Westie Rescue of Northern California. In addition to being the most popular request we get (female, one is two years old) she came already spayed, all shots up to date and no health issues. The family that came to mind for her new forever home, Teresa Carle and David Martinez, had served me well with fostering a six-year-old male who was one of five puppy mill Westies we had on hand all at once. This fairly feral foster (whose name has morphed from Seamus to Shamus to Tory to “The Great Ollie”) proved to be too stressful for their males, Romeo and Rufus, and they called and suggested their son as a suitable foster home. It was a terrific solution to a real need and Teresa continued to provide for his vet care (removal of neutering stitches). They also offered to foster any female to preclude gender rivalry. And then this little twelve-pound wonder Luzi was surrendered so her family could travel. Little did they know she was a traveler! And the author of Luzi’s story switches from Mary Young, SFBWHWTC Rescue Chair, to Teresa Carle and Dave Martinez:

Luzi came to us at the end of June of this year. Luzi is our fifth Westie, our second rescue, and our very first little girl. The moment Luzi arrived, she was instant friends with Romeo. They tore through the yard at top speed and leaped in and out of the wading pool until they were completely exhausted. For Romeo, also a two-year-old, it was love at first sight. Rufus, our nine-year-old, who has bladder cancer, took a bit longer to accept that she was actually going to stay, but they too are now best friends. Luzi can get Rufus to play even when he does not feel well.

When we walk the three of them in our Sacramento neighborhood, in downtown Calistoga, or through various campgrounds (we take the three in our RV), people always stop and talk to us and want to know all about the dogs. The boys are handsome for sure, but it is always Luzi, that receives the most compliments about how cute she is. Luzi only weighs twelve pounds, so she still looks like a puppy. She has such beautiful eyes and she is very charming.

Luzi’s most favorite thing in the entire world is to take walks. Her leash hangs in the laundry room and if she wants to go out, she will sit in her bed and stare at her leash and bark. She is a good little walker for such a tiny girl. She keeps up with Romeo who is near twice her size. Today, I put a raincoat on her for the first time, because we had to get out despite the constant drizzle. Boy was that fun, trying to get that raincoat on her! We have a bit of training to do. Luzi is a key part of our family and we know that she will comfort us all once our Rufus passes on. Today I bumped my head really hard and was in tears. Luzi was the first one to run over with a concerned look on her face and offers of kisses. We are very blessed to have this loving little girl in our lives.

And now back to Mary of SFBWHWTC Rescue. Luzi’s urinary tract infection proved to be non-responsive to antibiotic treatments so it was necessary for her to have surgery to remove crystals that were lodged in her urethra. A very complicated and expensive process made manageable by WestieMed’s generous contribution to this deserving Rescue and her family. We are both very grateful to WestieMed for fulfilling your mission to help needy rescues overcome unexpected and expensive medical costs. This little Westie will be back in the pool soon thanks to WestieMed. And also back “on the road again” charming all of Northern California with her sweet, engaging personality as she serves as an excellent “SpokesWestie for our breed, for our Rescue organizations and for WestieMed.

THANK YOU!

Mary Young, SFBWHWTC Rescue Chair
Teresa Carle and Dave Martinez

Update June 21, 2013:

Luzi is doing fantastic! She is so darn cute and getting better each time I groom her. She is much calmer and trusting. It just takes time. I have to remember that she was taken from her mommy. She loves to curl up right by my chest when I lay on the couch. Also, far fewer accidents with medication Proin and after her bladder stone surgery had time to heal. She gets rewards and praise. She is such a wonderful dog. She does have to wear a bark collar while we are gone because of the neighbor’s complaints. She is yappy without it but seems calm and happy with the collar on.

Teresa and Dave

Josie

October 1, 2012December 24, 2020 by westiemed in Stories

Josie was surrendered by her owner on August 25, 2009, due to loss of job and eventual loss of their home. At the time Josie was ten years old, was reportedly a “borderline” diabetic, and was on a special diet. Our rescue vet, Montrose Animal Hospital in Marietta, Georgia, quickly discovered that she had full-blown diabetes and immediately started her on an insulin regimen. Josie has received insulin injections twice a day since then. Over the years that Josie has been in foster care, she has had several crises that required hospitalizations and regulation of her insulin. She now has a thyroid condition and last year was diagnosed with Cushing’s Disease, both of which require medications. She has also become profoundly deaf. However, all of these setbacks combined cannot stop her from being a very active, loving, and happy little girl.

Josie had what was considered a cyst on her left shoulder. The vet, staff, and foster family all kept an eye on it. However, it became badly infected in September of this year. Our vet decided it would be best to remove the cyst. However, during surgery, he said that the margins started swelling, which to him was indicative of a mast cell tumor. He took very wide margins and stapled her back together. Her insulin was also regulated once again, and she stayed with the vet for several days. The invoice for this hospitalization was $1,880.40. With our vet’s courtesy discount of 20%, the invoice still came to $1,504.32, which put a definite strain on our rescue funds.

The outcome, however, is astounding as you can see from this photograph taken October 20, 2012. Josie is healing very well and has returned to her bubbly, curious self once again. Our appeal to WestieMed for assistance in paying this invoice is due to the fact that our rescue funds have been dangerously depleted. The Westies surrendered or rescued from shelters for the past couple of years are either seniors with health issues or young Westies requiring some type of surgery. (We currently have Josie with diabetes, Cushing’s, and thyroid disease, Sparky with Addison’s Disease, and Charlie in renal failure, all requiring constant attention, in addition to two young females requiring knee surgeries.) Thankfully, all of these rescues are with dedicated foster families who are doting on their needs and have been giving their financial assistance when possible. However generous our members and partners have been, we are not able to keep up with the need.

The assistance that we receive from WestieMed will assist us in moving forward with the rescue and rehabilitation of abandoned, neglected, and abused Westies.We are certainly very grateful to the Board of Directors of WestieMed for their love of the Westie breed and for their willingness to help.

Cynthia Levine, Chair
Atlanta Westie Rescue Committee
Westie Club of the South, Inc.
a 501(c)(3) non-profit corporation

Update March 23, 2013

Josie recently was diagnosed with congestive heart failure. Of course, she hid it for so long that nothing could be done. She was finally in so much pain that the decision was made to humanely euthanize Josie. Following is the foster dad’s note and a recent photograph attached.

“Josie wants everyone to know that she’s waiting at the Rainbow Bridge not only for us but for each and every one of you who gave such boundless love and dignity and support over the last four years. She maintained her zest for life to the end peacefully cradled in Jeannie’s arms. We, too, are grateful and thank you for allowing us the joy of knowing and caring for Josie. She was a very, very special little girl who will always have a big place in our hearts. Thank you.”

Cindy Levine
Westie Club of the South, Inc.

Lucy

September 1, 2012December 24, 2020 by westiemed in Stories

My name is Lucy. I’m thirteen years old and for most of my life, things were great. I was the pampered and cherished baby of an elderly man and was treated like a Queen. But one day, everything changed. My beloved man died and his wife wasn’t able to cope. People took me away from the plush indoor city life I had been living and drove me to rural Arkansas. I was tied to a stake outside in the heat. My beautiful fur disappeared as fleas and mites attacked my delicate skin, and I got a sunburn, too. A neighbor saw me and told the people to take me inside or she would call animal control. They put me on a porch and fussed when I pottied there. I ended up back outside most of the time. Although things looked bleak, I tried to remember my human, Papa. I waited for him to come and save me, but he never did. Instead, he sent some angels from far away to help me!

Meanwhile, my sad story had been relayed to some people in Knoxville, Tennessee, who started a campaign to save me! Brian and Debra Douglas told a friend named David Bolton who told another friend named Patsy Stair, who set things in motion. Soon, a miracle would happen—I would be rescued! On June 17, 2012, the Arkansas people loaded me in their car and drove for a long time. The car stopped, and they gave me to two sweet ladies. Their names were Diane Vann and Patsy Holt. They were from Alabama and they had driven all the way to Arkansas to save me! Once I was in their loving care, I knew things were going to be okay, and I never looked back.

Diane and Patsy H. drove to Nashville, Tennessee, and handed me to Patsy and David Stair. I said goodbye to the Alabama ladies and laid down on my new blanket in the front seat between David and Patsy. I love men so much that I scooted as close to David as I could.

When we got to Knoxville, Patsy cleaned up my face. My eyes had lots of hard stuff under them and I held still while she soaked it off. She talked softly to me and I noticed she was crying. I wanted to say, “yes, I look bad right now, but I trust that you will take care of me.” She brushed my teeth and used a warm cloth on my poor raw skin. The next day, she took me to a sweet groomer named Tania, who made me feel great. Then she took me to a pet store, where she bought me some fancy food, some treats, a toy and a pair of pink pajamas to cover my sunburned skin. At last, I was being treated like royalty again!

Then Brian and Debra Douglas met us, and once again, I was whisked away to another adventure. Because my skin was so bad, they took me to a dogtor where I lived for a few weeks. It was okay, but I wanted to be part of a family. Little did I know what was in store for me next!

Brian and Debra had been searching for a home for me, and one day, their friend, animal advocate Carmen Trammell, found the perfect place! Another car ride took me to a pretty house with a fenced back yard in Oak Ridge, Tennessee. A nice lady named Kaye Wimberly answered the door accompanied by her two rescued Yorkies and Westie girl. I could tell right away that this was a castle fit for the Queen I was, so I plopped in the middle of her bed and refused to move! I was home!

Luckily, Kaye knew all about Westies and their skin issues, and she took charge right away. Her other dogs wisely realized that I was special, so they let me be the boss.

By the time I got to Mama Kaye’s house, my skin was black, crusty, and oozing puss and blood—not a good situation for a Queen! I cried when I moved because it hurt so much. Kaye took me to Jackson Square Animal Clinic, and they diagnosed me with demodectic mange, cellulitis and bacterial pyoderma. They started me on antibiotics and shampoo therapy. Then, they found out that I had chronic renal insufficiency, low-grade anemia, and proteinuria. They put me on a Hills K/D Canine food, enalapril, and oral vitamins. Whew! Lots of big words for such a little dog to remember, but I was just glad they were taking care of my skin and my kidneys!

To help my skin get back to Diva condition, I am shampooed three times each week. Mama Kaye isn’t physically able to do it, so she takes me to the dogtor’s office and they give me the spa treatment. My skin is improving and I’m even growing back some of my gorgeous fur. I love playing with my toys and my fur siblings. Mama Kaye says I always will have a loving home with her!

While I was being pampered and doctored, Diane, Patsy, Brian, and Debra were busy raising money to pay my dogtor bills. I became a FaceBook celebrity! Lots of donations were received, but it wasn’t enough to pay for my baths and medicine. I’m pretty high-maintenance, you know! Diane contacted WestieMed, and Mama Kaye sent them my information. They even talked to the dogtor to be sure they understood what I am going through and what my future needs would be. Not surprisingly, the wonderful people at WestieMed thought I was worth saving, too! Because of WestieMed, I can be healthy and happy for the rest of my life! If I could, I would send kisses, licks, and sniffs to everyone who has helped me. I can’t help thinking my human Papa sent all the angels disguised as strangers to take care of me.

Update February 8, 2013

Just to let you know that Lucy is doing well. She has a little eye infection but it is clearing up fine. She also has problems with skin lesions occasionally, so she is on antibiotics off and on. I’ll send a picture later.

Kaye

Update July 11, 2013

Lucy is doing pretty good. She hasn’t had any skin lesions lately but is still licking her feet. She went to the groomers today, so I’ll try to get a picture of her in the next day or two to send to you. She is still on her special diet and medicine but seems to be doing good.

She is definitely a little diva. In fact, if she decides she wants some water in the middle of the night she starts barking until she wakes me and the other furry animals. She has me trained already. She is really a sweet girl.

I’ll send some pictures later. I really appreciate all you have done for her. It was such a shame what happened to her, but I’ll make sure she has a good life from now on.

Kaye

Update February 10, 2014

Lucy is not doing very good right now so she and I could use your prayers.

Lucy was doing pretty good until and a few weeks ago. At that point she started sleeping more, not playing with her toys, and not eating as much. Then she started losing weight. I took her to the vet last week and we did so more blood work which had several items for the kidneys in the red line (i.e., not doing as well). She has also lost about three lbs. from her last visit and her teeth were really bad. We had put off doing a cleaning because of her other problems but decided that it may be part of the losing weight problem. So, Lucy had a dental last Wednesday and the vet had to remove nine teeth. I felt so bad that I had not done her dental earlier. Anyway, she has not eaten much since then and I have had a real problem getting her to take her medicine. So I took her back to the vet today. She had lost an additional 4 oz., so the vet kept her overnight and probably for a few days to give her iv’s, antibiotics, and check her blood work again to see if any change in the kidneys. I am making her some chicken and rice to take t her tomorrow. I know she really loves the people’s food and the vet agreed that we needed to get her eating again and then go back to the kidney diet. The chicken and rice should help her some.

So, please keep Lucy in your prayers. She is such a special baby and I think she will come out of this. The kidney blood work was not extreme last week so hopefully, we can get it back under control again.

I don’t know what I would have done without WestieMed and everyone’s help. She is a special little girl and I want to give her the best I can — she deserves it.

Thanks for everything. I’ll keep you posted.
Kaye

Update February 15, 2014

I got a good Valentine’s Day gift last night. I got to take Lucy home from the Vet. She has had a pretty rough week but was beginning to perk up a little. Thursday I was really worried because her blood work was elevated (in the red for the kidney functions) higher than earlier and she would not eat. We decided to give her something for an upset stomach and that has helped. She is now eating (hand-fed by the vets, the vet staff and me). She has been a real Diva on giving her pills at the vet and at home. I could use a stiff drink after giving her medicine and sure Lucy would love one too, but no luck for either of us. Friday evening she was feeling a lot better and even standing up in the crate. She definitely was ready to go home, so she got her and my wish.

The vet has added another medicine to help the kidneys. She now is on Azodyl (which eliminate toxicants and helps the kidneys), Enalapril (heart and kidney), Clindamycin (antibiotic), something for upset stomach, Pet-Tinic (vitamins) and Recovery RS Dog food. I have been hand feeding her chicken and scrambled eggs, but the little Diva has to be tricked. I have to get her up the bed with the other dogs, give each dog a bite or two before she will eat her bites. Then I give her more bites, as well as the others. DOES SHE HAVE ME TRAINED. It doesn’t matter I’ll do whatever it takes to get her feeling better. Once she gets back to eating well, I’ll put her back on the kidney food.

I’ll keep you informed on Lucy’s progress.
Kaye

Update February 18, 2014

I’m sorry to say that Lucy passed over the Rainbow Bridge last night. I really appreciate all WestieMed did for little Lucy. You really made her life extend a little longer. She was in the Vet hospital all last week and I brought her home Friday when she seemed to be doing better. She quit eating on Sunday but her kidneys were still functioning. Monday she took a real turn for the worst and passed away that night.

Thanks again for giving me time with my sweet little Lucy.
Kaye Wimberly

Update February 27, 2014

I will continue to donate to WestieMed as long as I can. You do such wonderful work for Westies. I was so blessed to have Lucy and grateful for your help.

I thought you might like to have a picture of Lucy.

Lucy really loved her babies (toys) and would carry them from room to room particularly when it was time for bed. Her favorites were Lamb Chop, baby Lamb Chop and Santa. I don’t know how she did it, but she could get al three in her mouth.

Hope you enjoy the picture.
Kaye

Charlie

September 1, 2012December 24, 2020 by westiemed in Stories

Charlie came to us with two other Westies and two Scotties after a commercial breeder dumped them in a rural shelter in Kentucky in late August 2012. This particular shelter works in tandem with our shelter partner in Bowling Green, KY, and when the dogs were dumped, we immediately got a plea for help to pull from our contact in Bowling Green. We drove up the next day and pulled all six dogs and took them straight to our vet in Franklin for exams, vetting, and dental. Tennessee Scottish Terrier Rescue ended up taking the two Scotties, and our little band of Charlie, Chip, Maggie, and Hailey were vetted and boarded for a week so we could be sure they didn’t bring with them any Kennel Cough or parasites. Needless to say, our vetting bills for these dogs was pretty steep just for basic vetting and dentals. Everyone did well and traveled on to their four separate foster homes.

Charlie instantly began meshing in his foster home with five other Terriers, so much so that he took it upon himself to take a flying leap off his foster mom’s bed in the middle of the night about two weeks into his fostering, trying to follow one of the other Westies who decided she needed to go out for a potty break. His foster mom knew instantly he had hurt himself badly. She got him in later that morning to the vet who confirmed the ACL rupture. Charlie was in a lot of pain, but the vet got him on the proper meds to give him some relief and we scheduled the ACL repair surgery for a few days later. Fortunately, our vet works with Dr. Paul Newman, a wonderful orthopedic travel surgeon, and he took excellent care of Charlie. Two days later, Charlie was settling back into his foster home, and thankfully his foster mom is a nurse, so she can really help with the ins & outs of his rehab. Charlie will have to be kept quiet and rehab his leg for the next six weeks, which isn’t easy because he acts like he’s had nothing done. He wants to run and play with the others! His foster mom has nicknamed him “Sir Bulldozer Charles” because while in the “cone of shame” he must wear for a few days, he doesn’t let it keep him from getting to things he either wants to smell or carry in his mouth. He just scoops it up in his cone! Charlie is a very loveable little fella that will make someone a superior forever family member in a few weeks. We cannot thank WestieMed for the kindness and generosity once again shown to Westie Rescue of Tennessee, Inc.! Thank you again for helping us with Sir Charles!

Carol Whitmer
Officer/Director of Communications

Update January 9, 2013

Charlie had ACL surgery but we sadly learned that he had an aggressive tumor in his leg that had spread into his back causing a lot of pain.

We regret to tell you, but Charlie went to Rainbow Bridge on January 8, 2013 and now rests peacefully.

We are all very sad, but also very thankful for WestieMed’s assistance with him.

I thought you would enjoy seeing this photo of a once puppymill stud dog, turned loved and treasured foster pup.

Thanks,
Carol Whitmer

Casper and Diamond

July 1, 2012December 24, 2020 by westiemed in Stories

Casper and Diamond came to us in April of 2012 from a man who stated his daughter had originally purchased the pair for breeding, had moved over a year prior and was unable to take the dogs. She left them in his care and for that year the dogs had lived outside in a pen. When the man and his wife traveled south for the winter, the dogs were cared for by neighbors who gave them food and water. The man told our volunteer that they let the dogs out of the pen occasionally but were too “wild” in the house so they could not keep them indoors.

Upon intake into our rescue the pair was groomed and seen by our veterinarian, Dr. Martin Ramm of Rockbrook Animal Clinic for spay/neuter surgery, vaccinations, and fecal and heartworm tests. At that time there appeared to be no medical conditions with either Casper or Diamond and they were deemed happy and healthy. Upon settling into their foster homes it was observed that both dogs drank unusually large amounts of water and urinated frequently. We also came to believe that these two lovely, engaging dogs were at one time very well-loved and well trained. Both walk beautifully on leash and are kennel trained, they know what furniture is and that sitting on the sofa is much preferred overlaying on the floor. They adore people, young and old alike and can’t seem to get enough attention!

Dr. Ramm performed blood and urine tests on both dogs and tentatively diagnosed both had kidney problems and suspected Fanconi’s Syndrome. They were referred to the Midwest Veterinary Specialty Hospital in Omaha and were examined by Dr. Christopher Byers. The initial visit, which included specialized blood and urine testing, for both dogs combined, was $1450.00. Dr. Byers is recommending further testing for Diamond estimated at $550-700 as he believes she is suffering from Stage 1 renal failure. The results on Casper’s testing will not be available for 2 more weeks as the specimen was sent to Penn State for review. If Casper does indeed have Fanconi’s Syndrome, management in the form of medication, supplements, and prescription diet will be implemented.

These expenses have severely strained our limited budget and we are struggling to remain solvent in an attempt to assist other terriers in our community that need our help. Casper and Diamond have shown us their true terrier spirit as through all the testing, poking and examinations, they remain happy and loving little dogs. We at Wag N Train have made a commitment to them for continued care for the remainder of their lives if they are not adoptable, whether that be 2 weeks, 2 months, or 2 years, or hopefully much longer!

Janeal Dominico, CPDT-KA
Wag N Train Terrier Rescue

Update January 7, 2013

Diamond is still in foster care in my home. She attends adoption events and many have inquired about adopting her by shy away when informed of her diagnosis, even though she is a happy, lively and spunky terrier girl. She is showing no other symptoms of renal failure except the excessive thirst and frequent urination.

Diamond is a true joy to be around and daily reinforces that we humans can all take lessons from our dogs…play the hand that life deals you making the best of each and every day! We continue to be optimistic that she will one day find a forever home to love and adore her until the end.

Casper was adopted on Dec. 7, 2012, by Molly Tamayo. Molly works as a technician for Dr. Christopher Byers DVM who is Casper’s specialist at Midwest Veterinary Hospital in Omaha NE.

WestieMed had been a valuable partner in our organization, providing the necessary funding to help us treat our rescue dogs with special medical needs, such as Casper and Diamond.

Janeal Dominico, CPDT-KA
Wag N Train Terrier Rescue

Update June 10, 2013

Diamond is still in foster care with me and is doing well. She recently had her annual vaccinations at which time Dr. Ramm drew blood and took urine. They found some blood in her urine so prescribed Amoxicillin for 10 days, after which we will repeat the urine test. Dr. Ramm did suggest we take her back to Dr. Byers at Midwest Veterinary Specialty Clinic for another check-up too.

Diamond remains an active and happy girl. She attends all the adoption events with me and gets so excited when she sees me packing the car because she knows she gets to go for a ride and gets a lot of attention at the events. She loves people of all ages! The only symptoms she continues to exhibit are excessive thirst and urination.

We recently received an email from a potential adopter who lives in MN and is very interested in Diamond. This lady always adopts older or special needs dogs and her sixteen-year-old Westie is failing. We are cautiously optimistic that Diamond may have found a forever home! I have also attached the most recent photo taken last week after her visit to the groomer.

Respectfully,
Janeal Dominico, CPDT-KA
Wag N Train Terrier Rescue

Millie

June 1, 2012December 25, 2020 by westiemed in Stories

Little Miss Millie was as sick as she was tiny and feisty when Westie Rescue Indiana (WRI) managed to get her out of a Kentucky shelter in February. It wasn’t easy…

Although she had a wracking cough and was obviously unwell when her owner brought to the shelter on February 1st, the shelter refused to release her to rescue, preferring to try to adopt her themselves. So Millie languished in the shelter for two weeks as her condition deteriorated. Finally, the shelter sent her to one of their foster homes where she could get be better cared for, but at this point, Millie was listless and running a high fever. Still, two more days passed before a call was made to a WRI volunteer, asking if we would now take Millie.

Once in WRI’s care, Millie was rushed to the vet, where she was kept in isolation for nine days. A battery of tests revealed that she suffered from the effects of pneumonia, a chronic cough and an extremely high white blood count stemming from an infection that had been left untreated for too long. The vet did not expect her to make it, but by the end of February Millie was well enough to go “home” with her foster mom, who had visited her daily at the vet.

The month of March was spent in a series of return visits to the vet for more tests to monitor her white blood count and constant adjustments to her medications, and Millie continued to improve. She started eating well and gained two pounds in short order, bulking all the way up to twelve pounds by early April.

Because her lungs had been scarred from pneumonia that had been too-long left untreated, Millie would always have a cough, but she was healthy now and ready to find a home of her own. But this wasn’t easy either…

As Millie began to feel better, her feistiness emerged in tandem, and she proved to be one conflicted girl — begging to be picked up and then snarling, growling and snapping when anyone tried. Clearly, it would take someone experienced with terriers to handle this seven-year-old diva.

After one failed placement, where Millie didn’t mesh with an older male Westie already in residence, she finally found her forever home in late May. It took almost four long months of care and patience to save this little girl, but to look at Millie now in the arms of her new mom, no one can doubt that it was all worth it.

Thank you, WestieMed, for helping us help Millie!

Update February 8, 2013

Last I heard, Mille was doing great.

Jessie - WestieMed Grant Recipient June 2012

Jessie (Now Jesse)

June 1, 2012December 24, 2020 by westiemed in Stories

I had registered with Rescue Me and got a notification about a Westie that needed a home. I had written back immediately with my phone number and said that I had had Westies with skin problems before, my beloved Jake and Carli. Carli had passed last September at 16 years old and Jake several years ago at twelve years old with a spleen and liver problem. Both of them had skin issues but nothing like I have seen on WestieMed.

I was told that the mother had Alzheimer’s, rules the home and wanted Jessie put to sleep so the two adult daughters put him on Rescue Me. I went over to their home that night and I could see that he had terrible skin problems but I was really looking at his personality which was very sweet.

When I picked Jessie up to put him into the car he growled at me, and the suspicions started that I might have an abused dog beside a severely neglected dog. I have since discovered that he is quite territorial and in true Westie nature doesn’t back down and needs to be distracted. I’m learning too. I think this posed problems in his previous home and lead to abuse because they couldn’t handle him. I’m trying to understand.

I had asked what kind of food they had fed him and was told “dog food” but they gave a bag of pig ears to me as food. There was quite a lot of dancing around answers to direct questions but I was given a vet record and certificate of ownership. Jessie had been purchased from a “breeder” in Missouri.

I got online in the morning to check skin problems in Westies and the WestieMed site came up with pictures of Malassezia Dermatitis and it looked just like his skin problem. I’m so grateful to have found that information. I scrambled around to find a vet that could take him on a Saturday. I had just moved to Oregon from Virginia and I didn’t have a vet here. I feel fortunate to have happened along with a vet that has experience with skin issues.

Jessie is four years old, weighs thirty pounds, and he is neutered. He’s very large for a Westie but not overweight. He’s friendly, good with children and likes other dogs. All good. We are working on the skin problem with the vet; he’s on antibiotics and medicated baths twice a week. He’s responding well but may need antifungal treatment. I have him on a limited ingredient lamb and rice meal at this time but we may go to home-cooked through the Balanced In program that my vet told me about on the internet. I’m being challenged to write this and playing fetch the squeaking chicken this very minute.

Theresa

Update October 1, 2012: (now Jesse)

I have changed Jessie’s name to Jesse without the “i”.

He is doing so well.

It’s been a slow process but he’s coming along very nicely as you can see in the photo.

Theresa Medina

Update January 7, 2013

Thank you again for all that WestieMed does for Westies in need.

As you can see, Jesse is doing very well.

He is healthy and happy.

There are places on his neck and chest that the fur is still growing in, I was thinking that maybe his skin was so damaged from the yeast that it might not grow but it is

He is just a joy and worth all the effort.

Theresa Medina

Barney

June 1, 2012December 24, 2020 by westiemed in Stories

Barney first came to the attention of Westie Rescue for the San Francisco Bay West Highland White Terrier club on October 8, 2011. His owner’s son emailed me about Barney after being referred to me from the Orange County California Rescue organization. He said that his Dad was not feeling well and his Mom was suffering from Alzheimer’s disease and they needed a place for Barney, a five-year-old male with Addison’s disease. When I told him we would be happy to find a new home for Barney, he indicated that his Dad was not ready yet but wanted a place to be found so he would know he could surrender him when he could no longer care for him

Two and half months passed and Barney’s owner’s health suddenly deteriorated and we were told that Barney was boarded in a veterinary hospital in Napa, California. I started the process of finding a home for him and decided on the application submitted by Nancy Hacker. Nancy is a single woman living in Hayward, CA who had lost her male Westie Max at age seventeen and was seeking a new playmate for her girl Meghan, a nine-year-old Westie. Like many Westie owners, Nancy thinks two is better than one and Meghan was lonely.

I spoke to Nancy about Barney and she did not know anything about Addison’s disease so I sent some links to her with information. I also provided the care instructions given by Barney’s owner. She was concerned about the cost but thought his photo was adorable and his age was perfect. I learned that Barney was at the Napa vet on December 22^nd through a call from the owner’s son who told me that his Dad wanted Barney to be in his new home by Christmas Day. Nancy was eager to celebrate the holiday with her new boy so I picked him up on the 23^rd and took him to her home. She has a lovely cul-de-sac home with appropriate fencing including a second fence around her pool. I was walking Barney when she pulled up and jumped out of her car and said: “Is that my Barney?” We took him inside to meet his new sister Meghan and off they went as they joined in a merry round of Westie play chases. Meghan showed Barney around the house and the yard and he decided this would be a great forever home.

Later on, when Meghan and Barney joined Nancy’s son and his dog on walks they noticed a limp in Barney’s back left leg. She took him to the vet at Rescue expense and was told he might have to have surgery soon. Last month, he stopped putting down the leg to walk and was diagnosed with a torn anterior cruciate ligament. She was very concerned with the financial implications so we applied to WestieMed for assistance with his surgery. We were delighted to hear that funding was approved by the WestieMed Board!

Barney had his surgery June 14^th and indeed the ligament was found to be completely torn. The orthopedic surgeon at VCA Bay Area Veterinary Specialists, Dr. Courtney Ikuta, performed his surgery and the hospital gave us a courtesy discount. Nancy and Barney and I are forever grateful to WestieMed for helping our Rescue in need!

Mary Young
Rescue Chair, SFBWHWTC

Update January 29, 2013

We are so appreciative of your assistance with Barney’s ACL surgery.

He is doing really well and I have a great photo for you. I knew immediately what to send you.

He and his new sister Meghan were in our Parade of Rescues held by the club on November 3, 2012 and I have a photo of him and owner and his sis for you.

He is walking absolutely normally. He is also an Addison’s dog (I had one of those too) and the meds are so expensive so WestieMed really came to our Rescue in a big way.

Below is the story Barney’s new Mom wrote for the Parade which is really sweet. She is a fabulous Westie Mom!

“I walk proudly with my wonderful boy Barney. My Westie girl Meghan and I lost my Max at seventeen years old. Our lives felt empty and lonely. Then Barney came into our lives last Christmas-I rediscovered what real love is! Here is his story: his owner was 87 years old and went to a nursing home. Barney was not allowed to accompany him there, and their hearts were broken. Mary called me and said–his Dad wants him to have a home for Christmas. That was a yes from me! When I arrived home on December 2nd, I saw Mary walking with three Westies and their wagging tails–one was Barney! He came home for the Holidays to a family of love. I immediately had him pose with Meghan in Santa and reindeer outfits for my annual Christmas card! We played and hugged each other for hours! Since that day, his existing Addison’s disease has stayed under control and he had ACL surgery on his leg. Barney is back to catching toys in midair and doing all his tricks again. We share a bond of love! He has been a perfect gift since I first saw his caring eyes and felt his wonderful heart. He and Meghan are the loves of my life. Barney-I love you so much! Love, MOM”

Thanks again for your most generous contribution to this sweet boy’s future health.

Mary Young
Rescue Chair
SFBWHWTC

Update June 11, 2013

Barney is doing very well after his ACL surgery eleven months ago. We had our 2013 Parade of Rescues on April 27th and he marched again with his sister Meghan. No evidence of any lasting effect of the ACL tear and his owner was very diligent with his rehab. I will cut and paste his story here from the Parade and include a photo of him from the collection taken at the event.

His owner is forever grateful to WestieMed for covering his surgery as is our Rescue for the SF Bay Westie Club. Here is Nancy Hacker’s story:

Barney and Meghan – my Westies! What can I say that explains how I love them and just how wonderful they are? Barney is my adopted boy from Mary at Westie Rescue on Christmas, 2011. We have visited Barney’s previous Dad at the nursing home. They have been such wonderful visits for Gene and Barney. Barney catches his toy in mid-air 10-15 times and everyone applauds him! His Addison’s shots continue to be keeping him healthy. We love him, and he says he loves us!

I hope this does the update for you! I usually do not allow adopters and surrenderers to meet up but made an exception for Barney since his owner was unable to keep him in the home he was in. He actually changed nursing homes to be closer to Barney so they could visit. Guess you could say Barney is a therapy dog!

Thanks again for helping Barney!!

Mary Young
Rescue Chair
SFBWHWTC