Bandito, a black boxer/lab mix, and Snickerdoodle, a beagle mix, came to the shelter two weeks ago diagnosed positive for heartworms. We are still evaluating and testing to see the extent of the infestation and if there are any other health issues.
(Please take your pet to the vet and get the preventative medicine for this nasty parasite!)
These worms attach and grow like spaghetti inside an animal’s organs and cut off the blood flow, digestion, and other vital functions wherever they attach. All this destruction to the internal organs is from a mosquito bite.
We know not to get attached to heartworm-positive dogs because the cure could kill just as easily as the parasite especially in these older dogs. Both dogs will need to be kept quiet to let the medicine work, which is no easy feat. Bandito is a lover and likes to snuggle and Snickerdoodle is a barker and jumper.
The hardest thing about working at Bellwether Harbor is making the decisions on what is best for these dogs that have found a way into our hearts. Sometimes if they don’t react well to treatment or are in extreme pain, it is best to let them cross the rainbow bridge. Those are heartbreaking for us. We are hopeful for a positive outcome for Bandito and Snickerdoodle.
We are very grateful for your support. Because of your donations, money is not a determining factor in deciding on treatment. Because we are a nonprofit, medicine is discounted and we are very fortunate that Fremont Animal Hospital donates their medical services to us or the costs would be much higher. Spending $200 or more for x-rays, antibiotics, and evaluations, and then $100 on the heartworm treatment per dog is doable.
That is because of you and your support of Bellwether Harbor. We couldn’t even try to save these two without your gifts. It could be months before they are able to be adopted as they undergo treatment. We are hopeful for a positive outcome and will keep you updated as we move forward.
Thank you for your support!
