Fortunately, we found out about Braveheart before he was euthanized. And, being the "softies" that we are, we told the pound that our rescue group would take him, because we didn't think his condition looked "hopeless" at all!
Having done rescue work for many years, we've seen the miracles that can result from good vet care, quality food, and lots of love. We have always believed that where there is life, there is hope.
As it turns out, poor Braveheart does, indeed, have mange, but it is demodectic mange, which is not contagious, and is usually the result of poor care and a compromised immune system. He has sores on his body from either dog bite wounds or maggots. He is terribly emaciated and infected with roundworms, hookworms & whipworms. He also has pressure sores on his body; our vet thinks these sores are from Braveheart being confined to a small cage for an extended period of time, without the ability to reposition himself.
In spite of all his medical problems, Braveheart is a VERY sweet, loving dog who gives very gentle kisses,
and he seems to be VERY appreciative of everything we're doing for him.
Braveheart will need a lot of extra medical care, but he is a young dog and we believe he will make it through this.
And - once he is well - he will make a wonderful companion for a qualified adopter!
We're guessing that by the time we have his skin problems treated, along with neutering him,
worming him, testing him for heartworms, and immunizing him, our vet bill will be at least $800.
[When this page was written, we had NO IDEA that Braveheart would have to stay in the UW Veterinarian School ICU for many days, at a cost of $500/day. Needless to say, the vet bill has greatly increased. See the next page for full details.]
We appreciate the fact that these are difficult times for everyone, but if you can help us with even a small donation to help us pay Braveheart's vet bills, it would be much appreciated. Thank you so much!
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