My rescue group recently took on the capture and care of three wild/feral dogs. A few months ago, we were able to capture two of them. Willow, a 8 year old Wheaten Terrier mix, and her friend, Cedar, a 4 year old mixed breed little boy.
Since we're in Florida, the obvious risk of heartworm is great. Both dogs tested positive, high positive. Cedar was neutered a few weeks back, and 10 days ago began his heartworm treatment, under his new vet. Things were going well.
The progress that these two have made was remarkable. They are house trained, walk on leashes, interact with other animals (dogs and cats, and they used to EAT cats!), and adore children. I'll be the first to admit, I was completely skeptical about taking on these dogs. But they've thrived. Cedar began to wag his tail, and give kisses. Remarkable, for a dog born in the woods with only a few months of human contact!
Yesterday, Cedar took a turn for the worst. His began to cough up blood clots. My director, his foster dad, took him straight to the vets. They upped his medications, and things were looking better later that day. He returned this morning for his scheduled follow up, as per the vet. At 11:00, we received the call that Cedar had been let go. The heartworms were just too much for him. He tried so hard to be so strong, and we will all miss him terribly.
And if everyone could keep a special thought out there for my director, I know he is taking this especially hard. And for miss Willow, because for the first time, she'll be without her guardian and safety net.
[IMG]http://i119.photobucket.com/albums/o140/hinz89/cedar.jpg[/IMG]
RIP amazing boy.