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Lumpy
Hi Everyone! My name is Lumpy!! I guess I’m going to have to live with that name for now—it’s not the most becoming of names, but at least it’s different and everyone knows who I am. And, I guess I have to admit I feel kind of lumpy right now. I’m only seven years old & I look very old for my age. The good people here at DRNA are really worried about me. When my foster mommy picked me up, she was pretty upset at how I looked. I’m what you call a blue & tan dachshund; however it’s kind of hard to tell that right now because I don’t have any hair. Yep, that’s right, and I’m up here in Illinois where it’s 30-some degrees everyday—Brrrrrrr!! Can you see how bare I am in the photo? We thought maybe I just had some alopecia going on, which sometimes happens to us recessive colored dachsies, but it’s a little more serious than that. I have Cushing’s disease, which isn’t curable. It can be managed, but it’s kind of complicated—AND it’s expensive to test, diagnose, monitor and treat with medications. You can also see in the photo that I am kind of “pot-bellied” looking—well, trust me it’s not from overeating, it’s because of the Cushing’s, and so is my hair loss. You have to do lots of testing with Cushing’s and I get the privilege of being on DRNA’s Special Needs page because I surely deserve a chance to grow some of my hair back, get this Cushing’s stuff under control and feel better—don’t you think? I would be so much warmer, too, and when they know which medications to give me, I will begin to feel better.
I was hoping I could ask you to donate to DRNA’s medical fund to help provide the testing and medications that are needed to help me get to a point where I can be a normal dachshund, doing normal everyday things. You don’t know how much I would appreciate your help. As my foster mommy says, it only takes a few dollars from a lot of people and anything can be accomplished. I know there are lots of people out there who love dachsies as much as all these nice rescue people, and I hope I can count on you to help me out.
Thank you from the bottom of my "Lumpy" dachshund heart!!!!
****Note: Cushing’s disease is a disease of the endocrine system and affects the pituitary gland and/or the adrenal glands. This disease affects the production of cortisol in the body, and cortisol’s main function is helping a dog deal with any types of stressors to the body. When cortisol is over produced, it is Cushing’s Disease. If it is under produced, it is called Addison’s Disease. This is a very serious disease and difficult to monitor and control.****
UPDATE 2/28/08:
 Lumpy will be going back to vet clinic in mid March for more blood tests. They will be testing again for cushings. Steroids take 4 to 5 months to leave the body, so there is no sense in running another test until March.
Lumpy has grown some new hair & is looking healthier. If this is a man made cushings, which we are praying it is, he may need no meds. His water intake has slowed way down & he has lost about 3 pounds. His chest x-rays are good. He has lost 15 teeth.
UPDATE 4/07/08:
Lumpy went back for his blood work on 03/24/08, everything came back normal
this time. Having to do all the blood panels are quite expensive, but this
little guy needed our help. This just goes to show us all, we need to educate ourselves. We knew nothing about Lumpy's back ground, he was dumped at a shelter & I'm sure they did this because of his hair loss. Lumpy's color is against him, he is a blue & these dogs have hair & skin conditions.
Dr. Hayes feels they overdosed Lumpy with steroids to get his coat back,
which put him in cushing mode & the cushing test came back positive. She
felt we let him go 4 months & retest him to see, the steroids would be
wearing off by then. Over the 4 months Lumpy has grown hair on his head,
shoulders, rear, he still doesn't have hair on his back or tail & he may
never.
Lumpy has come a long ways, he now weighs 14 pounds, he runs in the yard &
seems so happy. When he first came to us, all he would do is lay in the bed,
he really didn't do much except drink gallons of water & eat everything in
sight. He now eats & drinks like a normal dog should. Dr. Hayes stated if
she wouldn't have known Lumpy, she would have thought we brought a different
dog in on 03/24/08 he looks so good.
Now the great news, Lumpy is going home next weekend, he has a forever home
& I know he will be happy & loved YEAH Lumpy!!! Lumpy, thanks everyone that donated to his cause, you made it possible for him to have a long & healthy Life.
To read about dogs that have needed help in the past, you can read our archives.
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Phoebe
Hi I’m Mrs. Phoebe Wiggly but you can call me Phoebe or Pheebs. I earned my last name because I’m so wiggly! You see, I don’t realize how sick I am. I was abandoned in a house in rural North Carolina with my cat friend. I was taken to the animal shelter. They separated me from my cat and I was so upset! But then they put me in a pen with these two puppies and I was happy again, because I could mother them. You see, I have had a lot of puppies in my short life, so I know how to be a good mother. But these puppies were so big I think they must have been Dobermans. Then this “rescue” person came to the shelter to look at the puppies but she saw right away that they were too big and too long-legged to be dachshund puppies. But she saw me and asked the shelter worker about me. I just looked up at them and wiggled, because that’s another thing I’m good at – and it makes me irresistible! The shelter lady said that she thought another rescue person was coming for me, but she didn’t know when. Well, that rescue lady could see that I didn’t belong in that shelter and she just had to take me home with her. It was a long way back to her house though – almost two hours…but when we finally got here she had more dachshunds. But none exactly like me! I’m an old-fashioned dachshund and have a very muscular body and VERY short legs and big feet.
My foster mom thinks I’m a very pretty girl, and I have to agree with her, don’t you?
Anyway, back to my story. When she got a good look at me she found out that I had mammary tumors and horrible teeth (too disgusting for me to want you to know about). So she made an appointment to get me take care of at the vet. And they pulled 25 of my teeth! The most the vet had ever done at one time, she said. The tumors were removed and I was spayed. I had a cyst inside too, so it was a good thing they got all that taken care of for me. So I was good for several months, until right before Thanksgiving. Then I became very ill and had to go see the vet. Don’t tell foster mom but I sometimes eat things outside that I shouldn’t and I am pretty sure it was something I ate that made me sick. But the vet took an x-ray as part of the diagnostic process and found some suspicious spots on my lungs. The doctor suspected lung cancer and didn’t think that I would pull through. Oh no, I’ve already been through so much!
But I recovered from that illness and am my former self now – as wiggly as ever. But I really need to have this expensive test called an ultrasound to see if I have lung cancer or not. Can you please help out with funding for that test? If I ever get to meet you, I promise I’ll wiggle all over in thanks! P.S. here I am after my mammary tumor removal.
To read about dogs that have needed help in the past, you can read our archives.
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Treasure
Mystery and concern surround this little dachshund, who we are calling Treasure. She was found in a southern Virginia McDonald's parking lot dragging her hind legs. The local shelter volunteers contacted DRNA to help. Area volunteers helped transport this dog to our Northern Virginia surgeons where she was treated by the ER team and stabilized. A very expensive night in the ER resulted in a midnight surgery to help this little holiday Treasure. She had a broken back and disc compression caused by some type of trauma. Injuries to this little dog's body and information that we were able to gather on our own point to a possibility that this dog was a victim of domestic violence. Whatever caused all this trauma--DRNA was there to help. DRNA is giving her the best chance at a new life, whether she walks or not. She'll have a long rehabilitation process. As always, DRNA appreciates our supporters who dig deep into their pockets to help our efforts for the dachshunds. This little one's surgery was exceptionally expensive due to the complicated repair and the fact that all her treatment took place after regular office hours. The bill is now in excess of $5,000.
UPDATE: 1/12/08
Treasure went to the surgeon yesterday to have her skin staples removed. DR Anderson was very happy with her muscle tone in her back end and saw that she is trying to use her left rear leg some. Her bladder control is coming along too. I just have to stimulate her a little and she pees on her own but I don’t have to do that very often. Her bed is almost always dry so she can hold her urine for several hours.
I can start sling walking her to re-teach her how it feels to have all four feet on the ground. We have permission to start doing some standing exercises on Treasure too. After her doctor’s visit she went right over to PT department. 3 post op visits were included in her surgery fee. Treasure was placed in the underwater treadmill for abut 7 minutes and was trying very hard to walk; we did see her pick up her left rear leg several times. That is a great sign!!!
If funds allow we would like to start her on some acupuncture in the next week or two. Please help Treasure walk again by donating to her fund for acupuncture and underwater treadmill. Treasure continues to thank everyone that has donated to her cause so far, but we still have a way to go. I am hoping to get her groomed some this week so she doesn’t look like a yorkie but the fine wire hair mini doxie that she is!!!
UPDATE: 1/30/08
 Treasure has had 4 acupuncture treatments and DRNA has extended her underwater treadmill and physical therapy treatments. I am happy to report that Treasure is using her left leg in the treadmill and when I sling walk her!!! She does move her right leg every once in awhile but not as much as the left. I continue to do leg exercises on her at home to strengthen her legs and back so she can support herself.
I am happy to report that she has bladder and bowel control. She is going to the "salon" this week-end for a new do and I will post a new picture soon. Treasure and I would like to thank all our supporters who have helped her make this much progress. Without your support Treasure would have made it this far!!!
To read about dogs that have needed help in the past, you can read our archives.
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Dax
Dax is one lucky guy. Two gentlemen took him to a shelter in Raleigh, NC as a stray with a back issue. The Shelter was able to get him medical care and put on steroids and pain medication. Two days later they called rescue for help and within hours DRNA stepped up help him. Dax’s luck continued. He needed to get from Raleigh, NC to Fredericksburg, VA for medical care and fostering. A DRNA transport was going the next day and he was able to be put on it.
On Dec 4th, he was taken to the Regional Veterinary Referral Center, in Springfield, VA and after the examination and Mylogram went straight into surgery. He had a slipped disc at T13-L1. A right-sided Hemilaminectomy was preformed. A large amount of disc material was found pressing on the spinal canal. A small bit of the disc material was adhered to the spinal cord ventrally indicating a chronic problem. Most of the disc material was removed, a small piece was still attached to the spinal cord which was not removed as that would require excessive manipulation and compression. After the surgery Dax was given a good prognosis.
UPDATE 12-8-08: he has bladder control, is trying to stand and can wag his tail. As part of his therapy his foster Mom stands him up on a rug and balances him to eat. He really tries hard to stand. Dax is not very happy with enforced crate rest, however it will be enforced while he continues to heal. Since he came into rescue from a shelter already down, we do not know his history. However with his dachshund determination, we suspect he will eventually walk.
Dax is very sweet and a well mannered little guy. Once he is completely healed he will be looking for a home of his own. Please open up your heart and wallet and help Dax and others like him. Your generosity is greatly appreciated by the dachshunds and the rescuers that care for them.
UPDATE 1-15-08: Dax is doing great and waiting patiently for his upcoming dental and Spay scheduled for Feb 13, 2008. In a few months, once his hair grows back in he will be back to normal, walking fine with full bladder and bowel control. Thanks everyone that helped support Dax and others like him in need.
UPDATE 2-20-08:
Dax is doing FANTASTIC and is now happy to be in his adoptive home getting lots of belly rubs! Thanks for your support!
To read about dogs that have needed help in the past, you can read our archives.
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Virginia and Georgia Shelter Dogs
During the weekend of November 17th, DRNA took in over twenty dogs from two shelters. One shelter is in Georgia and the other in Virginia. Obviously a huge influx of dogs means huge vet bills and DRNA is asking again for your generous support as you have shown in the past.
 Most of the dogs had no medical records. Without the records, it had to be assumed the dogs needed rabies and distemper vaccines, fecal and heartworm tests, and spaying or neutering. In addition, their teeth were in horrible condition and needed dental cleanings plus an average of two or three extractions for each dog. If you have had your dog in for a dental cleaning, you realize how this can quickly add up. The dogs received antibiotics to ensure no infection results from the dentals and/or spay/neuter. If you consider spaying/neutering and a teeth cleaning for each dog will average $200 to $300 per dog. That’s $4,000 to $6,000 spent. Then there is the cost of the vaccines and tests with an office visit that could easily add another $1,000 to the overall bill. Those dollar amounts are WITH the discounts the veterinarians give to DRNA. Their vet bills will clearly be in excess of the normal DRNA placement fee per dog.
 A few of the dogs are friendly and outgoing. Most are skittish in their new surroundings. At first they were cautious when dealing with new people. They all will need help with their house-training. Fortunately there were enough foster homes to take them in. They are now thriving in their foster homes. These dogs have come out of their scared shells and are playing with the other doxies in their new surroundings. They will need patient, dachshund savvy homes when the time comes to find their Forever Home.
The goal with these little ones is the same as for all the DRNA dachshunds received: to find loving forever homes. DRNA needs your help in paying our vet bill for taking in these dogs. It would help so much if you could contribute to our medical fund to replenish our reserves so we can help the next dog or the next group of dachshunds that need our help. It is not too early to think about making donations for your end of the year 2007 income tax deductions. DRNA is a 501(c)3 charitable organization.
To read about dogs that have needed help in the past, you can read our archives.
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Sandy
Sandy came into DRNA with 14 dogs that came for a breeder in VA. Sandy came with a massive urinary tract infection and bronchitis. She had to be on antibiotics for 2 weeks and bronchitis medicine before any surgery. Her teeth were so horrible that Sandy had problems eating. We had to soften the kibbles for her to eat. Sandy has also been diagnosed with hypothyroidism which caused her to be very overweight and have hairless patches on her body. Please help us pay for Sandy's bills; she's only 5 yrs old and so very sweet. Once her medical needs have been corrected and controlled, Sandy can live a wonderful, full life. Thank you for helping her get that opportunity.
To read about dogs that have needed help in the past, you can read our archives.
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Wesley - AVAILABLE FOR ADOPTION NOW!
Wesley was struck in the night by a car and left without anyone stopping to help him. A lady saw him in the road and went to a nearby neighbor's home who she knew loved animals and was always helping them. This lady contacted DRNA to see if we could take him in to repair his fractured pelvis.
Wesley has a good chance at a full recovery with the appropriate surgery. His pelvis is fractured in 3-4 areas, and he has a broken pubic bone. He needs to go to an orthopedic veterinarian to have a plate put in to correct these injuries, and these surgeries are always costly. However, he has a great chance to bear no ill effects from the trauma if we can get him to surgery in the next day or so.
What a trooper he is. He has withstood evaluations and manipulations to check him and has not been the least bit cranky or moody about it. He has wagged his tail non-stop and has given kisses to those trying to help him. Wesley's injuries are painful, so this is saying a lot about this little guy's wherewithall to weather this trauma.
UPDATE: August 3, 2007
Wesley had his orthopedic surgery late afternoon on July 30. Since his pelvis was fractured in several places, a stainless steel plate was inserted, and held in place with screws, to stabilize the ilium and readjust it back into position.
Wesley is doing great. He has a great attitude and wags his tail for everyone, even me, who has to make sure he stays in the crate for the next 6 weeks. Yes, 6 weeks of strict crate rest, an additional 2 with limited movement and then back to the surgeon for follow-up x-rays and evaluation of his progress. He's on antibiotics, pain meds and anti-inflammatories. There is still some bruising from his ordeal, but it is lessening each day.
He gets to come out of the crate to go outside to potty and I allow him to sit in the grass and sniff the air. But, he has to be carried for right now. He can push up on his right back leg, but the surgeon doesn't want him to put weight on the left leg for now. So, I physically hold him up so he can do his business. I'm not sure who has a harder time with this--me or Wesley :::::smile:::::
Wesley said to send his love and tail wags to those who are helping with the cost of his surgery and treatment. Your donations allow us to do what we do.......it's truly YOUR gifts that save these wonderful little dogs. We appreciate everyone who is helping.
UPDATE: August 14, 2007
Wesley got his stitches out today (surgery was 2 wks ago today), and his incision looks really good. He gets to walk to go to the bathroom, but that's it. Definitely 2 more weeks in the crate, if not longer. Wesley's body is telling him what to do because he will walk a few steps and then stretch both back legs straight out behind him--resting. Then, he will walk a few more steps and repeat the process. Neurologically, he's sound. He knows exactly where his feet are and what they are doing. We're still fighting his ear infection, but it's much better than it was. He weighs 14.3 lbs. and is eating well.
UPDATE: September 10, 2007
Today is 6 weeks post surgery for the handsome Wesley. What a guy he is. Nothing but a love bug who wants to cuddle and be right in the middle of things. Because he is 4 years old, the orthopedic veterinarian says his bones will not have fully healed until 8 weeks, so 2 more weeks and then we have an x-ray to see where we are.
Poor Wesley has been going stir crazy in the crate--he's on strict crate rest. However, he is allowed to go outside and walk around in the grass, and now he is allowed to be out of the crate in the house, as long as he remains calm and doesn't get all wiggly. Yeah, right!!!! That's all he wants to do----is GET WIGGLY! It's going to be interesting to see how his personality emerges once he can interact more with the other dogs here. We're hoping for a good report and also that we can begin some swim therapy--after our 8 week checkup. Wesley is getting joint supplements, plenty of good food and lots of rest. We're still fighting the ears a bit. Cannot seem to totally get rid of the yeast.
After the 8 week evaluation, Wesley will be available for adoption. Thank you to everyone who has helped with Wesley's medical bills. He is one great guy, and whoever adopts him will have one lovely dachshund. He's a real sweetheart!!!!!
UPDATE: November 23, 2007
Wesley is rearing to go to his new home. He has been released by his orthopedic vet and is having the time of his life now that he is allowed to run and play in the yard. It's also given me the opportunity, as his foster mom, to learn more about his personality and observe his behaviors now that he is healed. Wesley is by far one of the sweetest dachshunds I've ever fostered. He has had no accidents in the house, goes to the door to be let out, and when you say "Outside?" he's at the door to go. He has lived with male and female dogs and has not offered to "mark" as some males do. He gets along with everyone. I've taken him to the pet stores, on walks (we've just started on leash training, as he doesn't really seem to have been walked this way), and home to my parent's house. He has done wonderfully everywhere.
If he has any issues at all, it would be that he tends to check out the fence perimeter. Obviously, because of his history, he has spent a lot of time figuring out how to get out of a yard, and has succeeded numerous times. A very secure yard is an absolute must with a physical fence--no invisible fencing will be considered. He has a very high prey drive with regard to wildlife in the yard, i.e. squirrels, birds, frogs, etc.
Wesley loves to snuggle, will give kisses and paw your cheek. He has been crating at night and is now used to this, but he also loves to crawl up in the big bed. His greatest pleasure in life is to please and be loved. He would do best with a doggie playmate, as he is very social.
We want to again thank everyone who helped Wesley receive the specialized surgery and medical care needed for him to fully recuperate and have the opportunity he now has to live a perfectly normal, active life. Wesley sends doggie kisses to everyone!!!
To read about dogs that have needed help in the past, you can read our archives.
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Deiter
I had gone to the shelter just a few days before to pull an owner surrender when I was forwarded the picture of this dog. He was pitiful, skin and bones with this huge growth out of his behind. The first day I went to see him I took a bed just to make sure he was not on the ground. He was sleeping on a
rug beside the bed and there was a full bowl of dry food, which he would not eat.
I visited him several times just to sit with him and get him out of the cage
to let him know that someone cared for him. On the second visit I took some
treats and while feeding him found that he had no front teeth. This was the
reason he wasn't eating the dry food they put out for him. They gave him
canned food then and he devoured it and every bite that has been placed
before him since. He weighed 13 lbs. the day we took him to the vet. He
had ear mites, hookworms and was covered with fleas. The huge growth on his behind the vet said was a hernia. The vet was not able to operate until a week later as they needed to get antibiotics in him because of his poor health and rotten teeth that were left. Vet said he was not sure if Deiter would have leakage or not but he was hopeful.
The surgery was very involved (he also had to be neutered) and the rest of
his teeth had to be pulled. It turns out that the hernia also contained
some of his small intestines. Our vet put everything back where it was
supposed to be and sewed him up and we waited for a week to see if it would
be successful. Just a few days after surgery he was
able to poop like a normal dog. He still has an occasional leak but he gets
embarrassed and tries to hide it.
 He is learning to be a pet again and
follows me from room to room where I have placed beds for him with blankets
to cover up. He wags his tail when meeting people now and loves to just
have a hand on him while he sleeps.
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Sadie
This is tiny little Sadie. She was attacked by a large dog in her former home. They didn't have the money for surgery on her severely broken jaw, so they were going to put her to sleep.
Thankfully, her vet called a local representative of DRNA. The surgery was preformed and Sadie is now resting comfortably in her foster home. The external pins are not pretty to look at, but they hold little Sadie's jaw in place until it heals. Right now she has to eat pureed food. But does a very good job of it.
Sadie is just a darling little choc/tan long hair dapple girl. Absolutely as sweet as can be. She is almost like a pocket pet.
UPDATE:
Dear Friends, our hearts are broken. Little Sadie had to be helped to the Bridge because of the extensive damage from her injuries. She had to have surgery again, and at that time the damage was so severe that nothing could be further done to help Sadie. Such a loss.
If you would like to make a donation in Sadie's memory to help other dachsies in need, we know Sadie would so very much approve.
Thank you.
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Penny - ADOPTED!
Penny is a senior of at least 14 or 15 yrs old. She, along with 4 cats, was abandoned in her home after her elderly mother was sent to long-term care facility. Penny lived in the closed house for several months, in her urine and feces. Once DRNA learned about her situation, fast action was taken to rescue her. The cats were rescued also from that home a couple a days earlier. Penny has been without good care for at least 2 or 3 years, because her mom was getting too old to have her properly vetted and get the care she needed.
Penny is probably not spayed,  and has quite a few tumors on her, including a very large fatty tumor on her left side, and 2 dangling ones on her feet. Penny needs to have the tumors removed, so she can start living a normal life again. Right now, when she stands, she shifts her weight on the other side because of the pull of the tumor. She will feel so much better being able to walk properly and stand properly.
When Penny is done with her surgeries, she will require a home to finish her days in dignity. Penny is a very sweet senior girl, very friendly and the vet said her heart sounds really good for her age... In the last couple of days, she’s discovered what it’s like to be outside in the grass. When we take her outside, she runs like a puppy! She’s also discovered what it’s like to be scratched and loved. And she’s even got her potty skills almost back. She’s so eager to please. Oh, and when we pull out the leash, she’ll run to you to get her walk.
Update May 9, 2007
 Penny had her surgery on May 8th and it went very well. She went through the surgery without any problems, but as you can see from the picture, recovery will take a little while. She has lots of sutures and 2 drains where the fatty tumor was. The sutures will be removed within 10 to 14 days. She also had a good night sleep, which should help recovery even more! Thanks to all donations received to date, Penny was able to get the much needed surgery and is on her way to a better life.
Update June 1st, 2007 - Final update
Penny finally had all her stitches removed. Even after that, considering the size of the scar, it took a while to fully heal, especially since she's not a youngster anymore... Now she is back to normal and is truly enjoying life. She runs in the grass and LOVES to go for walks. Penny will be forever grateful to everyone who donated money for her surgeries. At last, she is free to run and can enjoy walks without tripping over because of the weight of the tumor. She's adjusting very well to her new life and her home. For Penny was just officially adopted by her foster mom. Sweet Penny is home and will lead a normal life thanks to all of you.
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Ellie - ADOPTED!
 Hi friends, one of my little fosters, Ellie Marie showed signs of going down a week ago Saturday. She spent the week at my vets on prednisone, with ups and downs all week. Finally yesterday, my vet felt that I should get her to a surgeon. She was still walking, but in obvious pain.
 So off to VA we headed on Friday night to the Springdale Veterinary Referral Hospital. Ellie had her surgery consult at 9:30 this morning and was out of surgery by 2:30 pm. The surgeon could not believe that Ellie was still walking, because of the severe compression on L1 and L2 and all the "material" she got out of there.
They expect a full recovery and Ellie has even peed on her own this evening. If all goes well, I can bring her home tomorrow(Sunday).
Please keep her in your thoughts and prayers for a full recovery.
FINAL UPDATE - Adopted!
We are happy to announce that Ellie Marie has found a forever home
with Teresa of New Jersey. Have a great new life Ellie!
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Barney
 Barney is a red and white double dappled long-hair tweenie who is approximately 10 years old. He has one blue eye. Unlike most double dapple dachshunds, Barney is neither blind nor deaf and seems to have all his faculties. He was found as a stray by the Animal Protection Foundation in Scotia, NY. Barney had severe dental disease when he was brought in and the shelter performed a dental on Barney and had to remove all of his remaining teeth. During the surgery, his jaw began to “dissolve” from the infection and had to be reinforced with wire to keep it intact. The wire has been in since January in an effort to reestablish some of his jaw foundation.
The shelter where Barney was taken to felt that there was little chance of Barney being adopted at their facility, so he was turned over to Dachshund Rescue of North America in February 2007 and came to live in New Jersey with his new Foster Mom and Dad. He has adapted well in his new home and gets along with all seven of his foster brothers and sisters.
We named him Barney after the Barnegat Lighthouse here on Long Beach Island in Southern New Jersey. The lighthouse is red and white striped and so is Barney. His white portions were actually pink when he first came to us. This was caused by discoloration from his own saliva as he tried to rid himself of the multitude of fleas that were covering his body when he was found. His hair is now growing back in and is a beautiful gleaming white color.
 Barney is now facing surgical removal of the wire that has been holding his jaw together. This surgery is scheduled in June and will be performed at the University of Pennsylvania Veterinary Hospital in Philadelphia. In addition to the wire removal, the surgeons will also be trying to repair and close two openings in his jaw called oral nasal fistulas. These were caused from the tremendous infection that was surrounding his large canine teeth that had to be removed. These never healed properly and Barney now has two holes in his jaw leading straight to his sinus cavity. These openings have a tendency to become frequently infected as food is trapped inside and could lead to further problems in the future.
Barney seems oblivious to any of these problems. He loves to eat – we grind up all his food in a mini blender and mix it with water to make a gruel so that is easy for him to eat with no teeth. His lower jaw is ragged looking and his tongue hangs out of his mouth because he has no teeth to keep it in! All of these features just make him even more endearing and lovable. He is a true cuddle-bug. His fur has grown in very soft and feels like velvet to the touch. He loves to roll over for belly rubs on a moment’s notice. He is like a big teddy bear who loves to sleep with us under the covers in the Big Bed.
As if this situation wasn’t enough, we have just learned that Barney may be suffering from allergies that are causing him a great deal of discomfort at the present time. We have just returned from the veterinary office where Barney was given a steroid injection to try and give him some relief from the itching that has been driving him crazy over the last several days. The doctor says it could be an allergy to food or something in the environment here in Southern Jersey with all the pollen at this time of the year, or a myriad of other possibilities. We have just started Barney on a restricted diet of prescription food that does not contain either beef or chicken. This will last for about two months to determine if it can break the cycle of irritation. At least Barney has temporary relief at this time.
Our wish for Barney is that he will be able to live out the remainder of his senior years in peace and harmony and not have the continuous pain he must have experienced over the last several years from the neglect of his previous owner. He is such a sweet, gentle soul who just wants to be loved.
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Stretch - ADOPTED!
Stretch came to us from the Erie County animal shelter in western NY. They recognized what a sweet wonderful boy he was and wanted to get him into rescue - where he would have a chance at getting the care his former owners were unable to give him. He had a previous back injury, but was walking with only a slight limp. He was put on crate rest and steroids, but after 3 weeks, poor Stretch was experiencing more and more pain every day. On Sunday, 4/8 we had decided we were going to get more pain pills to relieve his pain - the doctors were reluctant to do much else until we had completed 4 weeks of steroids and crate rest. We did not get that chance. Stretchy's foster mom found him with his tail curled under and crying in pain on Monday morning, and within a couple of hours, he was losing his ability to stand on one hind leg. He was going down - and we needed to get him into a surgeon for evaluation quickly.
We began contacting veterinary universities and decided on the Univeristy of Ontario at Guelph. We quickly put together a transport and got him on the road by that afternoon, 4/9. He had a very painful night and was seen by surgeons at the university the next day. He had 80% compression of the spinal cord, but was deemed a good candidate for surgery. He had his surgery on Tuesday, 4/10 and is recovering now. He will be in the hospital for several days, and even with the damage he had - we are hoping for the best. He will be going to stay with a DRNA member while he recovers and has therapy. Another amazing volunteer, who opened her home up to this little guy when he needed the help - on a moment's notice! We will keep you updated as we find out how he is progressing.
 His foster mom wants you to know that he is the sweetest boy ever, loves to be a lap dog and waits patiently "in position" to be picked up, loves little kisses on the very top of his head, is gentle and kind as can be - even in the face of excrutiating pain. Loves everyone and deserves the very best.
He is getting wonderful care now - but this all will cost a few thousand dollars. Any help would be so appreciated! We need to get this special boy back on his feet and into a great forever home....where he can get lots of little kisses on the top of his head! Can you please help Stretchy?
UPDATE 4/25/07
Stretch had a setback this week. He was still experiencing pain and on 4/24, he went down again. His newest foster mom had no car available and did not know how she was going to get him to back to the University surgeon. A little voice (she insists it was Stretchy talking to her) said "Call a cab".....so she did! It took 3 calls to get a cab company with an animal loving dispatcher that would send a dog alone to the hospital!
 When Stretch was examined, it was determined he needed back surgery....again. He made it through the surgery and is now beginning the healing process again. He is still experiencing pain, but is back up and walking again....so please send good thoughts that this happy, sweet guy is done with surgery and will be free of pain soon.
Please help if you can - the doctor bills are really racking up on him - but once you've met him - you wouldn't want to give up either!
UPDATE May 19, 2007
Stretch is really coming along. Without the leash holding him back he will run, play, jump, climb, scratch and oh so many other bad things that he is not supposed to do. On leash, he is forced to walk for pee/poop and for a couple of minutes to stretch his legs. Right now we do sit and stand exercises 3x a day (about 15 reps), leg resistance movements and hip slaying. In about 3 weeks, we can start some 5 minute walks and work our way up to longer (approx 15 minutes) and do water therapy.
It will take approximately one year for Stretch to fully heal so it will be a long process, but he has improved in leaps and bounds and really, you would never know he's been down. He actually leaped on foster dad's lap last night .... like a little rabbit. He was sitting nicely behaving himself and then wham, he was in his lap. Silly dog.
With proper care and stern commitment to NO stairs, NO jumping, NO furniture, perfect weight, proper exercise, Stretchy stands an excellent chance of having a very active and normal life! I can't believe what a little devil he is. Like a puppy, really.
Update June 11, 2007 - Final update
Stretch had his final check at the University of Ontario - No neurological deficits whatsoever!
They are very pleased with him. With weight control, regular exercise and care on stairs/jumping etc. he will live a perfectly normal life!
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Lilly
Hi, my name is Lilly. I went down in the back, so my family decided they didn't want me any more. Wow, I was scared of what would happen to me. Most likely it looked like I was going to be put to sleep, but.....
Thankfully, some nice folks at DRNA decided they wanted to help me. So I was picked up and then taken to the vets for evaluation. Even though I had been down for awhile, I still had deep pain, so I was still a surgical candidate. I had surgery about 4 weeks ago now.
I am in recovery and living with my foster family in SW PA. Foster mom thinks I will walk again, I can stand for short periods and move my legs, but they are weak. So we are working on building up my muscles. Foster mom loves me and says I am the cutest thing ever and that I have dachsietude. That means, a dachsie with attitude. I'm a go getter and I am so happy that I had the surgery, even though it is expensive, everyone says I'm worth it.
Would you mind helping me pay for my surgery? Even a dollar or two will help.
THANKS so much, your best friend, Lilly.
UPDATE - May 5, 2007
 Hi everyone. Lilly has had 4 water therapy treatments so far and she is doing great. She moves all four legs in the water. She is now getting up on her own and toddling around for a few steps. She also will raise herself up when she potties outside. The therapy has made a huge difference. Lilly is improving everyday and we only hope for complete recovering. Everyone she meets falls in love with her. She is quite a little trooper.
Thanks to everyone for all their help. |
Breeder Dogs
Avis and Cagney, two smooth red girls, and Benny, Dickens, Ewok, and Felix, four male wired-hairs, are not the kind of dachshunds you typically see on the Help Us Page. But they need your help just as much.
DRNA found out about a dachshund breeder going out of business and giving the dogs away to whoever showed up. Individuals came and picked out dogs and a local animal hospital took some of the dogs. By the time DRNA contacted the breeder, there were six dogs left. The six dogs were kept in an outside brick run on top of a concrete slab with two dogs in each kennel. There was no heat in the interior of the kennel where the dogs lived. The breeder had no vaccination records for the dogs. The DRNA reps realized the remaining 6 dachshunds were undoubtedly the 6 that no one else wanted. The wires were heavily matted.  All had scars on their ears and tails. All were filthy and their odor was indescribable. The six seemed friendly and their little tails wagged with hesitation. Benny and Avis were the most outgoing, followed by Felix and Cagney. But Ewok and Dickens were the most timid and will need some TLC. The rescuers were happily surprised that there was no attempt to bite, not even in fear. The most that could be done that night for them was to bathe them and give them warm dry blankets to sleep on and then a trip to the vet the next day.
 Off to the vet clinic the next morning where all the dogs got nail trims, ear cleansings, general exams, rabies and distemper shots, intestinal worm tests and heartworm tests. The good news: all the dogs are heartworm negative and do not have worms. The bad news: every one of them, including the 2 year old, was suffering from severe periodontal disease. Many will lose teeth and one is expected to lose all her teeth. All of the wirehairs had bad yeast infections in their ears. The pictures show some of the swabs from the ear cleanings. Some photos show their rotting teeth and gum disease. These precious dachshunds have been neglected in many ways.
 These six were in rural area of Virginia. But this type of situation happens everywhere. For dachshunds in this type of situation, DRNA wants to help find loving forever homes for them so they know the warmth of a bed and the love a dog deserves. The cost of taking in six dogs at one time may not seem like much. But their veterinary bills will likely equal if not exceed the cost of one back surgery. Please help these six little ones and others who find themselves in these unfortunate situations.
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Please help us by donating your carts for our paralyzed dachshunds. Email us for instructions. Or donate $350.00 for a new cart - we would be forever grateful!
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