Tuesday, September 15, 2009

"Tread softly on my heart for it holds my dreams"

This is Charlie.  I met him today.  Though he looks like an old man, we believe he's not more than 4 years young.  I showed up at his home with the intent of taking his photo (head and body) to submit to Corgi Aid for financial assistance in treating this dog.  When I arrived, I was sickened by the condition of this poor dog.  Through his neglect, his sweet nature and soulful eyes immediately begged me for help.  He followed me to the car and I tearfully drove away.  Two miles down the road, I had to turn back and rescue him.  His story continues...
Charlie is at the vet for overnight care and observation.  He was also given an antibacterial, medicated bath, which will be followed up with another one on Friday and twice weekly as we continue to bring his coat and skin back to health.  He was scared, but knew that everyone gathered around him was there to help him.  He allowed the prodding, poking and sticking of needles. 
 
At last, his nails were clipped...before he headed off to be bathed. 
So the good news is, Charlie's heartworm test came back negative.  We'll re-test in 6 months.  They are running a basic blood panel on his kidneys, liver, etc.  I will head back to the vet tomorrow to bring Charlie home for fostering, recovery and treatment of his skin.  He will be on long-term anitbiotics for his skin.  He will be quarantined for the time being to protect Bruce and Rosie in the event that he has scabies or mange.  So, he'll have a beautiful, clean 10x10 stall in the barn to recuperate in and will have fresh bedding daily or as needed while he sloughs off his scabs.
Charlie weighed in at a mere 19 pounds.  As he recuperates, he will be fed a special diet consisting of hamburger, rice, eggs and green beans.  I will also be giving him wheat germ oil and other supplements to aid in the healing of skin and coat.   I'll update more as Charlie's story continues to unfold.
  
"I may not be able to save the world,
but I can do my part to save a
little piece of the puzzle in my own backyard."
kk of double k farm and corgi rescue