The publication of this newsletter was delayed when our Treeing Walker Coonhound, Dolly, unexpectedly became ill. She was fine all week, then refused to eat Saturday morning. Her breathing was labored and she was weak on her feet. Susan immediately rushed her to the emergency clinic, where they diagnosed anemia and had to give her a blood transfusion to save her life. Other than slightly elevated liver enzymes and a flare up of Lyme disease, her bloodwork was normal. The x-rays and ultrasound were clear. Relieved that there were no signs of cancer, we and her doctors continue to be puzzled as to why she crashed so quickly. Dolly is receiving antibiotics, but remains at the hospital because she has not regained her appetite. The doctors believe that she will be able to return home soon.
Dolly is nine years old and spent the first two years of her life chained up outside year around. A concerned neighbor finally intervened and that’s how she came to be part of The Lily Pond in 2017. She has always been a happy, friendly, high energy dog who enjoyed robust health, so we are hopeful that she can pull through this illness.