Content Staffs
Poor Zorro is not yet 6 months old, but he has already endured a lifetime of pain. The poor little puppy was brought to Horizon Animal Hospital through the Bixby Police Department after they found him in a ditch, writes reshareworthy
They believe Zorro was kept in a home where they made crystal meth, as he had chemical burns to 50 percent of his body and was suffering withdrawal symptoms due to addiction to the terrible drug.
Zorro was suffering “aches, pains, hallucinations, shaking and crying” said his rescuers. Zorro likely got the chemical burns after breathing in the drug, which then seeped through his skin, causing the burns and red marks in the process.
“He is very also emaciated and can’t eat because of burns on his tongue,” Joleen Wiggam Hansen with the Horizon Animal Hospital wrote on Facebook. They also believe he is suffering burns to his intestinal track.
Despite his terrible condition, the vet hospital, which also has a registered animal rescue charity, Horizon Animal Heroes, knew they wanted to save him.
Joleen explains that Zorro was not humanely euthanized because he was not ready to give up. “I promise that we would never, ever keep him alive if we thought he would not make a 100% recovery,” she said. “But HE is willing to fight, so why in the hell would we not help him FIGHT!”
Their immediate challenge was to get his body temperature to return to normal. They gave him a blood transfusion and warmed him with a heating pad and provided much needed nutrients through an IV.
They also washed off the drug residue (the purple on his fur is from “purple meth”).
And they let him rest and sleep.
Although he is not out of the woods, after a night in the hospital, Zorro’s rescuers shared some good news. Zorro is able to urinate and have bowel movements, which is a relief given the internal damage caused by the chemicals. “This is good because it means his insides are functioning again,” said Joleen.
He is still very weak, but he is getting rest and they are taking his recovery day by day.
“If you have ever seen a dog or cat come out of a situation and thrive with a family who adores them and loves them like they should be loved, then you understand why we won’t let animals be put to sleep because of a temporary set back in their life,” she adds. “Animals are amazing, strong, and just want to be loved and needed.”
**Story Update February 13, 2022**
Sad news to share. Zorro has passed away. Dr. Cari McDonald shared the following news: “It is with a heavy heart and many tears that I must let everyone know that our little hero, Zorro, crossed quietly over Rainbow Bridge a little after 11 last night. He was peaceful and warm with all the prayers, love and support surrounding him in plush blankets and stuffed animals that everyone so generously donated. While I am deeply saddened that his journey on this earth has passed, I am comforted by the fact that this little guy knew what it was like to be held and loved in his short life.”
Rest in Peace, sweet Zorro.
Source: reshareworthy.com
---------
10 Common Dog Health Problems
Some health problems are specific to certain breeds, such as breathing complications for flat-faced dogs. But several other canine health issues can affect any dog. Here are 10 typical health conditions you need to watch out for in your four-legged best friend:
Top 10 Common Dog Health Problems
Skin Problems
One of the most obvious signs that your dog has a skin condition is itching. Other symptoms that may suggest that your dog has a skin problem include rashes, redness, dry skin, lumps, bumps, skin sores, dandruff, and hair loss.
Ear Diseases
Approximately 20 percent of dogs suffer from ear disease. It’s particularly common in breeds with floppy ears like cocker spaniels and basset hounds. It’s common to see wax buildup or discharge in their ear canal. But others may experience pain, itchiness, redness, swelling, and crusting in the ears.
Urinary Tract Infections
Simply known as UTI, this condition can make it uncomfortable for your beloved companion to pass urine. Signs of urinary tract infection include drinking water more than usual and passing urine more often than usual. Your dog may also only pass a small amount or lose bladder control. Additionally, you may see blood in their urine or notice a strong smell to it.
Vomiting
There are countless reasons why your pet may throw up. You don’t need to visit the vet each time your dog vomits. But it’s also not something you can just ignore. Don’t try to guess. If the vomiting persists or occurs with other symptoms like diarrhea or lethargy, you need to rush to the vet. It could be a sign of severe health problems, such as poisoning or gastrointestinal blockage.
Diarrhea
This symptom may occur on its own or be accompanied by vomiting. Its potential causes are similar to vomiting. One or two episodes of diarrhea may not be a pet emergency. But recurring diarrhea can result in dehydration.
Parasites
At some point in their lives, your pet may have to deal with discomfort due to internal or external parasites. Symptoms of parasites generally vary, depending on a few factors. These include the kind of parasite that has plagued your pet, where it lives, and how severe its infestation is.
Dental Issues
Like us, your dog can develop canine dental diseases due to high levels of plaque buildup. Several signs indicate that your pet may have dental disease. These include difficulty eating, bleeding of the gums or teeth, loose teeth, and bad breath.
Obesity
Nearly 30 percent of the general dog population is considered obese. Several factors contribute to a pet’s risk. These include age, genetic predisposition, lack of exercise, and overfeeding, among others.
Arthritis
This joint problem can restrict your dog’s mobility. Bring Fido to the vet if you see your dog slow down or limp before and after walks. Other signs include licking or chewing on tender areas and behavioral changes.
Poisoning
Symptoms of dog poisoning vary widely, depending on the kind of toxin a pet has been exposed to. The signs can range from vomiting to drooling, breathing difficulties, seizures, or worse, coma. Some of the most common poisonous substances are human foods like chocolates, grapes, raisins, onions, and caffeine. Other known culprits are human medications, household cleaning products, pesticides, and some plants.
GIPHY App Key not set. Please check settings