Rescued From Less Than Desirable Conditions

 We picked up Ladybugg, a 9 year old senior boxer from the home where she had lived the past 8 years of her life......the last 2 weeks alone.  Her elderly caretaker had Alzheimer’s disease and was taken to a care facility.  Out of town family members provided food and water but left her locked inside to fend for herself.

 When we entered the home, Ladybugg was extremely scared, shy, and confused.  We knew immediately that Ladybugg’s neglect extended far beyond two weeks.  She was dirty, her coat was in poor condition, and her nails were so overgrown and embedded into her paws that her pads were bleeding.  She had difficulty walking due to her swollen, infected paws.

 We immediately scheduled a vet appointment for the next morning to evaluate her condition. The first concern were her infected paws which they determined had a yeast infection. The nails were trimmed back enough to allow her to walk with more comfort.  She had a purulent discharge that extended between the pads as well as her toes.  Daily soakings will need to continue and, if no improvement is shown within 10 days, she will need to return for reevaluation. They directed that
all of her activities must be limited….this is a very painful condition.

 Ladybugg also had a complete exam which included extensive bloodwork, fecal, and updated her rabies vaccine.  The doctor discovered a very small mass on the front of her chest which was not of immediate concern, however we were told to monitor it’s size.  She was sent home with antibiotics, a soaking solution for her paws, and a gel for her crusty nostrils.  Ladybugg’s dental problems will need to be addressed in the near future.  She has severe tartar and gingival hyperplasia and an infected upper molar which will most likely need surgery.

 Her foster mom gives the following report:

 “When I went to get Ladybugg from her home I was afraid of what I might find.  In a matter of minutes, Ladybugg realized she was going outside and she perked up a bit, used the potty, then hopped right in the car and said "I'm gone!"  Ladybugg had difficulty walking due to her grossly overgrown nails.  Her paws and knuckles were swollen and bloody and obviously this was more than two weeks of neglect.  This poor girl, you could tell it was painful.

 The ride to our home was quiet; Ladybugg still uncertain of what was happening.  I'm sure she was excited and scared all at the same time.  Upon arrival to her new home she was greeted by the animal locals and we got our first "wiggles" out of Miss Ladybugg.

 She really seems to adore dogs, cats, and older children.  Ladybugg had her first visit to the vet since 2004.  The vet staff remarked how sweet and brave she was.  She was brought right up to speed, had her shots, and is required to be on antibiotics 3 X's a day, along with medicated foot soaks for her sore paws.

 Ladybugg is anxious to go for walks, hop, and play.  We are required under Dr.'s orders to keep activity to a dull roar until her paws improve.  She is totally fighting it every step of the way though!  Ladybugg is a sweet, tender, senior boxer that would make anyone an excellent companion.”