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Taken in
emaciated and scared from the shelter in Apache Junction, Gabby
joined the AZGRC family last July. Her family turned her in
after their home had been raided by police and Gabby was the
unfortunate recipient of some mace. She was extremely thin when
picked up and almost immediately upon arriving with her foster
family she developed severe diarrhea. Sadly it was soon
determined that Gabby also suffers from a “pancreatic
insufficiency.” She lacks an enzyme that allows her body to
digest the food she eats.
Our
veterinarian gave her the much needed enzyme, which took care
of the diarrhea, but after several months, Gabby had still had
not gained any weight. More tests, including some hair samples
found that she had severe copper toxicity. This condition was
having a dramatic impact on her pancreas and so explained the
other symptoms she was experiencing. AZGRC and her foster
family sprung into action and immediately changed Gabby’s diet.
She was prescribed several nutritional supplements, in addition
to a powder that now must be sprinkled on her food each time she
eats.
Today Gabby
is 20 lbs. heavier and shows interest and affection when her
foster family’s hand reaches down for a pat or another dog
wanders over for a sniff. She loves to spend afternoons running
at the park and especially loves chasing cats when she goes for
a visit to her foster grandparent’s home. She is patient and
loving and will sit happily with her two front paws crossed as
she keeps an eye
on the neighborhood.
Through
improved nutritional supplements and the patience of her foster
family, Gabby’s enzyme amounts dropped considerably and in turn
the ongoing cost of her care decreased significantly. Gabby’s
foster family fell in love with her “jumping twirls” and dance
moves on the floor and eagerly adopted her, finally giving Gabby
her forever home.
The cost
of veterinary care and testing
for Gabby was considerable. In
addition she will be on nutritional supplements to control her
enzyme level for the rest of her life. But dogs like Gabby are
why the AZGRC exists. Many other dogs just like Gabby will pass
through our doors this year and we are committed to enriching
their lives, just like we did with Gabby. Medical care,
pharmaceutical needs, surgeries and veterinary appointments
are
expensive, but with your contribution, these dogs will have a
second, well-deserved, chance to live improved and happy lives.
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