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Weighing
more than 100 lbs. and with Valley Fever, Jesse came to AZGRC
because her former owner was moving into a smaller apartment and
couldn’t keep her. She had also been diagnosed with thyroid
problems and was found to have a tumor. The once affectionate
Jesse had become quiet and tired easily as she tried to walk
even a few feet.
Her AZGRC
foster family quickly started sweet Jesse on the long (and
expensive) road to recovery. The tumor was removed, but took a
very long time to heal. Shortly after this surgery, a second
tumor was found on Jesse’s rear leg. The veterinarian
determined that it too was cancerous and gave the foster family
little hope that anything could be done. Through years of little
exercise and also having a pair of bad hips, Jesse would likely
not be able to handle amputation. In addition there were
concerns about the location of the tumor and how difficult it
would be to remove. Ultimately they went forward with the
surgery and had most of the tumor removed. This combination of
conditions does not make Jesse an ideal candidate for radiation
or chemotherapy so AZGRC continues to try and determine the best
course of treatment for her.
Despite
these challenges, Jesse continues to bond with her foster
family, in particular a loving 13-year old niece who enjoys
talking to Jesse about her new “leash” on life. Today Jesse is
able to enjoy (comfortably) long walks and has lost nearly 20
lbs. She loves to help out in the kitchen and occasionally will
enjoy some nighttime solitude by slipping out the doggy door to
watch the stars on the cool, night patio. AZGRC is delighted
with the tenderness and independence Jesse has developed through
her months as a foster dog and is hopeful that Jesse’s forever
family will not be deterred by these demands.
Dogs like
Jesse are why the AZGRC exists. Other unwanted dogs just like
Jesse will pass through our doors each day, each year, and we
are committed to enriching their lives, just like we did with
Jesse. 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, happy lives. |
