MINI

We rescued this little bundle of sweetness from the Humane Society of Southern Arizona knowing that she likely has a heart condition. It could be just a minor murmur and something she will outgrow, or it could be something that could cost her life. She has been examined and we have consulted with three specialists and it all boils down to some expensive diagnostics. We have opted to have a cardiologist do an echo cardiogram/ultrasound after the New Year in order to get a more definitive diagnosis and prognosis. Meanwhile, Mini is on meds to eliminate the possibility of a certain type of heart infection. We have been advised, by those we have consulted, that the end result could be a recommendation for euthanasia. We're not giving up on her until we know for sure. Mini was born on Valentine's Day, 2010 thus will turn just two years old next February. Her original owners had her to the vet regularly, she is current with all vaccinations and was tested negative for heartworm, lyme and tick fever. In addition, along with some other blood work, we retested for heartworm which, again, was negative. They also did some training with her so she knows her basics well. Mini is said to be gentle and tolerant with kids. She lived primarily indoors until her owners moved from a house to a condo. When left alone outside in this small area, she dug under the fence. She continued to escape in an effort to play with the dog next door. Her face was pretty scraped up from her most recent adventure and despite having taken such good care of her up to that point, decided it was best to put her up for adoption and surrendered her to the shelter. Mini is spayed, chipped, house and crate trained. She is dog and people friendly, cats are an unknown. She is playful and very loving and is currently in foster care in Tucson. We are awaiting photos and a foster report from Tucson and will post when received. Her medical status will be updated after the 1st of the year and we have the results of her cardio work-up.....fingers & toes crossed....... UPDATE 1/5: Mini's foster had to take a trip so she was moved to one of our former adopter's home for a week....THANK YOU DEE! She shared that home with two other dogs, a male & female..was a bit pushy with them demonstrating lack of social skills, not unusual for a puppy without proper socialization. Her nature was described as very loving, sweet and adorable..just in need of manners. We are still waiting for some good photos and a date for her visit with the cardiologist. Meanwhile, here's few shots of her temporary stay with Sasha & Alaska: If you are interested in fostering Mini, please read about OUR FOSTER PROGRAM and submit a Foster Application (found on the Foster Program page). UPDATE 1/9: Mini's echo cardiogram is scheduled for this Thursday...we're hoping for the best.... UPDATE 1/13: Mini had her ultra sound yesterday and while expectedly squirmy, did so without any sedation. She won over a lot of new fans. Her cardiologist conferred the results with one of the top canine cardiologists in the state, who in turn, requested that we bring her, along with the DVD of her test, to him for further evaluation and yet another echo cardiogram; Dr. Church has far more sophisticated equipment and wanted a deeper look into her aorta. We did determine that there was no heart infection and that her Pericardial sac is normal. So far, her problem appears to be one that can be treated with drugs, however, we are seeking a more definitive result. As soon as we are able to arrange transport, her visit will be scheduled and her final diagnosis and prognosis will be posted here. Needless to say, these tests and vet visits are very expensive. If you are able and would like to help with Mini's diagnostics, we would be very grateful: I HELPED WITH MINI'S EXPENSES: DEE ADAMS UPDATE 1/19: Mini's foster Mom graciously agreed to drive her up to Gilbert from Tucson for her appointment with the cardiologist today. Upon arrival, she showered us all with kisses and had us all in the palm of her paws. She had a complete exam and an extensive echo cardiogram. There were several scenarios possible and each was explained and diagramed in detail by Dr. Church. Ultimately, out of all of the possibilities, Mini was found to have the most treatable with the best chances for a good outcome; Mitral valve displacement, which will be treated with a beta blocker, Atenolol. The medication is very inexpensive and she starts today..it will be for life. Mini will have to be re-checked in 4-5 months to be sure that the medication is working and producing the desired and expected result. If so, she has a good shot at a normal life span. So far, she has not demonstrated any significant limitations; she has self regulated well as she will play ball, which she LOVES, for about ten minutes, then stop and rest on her own. She has not been noticeably short of breath either. Mini should, simply, avoid strenuous exercise. Did you say ball?!! Mini is ready for adoption, however, her new owner must be willing and able to periodically monitor her condition. We have ordered a CD copy of her scan which will go with her. The cost for today's test was $545.00, however, her future check-up will not require repeating a full echo. We think Mini will do well with an active semi-retired couple/individual or with children over 13 years of age. She will require the usual basic obedience class and extensive socialization. She will be your grateful and devoted friend and partner. Vaccinated, spayed, chipped, crate and house trained and pretty too! Adoption fee $275.00. If you are interested in Mini, please READ ADOPTION BEGINS HERE BEFORE CONTACTING US, then call Steff between 10am and 8:00pm. PLEASE BE SURE YOU HAVE READ ADOPTION BEGINS HERE BEFORE CONTACTING US ON THIS DOG. THANK YOU.