On Wednesday morning, the Humane Society of Central Texas in Waco sent out an urgent plea to ThisIsHouston referencing a six-week-old Aussie puppy who arrived at the shelter after being brought in for being lethargic. The puppy’s bloodwork showed anemia – consistent with coccidia [intestinal tract infection], and her chemistry panel showed signs consistent with malnutrition and dehydration.
The puppy, named River, had been experiencing botulism-like symptoms. Botulism is a food poisoning found on improperly sterilized meat. She was placed on intravenous fluids and went into foster care to be hand fed with a syringe and watered, but needed more intense care. River remains paralyzed and initially was not able to follow movements or focus, but that condition has improved.
River remains in the care of Gulf Coast Veterinary Specialists where she is still very alert. Her x-rays are clear, and her bloodwork is within normal range, however there has not been a confirmed diagnosis. Both nerve, muscle biopsies and a spinal tap have been performed, and as of today, supportive care until River makes improvement is all that can be done.
Later this afternoon, River was placed in an oxygen cage, and it is thought she may need to be placed on a ventilator, however the veterinarian caring for the puppy believes that would do more harm than good.
“We’re currently looking at other specialty emergency rooms. She got another visit from her foster mom this morning. She’s still mentally there and she’s still fighting.”
ThisIsHouston Facebook post
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