An elderly dog had apparently been abandoned and left terrified and trembling in Central Park. Now named “Lady,” the dog was discovered about a week ago by Christine Walsh, a local resident and huge animal lover and advocate. Walsh couldn’t walk away an brought the dog home with her.
she needed someone – and i was there.
Lady is 15-years-old and in poor health. Her microchip traced her back to Colorado and a birth date of 2010. Sadly, she was never registered, so there is no way of knowing who her owner might have been.
Miracle after miracle continues to unfold in Lady’s story. Just five minutes after I agreed to take her home, Rashmita (Rashi) Redkar, another Central Park dog mom, came over, saw what was happening, and offered her support. We exchanged numbers. An hour later, she texted me and insisted on paying half the medical costs. I was stunned. Rashi has been a rock and a blessing to both me and Lady.
Walsh brought Lady to the veterinarian. The dog suffers from possible dementia, arthritis, hearing loss and benign lymphoma. She also suffers from neurological issues and is in desperate need of dental work.
She was initially overmedicated — heavily sedated and placed on high-dose narcotic painkillers — which left her in a stupor. The treatment plan was inadequate and caused more distress than relief.
After Lady’s initial veterinarian exam, she became quite ill and spiked a 105 degree fever. Walsh rushed her to the Animal Medical Center where she is being treated for what could have been a stroke. Still, according to Christina, there is no doubt Lady wants to live.
The dog’s heartbreaking journey has received support from well-wishers everywhere. So far, medical expenses are nearing $13,000. And there will be more.
I know times are hard, but if you’re able to contribute anything, it will go directly toward covering Lady’s vet care. Every donation helps. Even just sharing this campaign can make a difference.
As of July 20: Lady is currently listed as stable at AMC. She’s alert, eating again and beginning to regain her balance. The fever is under control, and her rescuers are seeing signs of resilience. She’s a fighter.
Coming Up: Once she’s discharged, she’ll need:
- Continued care from a neurologist and geriatric vet
- Long-term arthritis management
- Reassessment of her heart and potential lymphoma
- Special diet and in-home comfort adjustments
Lady is a gentle soul who didn’t deserve to be abandoned. Christina is doing all she can to give her safety, love, and dignity in her twilight years.
With heartfelt gratitude, Christine Walsh and Rashi Redkar.
Click here for Lady’s GoFundMe campaign.
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