MEDICAL UPDATE SFA Amiya: Amiya arrived safely in the arms, literally, of her wonderful chauffeur couple who also came with food, a bag of toys, and a generous donation for her care. (BTW, they sneaked in a visit with Adonis.) Amiya weighs only twenty one pounds and judging by her age and bone structure could easily weigh twice that amount. She has two involved decubital ulcers, bed sores, which would imply, sadly, she was a prisoner within some type of confined area. Her femur, long bone, is exposed on both sides. Dogs, even in a state of starvation typically do not remain sedentary long enough to suffer from ulcers this involved. She has numerous deep ulcers on her feet and one deep involved wound on her spine. Her hair and skin is literally falling off her skeletal structure. She has a subnormal temperature, which of course comes as no surprise. When dogs are in a state of starvation, cachexia, the body begins to consume its own muscle tissue. This is the case with her. Her protein and albumin are dangerously low. She is also very anemic which does not come as a surprise. Her state of dehydration is advanced. After warming her body, she was bathed to remove layers of filth so that her body could begin the healing process of her open wounds. She was not appreciative of this but tolerant. She has an IV cath and will be rehydrated slowly as not to overwhelm her fragile condition. She has an advanced heart murmur and this may be due either to her state of health and or her heartworm positive status. Amiya will start on a course of antibiotics, will receive involved wound care, and begin a feeding protocol specifically formulated for her needs. She will receive 24/7 care for the next forty eight hours so that her every need may be met. Amiya has begun her love affair with her 8 medical grade memory foam mattress She has not offered to move since we tucked her in after her treatment. Room service is definitely in order for her as long as she wishes. Had she her way, we are certain the Do not disturb sign would be hung as well, other than to eat of course. In spite of everything, she remains trusting and loving. No surprise to us or those who know dog behaviour well.
Posted on: Sat, 27 Sep 2014 22:18:47 +0000