Saint Francis Animal Sanctuary Inc.

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About - Saint Francis Animal Sanctuary
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"Not to hurt our humble brethren [the animals] is our first duty to them, but to stop there is not enough. We have a higher mission:

to be of service to them wherever they require it."

Saint Francis of Assisi

Wiggles was born with no front legs
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Photo by Marc Golub Photography Cleveland OH

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PLEASE SEE SCOOTER'S UPDATE AT THE BOTTOM OF THIS WEB PAGE!

CLICK HERE TO SEE SCOOTER IN ACTION! NBC 24 SPECIAL

     Saint Francis Animal Sanctuary  is dedicated to all the animals abused, starving and neglected.  May God touch lightly the soul of an animal we did not rescue in time.  The ones that may never have known a kind word or a warm bed and loving human. 

Please view the slide show of some of our animals. CLICK IN THIS SPACE.

LOOK AT THE DOG IN THE BACK GROUND!5-12-12

This is Bobby.  He was in the background photo of a dog we were taking from Kentucky.  I saw him in the kennel and just knew we were not going to let him die either.  He was due to get euthanized the next morning at 8 AM.  Bobby came along with the black Chow we were pulling also due to die the next day.  They came home to Vermilion and went to our vet in Avon Lake.   Bobby was heart worm neg. 1 yr. old and neutered.  He had a good bath and after 5 days we took him to the boarding facility until a spot opened up at Saint Francis.  Very sad news Bobby came down with a strong strain of parvo and is fighting for his life right now. He is on several antibiotics all given I.V. we are having a hard time keeping his temp. down and he is in isolation with blood work done about 3 times a day.  This sweet and innocent dog just a baby was given a second chance to have a life and escape the gas chamber.  He is such a love now fighting for his life.  We need prayers folks and donations because its just not fair to let him die this way.  Donations can be made by going to our web site www.saintfrancisanimalsanctuary.org or mail. 12516 Cherry Rd. Vermilion OH 44089 or by calling in a credit card to the Avon Lake Animal
Clinic 440-933-5297.  We are a 501(c)3 non profit and donations are tax deductible. 
                            email mparke11@aol.com or call 440-967-3610

I have told the vet to do everything under the sun to save this dog.  Please help with a donation. 

ANGEL OUR 5 LEGGED DOG IN NEED OF DONATIONS.4/28/12

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Angel has been with us for years
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she is a Bull Dog Pit mix from came from Missouri

Out of the clear blue last week Angel our Pit / Bull dog mix from Missouri developed a sore on her one good front leg.  The sore became so bad in a matter of a few days I could not believe it.  The worst news came true.  This sore is cancer and we can not remove the leg.  She uses that leg as a primary weight bearing leg for her body.  The tumor was removed yesterday 4-27-12/ The vet clinic said Angel is doing fine.... we could use donations to help cover her medical care at the vet.  Please consider a donation. 

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We have had so many emergencies and dogs pass through Saint Francis in the past 2 months I feel the need to explain because I have not updated the web site.  For those of you that do not know me I am the chief cook, bottle washer, nurse and poop picker upper! 

1.) We took 7 Chihuahuas from a puppy mill auction in Missouri, 2 were pregnant.  One mother had 6 babies all died within a week.  

2.) We took 2 puppies covered in mange from North Carolina.  One is crippled in the front and back legs.  The mange is under control with medical care. 

3.)  We responded to a call in Lorain OH.  A puppy was near frozen to death found in an alley.  We took the pup to the vet where he received top notch, advanced medical care and did not make it. Sadley he froze to death.   

4.) Grunt ,  Bear and Eeyore our most beloved rescues that lived here forever.... passed away with in a few days.  Eeyore the hairless German Shep. Dog had a heart attack on the kitchen floor and died in my arms.

5.) Sonny one of our new rescues from Central Ohio had a respiratory emergency, bi lateral pneumonia.  He spent 7 days in ICU with IVs , moist air, O2 his bill was over $2,000.00

6.) The white GSD below came home to die basically.  She had the face abcess clear and then when she was spayed the vet found a tumor on her spleen which was cancer.  Then somehow she picked up a form of respiratory distemper.   ( doing wonderful now )

FEMALE WHITE GERMAN SHEPHERD DOG 2-7-12

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She was in severe pain.
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You can see the hole the infection left as it came through her face.

We need help!  This dog was labeled a “senior” because she bone skinny. She came from the dog pound in Youngstown OH.  She was due to be euthanized with heart stick.  That is where they give them a shot deep in the heart to kill them.  They call it humane!   No one wanted her because she has a large abscess where a tooth infected so bad it put a hole in her face and her sinus cavity.  She was in so much pain you could not touch her. She had surgery Feb 6th. and is on antibiotics. Our vet said she is between 4 and 5 years old.  We are treating all her medical issues and will spay this week.  We would love to find a home for her.  Donations needed to help with her medical care.  This all happened yesterday and we do not have a name for her yet!       email  mparke11@aol.com 

Dove in ICU / isolation with IVs going. 2/20/12
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 UPDATE 2/21/12  This dog now named "Dove" has been at the vet since she went in for her mouth infection.  She had dental work and the infection cleared up very well.  We actually had 2 homes for her one in Chicago and one in Canada.  That does not happen too ofter when you have a place for a dog to go before they are even out of the hospital.  We had her spayed while in the clinic for her face surgery.   The vet found a tumor on her spleen.  He feels it is cancer and removed the spleen.  She was getting better from the spay and spleen surgery when she picked up some kind of respiratory infection (not kennel cough ) Her WBC  ( white blood cell ) count was very high and she stopped eating.  They had to keep her on IVs and feed her chicken to get her meds in.   Now severe cage aggression is noted.  She will charge the front of the cage if you even come in sight of her.   Her adoption is on hold at this time.... and the poor girl is coming home to Saint Francis.  We are going to try to work with her and see if we can stop the agression.   Her vet bill is well over $3,000.00, one thing led to another. 

This dog had surgery Monday 2-6-12  we need help with donations to cover her medical bills.  Please consider a donation !  Thank You

2 BROTHERS RE-UNITED!1-28-12

Frankie is on the left and Vinnie is on the right.
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Just look at these two brothers reunited again after months. They spent their entire life together

The Animal Control Officer found Vinnie's brother in KY and contacted us.   Please look at the photo of Vinnie when we first got him.  He and his brother Frankie were kept in a small pen outside in KY.  They were not neutered and never received any vet care of any kind.   We got Vinnie back in October but his brother Frankie took off into the woods and they could not catch him.  Vinnie was strong HEART WORM POSITIVE. We had him treated for heart worms then a month later he was neutered.  Sad news is.... Frankie was tested and is STRONG HEART WORM POSITIVE.  Now he needs to be treated also.  Just look at these two brothers that are so happy and playful I had a hard time getting them together for a photo!   Please help us get Frankie treated.

 

Please consider a donation to help Frankie get his heart worm treatment. Vinnie ( his brother ) has already been treated for heart worms.

VINNIE FROM KENTUCKY!10/20/11

Original photo from sent from Kentucky
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Vinnie was left to starve and his kennel mate ( brother ) is on the run in KY. WE will take him too when and if the catch him. Vinnie is at our vet right now. His teeth are gone to the gum line from being in a kennel trying to get out. He has a tumor on his side and severe dermatitis from fleas with open sores and missing hair. This happy go lucky pup was so thankful for a dish of food when he came his tail never stopped.

He was loaded with hooks, whips, rounds and the worst part of his totally neglected life ... STRONG HEART WORM POSITIVE.
His life is changing for the better now and we are going to get him fixed up!
We need to start with the heart worm treatment. He is having blood work and x rays done today.
We need funds to cover his heart worm treatment, lab and xrays, tumor removal, neuter and much needed dental... PLEASE CONSIDER A DONATION TO SAINT FRANCIS for Vinnie from Kentucky.
Credit Card: 440-933-5297 (vet clinic 7AM to 9 PM )
Mail: 12516 Cherry Rd Vermilion OH 44089
We are a 501(c)3 non profit group .... donations are tax deductible and very much appreciated.
We are a special needs rescue.

Please help with a donation! We are experiencing very urgent medical cases now.  Please help these special needs dogs. 

2 DOGS RAN OVER WITH HAY MOWER1-9-12

Hero and Deacon were playing in a hay field in Kentucky.  The hay was tall and they were small so the person driving the  hay mower did not see the 2 young pups.  The hay mower went right over them.  One dog lost his front leg and the other lost his rear leg. The sad news is they were never taken to a vet for care.  The wounds slowly closed and they lived.  The problem is now the stumps have a thin layer of skin over the long bones.  The vet said as the stump muscles atrophy ( shrink ) the skin covering the end of the bones will break through.  We want to make them safe  so down the road when they find a family to love. Both dogs need complete amputations of the stumps  that were left when the legs were torn off in a hay mower.   

Deacon lost his left leg in the mower accident.
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Hero missing front leg torn away in an accident
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Please consider a donation for Hero and Deacon.  They have had a hard life in the short time they have been alive.  We are a 501(c)3 non profit group and donations are tax deductible.

Chihuahua rescue Ohio 11-18-11

Sonny spent his first week with us at the vet.
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He is on antibiotics and had several medicated baths. He has hair loss and itching all over.
Sonny has hair loss with open draining areas.
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He had no chance of adoption while in a dog pound in Ohio. We took him home!

UPDATE :   THIS POOR DOG HAD AN ALLERGIC REACTION TO HIS ANTIBIOTICS.   HE WAS RETURNED TO THE VET FOR DAYS WHERE HE RECEIVED MEDICATED BATHS TO HELP THE SKIN CONDITION AND AFTER THE MEDS FOR HIS REACTION HE WAS PLACED ON NEW ANTIBIOTICS.  HE IS BACK HOME NOW.


Sonny had no chance of getting out alive.  He has open areas that are draining and hair loss.  He is always scratching.  He spent several days at the vet and received  skin scraping, blood work, medicated baths, antibiotics. Lets give him a chance at a normal life someday.  Donations needed to pay for his medical care. Thank you.

Sonny in Intensive Care with IVs / O2
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UPDATE ON CHIHUAHUA DOG : 3-7-12

Sonny was real sick.  He was having a hard time breathing.  We took him to the vet where he was put in I.C.U. on I.V.s and antibiotics.   A chest - X ray showed pneumonia bi lateral.  HE COULD NOT BREATH so he was placed on oxygen and a warm saline mist vaporizer. The staff had to clap on his chest several times a day to loosen up his congestion. Blood work was done and a culture and sensitivity showed he had several kinds of bacteria.   Sonny almost died.   When I got the bill .... I almost died.  His bill for this episode was over $2,000.00!   PLEASE HELP!

MOTHER DOG LEFT IN SHOE BOX 11-20-11

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MOM AND BABIES ARE ALL ADOPTED.
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THEY ALL WENT TO WONDERFUL HOMES.

Abby the mom Yorkie mix was taken to a dog pound in ARKANSAS in a shoe box!  She was not wanted because the irresponsible owner never got her spayed and she got pregnant.  When she was due to deliver the babies she was placed in a shoe box and left to be euthanized. ( owner surrender )  A rescue person happen to be there and saved her for Saint Francis.  On 11-9-11  she delived 2 beautiful babies.  One boy and one girl.  The white one with the black feet pads is a female and the black one with the white feet pads is a male. Mom is 7 pounds and the babies only a few ounces right now.  Mom is 2 1/2 yr. old. just a baby herself.   We have no idea what the dad is because no information was give.  ALL OF OUR DOGS ARE SPAYED, OR NEUTERED, VACCINATED DHLPP OR DHPP, BORDETELLA VACCINATION, RABIES, MICRO CHIPPED,  HEART WORM CHECKED IF OLD ENOUGH, DENTAL WORK IF NEEDED.  BROKEN HEARTS MENDED ! The babies will be up for adoption on / around Christmas eve.  They will be spayed / neutered when 4 mo. old at our vet clinic.   The Mom is also going to up up for adoption when the babies can eat on their own.  the adoption fee is $250.00 each.  That is for total vetting on the mom and pups. 

Black male with white pads on all of his feet
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His eyes opened up today for the first time 11-22-11
Female white pup with black pads on her feet
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eyes opened today 11-22-11

PLEASE email  mparke11@aol.com if you are interested in adoption of the mom or pups. The adoption application is on this web site.

The shoe box mom and pups were adopted.
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They all went to wonderful homes and mom was spayed. This black pup went to New York ! Look at him.

ABBY THE DIABETIC YORKIE

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Abby was taken to a dog pound in Tennissee to be "put to sleep".   Her owner of 12 yrs did not leave her insulin.  Six days at the pound left this poor girl with her blood sugar off the charts.  Her blood sugar was over 600.  Her systems were failing and kidneys shutting down. She was taken to the vet in TN and stablized.  We received her here on 4  I.U. of NPH U-100 insulin. We did blood sugar checks everyday and adjusted the insulin.  She ended up on 5 units.   This baby was adopted to a person that understands the condition all to well..... thank you . 

Arnold the Chihuahua has passed away THIS IS AN AWFUL STORY10/28/11

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Arnold was a 6 pound Chihuahua from central Ohio where he was rescued from a dog pound.  He had a large - ugly tumor on his side and that is the main reason we took him.  He went right to the vet where he had a few days before his scheduled surgery.  Last Friday he was scheduled to have the tumor removed and at 5:00AM  he started to have violent major seizures.  The vet treated him with injections of Valium and started him on Phenabarb after witnessing the awful seizures.  He did not have surgery.  This past weekend his respiratory status took a turn for the worse.  He was given state of the art medical care with 24 hr. surveillance.  He had blood work and X Rays  to see if the tumor could be safely removed. 

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If all you knew was the above story about Arnold you may ask yourself .... as sick as he was WHY did you keep him alive?  Here is the rest of the story:   The day I took Arnold to the vet which was 5 days prior to his death, he bit me.  He had came from central Ohio with NO vaccination history of Rabies.  Day 3 after the bite when Arnold started to have violent seizures we started to worry.  Neurological signs / symptoms of Rabies include seizure activity. 

Clinical signs (primary most to least frequent, scientific term, synonyms)
Abnormal behavior, aggression, disorientation, seizures, ascending paralysis, vocalization changes (caused by paralysis of the larynx).

Clinical signs (secondary most to least frequent, scientific term, synonyms)
Fever, hypersalivation, death in 7-10 days from the onset of clinical signs

Sadly Arnold passed away before 10 days of quarantine.  The vet had to remove his little head and send it to the Department of Health in Columbus Ohio.   This had to be done to determine if he had rabies.  This was a very tense 36 hrs. of waiting.  Arnold did not have Rabies and his little body will rest at Saint Francis Animal Sanctuary, When a dog dies..... an angel dog barks in heaven. Run free and fly with your wings Arnold.  You will never know pain again.  Until we meet at the bridge.....  I know your  is in a better place. Arnold's medical bill is well over $1,000.00   after our rescue discount we owe $975.00   for his care.  Please consider a donation.    

AGAINST ALL ODDS! LITTLE MISS MUFFIT9/2011

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Miss Muffit getting a life saving blood transfusion from a Pit Bull "Flower"

Miss Muffit's story is way down on this page.  She has been here with us for years.  She came from Maryland where they found her as a stray.  Muffit is physically deformed with only 4 inches from her shoulder bones to her hip bones.  ( per x rays ) her head is cocked off to one side and her legs are very long. Miss Muffet's anus is on top of her back and she requires a bath every single day.   Better yet please look at his little video of Muffit. She was found laying on the kitchen floor and the only thing moving was her eyes.  SHE WAS ALMOST DEAD AND NOT STRONG ENOUGH TO EVEN BARK.  No idea .... off she went to the vet FAST! 

Miss Muffet is what some folks call a "hunch back" if she were human.  She is 5 y.o. and almost died this week.  A Pit Bull from another rescue gave her a unit of blood.  Her glucose was so low the machine would not read it.  ( most likely in the teens ).  The vet feels it is an auto immune response in her body and we are treating her with several Rx. drugs and Rx. food right now. Her bill was over $1,500.00 and that includes the re-visit with additional blood work and Rx. meds ( $225.99 )  She is holding her own now and this may never happen again.  

We are in need of donations for Muffit. Please help!   We are a 501(c)3 non profit and donations are tax deductible.

 BORN WITH NO FRONT LEGS9-2011

 

CHANCE IS A JOY TO HAVE HERE
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THIS IS THE MOST LOVEABLE DOG IN THE WORLD
CHANCE IS A YOUNG PIT MIX
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HE WAS BORN WITH DISFIGURED FRONT LEGS

Chance is a true inspiration to anyone that has the pleasure of knowing him.  He is so trusting and innocent.  He has been given some minor obstacles to over come in life.  He is happy and so very smart.  Please God don't  let me complain about my trivial aches and pains.... in life Chance is an inspirational spirit placed on this earth to teach us all a lesson in humility. 

Oh my God do you love this boy or what???
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He waits for me to feed the other dogs and watches every move! I got the photo with the cell phone.

ELVIS CHEWED OFF HIS LEG TO FREE HIMSELF FROM A TRAP.

ADOPTED ! 10/11

ELVIS HAD THE TRAP ON HIS REAR LEG FOR 2 WEEKS
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HE CHEWED THE LEG AT THE LEVEL OF THE TRAP. POOR DOG!
ELVIS IS A YOUNG ADULT WITH A STRONGWILL TO LIVE.
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HE SEEMS TO BE A BASSITT / BEAGLE MIX WITH EXTRA LONG EARS!

Elvis was spotted in the woods behind some houses in Wakeman OH.  One neighbor called the other and said he saw a dog running in the back of the property with a "trap" on the leg.  He was seen for approximately 2 weeks in this condition.  When he showed up again coming out of the woods he had no trap and NO LEG.  He chewed off the leg to free himself from the painful metal animal trap. The vet said if he had let the leg "fall off due to rot or necrosis of the tissue the infection would have killed him first".  Elvis has been running in the woods and behind the houses in Wakeman for 2 months.  One of the property owners that was feeding him got him in a dog pen yesterday ( August 14, 2011 ).  He is not Ferrel however will not let you touch him or examine the stump. Extensive photos of the dog and stump were sent to the vet and Elvis will be going in for an amputation.  The long bone that remains only has a thin layer of skin between the leg and the ground when he walks.  PART OF THE BONE IS STICKING OUT THE BOTTOM OF THE STUMP  This would cause a life long problem. INFECTION  and on going agony.   

Elvis was so scared when he was in the woods alone
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The vet techs at the clinic said he was starting to trust them and said he was just scared. poor dog

UPDATE 8-20-11:

Surgery was 8/19/11 things went well for Elvis.
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Elvis was up walking around just 6 hr. after surgery. He had his chewed off leg amputated.

Elvis needs a surgical amputation to get him ready for a new home and new life!  Estimate given is between $1,400.00  and  $1,600.00  Please help us save Elvis while we try to ease the agonizing and painful memory of his ordeal.  THANK YOU!

CREDIT CARD DONATIONS MAY BE CALLED IN TO 440-933-5297  THANK YOU.

  BREEZE BORN WITH NO FRONT LEGS !

Breeze at age 1 year old.
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Breeze baby photo!
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Breeze is a 1 yr old Lab girl that was born without front arms.  She gets along fine like this however she is now having a problem with her longer paw.  When she lands down on her chest she has caused a repetitive trauma called a "seroma".  This is a fluid filled sack on that paw.   We contacted Leimkuehler' Orthotic & Prosthetic Center Inc.  Amherst Ohio.   William Leimkuehler developed a hard rubber stump holder ( for lack of another word) which fits on her one stump.

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We are going to try Breeze with this cover and see if she will  adjust to it.  If she does we can go on and add an inch or so to the cover after seeing the wear pattern.   LETS HOPE FOR THE BEST !  THE PHOTO TO THE LEFT IS WILLIAM LEIMKUEHLER TRYING TO FIT BREEZE WITH HER STUMP CAP.

PLEASE CONSIDER A DONATION TO SAINT FRANCIS ANIMAL SANCTUARY FOR BREEZE AND ALL THE SPECIAL NEEDS DOGS THAT WE CARE FOR. THANK YOU.  DONATIONS ARE TAX DEDUCTIBLE.

DUKE BLIND / CUT OFF TAIL8/8/11

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Duke is a 5 y.o. pure Yellow Lab boy.  He is blind and someone has cut off his tail.  WHO IN THEIR RIGHT MIND WOULD CUT (DOCK ) A YELLOW LAB'S TAIL?  CRAZY!!   He is such a good boy...  we took him to the vet and got his dew claws removed during a neuter.  He has dental work to clean and remove a few bad teeth.   Heart worm negative and RABIES, DHLPP, BORDATELLA ( KENNEL COUGH) VACCINATIONS. He is now micro chipped.   This boy came from Kentucky where he was put in a dog pound as a stray.  This dog was a house dog I have no doubt ... he is clean and fresh white...  not a barker and loves to walk on a leash... and that fat lab rear end wags and wags when he hears you say his name... Duke!  Duke is up for adoption right now.... come and take a look.  440-967-3610 

CHIHUAHUA LEFT IN THE WOODS 7*21*11

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I received a phone call at almost mid-night and when I yelled at the dogs to be still so I could hear this lady she told me "they are barking at me I am in your drive way"   She said her daughter had been a volunteer here a few years ago and I did remember her name.   I knew she had a dog which I told her I am full.... however when she said it was a Chihuahua I went out to take a look.   Her son was 4 wheeling in the woods and almost ran over this little guy that was stuck in a mud hole and could not get out.  He was covered in fleas and ticks, dirty beyond dirty.   He has urine scalds on both rear legs and is weak in the hips with a slight problem  walking. His left eye has a corneal abrasion / cataract he is blind in that eye.    HIS TEETH ARE GREEN NUBS AND SMELL LIKE ABCESS.

THIS IS THE GREEN NUMBS HE HAS FOR TEETH
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THEY ARE INFECTED AND WILL BE REMOV ED BY THE VET TOMORROW 7*22*11

 This dog is an unaltered male that has had NO vet care that we can see.   His vet bill will be over $700.00.  All his teeth are being pulled as  we are not able to save any.  He is on antibiotics and will be neutered at the time of his dental. Please help with a donation.  We did not plan on taking him but he was headed to the pound if we did not. He is at the vet tonight 7-21-11 for necessary medical care.  He was most likely kept in a cage thus he has urine scalds on the both rear legs.  Lets give him a chance at a good life.   

CHOPPER IS ADOPTED.... THANK YOU!

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WE NEED HELP FOR NANNA !  PLEASE READ HER SAD STORY 7/12/11

Soft ball size tumor on front leg
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same side as rear leg amputation. NOT GOOD.

SAD******SAD*******SAD********

Nanna's missing her rear leg
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We were contacted by the dog warden from a dog pound in Southern  Ohio.  This poor dog was turned in to the pound by her owner.  No rescue in that area wanted her because she looks like a wolf dog !   She has a large tumor on her leg and she is missing her rear leg.  The owner told them she had been in a cage for the last year.  She never went to a vet and had no medical care for her tumor.  No idea what happen to her rear leg that was amputated.  She is severely under weight at 34 pounds! ( loaded with parasites ).

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Nanna is so happy to be free from her cage.
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She rolls in the grass and loves to just lay around.

Nanna is at the vet right now.  She is having the tumor removed as she is starting to "chew" the area.  We are trying to save this leg as she only has 3 to begin with.  She is such a happy girl and we want to give her a chance in life to just lay around and not have any more litters of babies to worry about.  She deserves to be happy for once in her life.  Her life that have been unkind and cruel to her so far!

PLEASE CONSIDER A DONATION TO HELP NANNA.  WE JUST WANT TO MAKE HER LIFE A LITTLE COMFORTABLE AFTER THE AWFUL THINGS SHE HAS BEEN GIVEN IN LIFE. SHE IS SUCH A HAPPY GIRL.

JACKSON 5 POUND CHIHUAHUA

 

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Jackson came from a home in Tennissee  where he disappeared for 16 days.  When the owner found him wondering back into the yard he could hardly walk and was skin and bones, dehydrated.  He almost died.  The owner knew he had problems and wanted to send him where he would be taken care of and safe. We got Jackson a few weeks ago.  Please see the x rays below.  We did find a BB near the spinal column.  Who knows if this is the reason he is having neurological problems with walking in the hind legs?  The first thing we had to take care of is HE IS HEART WORM +++ 

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Who would shoot a 5 pound dog with a BB gun?  It takes a BIG MAN to do that !

Please consider a donation Heart worm treatment already done. 

LITTLE SUSIE BIG PROBLEMS7-6-11

 

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Susie is one of the most wonderful tail wagging, kissing dog you will ever meet.  She has now been at the Avon Lake Vet clinic for 15 days.  Susie was rescued from a dog pound in central Ohio.  She was on her last day there and you know what that means.   Susie has an " AURAL HEMATOMA" of the left ear.  It looks like air has been blown into her ear like a balloon. It happens usually when the dog will shake her head from side to side hitting her ear.   She has a bad bacterial skin infection along with demodex mange. 

This photo is after her second surgery on the ear.
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Her ear may not ever look normal but at least she will be pain free.
Susie was so happy to be out of the dog pound
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she enjoyed sleeping on her bed with a sheet to comfort her wounds

It was the sweet look on Susie's face that made us pull her.  She is a wonderful and smart dog.  She has a awful case of mange with bacterial skin infections and an ear infection. She has had drains and surgery on the ear.  Her vet bill is over $1,000.00  she remains at the vet tonight after almost 3 weeks in the clinic.  Please consider a donation to help Saint Francis pay for her medical care.

TAZ BEFORE AND AFTER 6/23/11

ADOPTED!

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Taz is a rescue from Kentucky.  He was in a kill shelter and is now looking for a home to call his own.  He is 7 yr. old and will be going to our vet this week or next for neuter, heart worm check, rabies, DHLPP, bordetella and micro chip.   The doctor will also check his teeth to see if they need cleaning. Adoption fee is $150.00 email :  mparke11@aol.com for info. 

WILLY WHITE GSD 4-23-11
ADOPTED!

THIS IS WILLIE AT THE DOG POUND (VERY SAD)
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HE JUST LOOKS LIKE HE HAS GIVEN UP ON ALL HOPE!
Willy 5 y.o. white long hair German Shepherd Dog
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Willy a 5 y.o. white GSD with long hair.   Beautiful !    It took 4 hr. of grooming by 2 people to get this boy looking like a star!  Willy had a heart worm check and we discovered he was heart worm positive.  Poor Willy came from a hording situation in central Ohio now this.... but that is not where the bad news stops.  We took an X ray of Willy's  crippled front left leg to make sure it was not a fracture or tumor.   The radiologist said it was a birth defect.  We fround out from the X ray that Willy had been shot by a bee bee gun.  WHO WOULD SHOOT A CRIPPLED DOG???  Willy had his heart worm treatment and is still at the vet.   He is a large dog at almost 85 pounds.   The heart worm treatment will be hundreds of dollars along with the xray and blood work Willy's medical bills are over $1,000.00 

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We did everything we could to get Willy from a hording situation and a dog pound to a wonderful family someday.  Please consider a donation for his medical bills.

POOR ANDY WITH AN EAR TUMOR  4-3-11 ADOPTED ! 7/5/11

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This little dog named Andy is only about 1 to 1 1/2  yr. old.  He came from Newport TN where he was picked up as a stray by animal control.  How anyone could own him and not take him to the vet as they watched this horrid tumor mass grow on his ear?   He is safe now and going to the vet tomorrow. ( 4-4-11 )  He will not have surgery until the end of the week and we are asking for donations to cover his medical bill.  We have no idea what his heart worm status is and he is an unaltered male.  I doubt anyone took this baby to the vet in his life.  All that is about to change now.   Watch for updates and say a prayer for Andy.  Most likely he will have his ear removed along with the tumor. 

This large tumor will be removed this week.
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We think he will also have his ear removed along with the tumor.
ANDY HAD SURGERY 4-8-11
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HE CAME THROUGH LIKE A TROOPER! PLEASE CONSIDER A DONATION TO HELP WITH MEDICAL EXPENSES

Please consider a donation for Andy.  We need to collect $750.00 to $800.00  for his ear removal.

PLEASE HELP MATILDA!

Matilda and Saint Francis Animal Sanctuary would like to Thank You!   March 26, 2011  Matilda came from the Lorain County Dog Pound.   She had been there awhile and the dog warden contacted me to take her because she was such a nice dog. No one wanted to adopt her.  Her first day here we discovered she could not open her mouth.  With no history and starting at ground zero we started doing research and testing.  We sedated her to do x-rays and the vet did a physical exam.  Her jaws were closed and we could not pry them open.  X-rays were sent to an orthopedic   specialist.  No acute trauma was found but recommended an MRI.   Blood work and biopsies were sent to Dr. Sheldon in California to rule out Masticatory Muscle Myositis, (Eosinophilic Myositis the results were negative.  I was feeding her 8 Cesar tubs of Duck and a can of Rx. ID dog food mixed up together per day.  Matilda was losing weight  if she had any chance to lead a normal life we had to get her to Ohio State University.  I posted a request for donations to my web site and the news paper contacted me about doing a story on her.   The next thing I know Fox 8 in Cleveland called to do a story on her.   With all the media coverage the original owners of Matilda  saw the story and contacted me.  The dog belonged to their mother who passed away in 2008.  Matilda lived with her dog mother a Black Lab and step children in Elyria.  When the children were asked to move they let Matilda go loose last Fall.  That is how I got her from the dog pound.  Matilda’s name was “ Piggy” and I was told she was born in Ft. Lauderdale Florida in June 1998. ( Yes almost 13 years ago ).  I was also told when she was 5 days old a table fell on her head the subsequent injuries resulted in both jaws being fractured. She was taken to a vet at 5 days old and the owner was told she would only live a day or two at the most. Her owner fed her with an eye dropper and she made it.  Her jaws fused closed over the developmental years and eventually fused shut for the rest of her life.  Matilda has compensated with her tong moving food in her mouth that is pushed between her lips.  We spent 5 hours at the Ohio State Vet Clinic.  They actually filmed the exam for further teaching of veterinary students. More tests were done and blood work, urine analysis, x-rays etc. were all reviewed again and again.  Dr. Dyce said Matilda’s face muscles have atrophied away to nothing.  She would never be able to eat even if the jaws were corrected. The only procedure that could be done is removing her bottom jaw so she could use her tong to eat.  He did not recommend this and I would not put her through this.  He said if she was young we would have had more options.  They also told me her missing eye is most likely  a result of the same injury that fused her jaws.  Dr. Dyce told me to put her on DRY dog food with small kibbles.  Matilda is now eating very well Iams dog food small kibble.  That is how she survived all these years.    Matilda will live with us the rest of her life and her needs will be taken care of and she will want for nothing!  God Bless

We have been waiting for an appointment with Dr. Dyce at Ohio State University for Matilda.  This is her one and only chance at a life free from the feeling of being trapped in her own body.   The Ohio State University Vet Clinic has a cancellation and we are going to see Dr. Dyce if we can come up with the money by Thursday March 24, 2011.    We know the MRI is $1,500.00   plus surgery if needed.   We are required to pay 1/2 the high end of the estimate at the time we leave her next Thursday.  We have tested her for everything we can at this end.  WE KNOW SHE DOES NOT HAVE Masticatory muscle myositis, atrophic myositis or eosinophilic myositis.  WE SENT A BIOPSY AND BLOOD WORK TO DR. SHELDON IN CALIFORNIA, NEGATIVE !   MATILDA WAS SEDATED TO SLEEP AND EXAMINED / X RAYED.   WE SENT THOSE X RAYS TO AN ORTHOPAEDIC SPECIALIST.  Here is what we know for sure.   Matilda is missing her eye.  IT HAS NOT BEEN REMOVED SURGICALLY BY A VET.  SHE HAS A SCAR ABOVE HER MISSING EYE ORBIT.  HER MOUTH IS SHUT AND SHE CAN NOT OPEN IT. SHE PUSHES HER FACE INTO HER CESAR FOOD.  THE DUCK HAS THE CONSISTENCY OF LIVER PATE. WE MIX ONE CAN OF Rx. FOOD "ID" WITH 8 TUBS OF CESAR.   SHE EATS THIS EVERY DAY.  IF SOMETHING CAN BE DONE WE HAVE TO GIVER HER A CHANCE AT LIFE.  PLEASE HELP.  SHE CAN NOT OPEN HER MOUTH, BARK, PANT, OR DRINK NORMALLY.  IF SHE VOMITS SHE WILL DIE. 

Matilda missing rt. eye with much muscle atrophy
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No idea at this point if trauma cause her missing eye and locked closed jaws

     THE M-2 ANTIBODY TEST FOR MASTICATORY MYOSITIS WAS DONE AND THE RESULTS ARE NEGATIVE.  WE RECEIVED SO MANY EMAILS FROM PEOPLE TELLING US TO TEST FOR MASTICATORY MYOSITIS.   I WANT YOU TO KNOW WE LISTENED.  THE NEGATIVE RESULTS MAKE US THINK MORE AND MORE THIS IS TRAUMA RELATED.  THE VET CANNOT SEE ANY EYE BUD IF HER MISSING EYE, WHICH WOULD HAVE INDICATED POSSIBLE MICRO OPTHALMIA.  THE EYE OPENING WAS NEVER SURGICALLY CLOSED BY A VET, SHE JUST HAS A HOLE THERE.  IF ONLY POOR MATILDA COULD TALK.... AND TELL US WHAT SHE HAS BEEN THROUGH.

I received a phone call from the dog warden at Lorain County Dog Pound.  He asked me to take this Shar Pei mix with one eye because she had been there for awhile and was a nice dog.  He did not want to put her down.   The vet for the pound also offered a free spay and heart worm check.   I took her and found out she was already spayed when they checked her abdominal area.    Heart worm negative OK ready for adoption!   While walking her on her first day here I fell in love with this girl.  Wonderful on a leash, not a barker and the kind of dog you just want to be around.   Her second day here someone came to adopt a dog and I showed them over 10 dogs.  They fell in love with Matilda this one eyed beauty.   The people filled out the micro chip information form.  I told them I just had her heart worm checked the day before and I would give her a Heartguard heart worm chew pill and she would be set for the next month.  Matilda could not chew the pill.  She could not hold it in her mouth and it fell to the ground.   Matilda tried to eat it by pushing it into the ground with her mouth.  We all said "what is going on here she can not open her mouth"?

Matilda asleep at the vet for exam and X-Ray
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This was like the Black Beauty story folks!   She was at the dog pound with hundreds of people over looking her.  They did not see her inner beauty the soul within.   Could they not get past the stereo typical " Black dog syndrome" plus she is missing an eye.  Some people that may have taken her might have said "how did I get stuck with a sick dog?"  With all my heart I held her head in my hands and said "Matilda I love you and thank God your here with me.... I will not let you down, I'll get you help".   This dog CAN NOT  pant when she is hot.  She CAN NOT lap water to drink and her bark is so muffled it sounds like she has been de-barked.  I feed her Cesar tubs and it breaks my heart to watch her push her face down to get the food between her teeth.  When she looks up at me with food all over her nose... this is sad... so sad. COULD THIS BE TRAUMA? HER EYE IS MISSING NO SIGN OF AN EYE BUD ( MICRO OPTHALMIA ) COULD HER JAW HAVE BEEN BROKEN?

I did not go through with the adoption and took Matilda to the vet the next day.  They sedated her so the vet could examine her mouth.  While she was asleep we both tried to manually open her mouth.   The jaw are locked in the closed position and would not open even 1/2 an inch.  X-Rays were taken while she was asleep.   The X-Rays showed nothing exceptional they were sent to a specialist for an opinion.  We need to take her to Ohio State University in Columbus Ohio. She will need a CT scan or MRI.   We will need at least $1,250.00   as the MRI is close to a $1,000.00  by itself. If this dog has an emesis ( vomits ) she will die and it is just that simple.  She can not open her mouth at all. 

We think Matilda's locked jaws and missing eye are from trauma.  Some where in her life she may have experienced horror beyond belief.  Right now she CAN NOT OPEN HER MOUTH, BARK, PANT, OR EAT AND DRINK LIKE A DOG.  IF MATILDA VOMITS SHE WILL DIE.  PLEASE HELP US GET MATILDA TO OHIO STATE UNIVERSITY FOR HELP.  PLEASE CONSIDER A DONATION. 

ANNA aka:  ANNA BANANA ! 3-12-11

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ANNA is a Boston Terrier mix that came from Tennessee.  We have no idea what happened to her because the lady that owned her said she was already paralyzed when she took her a few years ago.  The owner was moving and could not keep her any longer.   Anna was taken to a shelter in TN where we found her.   Anna has no use of her rear legs.  She has to have her bladder expressed a few times a day in order to urinate.  Because of her paralysis she has no feeling to urinate.  This little sweet heart came with a wheel chair but it did not fit the way it should and caused pressure on her back.  It had no harness just a strap around her girth.   We took several wheel chair parts we had here at Saint Francis and put them together.  We try to only use wheel chairs from Doggon  Wheels!   www.doggon.com   We love Anna and she is ruling the kitchen with a iron paw! 

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                        GRUNT ! 3-10-11

WHAT A WONDERFUL DOG !
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GRUNT IS LOOKING FOR A RETIREMENT HOME!

GRUNT is a gem!   He was taken to the Lorain County Dog Pound to be surrendered because the owner's living situation changed and he could no longer keep him.   However we received a phone call from Jack the dog warden asking us to take him in.  The dog pound is no place for an old guy like this.  Most would think he is unadoptable.   Guess again folks... this house trained boy is looking for a retirement home of his own!   IF YOU THINK YOU HAVE HAD A STRING OF BAD LUCK JUST LISTEN TO GRUNT'S LUCK!     STRIKES AGAINST HIM:    1.)  OWNER SURRENDER ( DIE FIRST IN A DOG POUND  )   2.)  LARGE DOG  3.) BLACK DOG ( BLACK DOG SYNDROME LAST TO BE ADOPTED )  4.)  SENIOR ( OWNER SAYS 13 YEARS OLD )   5.  MISSING FRONT LEG ( 3 LEGGED DOG )  OH MY GOD COULD IT GET ANY WORSE FOR THIS BOY?   Grunt has been to our vet for a good check up.  He did not need a dental because his teeth were in really good shape.   heart worm negative!   all vaccinations UP TO DATE.   micro chipped.   house trained.   Call or email us if you feel you can offer Grunt a retirement home for the rest of his life.  He gets along with everyone and people and dogs.   mparke11@aol.com   or-440-967-3610  Update:  Grunt died in my arms.  I want everyone to know... if you are reading this... I loved him....  RIP my dear soul. Feb. 2012

WE NEED HELP ON THIS ONE!

LISA WAS SAVED WITHIN HOURS OF THE FLOOD
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SHE WAS SICK AND WOULD HAVE NOT BEEN ABLE TO SWIM TO SAVE HER LIFE.

Strange coincident or what?   You be the judge.   I received an email on Saturday Feb. 26 th. regarding an old black dog at Morrow County Dog Pound in Mt. Gillied OH.   She had been hit by a car and had a rear leg swelling that seem to have gotten better on some medication they gave her.  Fact:  an old black dog at a rural dog pound has little to no chance of making it out alive.  Sunday 27th. we went to the dog pound located in the middle of the Morrow County fair grounds.   This is very rural Ohio.   We took Lisa who was as they said in the email, old and black.   The faces of those being left behind haunts a rescue person.  You see them crying and you hear them wanting to go with you.   So you take the one you came for and go on your way.  

The next morning Monday Feb. 28,  I woke as I usually do looking at my cell phone for the correct time.  I opened my email for a quick look and the first email had " Morrow County"  in the subject area.   Hours after I was there to save Lisa the old black dog, they had a flood.  The fair grounds completely flooded and thus the dog pound.   The small dogs in cages were drowned.  They could not even try to swim while locked in their cages.   The big dogs could swim for their lives. 

Lisa would never have make it out alive.  She was very sick.   Lisa had a ruptured uterus ( pyometra )  and was already septic.  The infection was so bad she had stopped eating and drinking.   Her temperature was sky high and her blood work a mess. Lisa could never have kept herself afloat much less swim for hours. 

Why did I go to a dog pound 3 counties below mine when I have never been there ever!  Lisa is alive and still at the vet clinic.  She had emergency surgery and IV antibiotics.   Lisa is going to be OK.   I just can not imagine the pain she was in.   I cried for the faces I saw in the pound just about 12 hr. before that were silenced for what ever reason too soon.  

Lisa was covered in burrs from being on her own.
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She is not as old as they thought she was just very sick and looked old.

Lisa has been at the vet clinic recovering from her emergency surgery for a week now.   She is better and coming home soon.   Lisa's vet bill is $1,250.00  please help by making a tax deductible donation.  

DACHSHUND HIT BY A CAR AND HIS EYES POPPED OUT! 

ADOPTED! 10/11

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THIS POOR BOY WAS HIT BY A CAR IN GEORGIA AND TAKEN TO A VET.  HE HAD TO HAVE BOTH EYES REMOVED RIGHT AWAY.  THEY ALSO THOUGHT HE WAS PARALYZED DUE TO A FRACTURED BACK.  HOWEVER ONCE THE SWELLING WENT DOWN ON THE SPINE HE REGAINED HIS MOBILITY. HE ALSO HAD SUCH A FACE TRAUMA FROM THE ACCIDENT HE JUST HAD THE DRAIN IN HIS HEAD REMOVED.    ROSCO IS NOW ADJUSTING TO BEING BLIND.   HE IS GETTING ALONG FINE NOW WITH ALL THE LITTLE DOGS.  Rosco arrived at Saint Francis Animal Sanctuary 2-24-11  Please email mparke11@aol.com if you would like to get more info on adopting Rosco.

Rosco is up for adoption at this time.
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He gets along with all other dogs and is easy going.
Rosco's eyes are surgically closed
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He is learning to walk and smell to get around after his sudden blindness

BABIES UP FOR ADOPTION 2-23-11 BOTH ADOPTED!

These babies came to us so sick they had to spend the first week at the vet office.  We were told they were blind but after we got them we now feel they can see out of one eye.  They are blind in one eye which looks like micro opthalmia ( eye under developed during birth ).  The little one is a girl and came here at 2 1/2 pounds.  The larger one is a boy and weighed in at 4 1/2 pounds.   I think they are a Chihuahua / Jack Russell Terrier mix.  Small

THESE TWO BABIES WERE MARKED "BLIND"
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WE THINK THEY EACH CAN SEE OUT OF ONE EYE AND THEY SEEM TO BE BLIND IN ONLY ONE EYE.

These 2 babies are about 12 weeks old.  They were tested for everything under the sun.  They had liquid diarrhea !   They came from Tennessee where they were taken to a dog pound because they were unadaptable.   How crazy..... these babies are lovable and precious!  Please email to find out more. mparke11@aol.com  The adoption fee is $200.00  THEY WILL BE SPAYED / NEUTERED, MICRO CHIPPED,  VACCINATED ( DHPP, BORDETELLA , RABIES )  WORMED.  The tiny girl has dew claws that will be removed at the time of the spay. 

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The 2 babies you see in the photos above almost died due to diarrhea.  They were dehydrated and could not keep anything down.  They were taken to the vet where they spent days trying to figure out why.  We tested for everything and it all came back negative.  Once placed on antibiotics and re-hydrated they are now 100%.  The vet bill was over $500.00  Please consider a donation to help Saint Francis care for little ones like this.

EPILEPTIC DOG "Q-TIP"2-8-11

 

Q-Tip is a 8 pound Chihuahua
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He is on medication now for seizure activity.

Q-Tip is an owner surrender from Lorain OH.  We were told he has seizures and they did not have the funds to take him to the vet.  Q-Tip was not neutered and had no vaccinations.  He was never on heart worm prevention.   We took him to the vet where he was neutered, vaccinated, micro chipped and heart worm checked.  We did not see any sign of seizure activity.  We wanted to take a wait and see approach as to the intensity, duration and frequency of the seizures if he did have any.   This past Sunday night 2-6-11  Q-Tip fell off of my computer chair in the most violent seizure I have ever seen.  His head arched backward all the way almost touching his back.  His mouth was in a growling motion and he salivated. All 4 of his legs were running as fast as he could and his body was trembling and thumping on the floor.  This happened several times Sunday night and Monday morning he was started on Phenobarbital and Valium. I have not seen any more seizure activity and it has been a few days now.  We will follow up with blood work and monitor the levels of medication.  Poor little Q-Tip!

DAISY( BLIND & DIABETIC)  ATE CANTALOUPE RHINE 2-4-11

Daisy is a rescue from Florida
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Her story is on this page a couple of paragraphs down.

Daisy the BLIND  Yellow Lab girl almost died this past week.  I cut up some cantaloupe for our resident rescued pig Miss Piggy Sue.  She LOVES cantaloupe but not the rhine.   So I cut one up and left the rhine FAR BACK ON THE KITCHEN COUNTER because I know this girl I did not put it in the trash.   When I came in from the barn I found the entire dish of cantaloupe rhine GONE.   Daisy vomited and I thought that was it.  Daisy is a brittle insulin dependent diabetic.  One week after the incident ( 7 days ) Daisy started to vomit her Rx. diabetic food and having foul smelling diarrhea.

I gave Daisy the insulin dose of 30 IU and fed her as normal.  When she vomited and I saw we lost her entire food for the feeding I noticed partially digested cantaloupe rhine.   She became weak and I did a blood sugar which was 27.  THAT IS NOT GOOD FOLKS!   Off to the vet she went for tests.  We found out from x rays and blood work Daisy was headed to surgery.   The vet had to stabilize her blood sugar and then after a few hours into surgery she went. The vet recovered 2 pieces of rhine that were lodged in the small intestine.  Daisy could not eat for a few days after surgery because her bowel surgery.  Her blood sugar  was being done several times a day and a glucose I.V. was used for low blood sugar levels.  Her insulin was adjusted up and down for days.  Food was slowly introduced and insulin / sugar monitored.   Daisy is doing fine right now and still at the vet.  

Daisy's surgery was a shocking $1,998.00 to save her life.  (This was after our rescue discount)  EMERGENCY ADMIT, LAB WORK, BARIUM SWALLOW X RAYS, GLUCOSE TESTING, I.Vs , INSULIN AND RX. FOOD.  EMERGENCY SURGERY.  
PLEASE CONSIDER A DONATION TO HELP US.  GUS ( STORY BELOW ) WHO ATE A JINGLE BELL AND DAISY HAVE COST US ALMOST $4,000.00  AT A TIME WHEN WE ARE TRYING TO PAY FOR WINTER HEATING FUEL.  PLEASE HELP....    

  JAGGER-  GERMAN SHEPHERD DOG WITH FACE TUMOR 1/11/11

Jagger is a large German Shepherd Dog
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He will listen to any commands given to him.
jagger's tumor is connected above the right eye.
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The tumor is very vascular with a good blood supply. The tumor feels hot.

This dog was taken to the dog pound in Kentucky this past Christmas.   The owner said he was 13 years old and they did not want him any longer because they were moving.   The dog pound they took him to said he was too old to adopt out and too old to take him to the vet. Jagger ( his real name ) came to us a few days ago.  This dog is so smart, calm and well mannered.   We are taking him to the vet tomorrow for tumor removal, heart worm status check.  He has a skin condition on his back that may be from fleas.  I really doubt it is mange from the pattern of missing hair.  The vet will check it out tomorrow. 

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Jagger's back is missing a large area of hair.
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Most likely flea problems. This dog has been totally neglected.

Jagger's owner told the pound he was 13 years old.  I think when people take dogs to be killed in the most awful way they make up stories to make them-self feel better.   Obviously not taken to a vet in a while with a tumor like that on his face.  We will find out if he is heart worm positive also.  This dog is not 13 y.o. I know German Shepherds and he looks to be a purebred.  His teeth are extremely clean and white almost tarter free.  His eyes are clear and I do not see signs of cataracts.  His hips seem to be fine as he can run and walk with no sign of problems. 

Please consider a donation to help with the medical cost of getting this neglected dog medical care.  Donations are tax deductible we are a 501(c)3 non profit group.  Credit card donations may also be called in to Avon Lake Animal Clinic 440-933-5297  c/o Jagger.  Thank you.

GUS ATE A JUNGLE BELL! 

Gus has no eyes and his teeth have been filed off
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Gus is a rescue from New York, NY.  He was going to be a "BAIT DOG".  He has NO EYES AND SOMEONE HAS FILED HIS TEETH OFF TO THE GUM LINE.  So when he was thrown in to the Pit Bulls he would not be able  defend him self.   His story is listed on this web page toward the bottom.  Gus lost several pounds in the past few months.  He vomited and would not eat yesterday ( Jan. 3, 2011 )  We took him right to the vet.   Blood work, x rays and assessment were done.  When the vet called and said he ate a JINGLE BELL I thought he was kidding.   HE WAS NOT! 

The jingle bell got stuck in the small intestine.   Back in May 2010 we went to a fund raiser event at  Knuckle Head Saloon in Huron OH .   They had the "Blessing of the Bikes"  The motor cycles were blessed for a safe season.   Gus attended with us and I guess when the bells with a little black and orange Harley Davidson ribbon were passed out.... he got his!

HERE IT IS !!!!
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IT STILL HAS THE HARLEY DAVIDSON RIBBON ATTACHED !!!!
THE VET COULD TELL IS WAS A JINGLE BELL
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FROM THIS XRAY TAKEN AFTER AN EMERGENCY ADMISSION 1/3/11


Emergency admission, x rays, blood work and surgery came to $1,500.00.  Gus is still on I.V. antibiotics because his intestines were taken apart to remove the bell he runs the risk of peritonitis.  This is a heck of a way to start out 2011  PLEASE CONSIDER A DONATION!  501(c)3 non profit. 
UPDATE:   FEB. 1st. 2011    GUS HAD TO RETURN TO THE VET AND REPEAT BARIUM SWALLOW  X RAYS.  WE HAD TO R/O A INTESTINAL BLOCKAGE AT THE SURGERY SITE.  HE IS HOME NOW AND DOING WELL BUT HIS NEXT BILL WAS $546.50  PLEASE CONSIDER A DONATION.   

MY BEST FRIEND CHEW  CROSSED THE BRIDGE AND WAITS FOR ME12-12-10

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He has been here 10 1/2 yrs.
The Chew is bottom row right side.
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The Chew passed away a few days ago.... and I will miss him so much.  He had a bloody nose and it would not stop so I took him to the vet.  The chest x ray showed he had cancer.  The lung cancer was not the primary site.  We did not know where the primary cancer was.  Chew weighed close to 100 pounds  and did not look sick. I brought him home to spend his last few days.   Chew was like the Wal Mart Greeter to anyone that came to Saint Francis.  With in days of his birth we discovered her had Mega Esophagus and vomited every time he ate or nursed.  I held him up right to eat vertical for months and he just stayed.   Chew died approximately 6 feet from the spot where he was born.....  and I loved him every day from birth to death. 

TWO NEGLECTED  YELLOW LABS 11-23-10

Daisy came from Tallahassee Florida and Buddy came from North Carolina.

DAISY PASSED AWAY FROM A LUNG INFECTION 10/2011

Daisy is blind due to untreated diabetes
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Daisy was taken to the vet to be put to sleep when the owner no longer wanted her around.  They never took care of her diabetic needs with insulin.  This resulted in blindness from years of neglect.  ( Diabetic retinopathy )  We also learned from a rescue person in Tallahassee that she was forced to live outside on a brick patio because of her frequent urination, again due to her untreated diabetes.  She got sores on her pressure areas like the elbows.  Because of her diabetes the sores got very bad and did not heal well.   A rescue in Florida got Daisy to us in a rescue transport.  Daisy came to us with a blood sugar over 600.  She had open tunneled sores on her elbows. Her bottle of insulin was not refregerated because no one knew! 

This sore had to be sugically removed.
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This is Daisy's right front elbow sore.
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Daisy's blood sugar is being checked almost daily to adjust the insulin.  She is now on 25 I.U.  of NPH Humulin insulin twice a day.  Daisy is on Hill's Rx. diabetic dog food.  This is specifically for diabetic dogs and not just over the counter low calorie. Daisy is on antibiotcs for a severe urinary track  infection. Her urine was almost pure blood.    This is most likely due to the high levels of glucose in her unine.  We love her..... 

BUDDY FROM NORTH CAROLINA

Buddy like Daisy is around 7 years old and has lived a life of total neglect.  He was sent to us by a rescue in North Carolina THAT FOUND HIM IN A DITCH and he could not get out.  Buddy is deaf.  He has pleural effusion ( like pneumonia ) in one of his lungs as seen during a chest x ray.  He came to us with diarrhea.  We got him on Rx. low residue food and Flagyl antibiotics, and endosorb.   He has laryngeal paralysis based on respiratory presentation.   His heart size is appropriate.  Snap heart worm test is NEGATIVE! He has temporal muscle atrophy ( no muscle in his face ) the bones stick out awful.  Weakness in both rear legs and he is incontinent of urine.  Buddy has 29 fatty tumors all over his body. 

Buddy has approximately 29 tumors on his body
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Temporal muscle atrophy - entire face
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Some tumors are very large and located all over.
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Buddy is on Flagyl antibiotics, Endosorb and Rx. Low Residue food.  He is taking Temaril P twice a day for respiratory issues.   We are giving him Proin-50 for urinary incontinence.  We have been using an adult Depends diaper on his rear end to catch the urine because when he goes.... WOW!  its a flood.  The vet said we need to have him gain weight before we can think about tumor removal.    He is going back to the vet for blood work to assess for thyroid or diabetic issues. He is drinking excessive water and urinating frequently.

Buddy is incontinent of urine ( all the time !)
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We are using a Depends adult diaper opened up and used like a belly band.

DAISY AND BUDDY are 2 very high maintenance dogs.  One blind the other deaf their needs are over whelming.  PLEASE HELP WITH A DONATION I JUST CANNOT TELL YOU HOW MUCH WE NEED YOUR HELP NOW!

TINY YORKIE 4 Y.O. FROM Mount Juliet, Tennessee GRAPHIC = DISGUSTING = SAD 11-15-10

 

ADOPTED!  FEB. 2011

LOLITA WAS TAKEN RIGHT TO THE VET IN TN
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THEY REMOVED OVER 100TICKS FROM HER LITTLE BODY

Lolita was running in a shopping center for over a month.  The ACO ( dog warden ) called me once they caught her.  She had what looked like a giant tumor on her abdominal area.  She was covered with over 100 ticks which the vet removed. The X ray taken in Tennessee revealed to the vet this was a true disaster in progress.  This baseball size growth turned out to be a hernia.  The X ray showed her intestines, colon and entire female reproductive track was bulging through the abdominal wall.  The doctor said most likely an animal bite tore the abdominal cavity open and the internal organs were hanging out!

THIS IS A LARGE HERNIA
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MOST LIKELY FROM AN ANIMAL BITE THAT TORE THE ABDOMINAL WALL

Lolita was transported on an "EMERGENCY TRANSPORT"  from Mt. Juliet, TN  to Vermilion, OH 11-14-15.  She is having surgery 11-15-10.  ( right at this time as I type )  This poor dog has suffered enough, imagine the terror of being torn apart and no food ( only what she could find in the parking lot ) and no shelter for a month.   The ACO could not find an owner and no one reported her missing. 

It was very hard to find a rescue to take this little girl's case on.  We took her within 5 seconds of being asked.  Now we need donations to help us with this little dogs surgery and recovery.  Lolita is only 4 years old please help her.  We are a 501(c)3 non profit and donations are tax deductible.

TWO BROKEN LEGS! 9-23-10   ADOPTED 8/2011

4 PINS AND 2 METAL EXTERNAL BARS PER LEG
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EACH LEG HAS THE SAME PINS, SCREWS AND PLATES
THIS IS THE LITTLE GUY WITH NO NAME
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HE IS NEAR SHOCK WHEN RESCUED LOOK AT THE EYES.

I received a phone call to help with a little dog that had been hit by a car and the lady said her brother had no money.  The dog belonged to her mother who had recently died.  The caller told me her brother couldn't even take care of him self let alone a dog.  The dog had been hit by a car on Saturday morning 9-18-10.  I went to the home in Vermilion ( Lorain County ) and found the guy on the front poach trying to brush the fleas out of the little white dog.  He tried to get the dog to walk so I could see how he limped.  The dogs back legs were swollen and bent in ways they should not be.  The dog looked like he was in severe pain as you can see by the eyes.  He screamed aloud in pain as he tried to move.  He had no way to scratch the fleas that covered his little body.  He is white and you could see fleas every where on the poor thing. 

THE SURGERIES WERE DONE ON SPERATE DAYS
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EACH SURGERY TOOK ABOUT 2 HOURS TO PLACE THE PINS.
THESE ARE THE PINS, PLATES AND SCREWS
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IN BOTH LEGS THAT WILL REMAIN IN PLACE FOR THE NEXT 3 MONTHS.

The owner had no intention of taking this dog to a vet for treatment or to be put to sleep.   The dog went into rescue Monday night so he sat all weekend with 2 BROKEN LEGS ON THE VERGE OF SHOCK DUE TO PAIN.  This situation was reported to the Lorain County Dog Warden who contacted the Humane Officer for Lorain County.   The dog does not even have a name so he was admitted to the hospital under " HBC"  ( HIT BY CAR ).   He is safe and we need a name for him.  If you have any ideas for this little trooper email mparke11@aol.com

POST OP RECOVERY STILL INTUBATED!
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HE GOT UP ONE DAY AFTER THE LAST SURGERY AND WALKED AS BEST HE COULD TO DO HIS BUSINESS.

Saint Francis Animal Sanctuary is a special needs rescue and we take the animals that most will not do to complexity of care of financial burden.   We are in such need of donations especially for this little guy with 2 broken legs that his owner didn't even take to the vet. Please help!   We are a 501(c)3 non profit and donations are tax deductible.

RAILROAD TRACK  BABIES 9-18-10

LORAIN OHIO RESCUE

SEE THE QUARTER SIZE BALD SPOT ON THE HEAD.
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THE PUPS ARE ALL BETWEEN 2.2 AND 2.8 POUNDS
6 BABIES FOUND BY THE RAILROAD TRACKS
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IN THE WEST SIDE OF LORAIN.

These 6 babies are all that is left from an abandoned litter of Pit Puppies.  They were left to die alone with no mother shortly after they were born.  A lady that lives by the railroad tracks in Lorain Ohio  told me 2 were found dead and one she gave away ( God help that one ).  The pups have ring worm, bacterial skin infections and intestinal parasites.  She said she did the best she could and fed them herself but she knew they needed more help then she could give.

THE PUPS WERE TAKEN TO THE VET RIGHT AWAY
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SKIN SCRAPINGS WERE DONE ON VARIOUS LEASIONS ON THE PUPS.

This is what is being done for these babies.   They require a bath twice a day with betadine surgical scrub ( antibacterial soap ).  Then they get Lotrimin AF ( anti-fungal ) for the ring worm sites on the pups. We are using a large tube 1.1oz PER DAY!   They are  all on oral antibiotics for the skin infections.   The pups are being dried off with paper towels due to the ring worm and skin problems.  They are on disposable chux pads as we need to keep as much stuff as possible disposable and avoid cross contamination to the other dogs.  (  or me! ) They were all wormed with Nemex - 2 for puppy worms.  We have them on Esbilac stage 2 formula for puppies as this will give them a little extra nutrition they never had the first few weeks of their lives.

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Please consider a donation for these babies that were left to die alone in the woods by the railroad tracks.  The daily cost of their care is adding up quickly.  Thank you !! 

MOLLY CAPTURED MY HEART IN KANSAS CITY MO. Sept. 13,2010
UPDATE BELOW!

I sort through email after email reading stories that make you cry.  Hard working dedicated people trying to get dogs placed with rescues and save lives.  This is what the email said DEAR GOD PLEASE SOMEONE TAKE HER!!!! 4.  BD20A-  11411420- Female-   cage card says 4-6 yrs old, but unsure.  Terrier Mix?  SEVERE MEDICAL- This poor dog is a mess!  She has no hair on her besides her head (and that hair is matted)  Very disorientated.  I cannot even begin to tell you what kind of dog she is- can’t tell.  I am not a vet but fur loss could be several things- fleas, mange, allergies.  Very sad. Would barely lift her head when called to. She was abandoned in her yard by her family.  http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=207048&id=569838019&fbid=428299293019&ref=mf    "

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The email said this dog would be killed ( euthanized ) at 4:00PM.  This only left a few hours to save her life.  A few phone calls and emails and the wonderful rescue people in Kansas City had this dog on her way to a vet at the very time she was going to be put to sleep forever.  Saint Francis Animal Sanctuary rescued this pup and she is safe now. 

This is the only photo I have of Molly.  She was suffering and when I contacted the people in MO trying to get her out of the pound they told me the dog warden put her and 5 others in a back room.  They literally had no hope for rescue or adoption unless someone saw the urgent code red email that was sent at the last minute.  The dog arrived at the vet approximately 4:00 PM Kansas City time.   The vet called me and said the dog had so many fleas she had NO hair on her body.  The fleas were nested in her skin and remaining hair on her head.  The vet said Molly has a severe ear infection that was draining and foul smelling drainage.   She has a bacterial skin infection and the skin testing shows she DOES NOT  have demodectic or sarcoptic  mange.  Molly had so many tape worms in her stool its a wonder she is still alive.   UPDATE :   HER FLEAS HAVE BEEN TREATED WITH CAPSTAR AND SHE WILL GET A BATH.  SHE WAS GIVEN RX. MEDICATION TO TAKE CARE OF THE WORM INFESTATION.  TOMORROW (9-14-10 )  MOLLY IS HAVING BLOOD WORK TO SEE IF SHE IS ANEMIC FROM THE FLEAS FEASTING ON HER FOR SO LONG.  SHE WILL HAVE A HEART WORM CHECK AND BE SLIGHTLY SEDATED SO THE VET CAN CLEAN HER EARS OUT AND SHAVE THE FEW HAIRS SHE DOES HAVE ON HER HEAD.   Molly is about 25 pounds and she ate wet dog food that was fed to her tonight by the vet staff.  We are working on Pilots  and Paws flight rescue to help get Molly home quickly. 
UPDATE:  I JUST GOT AN EMAIL .... ALL 6 IN THE BACK ROOM ( BITE ROOM ) WERE RESCUED!   MANY FOLKS HAVE SENT ME AN EMAIL ASKING ABOUT THE OTHER 5 DOGS.   NOW WE KNOW .THANK YOU GOD.

THANK YOU TO ALL ACROSS AMERICA !
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MOLLY THE KANSAS CITY GIRL IS HOME.
MOLLY KC IS HOME THANKS TO SARAH O.
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SARAH IS AN AIR TRAFFIC CONTROLLER WHO GOT MOLLY TO HER FLIGHT !
MOLLY KC HAD A MEDICATED BATH YESTERDAY
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NOVEMBER 23, 2010 SHE IS GOING TO A FOSTER HOME FOR THE WINTER.

We are in desperate need of funds to pay for Molly's vet care in Kansas City MO and also her vet care once she gets to Ohio.  This poor dog was left to die in a yard where the people moved out of the house.  Her suffering has stopped and she will know love and kindness.  Please help with a tax deductible donation.  

TAKEN TO VET TO BE KILLED BECAUSE " SHE HAS FLEAS" 8/2010

ADOPTED! 

Broccli is 10 1/2 yrs old
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She HAS NO FLEAS ANY LONGER thank you!

While at the vet to get one of my dogs a rabies vaccination I listen to a man at the desk tell them he wanted his dog " put to sleep".  She looked so normal and walked in to the vet clinic smelling everything and looking around.  I had to ask " why are you putting your dog to sleep?"    HIS ANSWER :   " BECAUSE SHE HAS FLEAS".   I am sure I just stood there for a few seconds... in shock.  Did this man just tell me he was killing his dog because she HAS FLEAS?   Yes he did!   Well I asked him for the dog and identified myself as a rescue.   The office girl at the clinic verified I was a rescue and so he gave me Broccoli !

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The owner went to his house and came back to the vet clinic with Broccoli's papers dated 2000!   Yes the family had her for 10 years.  Her last rabies was 6 years ago and no updates on heart worm or other vaccinations.  She came from a rescue and they had her spayed in 2000.   She is house trained and gets along with the other dogs.  She went to the vet and had a complete dental done.   Broccoli is a good girl that did not need to die because she had fleas.   That day I got her I found out she was heart worm negative and gave her a Capstar ( works on fleas in 30 minuets )  then Revolution flea and heart worm medication.  SHE HAS NO FLEAS!

This is a beautiful dog on the inside and out!
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Broccli is house trained and micro chipped.

Broccoli is a senior full of energy and loves to go for walks.  She will tell you when she wants to go out.   She walks well on  a  leash.   All vaccinations are now up to date, she is spayed, heart worm negative,  NO FLEAS,  complete dental work is done and already spayed.  We micro chipped her now.   WE ARE LOOKING FOR A WONDERFUL HOME THAT WILL CARE FOR HER AS  A MEMBER OF THE FAMILY.  SHE IS A GOOD GIRL AND WOULD LIKE A HOME THAT WILL LOVE HER.  CONTACT mparke11@aol.com  if you would like to meet Broccoli. 

LITTLE MOTHER MOLLY RESCUED! 8-1-10

 

Mom was in a kill dog pound in a family way.
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She was about 35 miles north of Dayton Ohio

Molly is about 1 yr. old and she weighs about 25 pounds.  When we rescued her we took her to the vet to have x-rays done and get a head count.  The x-rays showed up 6 spines and 6 skulls so we knew she was having 6.   The x-rays also showed the doctor the size of the skulls in relationship to the mother's pelvic opening.  We do not know the dad's size so it was necessary to make sure she could deliver. 

We have 2 black 2 brown (tan) and 2 white
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This is the pups at 1 week old.
Pups born July 20, 2010 all 6 healthy.
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Mom is young but she is a good mother and lovers her babies so much.

We will update the photos of the babies every week.  They grow so fast.  We do have the pups on Petfinder web site because you can come and pick out a pup now.  When they are ready at 6 weeks of age they will have been wormed with Nemex -2  puppy wormer at 2 - 4 and 6 weeks of age.  They will receive DHPP the puppy shot along with Bordetella vaccination which is kennel cough vaccine.   The pups will all be micro chipped prior to leaving.   The adoption cost is $75.00  and they come with a good supply of Eukanuba puppy food.  

THE CHARMIN PUPPY IS UP FOR ADOPTION!
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2 weeks old and the eyes are now open.
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The pups have now received the first worm medication. They are so cute.

email :   mparke11@aol.com  to see the pups! 

EMERGENCY :   ANGEL OUR 5 LEGGED DOG ATE SOME SORT OF NYLON HARNESS WITH A STRING OF NYLON ATTACHED.   I THOUGHT SHE WAS NOT EATING BECAUSE OF THE HEAT ( ABOVE 90 FOR DAYS ) I TOOK HER TO THE VET AFTER A COUPLE OF DAYS.  XRAYS SHOWED EXCESS GAS BUT NO FOREIGN BODY.  SHE HAD EMERGENCY ABDOMINAL SURGERY JULY 7, 2010  THE NYLON STRING SEVERED HER BOWEL AND CAUSED SUCH A PERFORATION SHE GOT PERITONITIS. 

ANGEL IS A REAL FIGHTER = FIGHTING FOR HER LIFE.
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PHOTO TAKEN JULY 17, 2010 AFTER MANY SURGERIES.

UPDATE:  JULY 19, 2010   ANGEL IS HAVING A HARD TIME FIGHTING THE INFECTION IN HER ABDOMINAL CAVITY.  SHE IS STILL AT THE VET AS OF TODAY AND HAD ANOTHER SURGERY THIS AFTERNOON TO FLUSH OUT THE INFECTION FROM THE CAVITY.  THE PERITONITIS IS JUST NOT CLEARING UP AS EXPECTED.  SHE IS ON I.V. MEDICATION ANTIBIOTICS.  

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Angel was picked up as a stray a few years ago in Springfield MO.  Her entire story is located on this home page several stories down.

Angel is in ICU with I.V.s going.
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She has had 3 surgeries in 3 days.

Angel has had surgery every day for the last 3 days. July 7, 8, 9, 2010    They left her incision open and had to go in every day to clean the abdominal cavity out.  Please help by making a tax deductible donation.  We couldn't let her die or be put to sleep.  We save dogs from all over the United States and Angel is one of our own.

Angel's abdomin is packed with cotton filler because she is given anesthesia and her abdominal cavity is flushed to clear the paratinitis infection.  Her last surgery was this morning  July 21, 2010.  The doctors keep her abdomin open so they can go in every day or every other day without having to cut into her each time. 

UPDATE:  AUGUST 3, 2010   ANGEL IS STILL AT THE VET AND DOING VERY WELL SHE WILL BE COMING HOME SOON !

July 21, 2010 Angel with "OPEN ABDOMIN"
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She has had more then 8 procedures where her abdomin is flushed trying to clear the infection.

MAGGIE 4.2 POUND CHIHUAHUA 7/6/10

TUMOR REMOVAL SURGERY TODAY JULY 9, 2010

This is the sad little face I first saw.
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Maggie sitting on her tumor with no bottom jaw or teeth.

Maggie came from a dog pound in Georgia.  She has a very large tumor on her abdominal area and between her legs.  Maggie came to us on an emergency transport Monday July 5th. 2010 and remains at the vet clinic.   We had an X-Ray done of the tumor and the doctors that looked at it said it was calcified. When I felt the tumor it was as hard as a rock and seems very heavy. 

Maggie walk all over the place.
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The tumor is about 1/2 the size of the dog.
from the rear view this is the tumor.
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She is skin and bones she was loaded with fleas

Maggie is missing her bottom jaw and she has no teeth.  However just put food in front of her and look out.  She eats everything in site.  Maggie has infected wounds on her back from the fleas eating on her.  She is on antibiotics now.  Maggie had blood work including heart worm check.  We are waiting for the results of her blood work.  Maggie will remain at the vet for now and if he feels she can go under anesthesia Friday then she will have the tumor removed. 

This is how maggie sits on her tumor.
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She is alert and full of energy we have that going on her side.

UPDATE:  JULY 7, 2010.     X RAYS SHOW HOW LARGE THE TUMOR IS.   HER BLOOD WORK WAS NORMAL!  HEART WORM NEGATIVE.  THIS LITTLE GIRL IS GOING IN FOR SURGERY THIS FRIDAY! 

WHILE AT THE VET TODAY 7/7/10 I TOOK THIS PHOTO
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I HELD HER UP SO YOU COULD SEE THE SIZE OF THIS GROWTH / TUMOR UNDER HER ABDOMINAL AREA.
THIS IS AN X RAY OF THE TUMOR ON MAGGIE
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AS YOU CAN SEE THE VERY LARGE ROUND TUMOR LOCATED ON THE ABDOMINAL AREA BETWEEN HER LEGS








Saint Francis Animal Sanctuary operates on donations.  Once we found this pup we had her up to Ohio and in the vets office within 3 days.  Maggie has no fleas now and she received a medicated bath.  She is on antibiotics for the skin infections.  The X-Ray that was taken gave information as to the extent of involvement of the tumor.  As always we are providing the absolute best medical care in the world! (my opinion )    Please help with a tax deductible donation. 

Look at this beautiful girl, how far she has come in a few months.  She is smart and loving.  Her cancer has now affected her lungs.  I will hold her and love her for the rest of her precious life.

Maggie spent 3 days at the vet this week 10/15/10
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Chest X rays - blood work - medication. Her cancer is back now ... I love her very much.

 PUREBRED BOXER  NEGLECTED & ABUSED TO NEAR DEATH 6-30-10

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  I received an email yesterday ( 6-29-10 ) asking if anyone could take this poor Boxer.  I looked at a few photos the pound took and just broke down in tears.  This is neglect to the point of total abuse.  I named him Alex and when no one responded to the urgent pleas for help, I took him.  On his 8th. day at the pound he left for a better place.  He was facing heart stick at Mahoning County Pound and I just could not let that happen. 

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Alex is at the Avon Lake Animal Clinic receiving exceptional care.  He was heart worm tested negative. The plan is to assess the blood work start an IV for hydration.  He was placed in isolation for now because of the possibility of kennel cough from the pound.  The large swelling under his neck is an animal bite.  Upon exam you can see teeth puncture wounds from an animal bite.   This is now a severe area of infection and the swelling was drained today releasing the abscess fluid.  His skin tested negative for mange or mites.  He is getting tested for "Cushings Disease"  by doing a blood test called " ACTH STIM" test.  That stands for adrenocorticotropic hormone  stimulation test.  

Cushing's Disease (hyperadrenocorticism)is a common condition in older dogs, often mistaken for the aging process itself. Dogs gain weight, lose hair, urinate in the house, and make owners begin to prematurely consider euthanasia. Yet Cushing's disease is treatable and that treatment can result in a longer, more comfortable life for the dog and its owner. Thus, it is important for the regular pet owner to learn the basic facts about Cushing's disease.

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Alex got out of the transport car and walked into the vet clinic on his own.  His head was down and I could see the despair in his eyes.  He has all but given up on this life and who could blame him?  As he lay on the office floor waiting for the doctor I stroked his head and looked at the mangled broken body one tear fell from my eye to the top of his head and he looked up at me .... as if to say.... "please don't give up on me yet."

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PLEASE HELP ALEX THE PUREBRED BOXER  BY MAKING A TAX DEDUCTIBLE DONATION.  NO LIVING THING DESERVES TO END UP LIKE THIS.

UPDATE:  JULY 1, 2010:   ALEX WAS DOING WELL DURING THE NIGHT AND EVEN WALKED OUTSIDE TO DO HIS BUSINESS.  THE VET CLINIC SAID DURING THE EARLY MORNING HOURS HIS BODY TEMPERATURE STARTED TO DROP.  THEY GAVE HIM HEATED BLANKETS AND PADS.  SADLY HE SLIPPED AWAY TO THE RAINBOW BRIDGE AT 8:30am .  I WOULD LIKE TO THINK AFTER A LIFE LONG ABUSE AND NEGLECT SITUATION AND  8 DAYS IN A DOG POUND HE WAS SO COMFORTED BY LOVING PEOPLE AND WARM BLANKETS TO LAY  ON.... HE TOOK COMFORT AND SLIPPED AWAY IN HIS SLEEP.  HIS REMAINS WILL BE BROUGHT BACK TO SAINT FRANCIS AND BURIED WITH ALL THE DOGS AND HORSES THAT WE HAVE LOVED.

I am sorry folks... I am so sad I have no words ... this never should have happened.

UPDATE:  JULY 2, 2010   I JUST FOUND OUT FROM THE VET THAT POOR ALEX ONLY WEIGHED 34 POUNDS AT THE TIME OF HIS DEATH. 

JOHNA DEAF PIT BULL WITH EARS CUT OFF June 2010

Johna is deaf from birth.
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Some stupid person cut his ears off right next to the head. This is called a fighting crop.

Johna came from a dog pound in the east side of Ohio.  He is a pure Pit Bull Terrier.  Johna is 100% deaf which has nothing to do with the fact that some jackass cut his ears off real close to the head.  This was done by some sub human so that when they used this poor dog to fight the other dog could not grab on to his ears while fighting.  We pulled this dog for a rescue that needed help in the southern part of the United States.   We took him to our vet and the vet said he did not think this dog ever was used for fighting ( 1 yr. old )  because he had no scars on his body and has a good disposition.  What a baby of dog Johna is. 

Johna is such a baby.
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He is not at our rescue he was transported to a rescue that wanted him in a southern state.

Johna is a good dog and loved the car ride from the pound.  He had to be woke up at McDonald's for his double cheese burger.   Then he went right back to sleep in the air conditioned car.  How can people be so cruel to helpless animals.  We wish this dog good luck and a good life with loving people that will never abuse him.  We were glad to help in this rescue God bless Johna.

TIGER - CLEPH PALLET 6/2010

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Tiger came from a dog pound in West Virginia.  He has a very large and involved cleph pallet.  When I look down at his face I can see his back teeth through his nose hole because he has no roof in his mouth.  He is most loving and when you pet him he acts like it is the first time in his life anyone every said "hello".   He gets along with the other dogs here at Saint Francis and we are just glad he found us!   Tiger is only about 1 to 11/2 years old.  Welcome home Tiger!

Lorain County Rescue6/2010
UNO LOST HIS LEG

I received a call from the Lorain County Dog Pound yesterday June 10, 10.  I was told to come and get a little 4 to 5 pound Chihuahua that had a broken leg.  I went right to the pound in Elyria.  This was not an old dog.  He was found by a lady that had 2 Poodles and felt sorry for him telling the dog pound he had a broken leg.

 

This is Uno at the dog pound.
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Thanks to this pound worker Uno made it to Saint Francis.

We took this little guy right to the vet.  He did not seem to be in pain but his ears were loaded with ticks and his body full of fleas.  He was taken in to the vet and received x rays of his rear back leg.  Please also see the short video clip of this little guys leg as it was when we got him.  Uno's leg was shattered.  He had many fractures in his leg.  The vet said fractures like this were most likely caused from blunt force trauma. 

Uno most likely has been in pain for 2 weeks.
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This severe fracture had to cause him such pain and he had no where to go.
The Tibia and Fibula are both fractured.
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Uno's leg can not be saved. He must have an amputation.
Uno will be fine with 3 legs.
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He is safe now. He has been through a lot for such a little guy.
I stayed with him until the surgery was over.
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He had some bad teeth pulled and neutered all at the same time.

The vet feels the injuries to this dog were most likely 2 weeks old.  This is based on the current  state of lacerations ,abrasions and bruising to the inner aspect of his legs.  I am also told the doctor  feels "BLUNT FORCE TRAUMA" caused the fractures.  A mail man went house to house checking to see if any one knew who this dog belong to.   If the dog pound can find the owner they will press charges for leaving this dog in this condition.   No one reported this dog missing.  He is only about 6 yrs old. 

We really had no intention of taking on another dog.  However this pup was at a gassing dog pound.  He was going to the vet for his fracture but I feel they would not have spent the money on an amputation.  He more then likely would have been put to sleep.  PLEASE HELP US OUT.  WE NEED DONATIONS!  WE ARE A 501(c)3 non profit and donations are tax deductible.

TWO DOGS LEFT IN DROP BOX JUNE 2010

Pops is the 5.1 pound Chihuahua and Possum ( that is how the pound spelled it!) Possum is a purebred West Highland Terrier.  They were left in a dog pound overnight drop box in North Florida.

 

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Pops in a senior Chihauhua
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He is 5.1 pounds. IV fluids and antibiotics were started right away at our vet clinic.

Pops was in bad shape although he flew on Pilots and Paws half way to Ohio then over nighted.  He  drove the rest of the way to Ohio by transport.  He was very hot and he felt dehydrated to me when he arrived.  On Sunday he was taken right to the vet for exam and treatment.  Pops had a temp of 104.8 and could not stop coughing.  He had blood work done a chest x ray and ultra sound of the heart.  His heart is very enlarged and the xray showed pneumonia.   This little guy was sick.  He was started right on I.V. fluids and antibiotics.  He stayed at the vet for almost a week.  Pop's teeth are so bad that we feel this may be some of the reason for his massive infection.  He is on several types of antibiotics along with cough medication.   Pops also has hair loss as a skin scraping showed he did not have mange but severe flea infestation. 

Pops chest x ray shows an enlarged heart
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The vet feels he has pneumonia and severe dental infections.

The vet has estimated Pops to be about 14 years old.  He has been in a state of neglect for some time now and then to be taken to a "drop box" at a dog pound where he would most likely be euthanized.  How awful.   Pops is safe tonight and well cared for.  He is getting the best medical care that can be provided.  He did not deserve to die like that after all these years. 

Possum came from the same dog pound in Florida this past week.  He is a West Highland White Terrier.  He was left in the "drop box" with his skin looking like he has a severe scald or burn.  Missing most hair from his neck back we took him right to the vet when he came to us because he was uncomfortable.  His eyes were crusted together he is on RX eye medication. He was tested for mange and found not to have it.  He has a severe skin infection secondary to yeast infection,  most likely neglect and flea infestation.  Both ears were loaded with a yeast infection and he is receiving treatment here at Saint Francis.

JUNE 2010 THIS IS HOW WE GOT HIM!!!!
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2 MONTHS LATER AUGUST 2010 WOW!!!!!!
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NOW I AM AS BEAUTIFUL ON THE OUTSIDE
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AS I ALWAYS WAS ON THE INSIDE! ALL I NEEDED WAS A FEW PILLS AND SOME LOVE!

The total vet bill for these two dogs coming from Florida is over $1,700.00   The visit was on an emergency basis and on a Sunday! Pops spent almost a week there.  Please make a donation to help us care for these neglected dogs. 

BABY PUG - A MILL SURVIVOR IS DEAD   AGE: 3 MONTHS.

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Dayz is a little Pug / Beagle mix according to the mill owner.  She was surrendered to rescue because she had bi lateral ( both sides ) abdominal hernias.  They were reducible and the vet said as soon as she was a little older we would spay her and repair the hernias.  She also had a leg problem.  The potential for her leg surgery was 50 / 50 and if it was needed it would be costly. 

I received over 100 applications to adopt Dayz.  I searched each one and there were several very good ones.   I found a couple in the Washington DC area.  I loved to talk to them because they were like expectant parents, so excited and so involved anticipating the arrival. 

Dayz's foster mom that had watched pups for me in the past was going on vacation and said she had a lady she knew to watch her current foster. She asked me if I wanted Dayz to go to her home along with her pups.  I agreed and got her name and number in the event I needed her.   Last Monday May 24, 2010 I received a phone call from the current foster and she told me her sister wanted to adopt Dayz.  I told her I received over 100 applications and found someone in Washington DC area.  I told her they were paying for Dayz's surgery.   She told me her sister would "pay for everything" and even told me the name of the vet she would use.  She wanted to know if the  people I picked out would "back out of the adoption?"  I told her I really doubted it and the conversation ended.  I told her I needed to pick up Dayz because she was going in for surgery.  That afternoon the first foster who is a friend of mine called me and said "  Lisa lied to you.... Dayz is dead."

I was told the foster home's Saint Bernard killed Dayz.  The sad part of this besides her death,  the entire time this lady was talking to me Dayz the baby with so much potential was laying frozen in her freezer, killed the week before.  I was lied to and never told by this lady that my pup was dead.  I thought this over all week and she has never called to apologize for Dayz's death.  Accidents happen, yes I know but I am so upset by this lady lying to me. Trying to adopt her knowing she is dead.    I feel I should have been informed immediately when my dog was killed.  I was lied to and this is sad.  Would you ever trust this lady with one of your dogs?

THE ADOPTIVE PARENTS WERE DEVASTATED AND CALLED THE FOSTER TO FIND OUT WHAT HAPPENED.  THEY LEFT A MESSAGE AND NEVER RECEIVED A RETURN PHONE CALL.....

 

 RESCUE ON VERMILION RIVER May 10, 2010 
BOTH DOGS HAVE BEEN ADOPTED TOGETHER!  THEY LOVE EACH OTHER AND WILL STAY TOGETHER. THANK YOU. 
A few days ago the Vermilion police and fire dept. were involved in a "Beagle rescue"  when 2 small dogs were spotted on a small ledge in the Vermilion river.  They were down the cliff about 50 feet from the top  as reported by the Fire Chief Chris Stempowski.  The area they were standing on was only about 2 feet wide.  They had no way out so the fire dept. got a boat and while attempting to get them off the ledge a concerned citizen with a boat stepped in and assisted in the rescue.
The Chief took them to the Dirty Dog and they received a complimentary bath.  They were then taken to the vet for a quick chip scan and physical.  They were then taken to Saint Francis. 

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No idea how they got 50 feet down a cliff without injury. No collars no tags.  Well feed ( fat ) nice shinny coats and trimmed toe nails.  These are very small dogs and  not hunters.  So friendly they seem like house dogs and are bonded like glue to each other.  HOW COULD NO ONE BE MISSING THIS PAIR?  we are still looking for the owners at this time. 

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These two Beagles will be taken to our vet if we are not able to find the owners.  If you would like to donate a portion of their medical care it would be appreciated.  SPAY / NEUTER / VACCINATIONS / MICRO CHIP / HEART WORM CHECK.  Donations are tax deductible.  Thank You.  

 DEET'S SAD LIFE 4-28-10 UPDATE BELOW JUNE 2010

THANK YOU MIKE AND MICHELLE FOR A GENEROUS DONATION THAT HELPED PAY FOR DEET'S VET BILL.  IN MEMORY OF YOUR PRECIOUS DOG THAT WAITS AT THE BRIDGE. 

This is the very large and strange tumor on Deet.
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The tumor biopsy now shows he has the worst cancer possible.
Deet is a pure bred American Pit Bull Terrier
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He is full of kisses and loves everyone! He is a good dog.

Deet came from Kentucky where he lived his entire life in a 6 foot by 6 foot kennel.  His house was a blue plastic barrel with a hole cut in the side.  To get off the concrete he would spend many hours on top of his plastic house, this was his life!  A neighbor lady brought straw in the freezing cold winter because she felt sorry for him living in his blue plastic barrel.  The owner said the only kind of food he would eat was the cheapest dog food that the "Dollar Store" sold and that is exactly what he got for the majority of his 6 years.   Deet had a Rabies shot in 2005!  That was the last time he saw the vet and never received heart worm medication.  He never was taken to the vet for the ever growing huge tumor on his side.

The email that came  with many requests to take dogs said " NO ONE WILL HELP HIM ".  That caught my attention and I read the email request.  I felt no one was going to help this lady trying to save a neighbors  dog.  I felt the desperation in her email as she searched for a rescue or person to help a dog with a big tumor.  His owner surrendered him to rescue.    Deet arrived at Saint Francis April 24, 2010.  He was taken to the vet Monday April 26, 2010.   Deet's tumor had a biopsy sent to find out what we were dealing with and while sedated he was neutered.  The large lump on his hip bone was hard in some spots and soft in others.  He also had an X-ray taken of the lump.   Heart worm negative which is hard to believe but true! 

BAD NEWS:           Chondrosarcoma (CSA)

This is the second most common primary bone tumor in dogs and accounts for approximately 5% to 10% of all primary bone tumors. It is a cartilage tumor, usually not as malignant as OSA. It generally occurs on flat bones such as ribs or skull bones, but can occur in the limbs, usually the thigh bone (femur). Symptoms are similar to OSA, and many cases are managed with removal of the tumor whenever possible. Chemotherapy has not been shown to be effective. Recent studies suggest that a specific type of antibiotic, called “fluoroquinolone” may be toxic to the cartilage cancer cells. Further studies are needed to see whether this antibiotic will have a role in treatment of this type of cancer.

DEET'S VET BILL IS OVER $600.00  HIS PROGNOSIS IS POOR.  HE HAS A FEW MONTHS TO LIVE.  WE PLAN ON MAKING THOSE MONTHS GREAT!  WE MADE AN INFORMED DESICION NOT TO DO EXTENSIVE SURGERY. 

Deet loves to go for walks to the lake.
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He goes to the edge of the water but will only get his toes wet. I do not think he likes to swim.
UPDATE: DEET'S TUMOR IS GETTING LARGER
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He enjoys walks by our lake and eating good food. Deet is not ready to go to the bridge just yet!

German Shepherd Dog needs donations. (4/14/10)

ADOPTED MAY 2010!

This dog is an owner turn in.  We thought he had flea allergies on his lower back.  While at the vet for routine work we found out he has multiple sebaceous cysts.  The vet said this is like acne when a duct gets blocked.  These areas required some laser surgery and regular incision and removal of the large ones.  Zack has no idea what is going on and why he is here.  He has been at his house for 2 years and the house was lost due to foreclosure.  He has not seen a vet in a very long time but he is heart worm negative.   He is neutered, vaccinated and micro chipped.  Zack is so smart he knows sit, shake and stay.  Our vet feels he is about 4 to 4 1/2   yrs. old.  We are really trying to find a loving home for this wonderful German Shepherd.  He lived with another dog and a cat in his past home.  

Zack's back had to be shaved for surgery.
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The vet feels his back will get better and with proper food and baths the issue will be resolved.
Zack knows sit, shake and stay. VERY SMART.
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Zack is a very smart dog !
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4 to 5 y.o. and a wonderful loving dog.

Zack's medical bill was $559.50 and that is with our generous rescue discount.  Please consider a donation as Zack is just one of many taken in this weekend.  OUR VET BILL IS OVER $4,000.00 from this past week.  Thank you. 

 REAR LEG AMPUTATED IN TRAP 4-6-10

ADOPTED AFTER 1 1/2 YR. WITH US!!!!!

 

Molly forgives all who never took her to the vet
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when her rear leg was cut off in a trap down in Kentucky.

Molly is a rescue from Kentucky where she got her rear leg cut off in an animal trap.  She was found as a stray and taken to the dog pound.  After seeing the scar tissue and swelling I can tell you this dog NEVER saw a vet.  The end of the long bone is just covered by a thin layer of skin and starting to stick through the skin.  There is a small open area right now. The amputated leg / stump  is also very swollen.  Can you imagen the pain this young pup went through as she had such a traumatic thing happen at such a young age.   Molly is only about 1 year old.   Someone had to see she her suffering with a cut off leg and yet she never was taken to the doctor. 

Molly is going in for surgery and receive a stump revision of the leg.  She cannot go on with the bone sticking through the skin for obvious reasons.  Her surgical amputation will most likely be about the leg joint.  But this time she will have a clean surgical incision with pain medication to make her comfortable.  This young dog is such a good girl and loves everyone!  She has suffered enough in her short life.  Saint Francis Animal Sanctuary really does take the ones that have little to no hope of adoption or rescue.   Please consider a donation to help Molly get the care she needs.  Molly will be up for adoption when we get her all fixed up! 

You can see the swelling in the stump.
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Molly is using the leg as a crutch sometimes and this is not good. She runs the risk of infection.
The amputated leg has severe scar tissue
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you can see the inside part of the leg where the tissue pulled together to close the wound.
UPDATE 4-13-10 AMPUTATION COMPLETE!
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MOLLY'S AMPUTATION IS DONE AND SHE IS DOING VERY WELL. MOLLY IS UP FOR ADOPTION.

Please help Molly HAD surgery April 8, 2010.  If you would like more info on Molly or her condition please feel free to email mparke11@aol.com

  BORN WITH NO EYES 2-8-10

These babies are 12 weeks old and blind!
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They came from an puppy mill in central Ohio.

These babies were born December 11, 2009 in  a puppy mill located in central Ohio.  The puppy mill bred two Dapple Doxies together resulting in the entire litter being born with no eyes.  We are still trying to assess if they are deaf. The breeder who obviously knew nothing about correct breeding bred 2 Dapples together. For reasons unknown, the combination of two dapple genes hitting the same area of the dog can be lethal. I have seen double dapple puppies born with no eyes, and/or no ears. Blindness and/or deafness is also caused by the double dapple gene. The condition causing the eyes to be very small or not there at all is called micropthalmia. Affected dogs have prominent third eyelids and small eyes which appear recessed in the eye socket (enophthalmos). A defect early in development results in the smaller than normal eye (microphthalmia).This is often associated with other eye abnormalities, including defects of the cornea, anterior chamber, lens and/or retina. Microphthalmia is also seen with coloboma - a cleft in a portion of the eye, particularly the iris. Microphthalmia with multiple defects (ocular dysgenesis) is often seen in dogs with a merle hair coat with excessive amounts of white. The eyes are commonly different colours. Partial deafness may also be part of this syndrome. These dogs are frequently blind. These babies were  born December 11, 2009. Because of this condition their destiny was a rain barrel. Yes that is how dogs are put to sleep on most  puppy mill farms. I cannot imagine this soft cuddly warm loving pup thrown into a ice water rain barrel to die. Surrounded by darkness from his missing eyes and never knowing a loving touch except for his mother whom he would briefly know before being torn away from her warm love. This most innocent soul was somehow spared the horror and found her way to Saint Francis Animal Sanctuary on a cold March night.I had to pay   $25.00 for each pup to save their lives. Right or wrong for paying   they would have died. I sat on the floor rocking and touching these babies until 4:00 AM the night they came here. They are truly the most innocent animals I have ever held. They do not know what sight is as they basically have no eyes. I cannot tell if they are deaf yet. 

Tommy 3 pounds 10 ounces
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Little Lola 2 pounds! She is the runt.
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Mellow 3 pounds 3 ounces
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Hendrix long coat ( long hair ) 3 pounds 2 oz.
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The adoption fee is $200.00  which will include spay / neuter when they are old enough.  Rabies, DA2PPv, Bordetella, micro chip, puppy worming Nemex-2.  The fee will also help recover the fee paid to get them out of the puppy mill.  These pups will kiss you to death.  They do not miss a single spot on you face when kissing you!   They love attention and want to be held all the time. They run and play like normal pups all the way!  They don't know they are blind....  lets not tell them!

We are asking an adoption fee to cover the routien cost of adoption, spay/neuter and vaccinations with microchipping.  Regular puppy medical care.  These pups came from a mill and MUST GO TO THE VET FOR EXAMS TODAY 3/8/10.  they were wormed and the diarrhea will not stop at this point.  THEY MUST BE SEEN BY THE VET.  WE NEED DONATIONS TO COVER THE VET BILL AND TESTING FOR PARVO THAT MAY BE NEEDED TODAY.  THANK YOU.

HARLEY - MISSING PART OF HIS SKULL & NEUROLOGICAL DAMAGE (MARCH 6, 2010)

Harley has a large piece on his head missing
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His bottom right jaw has all the teeth missing and his tongue hangs out.

Harley came from Georgia where he was an owner surrender.   His owners were moving and could not take him along. They felt if he went to the pound he would be put to sleep because of his age ( 8 y.o. ) and his neurological problems.   I have to say I love this dog.  He adjusted well with all the dogs here.  He is very smart.  He has picked out his place to sleep in the house and there is no changing his mind! Harley sleeps in the bath tub!  He would like to eat and drink in the tub also but that is where we draw the line.  

Harley has such a personality you can not help but love him.  He is neutered, heart worm negative, all vaccinations are up to date.   He also had an extensive dental exam and work.  The front teeth were spotless and pure white.  The teeth that are on the bottom of the right jaw were black and he had to have several extractions.  This is the side his tongue hangs out. 

What can you say .... he loves the tub!
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Harley's bottom right teeth were awful.
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He had most of the rear teeth on the right bottom jaw removed due to decay.

HEART WORM POSITIVE GEORGIA GIRL2-14-10

MOLLY
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This beautiful Yellow Lab girl came on a transport from Georgia last week.  She is only about 1 year old and sadly heart worm positive.  We had her to our vet for her spay discovered the heart worm status.  She was treated this past week and the cost is over $500.00 for the heart worm treatment.  When a dog is in heat and has to be spay it cost more because of the extra time and more complex surgery involved.   Because of her young age and early detection of her heart worms we went ahead and had her spay done also. Molly's spay was over $200.00.   She has been at the vet since last week and is now ready for adoption.  She is just a pup and acts like a pup.  If you know Labs then you know they seem to "grow up" or "mature" a little more slowly then other dogs.  Molly has an entire life to live and needs a family to love. 

Some people said to us " great you pick the heart worm positive dog "  but that is not how we feel.  We are glad we found her so now she can get the life saving treatment she needs to live many years.   All of our dogs that are up for adoption are vaccinated, micro chipped and heart worm checked.  Older dogs receive dental work, blood work and x rays as needed.

 

Please consider a tax deductible donation to help pay for Molly's medical care.  We are a 501(c)3 non profit group.

MEET OUR RESIDENT WOLF Feb. 7,2010

The dog warden has her listed as a German Shepherd Dog.  He did not want me to take her because he said "she would be dead in 3 days"  He did not want to vaccinate her with Rabies because he said " I am not going to  waste the vaccine on her" .   I took her to the vet where she had to go into the facility on a stretcher because she could not walk.  She could hardly hold her head up. 

WHAT DO WE HAVE TO SAY TO THAT ?   "HEY DOG WARDEN .... IT'S ALMOST 2 YEARS LATER AND SHE IS A BEAUTIFUL - WONDERFUL - LOVING AND STILL ALIVE DOG!"

          Ginger was found by animal control of Zanesville OH in an old trailer long ago abandoned. She found refuge in a place with  no windows or doors as  she lay on an old matterss to die. 
 

It took all she had to stand for this photo
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while in the dog pound. She is always willing to do what ever is asked of her.
This photo was taken by animal control.
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The dog pound named her Ginger look how sad she looks.

Too weak to find food in the wild and too tired to try this baby just found comfort as the winter faded into spring.  She has been on her own for awhile as evidence of her emaciated body .

Given up for near dead at the dog pound we were warned she was in bad shape!  When we moved her tired body from one transport vehicle to the next tears could not be held back by either of us. 

Resting at the vet now.
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This dog will never have to worry about her next meal or where she will find shlter to survive.
Heart worm + , blood work normal , full of fleas.
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Ginger ate a full meal while being examined at the vet. Her lungs are clear and heart sounds good.

Click here to see a short video of Ginger taken 1 week after arriving at Saint Francis.

Ginger (a.k.a. Ma Ma Wolf ") was taken to the vet  5-22-08 .  She was strong heart worm ++  which really did not come as a surprise.  Our surprise came when we found her blood work almost normal in every way.  Her eyes are clear and her teeth not bad. She  had several areas in her mouth that were abscessed but in general THIS DOG IS NOT OLD!   One area on her right side of her upper lip had a tumor which later on turned out to be a "sheeth tumor "  and extended up to her right ear.   She had some sores located all over her body and more fleas then I have ever seen in my life.  Her eyes were infected and she is very dirty.  One toe nail  was tore off and the others only short as they broke off due to length.

Too weak for heart worm treatment   we had to wait months for her to gain  weight and  strength.  Our vet felt she had a good chance to recover from her neglect. All the diagnostic work that was  done looked good.   She was put on antibiotics and was wormed, bathed and fed !  UPDATE 7-8-08    GINGER ( aka Ma Ma Wolf)   gained 12 pounds and went to the groomer twice.  She is a little socialite and visits all the puppies and dogs on her walk around. Ma Ma Wolf is taken to every adoption event we go to.  She is not up for adoption but she loves to see people and get attention. She had to gain 10 more pounds to receive her heart worm treatment which she came through with no problems at all!
 

MA MA WOLF IS A WOLF / MIX.
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SHE HAS THE COURAGE OF A LION AND THE PERSONALITY OF A LAMB. WE LOVE HER!
LOOK AT OUR BEAUTIFUL GIRL NOW!
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HEART WORM TREATED AND FACE TUMOR REMOVED LONG AGO.

Please consider a donation to help with the medical care for Ginger.  We are a 501(c)3 non profit and donations are tax deductible. 

RUSSELL 3 LEGGED HOUND URGENT JAN 30, 2010

IVs going non stop for fluids and antibiotics
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Russell the 3 legged dog from Georgia is fighting for his life.

People have been coming to Saint Francis for years while searching for the perfect companion for their home.  In those years I have watched people over look Russell.   He came from Georgia with his girl friend Blossom.  Blossom got adopted and went to a wonderful home with a family that adopted from me in the past.   But no one ever wanted Russell the 3 legged hound mix.  Last week Russell got sick and vomited.  He was drinking water like crazy and then vomiting.  Russell spent the last week in the vet getting x rays, blood work, IV antibiotics, IV fluids for hydration.  Tests were run and his lab values just went south. 

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Russell has been at the vet for over a week now.  The vet called me tonight ( Saturday 1-30-10 ) because Russell needed emergency surgery.   He has a hole in his diaphragm which caused some of his organs  like the liver and duodenum to go into the hole causing some of the tissue to die.  One major problem is the common bile duct was pinched off causing major life and death blood chemistry changes relating to his gallbladder.  The doctor had him open on the surgery table and called me to ask "what do you want to do?"  explaining to me how the medical surgical needs of Russell would take 2 doctors 3 hours to try to repair his problems.   I still want to give Russell a chance at a family life some day.  I just could not tell him to euthanize him because it cost too much.   Russell had surgery today and its touch and go for now but he would have died without the necessary procedures done today.

Russell's  surgery was a life and death decision and we chose life!  This 3 legged dog is only about 4 to 5 years old.   Please consider a donation to Saint Francis for Russell's surgery. 

SAD UPDATE:  RUSSELL PASSED AWAY A FEW HOURS AFTER SURGERY.  1-30-10.  HE DIED AS HE LIVED ALONE !  WE TRIED EVERYTHING WE COULD TO SAVE HIS LIFE.  RUSSELL'S PASSING HAS PUT A FINANCIAL HARDSHIP ON SAINT FRANCIS ESPECIALLY DURING THE WINTER MONTHS WHEN HEATING BILLS ARE HIGH.  PLEASE CONSIDER A DONATION!

RUSSELL'S MEDICAL BILLS ARE OVER $2,500.00   TOTAL FINAL BILL:  $ 4,100.00  JUST RECEIVED THIS INFORMATION.

HER NAME IS INK SPOT!  SHE HAS A VERY LARGE MAMMARY TUMOR THAT NEEDS TO BE REMOVED RIGHT AWAY.December 3, 2009

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Ink Spot came from a shelter in Eastern Ohio.  This poor girl was left in an over night drop box.  She was left like yesterdays trash.  How can anyone do this?   She has most likely had several litters of babies.  Now in her senior years she has a medical problem and needs help.  So what do her owners do?  They dump her where she had no chance of adoption because of her age and medical needs.  Well we want her!  This baby is at the vet tonight the very day we took her into rescue.  She is heart worm negative and vaccinated.   Tomorrow Ink Spot will have that massive tumor removed along with a spay.  She will have some much needed dental work done at the same time.

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We know it is close to Christmas and money is tight everywhere but this poor girl found herself in so much need we just could not turn our back.  When you own a dog and you ignore the fact that she now has a tumor the size of a cantaloupe hanging down.... I call it abuse!  She will now get the care she needs.  Our space during the winter months in Northern Ohio is limited.  The medical bills are out of site!  This old, black dog who most likely has cancer will probably not get adopted!  She will stay here with us forever.  Saint Francis takes the animals that have little to no chance of being adopted or rescued due to complexity of care or age.  Please help by making a tax deductible donation for Ink Spot.  Honestly folks I have no idea how we are going to pay for this girls surgery.  Please help!

Ink Spot came home from the vet 12/7/09
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Her incision is over 2 feet long. She lost both sides of her chest from top to bottom.

UPDATE:  ONE WEEK AFTER INK SPOT RECEIVED HER SURGERY SHE HAD TO GO BACK TO THE VET FOR ANOTHER WEEK.   HER INCISION OPENED UP AND THE SKIN WAS SO TIGHT THERE WAS NOTHING TO PULL TOGETHER AND CLOSE.   SHE HAD NORMAL SALINE SOAKS AND WE LET THE TISSUE GRANULATE IN.   SHE IS FINE NOW BUT  IT WAS TOUCH AND GO FOR AWHILE.

It is just too close to Christmas for me to tell the facility asking me to take this dog " we are full " but we are.  It is just too close to Christmas for me to say " we have no funds"  but we do not!  With a hope and prayer we will get donations to help Ink Spot!  Please consider a donation.

JERRY LEE BLIND DOG RESCUED ! November 4, 2009

 

Blind - neuter infection - strong HEART WORM ++++
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Jerry Lee is now safe at our vet getting the medical care he needs.

 I told the people trying to save this dogs life I could only take him if he had a foster home until I had a space open up here.
Someone sponsored this dog and a foster home   around Akron / Canton was found.  I talked to the lady on the phone.   A few days later she told me I had to find another foster and she was going to Texas leaving on Monday.  She said her husband would not watch the dog.  I got the email at 3:30 AM Sunday morning.  I had to work 12 1/2 hr. shift with no email access so I felt helpless.   She was leaving Monday the next day.
She told me the dog had a bad neuter infection ( mandatory neuter leaving Stark Pound by their doctor )
She gave him an antibiotic pill!  ONE PILL
She took him to a boarding kennel and left him.  NEVER TOLD ME!  Never told them he had an infection from the neuter.  The kennel called the pound  and told them the dog had to go to a vet because he had a very bad infection.  She never told them who the dog belonged to . 
Emails and phone calls all over the place
I finally got the poor dog here at Saint Francis and he had bloody fluid dripping down his legs.  His scrotum was swollen and the incision was open. 
His name is Jerry Lee and he is at the vet tonight.  Confirmed 100% blind  pupils are fixed and dilated and sadly HIGH HEART WORM POSITIVE!  
This dog is only about 1 1/2 yr. old.  
I still have no room here and I have to place another healthy dog in boarding.  He is undergoing heart worm treatment at Avon Lake Animal Clinic right now.  He will be home in a few days on antibiotics for the infection. 
This was a nightmare for Jerry Lee, in pain from the infection he chewed open.  Cant see what is going on and Strong heart worm +.  All this and in a short period of time he went from the dog pound to a foster home then a boarding facility from there to Saint Francis and now in the vets office. 
Donations for Jerry Lee's care sure would be appreciated. 
Avon Lake Animal Clinic
124 Miller Rd. Avon Lake OH 44012
( 440-933-5297 )
Saint Francis Animal Sanctuary Inc.
12516 Cherry Rd. Vermilion OH 44089
501(c)3 non profit.
JERRY LEE IS WAITING FOR SOMEONE TO COME AND FALL IN LOVE WITH HIM.  HE IS WAITING FOR HIS FOREVER HOME.  YET PEOPLE COME AND PASS HIM BY BECAUSE HE IS BLIND.  HE FOLLOWS THEM AS THEY WALK BY HIS KENNEL WITH HIS GREAT HEARING.  NO ONE STOPS.... COME AND SEE JERRY LEE.
 

Please help Jerry Lee  CLICK HERE! 

 

Second Attempt: Help Scooter win $500.00 for his sister's leg surgery

Scooter is a Lorain County Dog Pound rescue.  His little back legs were on upside down and turned around.  They had to be amputated as the circulation to the toes started to cause major problems.  We now have Ci Ci who is Scooter's sister. She has been to the vet and had x rays. She must have surgery to correct a painful bone deformity in her rear leg.  She can not walk on her rear leg and hobbles on 3 legs in pain.  We need $1,800.00.  Scooter can win the cuttest dog contest and help pay for his sister's surgery. 

Scooter is now entered into Week 7 of the twelve week Million Dollar Cutest Dog Competition (9/13 - 9/19). All votes from the previous week are now zeroed out and you have seven days to get as many votes as you can in Week 7.

HOW IT WORKS...
The dog with the most votes after 7 days wins $500 and moves on to the semi-finals. Send the direct link (below) to your friends and family and ask them to vote for you once each day - they may even have ideas on how to get you even more votes.  Launch your own little doggie advertising campaign and watch the votes stream in!

Ci Ci has a completely luxated patella.
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Saint Francis has saved so many now we need help to save Scooter's sister from a life of pain.

CLICK HERE ONCE A DAY THIS WEEK. PLEASE HELP SCOOTER WIN MONEY FOR HIS SISTER'S SURGERY.

Ci Ci is Scooter's sister and walks in pain.
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Her owner found us and surrendered Ci Ci so she could receive the medical care she needs.

CLICK HERE TO SEE SCOOTER DURING AN NBC-24 T.V. SPECIAL THAT WAS DONE TO SHOW HOW MUCH LOVE THIS ONE LITTLE CRIPPLED DOG CAN BRING TO SO MANY!

Yes we are still trying to collect donations for Ci Ci's surgery but having Scooter win would be so great!  Please vote for Scooter!  Donations welcome!

Jill CRIPPLED PIT WITH MASSIVE INFECTION RESULTING IN TAIL AMPUTATION 10-15-09  UPDATE 10-30-09 SEE BELOW

WARNING... THIS IS GRAPHIC AND MAY BE DISTURBING TO SOME.

Jill's tail turned necrotic and infected quickly
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This happened while she was on antibiotics and Rx. ointment. She was getting septic.

Jack and Jill came to Saint Francis at 6 weeks of age from a dog pound in Texas.  They were fat, cute and playful pups.  However they are both paralyzed in the back half of their bodies.  These 2 dogs go to adoption events with Saint Francis because they love everyone!   Jack is more "Pit" in the face then Jill and stronger so he lifts his body on his 2 front legs and gets along fine.  Jill is the smaller one and has had a problem with her tail since she was about 4 months old.  The tail contractured under her and every step she takes causes a pounding on her bent under tail bone. 

When Jill was 7 months old she got a massive tail infection from having liquid stool and bouncing in it.  We had them to the vet and could not find out what was going on with the diarrhea.  Both Jack and Jill were having the same problem.  Then Jill ate part of a Cool Whip dish and had to have emergency abdominal surgery.  The vet did a biopsy of the intestine at that time and we found out Jill was highly allergic to some components of dog food.  Both Jack and Jill were placed on Ultra ZD allergy dog food.  The problem seem to be solved.  However Jill had to spend a week at the vet getting hydro therapy treatments and antibiotics due to the tail infection. 

Jill was on oral antibiotics and Rx. ointment
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This is her tail stump as the infection burst open and she was on her way to being septic.

We knew the time may come when we had to think about amputation of Jill's tail.  Last month she developed a massive infection and her tail turned necrotic ( tissue death due to lack of blood supply ).  Jill's tail was amputated in mid September.  The infection took over and it was like it exploded in a short time.  Jill has been at the vet ( THIS TIME ) since September 21,2009.  She almost died from a systemic infection.  The cost of her hospitalization is over $100.00 per day and we are at  25 days as of now.   Jill is receiving 2 powerful antibiotics to fight the raging infection and 3 hydrotherapy baths per day. She is on her Rx. dog food and doing better.

This was taken after 2 weeks of therapy
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Tissue re-growth and granulation is seen around the tail stump. Infection is under control now.

The updated photo shows tissue granulation and regrowth of healthy skin.  She is still at the vet and MUST GET A WHEEL CHAIR prior to her coming home.  Because Jill has no use of her back legs they have contractured and are of no use to her.  Her stump must be lifted off the ground so she can have time to heal.  We have tried her in 2 wheel chairs we have here for other dogs and it did not work! Jill needs her own chair made specifically for her based on her measurements.  We really need donations for a wheel chair and to help with the medical care Jill is receiving right now.  We are looking at least 2  more weeks at the vet.   Below is the original story and photos of Jack and Jill that came to Saint Francis last year.



PLEASE HELP!  JILL HAS TO STAY AT THE VET 2 MORE WEEKS AND NEEDS A NEW WHEEL CHAIR.  DONATIONS ARE TAX DEDUCTIBLE.

Please take a look at this video clip of Jack and Jill taken several months ago. This is when Jill had a previous surgery.

JACK & JILL CRIPPLED TEXAS  BABIES  5/18/08 
                           SEE THE UPDATE MARCH 19, 2009
 Jack & Jill Lab mix pups about 6 weeks old were turned in to the dog pound in Texas City, Texas.  They are both crippled as both of their back legs are non-functioning.  These are 2 of the cutest little pups you would ever want to meet.  They are going to the vet / ortho consult this week. They flew in from Texas 5/16.

Jack and Jill will never walk .
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We know this and love them just the same.
6 weeks old and taken to the dog pound in Texas
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These little babies are the cutest puppies you have ever seen!

These babies from Texas have a severe diaper rash because they have no use of their back legs.  We are treating that with A&D ointment and frequent  bedding changes.  The vet in Texas that issued the health certificate to travel  said to start them on antibiotics once they get to Ohio.  We started them on Calvamox and will take them to the vet for an exam and follow up.  The x-rays for their little legs are $100.00  for each pup.  Some people may ask why we even bother with tests and exams.  Because they deserve a chance.  What if something could be done for them and we did not bother to check with the vet?  Everything we do is double because we need two.  The flight from Galvaston TX to Cleveland OH was $200.00  These pups needed a special needs rescue and they are safe now.  Donations appreciated as that is the only way we survive. 

Jack seems to have the muscle mass to walk on his front legs and hold his rear up in the air.  Jill is smaller and is having major medical problems.  She has just spent almost a week at the vet ( October 08 ) for hydro therapy and antibiotics.  He tail has contractured under her and each bounce she takes hits on the tail dock causing a massive infection.  We have placed both pups on a Rx. dog food which is low residue.  We hope this will firm up the stool.  Jack and Jill were spayed and neutered a short time ago when they were 4 months old.  Our vet feels we may have to amputate Jill's tail if we cannot control the infection on a long term basis.  Jill did have a wheel chair to keep her bottom up off the ground for periods of time and take the pressure off her tail.  ON HER FIRST DAY IN THE WHEEL CHAIR SHE ATE THE STRAP HARNESS AND NOW WE HAVE TO SEND IT BACK TO DOGGONE WHEELS IN BOSEMAN MONTANA FOR REPAIR.  These 2 pups are high maintenance and high cost.  Antibiotics - hydro therapy - Rx. cream - Rx. dog food and chewed wheel chairs.....  please consider a donation to help! (October 2008)

Jack & Jill love each other and will stay together
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They are so happy because they know nothing else in life. We love them.
Jack & Jill's diaper rash is all cleared up!
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6-1-08 Jack went swimming even with no use of his back legs he still knows how to swim! You go Jack!
Jack and Jill are growing up fast!
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These babies are so cute... they cannot walk but they are so cute.

UPDATE:  10-22-09  Jill had surgery last Friday 10-16-09 to close the opening of her tail.  The doctor pulled the skin around from the top and bottom to close the stump. 

Jill's legs have contractured and atrophied.
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Crippled since birth she does not know she is different. We love her.
This is the tail after the last surgery 10-16-09
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She has no legs to stand on so the wheel chair is needed to lift her up off the amputation stump.

10-23-09  Just received news from the vet that one little section of Jill's tail opened up again so she is going to be sedated today and re-sutured.   This is a perfect example why the wheel chair is so necessary.  WE HAVE TO GET HER UP OFF THAT TAIL STUMP.  Her wheel chair has been ordered and custom made.  We need donations to help with Jill's ever growing vet bills and her wheel chair.  Please donate!

Jill has been at the vet since the end of Sept.
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She has been through 3 surgries in just the last 40 days of this stay at the vet clinic.
Jill has a special wheel chair now.
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Her back legs are contractured up and she needed a special sling type of harness in her chair.

October 30, 2009   Jill had yet another surgery to close her tail 2 days ago.  The day her new wheel chair came.   The chair will provide support to lift her tail end up off the ground.  This is the reason her stump kept opening up.  Because Jill has no use of her back legs her tail end kept hitting the ground every movement she has taken.   Jill has been at the vet for 38 days now.  The cost is in the thousands for her medical care and several operations.  Please consider a donation to help us out!

COCO NEEDS A TUMOR REMOVED 10-1-2009  Tumor removed and she is home! Thank you all for the donations for Coco's surgery!  She is doing great.... 10-15-09

Coco is a 3 y.o. Pit mix
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She was born with no eyes and has a clef pallet

Coco Beans is in need of surgery for a mammary tumor.  She is a Pit mix with micro opthalmia.  This means her eyes never developed before she was born. Coco is totally blind.   She also has a severe clef pallet as you can see from the photo.  She has one nose hole located off to the side of her face.  Her teeth are involved some missing and the upper part of the roof of her mouth is missing. Coco Beans eats dry food and we have had her here for the last 2 years.   She has made friends with Angel the 5 legged dog and they eat together and sleep together. 

Coco is blind of course she has no eyes.  To watch her and Angel is heart warming.  Saint Francis Animal Sanctuary depends on donations.  We have several dogs like Coco that are very special dogs.  Please help if you can. 

Angel has a little extra leg, her story is below.
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Coco follows Angel all over the place and if she is not with her she will cry.
Coco has missing and displaced teeth
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She will also receive a dental at the time of the tumor removal

 Please donate for Coco's surgery!  She is so attached to Angel and depends on her to be her eyes that Angel will go to the vet when she has surgery to be with her. 

LUKE: CHERRY EYE & TUMOR Sept. 30, 2009

His little teeth were very nasty!
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He had an extensive dental done and lost 8 teeth.
Luke is a Chi / Pap mix about 8 to 9 years old.
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He has "CHERRY EYE" on his left eye. This is an over growth of one of the eye lids causing pain.

Luke is a 7 pound Chihuahua / Papillon mix.  He was found by a lady with a limited income last June.  She knew he needed medical care and could not spend the money on him.  She surrendered him to us 2 weeks ago.  He had severe flea allergies and his back had hair missing.  The little guy had fleas crawling all over his body and face.  He was treated with Capstar and a medicated bath.   Then we treated him with Frontline because the fleas just kept coming!   He was taken to the vet and is Heart wrom negative.  He had the tumor removed from the back of his neck along with the cherry eye.  He is now neutered!  So this little guy got it from both ends!  We did blood work prior to his surgery and he had extensive dental work done at that time also. Luke had 8 teeth removed due to infection.  He is on antibiotics now and doing well. Luke is friendly with other small dogs and is looking for a loving indoor home.  He is now micro chipped.

I really did not expect the area to be so large.
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The tumor was removed with no problems. The incision is well approximated and doing fine.
This tumor / growth did not look that bad
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but I knew it had to come off.



Luke's surgeries and medical care was $695.50.  ( and that was with our rescue discount)  He had several things done at one time.  We could really use some help with our vet bills.  Donations are tax deductible and very welcome! 

PUREBRED WEIMARANER RESCUED FROM KILL POUND(9-18-09)

Cyber is 1 y.o. missing his rear leg.
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This beautiful boy is up for adoption now and ready for a loving home!

This beautiful sliver colored boy is only about 1 year old.  He ended up at a kill pound in Southern Ohio.  He is a tripod missing his rear leg with a high amputation.  SO WHAT!  The grace he moves with is so beautiful and eloquent how could his owner never come and get him?  He was facing his last days when we pulled him with the help of other rescue people in Ohio that we work with.  Cyber is missing his rear leg but his owner never got him neutered perhaps because they wanted to use him for breeding.  This past week Cyber was neutered, heart worm checked and he is negative.  Now placed on Heart Guard preventative.  He is updated on his vaccinations, Rabies, Bordetella ( kennel cough ) and DHLPP.  Cyber has also been micro-chipped.  When I took him out for photos he knew the command "sit" and "stay" until I gave him a command to move. He rides in the car very well  and had no problem jumping into the back of an SUV from the ground, he went in one leap!

Cyber can keep up with the best of the walkers.
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He does not seem to get tired and missing a leg does not hold him back at all.
Cyber is sleek and his coat shines almost blue!
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He weighs 65 pounds and is a real gem.

Cyber is up for adoption NOW!  Meet this beautiful and good natured smart dog and you will know what I am talking about. Contact us at mparke11@aol.com  to see him. 

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www.pilotsnpaws.org click here to go to their web site.

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WATCH THIS VIDEO CLIP Thank you to Pilots N Paws here is a wonderful video clip so you can see the work that is being done. ( CLICK HERE!)

         SANDY AND AGNES RESCUE!

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Pilots N Paws flew two special needs dogs to Saint Francis Animal Sanctuary where they are getting the medical care they need.   Sandy is the Yellow Lab boy that is 12 + years old and a strong HEART WORM POSITIVE.  He came from South Carolina where his life almost ended in a dog pound.   Agnes is the  7 year old 3 legged Black Lab girl from Tennessee  that has rectal bleeding.

Sue the night vet tech met us at midnight.
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The dogs looked tired after their flight and transport.

Sandy and Agnes were pick up at the  Mansfield Ohio airport.  They went right to the vet clinic where we arrived at midnight.  We wanted them there so they could be evaluated and assessed first thing in the morning.  Sandy (Yellow Lab ) received chest x rays and blood work along with a physical.  His blood work looked great and his chest x ray showed an enlarged heart.  The over all opinion was to treat the heart worm.  He received his first dose of emeticide ( heart worm medication ) and stayed at the vet 6 days in a calm environment where he could be monitored and rest.  Agnes ( 3 legged Black Lab ) received a chest x ray and blood work along with a physical.  She had rectal bleeding which was noted while in Tennessee at her foster homes.  She was put to sleep and a rectal biopsy was taken.  We just found out tonight she does have cancer.  She is full of life and all the other findings on her exam were good.  The vet is making a decision and will consult with other doctors at the clinic on the result of the biopsy.   Because she is in such good shape physically we tend to think that a procedure called "rectal pull through" may be done.  She will have a few inches of intestine pulled out and resected.  Based on findings they do not think the cancer has metastasised to other places.

Agnes lost her leg and has buck shot in her chest
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and a bullet in her leg. Now has rectal cancer. We can give her a chance for once to save her life!

Update 9-16-09   Agnes the Black  Lab 3 legged girl had a biopsy done of the rectal area just as soon as we got her.  Findings from Marshfield Labs Cleveland OH.  :   " Diagnosis: Colonic mucosa: Tublopapillary and solid intestinal adenocarcinoma."

Agnes also had a chest x ray which looked good!  ( EXCEPT FOR the BUCK SHOT IN HER CHEST AND A BULLET IN HER LEG!!) The blood work also looks great.  The vet agrees with the doctors doing the biopsy which said  " ... complete excision and clinical follow up to monitor for possible recurrence and / or metastasis are recommended." 

We need to remove a few inches of her lower intestin close to the rectum while maintaining the rectal sphincter.  She has a chance and we want to give it to her.  She is a very healthy weight, good lab work, good chest x ray PLEASE HELP US ON THIS ONE!  WE NEED DONATIONS FOR HER SURGERY RIGHT NOW!  Agnes has a very small bleed from the rectum and we cannot put this surgery off. 

Sandy and Agnes both almost died in a dog pound! Tonight when we walked through the woods they smelled everything as if they were finding life for the first time.  The tails never stopped wagging.  Yes they are happy!  We fully intend to give them every chance at a good senior life.  Many involved in the pull from the pounds, foster and transport of these special dogs cared enough to get them to us.  Now we are doing our part.  Please donate and help us continue our work of caring for special needs animals that many give up on.  Your generosity is greatly appreciated because we totally operate on donations! We are a 501(c)3 non profit.  Click here to donate. Donations may be sent to Saint Francis Animal Sanctuary Inc. 12516 Cherry Rd. Vermilion, OH 44089

DOTTIE THE BLIND & DEAF DALMATIAN 8/20/09

She rested her head on my leg all the way home.
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She is skin and bones nearly starved to death, deaf and blind - what she must have been thinking?

UPDATE 11-12-09 bottom of Dottie's story.

UPDATE 9-9-09  Dottie just spent a week at the vet.  We missed the whip worms in the first stool specimen that was sent out and she lost 4 more pounds, she got down to 33 pounds.   She had I.Vs for hydration and Rx. food which she is still on.  The worms were treated at the vet.  Dottie is still on antibiotics.  She is home now and we are trying to get her to eat and gain some weight.  Poor little thing.

This is Dottie when she was rescued
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She is deaf and blind and she lay so still all the way home from the pound where she almost died.

    We went to a dog pound in central Ohio to rescue a big Yellow Lab with missing hair on his back due to flea allergies.  When we walked into the back of the dog pound kennel area I saw something that will forever leave a mark on my heart.  This Dalmatian was laying in stool and urine struggling to stand she looked like she was having a seizure. She looked like something I have never seen .... skin and bones with sores under her arms from the filth. When we walked closer she managed to stand and walked into the wall of her 3 x 3 foot kennel.  Once she hit it she would turn and walk into the next wall with her head down and blind... I couldn't believe what I was seeing.  The smell was so bad in the van from Dottie laying in stool and urine the driver had to pull over and I vomited.  This was a very emotional rescue.

Dottie has several infected teeth.
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She is too weak and starved to have vet work right now .
Dottie had a bath and off to the vet she went!
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She was so scared at the vet she would not move or get up for several minutes.

Dottie was taken right to the vet for care.  She is not a senior.  The vet said she is about 5 years old.  Just think of the neglect this poor girl was going through.  She is so loving!   Dottie is heart worm negative and her blood work shows a severe infection going on most likely her teeth.  She was so weak and in a state of starvation  we could not even vaccinate her at this time. She is on antibiotics now and we are trying to get some weight on her so she can have dental work and spay.  She was wormed with Panacure for 3 days and she loves her food.  

Post surgical repair of her wound.
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The clean wound is well approximated and sutured.
This wound was on her leg when she came to us.
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Antibiotics / topical medication / cultures it would not clear up.

September 09  Dottie had a wound on her front leg when we got her from the dog pound.  She was on antibiotics and Rx. ointment which did not help.  The wound was cultured ( culture and sensitivity ) to see exactly which antibiotic would work on this wound.  Another week on Clindamycin and no improvement.  The vet had to go in and cut the dead tissue away and make a clean incision line.  The hope was that the incision line would close and get better where the open wound would not.  Photos taken before the procedure and after.  Dottie had her teeth cleaned and lost a few bad teeth while she was having the surgery to clean this wound.

This is the lower Penrose drain.
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All this over 2 little puncture wounds from another dog.
Penrose drains placed in head and jaw area.
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The drains will be irrigated several times before they are pulled.

11-12-09   We knew when Dottie came to us she did not like other dogs.  Perhaps fear and not being able to hear or see other dogs, who knows.  This past weekend Dottie most likely nipped at another dog and she got 2 little puncture wounds on her face and head.   She was immediately started on antibiotics as dog wounds are awful.   Now a few days later the situation required the dog go to the vet and have surgery !   She has 2 Penrose drains in her head and jaw.  The vet sent her home and we are irrigating the wounds at the drain site  with a Betadine / water solution.   The infection made her little face swell and it would not drain on its own. This can be a critical situation left untreated.   Dottie is OK right now but hates the irrigation process.

Poor Dottie look at her face!
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As if she didnt have enough problems!!

She can't hear and she can't see but she can feel! Dottie feels a lot better now then she did facing a life of neglect. Please donate today!     (click here)

Click here to see a very short video clip of Dottie at the vet after her bath.

I KNEW NO ONE WOULD TAKE THEM

2 TERRIFIED  SENIOR TERRIER GIRLS ( 8-5-09 )

THE LARGE ONE WAS MISSING A FRONT LEG
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THE SMALLER ONE HAD AN OPEN WOUND WITH MAGGOTS IN IT.
THESE TWO GIRLS WERE IN A DOG POUND
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IN SOUTHERN OHIO NEAR THE KY STATE LINE.

These two seniors showed up in a dog pound in the southern most part of Ohio.  I was told at first they thought there was three dogs because they were so dirty and clinging to each other for dear life you could not tell.  They had open wounds and the smaller one had maggots in the arm pit wounds.  Later they discovered the larger one had a missing leg which looked like an amputation.  I have looked at the stump and have never seen anything like it before.  The missing leg has about 1 1/2 inchs of skin hanging off the stump with a bone located way up by her shoulder I am no vet but it looks like a botched up amputation to me.  They both had urine burns all over their samll bodies.   We took them into rescue and they are here with us now. 

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The larger girl with the missing leg  ( Mighty ) weighs 13.5 pounds and the smaller girl ( Minnie ) weighs 7. 14 pounds.  They have severe liquid stool and have been started on 3 days of Panacur wormer.  They look like they were used as breeding stock because you can see they must have had several litters of puppies.  No spay scar noted.  The teeth are brown with tarter and dirt.  The nails of course were so long they curled.  They have been started on Clavamox antibiotic for skin infections and mouth infections.   They are both going to the vet tomorrow  8-6-09 for heart worm checks, vaccinations, spays and much needed dental work.  I took them because I knew no one else would and I pray that Saint Francis receives donations to help with the vet care.  Once they were cleaned up look at these beautiful faces in need.  Please help and send a  tax deductible donation to Saint Francis for Minnie and Mighty. They are the most bonded loving souls I have ever had the pleasure of taking into rescue.

DONATIONS REALLY NEEDED FOR MINNIE AND MIGHTY! PLEASE HELP!

MOLLY 3 LEGGED LAB GIRL WITH RECTAL TUMOR(7/28/09)

This area is very painful for her and hard to see
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Her tail is lifted slightly to examine her rear tumor area.
6 Y. O. Molly is a rescue from an Ohio dog pound
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She is missing a rear leg and has a golf ball size rectal tumor / growth

Molly is a 6 year old Yellow Lab mix girl who came from a dog pound in southern Ohio near West Virginia.  She is just a wonderful and easy going typical Lab girl.  We did not know about the rectal tumor as a matter of fact her paper work from the dog pound indicated this was a "male".  Molly was taken right to the vet and she was heart worm tested negative.  She had a spay and tumor removal.  She was micro chipped and all her vaccinations are up to date.  I do not understand how she would be over looked for adoption at a pound because of her amputation.  She is so sweet and loving.  Someone asked me "where do you find all these special needs dogs?"  Most of the time they find us.  People in the rescue community all over the United States know we take special cases and they find us!  It is very hard to turn away a special girl like this because she faces being put to sleep  if not adopted.  We need donations to help these animals that have little to no chance of finding a loving home in their current situation.  Please consider a donation to help save dogs like Molly and so many others.

We depend on your donation to continue helping special needs dogs like Molly find safe and loving homes.

This is Carmalita a few days ago.
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She was dehydrated, starving and all alone with flies eating away at her ears. She almost died!

ANOTHER CHIHUAHUA RESCUE!

STARVED TO NEAR DEATH (7/27/09) ADOP;TED

She gained weight - got spayed - micro chipped and found a home! ADOPTED!

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Carmalita is a young purebred Chihuahua who was found near death in a field that was in the State of Maryland.  She was laying on her side too weak to get up and her toe nails were so long they curled !   The rescue people did a wonderful job with her for a few days and she came to Saint Francis Animal Sanctuary Sunday 7/26/09.  I look at her little 5 pound body and wonder about the suffering she must have gone through while laying in that hot field with no water or food.  He little ears have been chewed so much by flies that the very tips are missing!  This poor baby was too weak to stand and even if she could her nails were so long they curled up. 

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Carmalita was taken to our vet within 12 hr. of arriving at Saint Francis.  She is tested negative for heart worm.   We are giving her quality food and when she gains a little weight she will be spayed.   Carmalita will be up for adoption after her spay and micro chip.  Her vaccinations have already been done because she had to be transported across State lines.  The vet at our clinic feels she is young and said between 1 and 2 years old.   If you would like to adopt this poor baby after her spay please email  mparke11@aol.com  

Donations are tax deductible.   We operate totally on your donations.   Please help!

Senior Chihuahua found in Muddy Creek(7-13-09)
NOT A SENIOR!  THE VET SAID 6 TO 7 YEARS OLD!

This is "Creek" after a bath and some food!
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His nails were curled and long + how did he survive?

This 6 pound senior was found sitting on a tree branch that was in Muddy Creek located in Salem Ohio.  The lady named Judy was walking her 2 dogs near their property and she couldn't believe  what she found.  She had her cell phone with her and took 2 short video clips before she ran back to her house and got leather gloves to pick him up ( you know scared little starving Chihuahua ankle biters )  She ran back to the creek with her heart pounding and pulled him out.
please take a moment to look as she found him.

Click here XXXXX to see Judy and her dogs as she first saw the Chihuahua on the side of the creek.

click here XXXXX to see a cell phone video Judy took when she went back to pull him from the creek's bed.

"Creek" as she named him is a senior intact male Chihuahua with a mouth full of rotten teeth, he has not been to the vet yet for a heart worm check he arrived yesterday.  He is going in for neuter, dental with extractions of rotten teeth and heart worm ck, rabies and vaccinations.   ( and micro chip ) 
When he is cleared he will be up for adoption but for now we need donations to help with the vet care.  We are over loaded here but I couldn't turn my back on this little one that could have drowned, been eaten by wild life or starved if no one found him.  Creek has been started on Clavamox antibiotic for his rotten teeth infection.  His vet bill will be hundreds of dollars and we sure need the donations!  Please help!
The lady that found him in the creek contacted a few Chihuahua rescues and he was turned down because of his age.  We take the ones that no one will take because of age, illness, disability, deformity and give then a chance at a life!  Creek has a chance now .....

Saint Francis could not turn our back on this little guy who needed a place to go.  Please help!  We are a 501(c)3 non profit group and donations are tax deductible.

             PIPPIN  ( ADOPTED! )

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Pippin is 17 years old and looking for a home.

He was diagnosed back in Jan 09 with insulin resistance and his new blood test came back about 2 weeks ago and all his cortisol and insulin levels are back to nearly normal with just a diet change.  He takes no medicine, just regulating his diet.  He does have corrective shoe right now but the farrier says he will be back in normal shoes with time (the diabetes had taken a toll on his coffin bones over the years, we were not aware he had diabetes because he did not show the signs until last winter).    He was a hunter jumper but the vet said no more jumping but he can walk/trot/canter.  He is a great pleasure horse or trail horse and loves to be ridden.  He got quite frustrated when he was on stall rest back in Feb/March.

 The owner wanted to get  back into jumping, but they have to board the horse and cannot afford two horses.  They  paid $5,000 for Pippin 4 years ago. He is a buckskin paint. He is 14.3 hands, (1 inch from being a horse), has a personality on him, but need to go somewhere where there is another horse because he doesn't like to be alone.He is great at trailering,clipping getting his teeth done, doesn't spook, has been to horse shows, airs, in parades, trail riding at parks.  He's a great little horse. Call 440-967-3610 Pippin's adoption fee is $400.00  and we are looking for a home that will have him for the rest of his life. 

LADY - 13 YEAR OLD BLACK LAB TAKEN TO THE DOG POUND TO DIE IN A GAS CHAMBER! (May 9, 2009 )

Lady is deaf as a door knob! But can see well.
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She just enjoys a good dish of food and a soft bed to rest on.
Lady has several masses on her under side.
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This little Labby girl weighs 109.5 pounds! WOW!

The only information the person who was taking this dog to the pound would give me is her name. I was contacted by the Lorain County Dog Pound to see if I would take this girl and she would not be taken in by the pound. They knew her chances of adoption were about zero and she was not a candidate for the APL program.  She would have been gassed to death.   We agreed and she came to Saint Francis.  This dog has several breast masses ( about 8 ) most larger then a closed fist.  She is very over weight at 109.5 pounds.  She was taken to the vet and received a physical, rabies vaccination and heart worm test.  She was negative for heart worm.  All her other vaccinations were given DHLPP / Bordatella.  I was told she was spayed but no one knew for sure.  They refused to give me the name of the vet they said they used and they would not tell me the owners name. 

Buddy ( 10 y.o. Yellow Lab ) has a new best friend
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Their senior years will be spent here at Saint Francis.

Lady came to us wagging her tail and looking for something to eat! Poor thing!  She gets along with all the dogs and does not have a mean bone in her body.  When we get a new dog we like to match them up with a dog friend.  Someone to go for walks with and if at all possible stay with as a companion.  We found a great match the first day.   Buddy the 10 year old Yellow Lab who's owner took him to the pound a few weeks ago  to die, fell in love with this black beauty!  They live together and walk together in the fenced area.  When one is taken away the other searches all over for them. They eat together and lay on Kranda  beds together.  They now have found each other and love each other.  They will spend the rest of their lives together as residents here at Saint Francis. 

ARNOLD ( ARNIE ) THE SAINT BERNARD          OSTEO SARCOMA ( BONE CANCER )MAY 1, 2009

Arnold is a giant at 230 pounds
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Molly is a full size 80 pound Yellow Lab girl.

UPDATE 9-7-09   This is a very sad update on Arnold and Molly.  I always worried about Molly who was the Yellow Lab in the photos with Arnold. I worried because Molly loved Arnold and stayed with him all the time.  What would she do when he passed away?  Molly passed away about a month ago.   She became lethargic one morning out of the clear blue.  I did a blood sugar and it was 43.   We raced her to the vet while forcing pure sugar water paste into her mouth.  Molly died at the vet with a tumor on her pancreas which would not stop producing insulin no matter how much pure I.V. glucose we gave her.  This loss hurt.   2 days ago Arnold had his 3 large cans of dog food with his pain medication.  One hour later while laying on the porch in front of the fan.... he went to sleep and died.  My heart was broken but at least he did not have to go to the vet to be " put to sleep" and I fully believe he didn't suffer.   I love that big guy and he will be so missed.... he is free now.

Molly the Yellow Lab is Aronold's best friend.
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They do everything together

Arnold ( Arnie ) was rescued from the Lorain Dog Pound 3 1/2 yrs. ago. 2 weeks ago he started to limp we took him in to the vet for his yearly shave and dental a little early this year. The vet took x-rays ( chest and leg ) and blood work only to find that he has osteo sarcoma( bone cancer )  of his leg.  He was given only weeks to live.  I have cried for a week at the thought of him not being here any more. (6 years old.)

I have taken so many sick - senior - deformed - dying - and crippled dogs into my home and into my heart.  Now I can do nothing for my buddy and best friend.  He is not a candidate for an amputation because of his massive size ( 230 pounds ). We have him on 4 - 100mg. Rimadyl daily and 8 - Tramadol 50 mg. twice a day. He is not ready to die!  This has been so very gut wrenching hard for me to watch him now knowing how very limited his time is and all I can do is sit and watch. 

Arnold's vet bill was over $650.00 last week.   His medication  is about $90.00 a week right now... to take his pain away until I have to say good bye forever.  Can anyone please help me buy a little time for my buddy and best friend.  Because of the special needs dogs I take in I am forced to deal with death unfortunately ... often.  But this big guy has put his big giant paw print on my heart and this is very hard to deal with.  I love him.  Please   hit that PayPal button - help me with his vet bills and medication.   
Below is a letter and a prayer to Tom Majoris who worked at the pound for many years.  Tom passed away unexpectedly in the prime of his life one year ago this month. 

We got Arnold from a dog pound 3 ½ years ago.  He is 230 pounds!  He has become such a part of our life…. We love him. 

FOR THOSE OF YOU WHO KNEW TOM WHO WORKED AT THE LORAIN POUND FOR MANY YEARS.... THIS IS MY HEART FELT LETTER TO TOM who passed away one year ago May 11, 2008.   Dear Tom:  Many years ago a man owner surrendered a 230 pound Saint Bernard dog to the pound.  He didn't want him any longer and never took care of him chaining him to a tree for 3 years. Arnie didn't like people too much and at 230 pounds I think everyone was a little frightened of him.  Except for you Tom... you took Arnie under your wing and even took him to the vet for a skin  infection.  You held the big guy over beyond his euth. date and I said I would take him into rescue.  You were the only one that could walk him and he liked you!  When I came for him you had a smile on your face and handed me the leash saying " it's your turn" .  Well Tom... I have done everything I can for Arnie ( aka Arnold ) and he has spent many years living in the house with Chihuahua's jumping over him!  Shaking his head and putting 3 foot streams of spit on my dish washer, oven and ice box.  I have learned to step over him as he reached from one end of the kitchen floor to the other when sleeping.  Arnold is such a part of my life and family I want you to know how much I love the big galute!  Tom... here is where you come in ....   The vet tells me Arnold has an osteo-sarcoma ( bone cancer ) in his front leg.  I cant amputate his leg because he is just too big and unsteady he has a hard time walking on 4 legs ...  I will not put him through that.  I couldn't even see the vet  as he was talking because I was crying so hard .... as I am now writing to you this letter and prayer.  He is not in any pain right now .... I am giving him pain pills... the vet tells me I have a few weeks left with him.  I will know when its time... and as I hold him tight and try to wrap my arms around him telling him how much I love him.... I will take his last breath with him on this earth...  at that moment ... Tom... I will pray... and say to you as you said to me so many years ago... " It's your turn"  .... God speed across the bridge Arnold ... someone is already waiting for you on the other side.....  
BELOW IS THE ORIGINAL POSTING ABOUT ARNOLD AND HIS EYE SURGERY. 

  ARNOLD (ARNIE) THE SAINT BERNARD
           HAS HIS EYE SURGERY! 
Arnold had eye surger on both eyes Friday June 8th. 2007.  He had :
Ectropion is used to describe a condition where the lower lids are loose, causing a drooping of the eyelid's margins. The lower lids actually turn outward. One or both eyes may be involved. It can occur in any breed, but it is inherited in American Cocker Spaniels, Saint Bernards, Mastiffs, and Bloodhounds.
 
Entropia  This is a condition in which the lower lid margins roll inward to the extent that hair rubs on the surface of the eyeball. In rare cases, the upper lid can also be affected to some degree. One or both eyes may be involved. This condition can occur in all breeds, however, Spaniels, Great Danes, Shar-Peis, Poodles, and Saint Bernards seem to be the most frequently affected breeds, suggesting an inherited trait.
 
Arnold had both!  He had a cronic eye infection and could hardly see most of the time.  His surgery went well and we hope he feels better now!
 
Arnold is a dog pound rescue !  He has lost a little weight now and is down to 220 pounds.  Arnold is here at Saint Francis Animal Sanctuary to stay because he does not care for people too much.  He was tied to a tree for 3 years when he was taken to the pound by his previous owner.  He is 4 1/2 years old now and we love him. 

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Arnold after upper and lower eye lid surgery and his yearly shave!

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Arnold before surgery on his eyes and his yearly shave!

Donations are tax deductible and very much needed.
We are a 501(c)3 non profit.

                 BUDDY AND GUNNER 4-22-09

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Gunner has now found his forever home!
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Gunner has come a long way from the gassing dog pound he was taken to a short time ago. THE FAMILY!
BUDDY HAS BEEN ADOPTED! 6-24-09
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SAY A PRAYER FOR BUDDY THAT THINGS WORK OUT BECAUSE HE IS IN A WONDERFUL HOME!
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**CLICK HERE FOR THE STORY ON BUDDY AND GUNNER**

Buddy and Gunner were rescued 45 minuets before the dog pound closed. They were to die at 7:00 AM the next day.  A phone call and a plea to hold them for me was very much welcome because the pound workers fell in love with these guys.  Buddy the 10 year old had a stroke that night before I picked they up.  He has neurological symptoms now.  His head tilts to the right and his tung hangs out of his mouth a little also to the right.  He will most likely stay with us forever.  Both boys are up for adoption after the are neutered, vaccinated, micro chipped and heart worm checked.  They will receive a complete dental also. 

In addition to the vet work listed above Buddy and Gunner's pull fee from the dog pound was an additional $100.00.  Please consider a donation to the animals of Saint Francis.

                                   MATTHEW
         HOW MUCH CAN ONE LITTLE GUY TAKE?
 UPDATE:     Matthew passed away June 16, 2009  His little tail wagged right up to the end.  He passed away while sleeping.  Rest in peace my little special pup!

Please read about our dear Matthew.  This is the update and below is the original posting from last year with photos as he was when we received him here at Saint Francis.  I asked the question last year " how much more can one little dog take?" Well it was not over yet!  Matthew came to me with a tumor on his rear end.  We had it removed.  He was heart worm ++++ and we had it treated.  He was diagnosed with " Cushing Disease" last year and we are successfully treating him with Lysodrine which is $169.00 for 30 pills.  The same drug used in humans with the disease.  Now this poor sweet tail wagging baby has diabetes. Last week during the a bad rain storm he went outside and went down in a dirty puddle and had a seizure.   I thought he was dead. It was a violent grand mall seizure.  His blood sugar was over 600.   He is on insulin now and getting blood checks twice a day to regulate his insulin.  We have gone from 4 units of NPH to 14 units twice a day.  He is on Rx. dog food ( restricted calorie ).  Here is the really sad part.  A few weeks ago Matthew went to the groomer and got all cleaned up for his new home.  Cushing disease and all he is a beauty! Here is his photo now.

Matthew will have a home here with us forever.
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Please say a prayer for this little guy... he needs all the help he can get
Matthew is a beauty - a real tail wagging love!
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He almost had a home of his own and a family.

Last week an emergency run to the vet cost us over $600.00 He was having one seizure after another because of the blood sugar level which at the time we had no idea what was going on.  He had blood work, x-rays and IV medication valium and phenabarb to stop the seizures.  I have no idea how long he will live but he has a home with us forever.  We need donations really bad!  Please donate!  Below is the original story from a year ago. 

Matthew was a stray in Eastern Ohio
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No one came for this little guy so the dog warden took him home to save his life.

Matthew was named by the dog pound workers.  They fell in love with this little guy.  He had long dirty hair that was so matted to his body they said it was hard to tell which end was which!  No one came for him and his time was up.  So the dog warden took him home and saved his life.  She took him to a groomer that was a friend of hers and cleaned him up.  They found a large tumor on his rear end at the base of the tail. 

His back has almost lost all of its hair.
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The hair loss extends down his sides, tail, upper legs and face.

Saint Fracis Animal Sanctuary said we would take him into rescue. While he was at the pound worker's home ( waiting for transport ) they noticed he was drinking a lot of water and going to the bathroom several times a day.  When he arrived here it took about 30 seconds to look at him and think... "CUSHINGS DIESEASE".   I am no vet but if you look down a few stories on this page you will see "Ginny"  less then 2 months ago she was diagnosed with the same thing.  Matthew has  hair loss all over his back and very thin on the tail, legs and face.  His abdominal area is enlarged. With the increased thirst and urination it looked obvious to me. 

This "tumor" is located at the base of the tail.
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You can see the veins making this tumor very vascular.

So we have 2 issues with Matthew.... or so we thought!  Yes he tested positive for heart worm today while he was in to have his tumor removed and blood work drawn for his Cushing disease.  So Matthew's tumor removal and Cushings Disease are on hold and tonight he is at the vet for  life saving heart worm treatment.  Matthew is only 5 to 6 years old and his luck was running out.  Tonight he is safe and we are going to get him fixed right up!   First heart worm treatment then blood work to determine the appropriate dose of Lysodrin ( $155.99) per 30 pills.  Then we remove the tumor on his rear. 

Three strikes and your out!  Not at Saint Francis Animal Sanctuary.  We will most likely have this little guy for the rest of his life.  You see he is so full of life.  Once we tend to his medical needs he can continue to be the happy little dog he  is.  His medication will have to be given for the rest of his life.  Once again I have to ask for donations.  We are a 501(c)3 non profit group and that is the only way we survive.  Please consider a donation if you can and a prayer if you like sure would help too.

We have PayPal for donations and regular US mail if you wish.  Donations sent by US mail can be sent to Saint Francis Animal Sanctuary Inc.  12516 Cherry Road Vermilion OH 44089.  Thank you very much.  Donations are tax deductible.

YOU WILL NOT BELIEVE THIS! 4-3-09

     Molly is a 2 year old female purebred Yellow Lab.  She is full of energy and loves to puppy play as most Labs do.  She was picked up by animal control in Holmes County Dog Pound.  Molly has a tumor on her leg and one on her back.  This tumor really is one of the largest I have seen in my rescue life.

JAIL HOUSE PHOTO Look at her face!
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Look at this baby if she only knew she was in a kill dog pound and her time was so short!

I received an email to see if I could take a "Lab with a tumor".  She was in a dog pound in a rural area of central Ohio.  I was told no one wanted her and a Lab rescue turned her down because of her tumor.  The dog warden would NOT take her to the vet to be looked at so a volunteer took a photo and sent it to her vet.  NO owner came forward and she would have been euthanized. Molly sat in her cell with this cantaloupe size tumor swinging from side to side as her tail wagged non stop. Within a few hours I was in my vehicle headed south!

This is a photo of the leg tumor.
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Molly also has a very large growth on her upper back.

Molly is a mystery to me because she had very nice trimmed toe nails, well nourished, young, heart worm negative and the vet said she had a spay scar.  Someone took care of this baby and yet they let a tumor like this grow to such a size her life would have been in jeopardy if it had ruptured. I was very nervous as she jumped in and out of the vehicle and I worried the entire night before she went to the vet.  The tail never stopped wagging and I held my breath with each swing.  I could not let this girl die in a pound gas chamber. She has so much life to offer the world and we are going to see she has a chance.  Molly had the tumor removed from her leg and also the one on her back only hours ago.   The back growth was a large cyst growth.  Molly is in recovery and doing well.

HER NAILS WERE CUT AND SHE IS WELL FED.
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MOLLY WAS SPAYED AND HEART WORM NEGATIVE HOW COULD ANYONE LET THIS GROW TO THIS GIANT SIZE!

We take special need cases here at Saint Francis and the request to take in animals is daily.  I just could not let this girl who is so full of life and energy die at the age of about 2.  We operate totally on donation's.  In the past couple of weeks we have had so many sick and injured dogs that needed medical care our vet bills are in the thousands.  We need help - donations are tax deductible we are a 501(c)3 non profit.  Please look at the faces of those that would not be alive today if not for your donations. 

Please help!

THIS IS WHERE THE GIANT TUMOR WAS LOCATED
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SOME SWELLING REMAINS BUT WILL GO DOWN WITH TIME.
THE SMALL TUMOR / CYST WAS REMOVED
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THIS IS MOLLY'S BACK AND SHE HAS A 14 INCH SURGICAL INCISION .
HI MY NAME IS WALLACE
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I CAN NOT TELL YOU HOW MANY PEOPLE WANTED TO PUT ME TO SLEEP! THANK GOD I MADE IT HERE!!

                WALLACE( 1-26-09 )

PLEASE SEE THE UPDATE ON WALLACE APRIL 1, 2009

Wallace was hit by a car and picked up by Mahoning County Dog Pound.  He could not use his rear legs so they called Saint Francis to see if we would take him.  Wallace went right to the vet for xrays.  He has a severed spine ( broken back ). 

Wallace has a fractured back
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He was hit by a car and taken to the dog pound

Please consider a donation for Wallace.  His vet bills included several days of hospital care - x rays - blood work - urinary catheter that  he still has now and medication.  We really do not know if he is going to make it but we are giving it a good try.  Thank you.

We are not permitted to use a wheel chair for at least 6 more weeks.  This is because of the fractured spine.   We have a wheel chair too small and we have one that is too large.  It is imperative we get the correct size and fittings for Wallace.  We need to get him off of his hips to avoid pressure sores and also keep him up long enough to clean the urine off of him.  PLEASE DONATE IF YOU CAN….

The vet holds a pen to point out the fracture
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His spine is broke in half... Wallace is in NO pain.
We had to have the left rear leg amputated
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We could not use the wheel chair to keep him off of the leg because of the fractured back.
Wallace has a stump on the left side now.
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He also has no use of the right rear leg so our work is cut out for us!

UPDATE: 4-1-09  Wallace is crippled and both of his hind legs will never walk again!  He is part of the family now and lives in the house with us.   He developed a pressure sore on his boney part of his left leg.  That is the way he learned to crawl on his 2 front legs.  No matter how many medicated dressings we put on or much medicine he took we could not save the leg.

This pressure sore developed on his boney area.
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We washed it , dressed it, put medication on it and did everything we could but it just got worse.

This did not come up quickly as we could see the problem right after the accident.  Wallace's surgery was over $1,000.00.  Wallace is young and will adjust!  We fitted him today for a wheel chair that will not provide mobility at this time but get him off of his rear end on the side that was amputated. He is on antibiotics right now and doing well.  He is such a happy boy.... If you can help us out please make a donation to Saint Francis by hitting the PayPal button for Wallace.  Soon he will be able to go out side and enjoy the summer sun in his wheel chair...  thank you.

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                        LIONEL !  MARCH 09
SAD UPDATE AUGUST 1, 2010   LIONEL PASSED AWAY HERE AT SAINT FRANCIS OUT IN THE BACK YARD WHERE HE HAD BEEN WALKING.  HE WAS THE BEST!
s

MY NAME IS LIONEL AND I HAD A ROUGH LIFE
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WILL YOU PLEASE HELP ME GET BETTER AND MAYBE FIND A HOME SOMEDAY.

    Lionel came from Terra Haute Indiana Humane Society 2 days ago.  They gave him medication because both his ears were infected.  He had fleas so bad his hair is missing and thin in some spots.   When Lionel got here we noticed his left foot was swollen and his severe arthritis in his rear legs was acting up. In 12 hours his left foot doubled in size with infection.  He was taken right to the vet.  X-rays of his foot did not show any fractures or injury.  He has  a massive infection that went half way up his leg.  He was tested for heart worm and found to be a high positive.  Extensive blood work shows slight renal problems ( kidney problems ).   The chest x-ray taken to give the doctors more information on his heart worm shows he was shot with a BB gun.  BBs will show up on a x-ray because they are metal.  His teeth need work and he is not neutered but that is the least of his problems.  His blood work also shows he has anemia. ( low red blood cell count ).    

THIS INFECTION WAS GETTING BAD BY THE HOUR
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HE IS NOW ON Zeni Quin AND Metronidazole ANTIBIOTICS FOR THE INFECTION IN HIS LEG.

Lionel was so happy to get a dish of food .... you can almost see the appreciation in his eyes.  This poor dog most likely spent his entire life out side.  He has hard rough callous formation the size of a silver dollar on his elbows.  He has severe arthritis in his old bones but still able to walk.  The tail never stops wagging!  While he was at the Humane Society in Indiana his vet records show he gained 30 pounds that was only a few weeks ago.

Here is our plan for this poor old soul.  He is on 2 antibiotics for the infection in his foot. (Zeni Quin and Metroronidazol) He is receiving a topical antibiotic ointment called Bactroban.  Lionel was treated today for heart worms with an Immiticide injection. The second injection will be in about a month. He is on a Rx. high quality dog food.  He is now on Rimadyl 150 mg. a day for pain from the foot infection, Immiticide injection pain and arthritis. 

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This boy did not have much of a chance at living out his senior years in comfort.  The heart worm would have been a painful death and his old bones and calloused arms could not have taken too much more!  We are going to do everything we can to make his life better and hopefully find him a home for retirement.   He will always have a home here with us!

Right now his medical bills are $ 660.00 after our huge rescue discount. He still needs another heart worm treatment injection which is $294.00 and much needed dental work when he is medically able to do the procedure.  We are desperately asking for donations to help with Lionel's medical expenses. Please consider a tax decuctible donation. 

Most of our special need dogs come to us from other rescues, dog pounds or humane societies. We get about 5 to 10 requests a day.  Please help us save the sick, injured, old and abused animals.

Lionel is good with everyone!
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He is in foster now and loves the mail man and begs for hot dogs at cook outs ...
Lionel and his dad Paul
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Gaining weight, yeast infection gone! very much loved.

             THE STORY OF ROSE_

UPDATE MARCH 24, 2009

Rose was an ol' Coon dog with a broken tail
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This photo was taken the day she crossed the bridge. Rest my dear Rosie in peace.

Rose passed away a few days ago.  She died in my arms while I held her close and loved her.  This posting is to tell everyone how one old Coon dog touched so many lives.  I do not want her passing to just fade away as a memory without knowing how Rose lived!  

One man from Milwaukee Wisconsin sent Rose  cards and called over the years to find out how Rose was doing.  Her story touched him.  Last year while on a visit to a family function in Ohio Del stopped by and he finally got to see his Rose.  They walked in the yard and he took photos.  He was unable to adopt her but loved her just the same.   Last fall Rose was adopted by Connie.  I like to think of it as "Rosies Vacation".  I truly believe Connie loved Rose and during her weeks with Connie she got all the attention and love in the world.  She got a bath and walked all day every day out on the shore of Lake Erie.  Thank you Connie.   Rose came back to us because you just cant take the Coon dog out of an ol girl like this.  This was Rosie's home and she was adjusted just fine.  Connie has come to visit Rose and bring her treats.  Her next visit was planned for this Spring. 

 

Below is "The Story of Rose" when she came to Saint Francis almost 3 years ago.  She was a old Coon dog that had a broken tail and cancer. She had many puppies and probably hunted every season.  When she was of no use to anyone as she aged and slowed down. They let her breast tumor go until it was so big it almost touched the ground when she stood up.  I would like the think we gave Rose the best years of her life.  She was never cold, never hungary and loved treats!  Rose's abdominal area started to swell and within 12 hr had doubled in size.  She was taken to the vet and had x rays done.  She had abdominal bleeding most likely from a ruptured tumor perhaps the spleen.  We knew she had cancer and after her major large breast tumor removed when we first got her she had one other tumor removed about 14 months ago.  The vet gave her the same gas they do when they put a dog to sleep for surgery.  She drifted off to sleep in my arms before she was given the injection to put her to sleep. It was very peaceful. 

PHOTO OF ROSE PRIOR TO SURGERY
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THE LARGE GROWTH IS A BREAST TUMOR

  Rose spent the last month at a dog pound in central Ohio.  This was a kill pound and they let the volunteers take photos of the dogs and send them out to rescue groups.  She did not have a name and was just another hound turned in at a pound to be put to sleep.   We received an "URGENT REQUEST" to take a sick dog.  The photos we received were shocking. This large Treeing Walker Coon Hound had a massive growth hanging down from under her. The growth actually was rubbed raw from draging on the ground.  We agreed to take this poor girl into rescue knowing this was her only chance to live.  Rose was taken to the vet July 13, 2006,  the same day she came to us.  Rose had surgery July 14, 2006 where the large tumor that was on her chest was removed.  During her surgery the vet found another tumor almost of equal size on the other side of her chest wall.  They were both aggressively removed also. Rose had a growth on her neck, left front leg and right back and all were removed.  Rose needed extensive dental work done due to years of neglect.  She had a large molar that was fractured and had to be pulled.  The bad tooth had to be painful Rose was heart worm negative.  One day post op this poor girl is receiving I.V. fluids to keep her hydrated during her recovery.  Rose is also receiving pain medication injections
She is resting well at this time.  We know she has cancer and really do not need an expensive test to tell us that. Rose is a 64 pound dog that has a calm and willing to please attitude.  The vet reported to us that Rose can have a nice quality of life for a while now.  We know her cancer will come back someday but for now Rose will get all the attention she deserves in life. When she is able she will return to Saint Francis Animal Sanctuary she will have a chance to live out the rest of her life right here with us.   If you would like to send a donation to help us with the medical care expenses for Rose please send to :  Avon Lake Animal Clinic 124 Miller Rd. Avon Lake, OH 44012 C/O Rose    If you have it in your heart to love this large hound dog for the rest of her life and you think you may  like to adopt this girl please call 440-897-2662

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Rose had surgery to save her life July 14, 2006
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DONATIONS CAN BE SENT TO : Avon Lake Animal Clinic 124 Miller R. Avon Lake, OH 44012
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July 18, 2006  Rose is home and doing great. She is eating  well and enjoying walks in the yard. 

The histology report shows : " The histopathologic alterations in the small intestine are not etilolgically specific but indicate an antigenic response to luminal antigens.  The mild eosinophilic component to the inflammation could indicate an allergic / hypersensitivity reaction to those luminal antigens, particularly antigens in the diet..."

We have now placed Jack and Jill on Hills Rx. Ultra ZD dog food.  Ultra allergy dog food.  ( $ 69.65  for 18 pounds! )  The biopsy was correct and both are now having normal formed stool... after a year of trying to figure out what the problem was. I have gone through dozens of tubes of diaper rash cream cleaning their raw butts daily.  We now think the problem has been solved.   Jill''s emergency surgery, biopsy and vet care came to $1265.13 .   Please help us pay for Jill's surgery....  consider a donation to Saint Francis and help us care for the babies that other wise may not have had a chance at life. 

                   LITTLE MISS MUFFIT( 2-25-09 )

 

Muffit is a small girl only 15 pounds
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She came from Frederick Maryland

Little Miss Muffit came to us last year from Frederick Maryland.  She was picked up as a stray.  No one came to claim her!  This sweet little angel has some medical issues.  She has deformities like no other to say the least.  Upon her arrival here she was taken to the vet who said after seeing her running around the exam room " this is my face in shock".

This past month Muffit was spayed and had x-rays done to see how she was put together.  Muffit has a crooked head / neck, only about 5 inches from her shoulder bones to her hip bones.  Her anus is on top of her back ... yes that's right when she goes to the bathroom it comes out on top of her back and has to be lifted off ( most of the time ).  X-rays show us she is missing several vertebra in her spine.  Her legs are extremely long which makes her look like a daddy long leg spider when she walks.

Muffit's anus is on top of her back.
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When she goes to the bathroom I have to remove it from the top of her back daily
Muffit is about 2 to 3 years old now
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We did a complete blood work up on Muffit when she was spayed. She had x-rays done also to see exactly how she was put together.  He spine never formed correctly and she has several missing vertebra which causes her to have such a little body.  3 weeks after her spay Muffit became very ill.  This illness was not related to the spay.  She had developed liquid stool although she remained on her Rx. dog food which is low residue.  She was again taken to the vet where test after test turned up nothing that would be causing this awful problem.  She  had an appetite and no fever drinking water like normal.  While she spent almost a week at the vet they were giving her up to 4 baths a day.  Remember her anus is on TOP OF HER BACK and you can only guess what the liquid stool was doing!!   I was told it splattered on the walls and everywhere. 

You can see the curve at the end of her spine.
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This is her tail which sits off to the side and the point her anus in located on her back.
Muffit's tiny spine is almost "U" shaped.
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Please consider a donation to help with the medical cost of Muffit.  We are a 501(c)3 non profit and donations are tax deductible. We operate totally on donations.  Your gift can make a difference!

TRITON: 3 LEGGED DOG FROM TENNESSEE 2/1/09
                                ADOPTED   ADOPTED   ADOPTED

Dog pound photo from TN
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Triton is a beautiful 2 year old Border Collie mix. with sleek and shinny hair.

Triton is one of the best dogs I have ever had here at Saint Francis.  He is trained in basic commands, non barker, house trained and kisses - kisses - kisses!   I have no idea how anyone could let this dog go to the dog pound and not search for him! I have NO idea how he could be passed up by people looking for a companion pet?  Yes he has 3 legs but he can do anything a dog with 4 legs can do....  he is just wonderful.

We have several dogs that either have no back legs, no front legs, no use of back legs or an extra little arm sticking out of a shoulder.  We are not going to let him suffer but if he has any chance it will be how well he shows progress in the next few days.  Wallace is a loving and friendly dog that is only about 1 year old.  Struck down in the start of his life by a car that did not  even stop to see if they killed him.  The pain must have been awful and shock of it all unthinkable.

   Triton sat in a dog pound in Tennessee and no one came to claim him!   Triton has a front leg amputation that seems to have been done a long time ago as it is 100% completely healed.  We had sent out a request through the Internet to all our rescue friends in that area.  The response was great and Annette from Almost Home Again Rescue helped us out.  Saint Francis Animal Sanctuary contacted the dog pound and sent all required papers.  Annette pulled the dog and took him to her vet for a health certificate ( to travel across state lines ) and rabies.  Saint Francis then will reimburse her for the costs.  A person called a "Transportation Coordinator"  gets dogs from one place to another by use of the Internet and drivers all over the United States.   Triton caught a ride on a transport coming out of Georgia.  The next thing you know Triton is here and looking for a new home.

Wallace is young 1 to 1 1/2 years old.  That is the only thing on his side!  He spent several days at the vet.  All his blood work came back looking great.  We were looking for internal bleeding or things like kidney damage.  He was heart worm negative and already neutered.  No one called looking for him so he was sentenced to a death worse then getting hit by a car.  HEART STICK!  That is what the dog pound uses at Mahoning County.  If he makes it through this period we will have him fitted for a wheel chair and care for his needs as long as it takes.  He is home now and this is a day by day hope and prayer that he makes it. 

A CHIHUAHUA DID THIS????

Graphic but not as bad as it looks! (December 08 )

A little tiny Chihuahua did this to Baina
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Baina minds her own business and would never hurt anyone.

Baina is a senior dog that came into rescue a couple of years ago.  We know that her chances of adoption are slim to none!  So she has made this place her home!

When I woke up and walked into the kitchen this is what I found! I was the one in  shock ... blood every where and poor Baina sitting there like nothing was wrong!

Searching for glasses to actually see what the heck this was my heart was pounding and the only thought was to get to the vet... In hyper speed and over drive - half dressed and crying I scooped her up and was on my way. Where is the Ohio State Patrol when you need them because I had it in my mind if I was to be pulled over for speeding .... I would just hold poor Baina up to the window.... through tears he would surly escort me to my destination.  I called the vet to alert them that I had a
"bad case coming in" to get ready.  They were standing in the waiting room when we pulled in and off to the back she went. I followed right behind them! 

As the blood and clots were washed away
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you can see the eye ball was still intact which we never expected to see
Baina was put under anesthia for surgery
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But as the blood was washed off ... here is what we found.

The blood was washed away and after a close inspection we found out Baina had a very small laceration to the upper eye lid! That's it folks!  All that blood and looking like her eye ball was hanging out ..... a few sutures later Baina was up and eating again.  Baina had to spend the night at the vet because of the anesthesia she was given.  She is now home and doing well. 

This little senior is up for adoption!
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Baina is house trained and looking for a home without Chihuahuas!
All cleaned up and both eyes intact
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What an ordeal for this little one

Baina's medical bills were hundreds of dollars.  It could have been much worse and we are all thankful for that! We still need help with  her emergency visit - sutures - pain medication - Rx. eye drops and over night stay.  PLEASE CONSIDER A DONATION TO HELP US WITH THIS UNEXPECTED VET BILL. THANK YOU!

 PARALYZED 4 POUND CHIHUAHUA "MISPLACED" ON AIRLINES FLIGHT! (11-30-08)

 

His right eye is very swollen we suspect trauma
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He does have feeling in his legs but the muscles have atrophied
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This little baby has gone to the Rainbow Bridge now ... he died in my arms at the vet.  Happy touched my soul and has put a paw print on my heart.  My wish is that you run free and sore with the  angels until we meet again my little buddy. 

Friday night November 28,2008 we made flight arrangements to fly Happy from Little Rock to Cleveland.  No direct flights could be found so we chose the one that would get him here as fast as we could. Continental Airlines is always my first choice but no flights were available in cargo.  We then scheduled him on Delta.

Happy was at the airport in Little Rock at 4:00 AM to catch his 6:00 AM flight then on to Atlanta Georgia for a short lay over.  His flight was due in from Atlanta at 11:50 AM.  He was taken to the vet Friday night and hydrated with fluids so he could make the trip.  He was fed at 3:00 AM just before leaving on his journey to us.  When the man from Delta came to the office with no dog....my worst fears were realized. HE WAS NOT ON THE FLIGHT!  The paper work showed he was on that flight so WHERE WAS HE?   NO answers from Delta.  A supervisor was called who carries a cell phone and HE NEVER RETURNED THE CALL TO THE CLEVELAND OFFICE.  No one could tell us what happened.  There was a delay due to weather in Atlanta and along with the Holiday weekend HE JUST GOT MISPLACED.

We were  told to wait and see if he would come in on the next flight but no one could tell us for sure if he was on the flight. Hours went by and the next flight came in and there was Happy. Soaking wet in his kennel and scared to death.  We took him to the vet right from the airport. 

Happy came from Little Rock Arkansas.  In June 08 he was "dropped" and we have no idea how far he fell.  He lost the use of all 4 of his legs.  I am told he was not taken to the vet at the time of the accident.  Eventually the owner just STOPPED FEEDING HIM!  He went from over 6 pounds to just 3 pounds looking like a skeleton with hair. About 1 month ago he was given up to the SPCA in Little Rock.  They sent out a request for a special needs rescue to take him knowing he needed more medical care then they could offer him.  They did get his weight up to 4 pounds. 
We said we would take him into rescue here at Saint Francis.  We attempted a transport from Arkansas to Ohio as we do all the time but this time it did not fill.  The care taker in Little Rock said he was getting weaker and needed to get him out fast.  He needed vet care they could not provide. 

Happy knows when he has to go do his business and will let you know.  He feels pain and loves to be held.  He will never walk again.  Our goal is to make him comfortable and feed him tending to his every need for as long as he is alive.  Happy is on Rx. dog food called AD and electrolyte fluid.  When he arrived from the flight he was so dehydrated he had to spend the night at the vets office getting IV fluids.  He had complete blood work done and it looked good.  He is heart worm negative.  His emergency vet bill and flight here to rescue along with a case of Rx. dog food was over $500.00.  Please consider a donation to help us with this medical cost. 

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Please consider a donation for Happy he is only 18 months old.  Because someone dropped him and never took him to a vet for care he will never walk again.  We can care for his needs but we need your help.  Thank you from Happy and all the animals at Saint Francis.

 

               CIRRUS THE CHIHUAHUA
                     DOG POUND RESCUE FROM FREDERICK,MD
      SAD UPDATE: NOVEMBER 27, 2008
    In the past year and a half I tended to your wounds.  With weekly medicated baths that you loved so much I admit I made them last a little longer then normal.  When all of the dogs were getting treats my heart was breaking for you because the allergies made it impossible to eat normal food.  I searched the Internet and found "allergy free" dog cookies  in California. Bag after bag of ZD Ultra dog food and as  a treat cans of ZD allergen free food.  On and off prendisone slowly you healed. Though you never completely got better I knew no one would want you which made me want you even more.  I know how much you looked forward to your "quality time" and so when I held you night after night I learned just where that spot was to scratch.  I know your in a better place where you have no restrictions.  Your still beautiful to me and I love you Cirrus until we meet again at the bridge I will forever hold you in my heart. Rest in peace my friend your torment on this earth is over.
Cirrus stopped eating a few days ago which was so strange becuase he loved his food.  He was taken to the vet where he had extensive blood work, x-rays, testing for Cushing disease and IV fluid with medication to keep him alive while we figured out what was wrong and how to fix it.  His liver enzymes were off the charts high.  A liver biopsy was done during emergency surgery yesterday and  we found the entire liver involved with cancer.  As hard as it was I made the decision to let him cross over to the bridge while he was still asleep dreaming of cookies and running with puppies.  We did everything we possibly could to make sure this was the right decision.  Cirrus's vet bill for the last 3 days is $1,400.00 .  I just could not let my friend die without knowing we did everything we could. 
PLEASE CONSIDER  A TAX DEDUCTIBLE DONATION TO HELP US OUT HERE.  THIS ONE TOOK US BY SURPRISE !
Below is the original posting for Cirrus from June 2007.

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This poor senior Chihuahua named Cirrus came to rescue with Saint Francis Animal Sanctuary today ( 6-13-07 ) from Frederick MD. His skin condition is enough to make you want to cry but when the vet looked into his mouth and showed me and I had to ask... what is that? It looked like he had chewed green paper and it was stuck where his teeth use to be along the gum line. I have never seen such a mouth infection in my life. No wonder he was tender and tried to bite when we touched his little mouth. He is missing many teeth but in the back of his mouth the skin on the gums is so infected and swollen it has now covered the rotten teeth under it.  His name is Cirrus and he does not have mange. His skin was tested and he has a staphylococcus aureus ( staph ) infection which is a bacterial skin infection. This has been going on for a long time by the way his skin looks. 


His right eye is deformed an I do not think he has vision in it. Cirrus has a heart mummer and was tested for heart worm. He is negative!
The mouth infection and the skin infection have made his little life hell--! We are going to change all that! This little Chihauahua needs a chance to live pain free and as healthy as can be as he faces his retirement years. He is at the vet tonight and will receive a much needed dental to cut away the infected gums and teeth. He will be given a medicated bath and started on appropriate antibiotics. He will have a blood chem profile done to make sure everything looks good at that end. All I can say is this little guy has suffered enough please help us by making a donation to help cover his medical care. We are a 501(c)3 non profit group. We take special needs animals from all over this side of the United States. We need donations to make this happen. Please donate. 
Thank you

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Please make a tax deductible donation !

                                     RUFUS

Rufus German Shepherd Dog has been with us for almost 5 years now.  He was rescued from the Lorain County Dog pound where he sat in the back of his cage with his head down and very depressed.  He had about 50 growth like warts all over his body.

This is Rufus the day he was rescued 5 years ago.
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He was thin, covered in fleas, growths covered his body and his ear was frost bitten.

Rufus was under weight and his hair very thin from scratching at the fleas.  The workers  put him in the very back of the pound where it was dark and cold.  Who would take an old dog in this shape?  We did!  Rufus has been such a part of the family I cannot imagine life without him. His right ear is deformed from frost bite and feels like a "piggy ear".  He has a mental problem when it comes to cars.  Once he gets in an open car door he will NOT get out until he goes for a ride.  In all these years I cannot count the times he has been driven around the block just so he would get out of the car. 

Rufus had his growths removed. The flea situation was taken care of and he started to gain weight with good food and vet care. He quickly became our pet and worked his way to the bed room to sleep at night.

Rufus is now a senior and has lost the use of his back legs. He weighs around 115 pounds.  We are using a wheel chair daily to get him up and out of the house.  He can drag himself around the kitchen but loves to go outside. We would never turn our backs on a loyal and faithful friend and will continue to see Rufus through his rough times and senior years. Rufus is on daily medication to comfort him and reduce the inflammation in his arthritic joints. 

Rufus has come a long way from the dog pound days.
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We like to think he has now spent the better part of his life knowing love and kindness.
Rufus's wheel chair was donated to us awhile ago.
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You can see in the photo he is dragging his rear feet.

PUPPY BEATEN BY DRUG DEALERS(11-13-08)

For the safety of those involved ... the actual location of where this pup came from is NOT being discussed.  The pup is safe now but for the safety of those involved in the rescue and transport ... in this case they will remain the silent heroes for this angel.
HERE IS THE URGENT EMAIL THAT WENT OUT ASKING FOR HELP:
                                                                                         
BADLY BEATEN PUP NEEDS HELP FAST!!!!
We have a dire emergency!
We think it is a GSD mix puppy, 4 months old
We need a rescue immediately.  I mean ASAP!! 

This baby was badly beaten by drug dealers. They kicked it beat it with pipes and in the head.  When they kicked it in the back they broke a leg.
This baby has to get out of there fast.  This dog is with a vet near Cincinnati and, he will release it tomorrow. The vet is treating it and does not want any funds, just want this baby in a safe place.  Please can someone help. 
  For now I will be the contact.  I have not seen this dog but, the gentleman that rescued this poor soul can not be made public.  Drug dealers are not exactly kind people. 
  PLEASE we need help fast.  Do not know if it is a boy or girl. Just know that it is so terrified it is curled in a ball in a corner scared to death to move. 
          

Tiger is about 4 months.
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He weighs less then 20 pounds.

Tiger is at the vet today and will have his splint / cast removed while under anesthesia so our vet can assess the condition of his leg.  We do not know if he has abrasions / lacerations / open areas under the cast.  He came "as is".  We were told the vet that placed the cast and took an X-ray of his fracture just wanted to get him out of the area because he was in fear of the drug dealers where he was located.  This pup is safe now in a place far far away from the hell he experienced. The vet that treated him did NOT take an X-ray once the cast was placed to see if the bone was aligned correctly.  We need to re cast, neuter while under anesthesia.  Loaded with every kind of worms known to man and now all vaccinated & micro chipped.   A few teeth are missing and one chipped I was told from getting hit in the face with the pipe.We were told he had eye damage from the beating but the swelling is now gone.    We are also going to X-ray the ribs for any fractures....  the vet that treated him said he had bruised lungs.
  

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Tiger has been adopted.... Look at this beautiful boy!!!!  

            PUPPY MILL BABY CHIHUAHUA

                    MEGA ESOPHAGUS (11-10-08)

 

Princess weighs just 4 1/2 pounds
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She is a little love bug!
Princess is 5 months old.
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She is a puppy mill survivor

Princess is a cute little baby Chihuahua that was born in a puppy mill in Missouri. She was taken in by a rescue in Missouri that wanted to send her to a special needs rescue because of the care needed for her meals.  The puppy mill was going to kill her because she has a slight under bite and mega esophagus.  When she eats too fast or too much she will vomit.  There is a little pouch like bulge in her esophagus ( food pipe ) that goes into her stomach.  We need to feed her small amounts of food several times a day.   We have another mega esophagus on this web site "Lilly"  the Boston Terrier.  Lilly's is more severe and secondary to neurological damage.  You can see Lilly's story on this web page towards the middle.  This little baby is doing great and was spayed and micro chipped last week. 

PUREBRED GERMAN SHEPHERD RESCUED(11-7-08)

   Angel came from a dog pound  in Tennessee where she was scheduled for euthanasia.  A rescue pulled her and contacted us to see if we had room for a special needs dog.   Fact: Most of our dogs come from other rescue groups that feel the dog's needs are more then they can manage either physically or financially.  Angel is heart worm positive but that is not exactly what makes her a special needs.  She has a growth on her back that we feel is most likely cancer. Angel is only 4 years old!

This leather like growth was caught early
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We do not know if it is cancer but we did catch it early - after the HW treatment it will be removed
The vet called to say she was "really a nice dog"
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Very easy to work with and the staff love her .... as she has now gone through heart worm treatment.

Angel is still at the vet where she has been almost a week.  Heart worm treatment is now complete.  The cost of her treatment was $530.42 .  In 2 weeks she will undergo a spay and removal of the leather like growth on her back.  The doctors taking care of her have told me many times how great this dog is to work with.  NO aggressive behavior of any kind has been noticed.   She is a wonderful young dog that will need a home when we get her all fixed up.  She has come so far from that dog pound in Tennessee where they were going to kill her.  The next step in her medical treatment will be over $500.00. Please consider a donation so we can continue to help this girl recover and find a loving home. 

This wonderful young dog was almost killed
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The rescue person that pulled her from a dog pound in TN thought she may be a litter mate to her dog

Please help us - we depend on donations to care for the sick and injured animals we take from all over the United States.  Saint Francis Animal Sanctuary usually takes the dogs that no one else will take due to medical complexity or financial cost. For many this is their only chance at a home and life with a family someday.  Please consider adoption of a special needs animal. Thank you.

LARGE NECROTIC TUMOR ON HIS HEAD! ( 10-30-08 )

                       CORKY!

Corky is a playful - happy - Beagle mix 35 pounds
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Corky had so many fleas covering his body and so little hair from scratching and trying to get them
We named him Corky
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He has a large necrotic tumor on his head. Corky is only 5 to 6 years old.

Someone sent me an email with a photo of this poor dog sitting in a dog pound in central Ohio.  I could not sleep that night thinking of this poor soul knowing he would be passed up by every person coming to the pound to adopt a dog! His owner truned him in to a kill pound because they did not want to spend the money to take care of his tumor.  They let the tumor get so large the blood supply to the tumor could not keep up with the growing size.  The tumor became necrotic and started to rot while still attached to this poor dogs head.  When it became so large and ugly they did not want to look at it any longer he was taken to the pound to be killed.  We drove for hours not wanting to even wait for the transport to bring him to us.  He came out of the back of the pound on a make shift leash HAPPY, BOUNCING AND READY TO PLAY!   

This is a photo of the back of Corky's head
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You can see the size of this tumor that will be removed today 10-30-08

Corky was so happy getting in the car to go to his new home.  He walked from one side of the back seat to the other trying to stick his head out to catch the wind in his face it was as if he was smelling freedom for the first time in his life.   We took this little guy to the vet on the same day we picked him up from the kill shelter.   He is having the tumor removed today ( 10-30-08 )  He had blood work and is heart worm negative.  He has received all his vaccinations and is now micro chipped and neutered.   The vet found heavy tarter on his teeth with one tooth that is fractured and needs to be pulled during his dental work.  We are going to give this little dog a chance at a life that will not include living with fleas crawling all over his body, to the point he would scratch off almost all his hair.  This life will not include living in a pen or at the end of a chain in someones back yard.  We are going to find someone to love him like we already do!   Corky is at the vet today for surgery and general clean up of all the fleas that have lived on his body for a long time. Blood work, vaccinations, heart worm check, medicated bath, flea treatment, antibiotics, dental with extractions and tumor removal our estimate for his medical cost is approximately $600.00 to $700.00.  

11-4-08 Corky is home!
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Tumor is removed and wound is closed. This baby is up for adoption to a safe and loving indoor home.

Please donate for Cork's surgery! Please help us give him a second chance at life!
(WE ARE A 501(C)3 NON PROFIT GROUP AND DONATIONS ARE TAX DEDUCTIBLE)  Thank you !

    LOOK AT THIS SAD SACK OF BONES!

Chiller has every right to be sad.  He found himself in a South Carolina dog pound.  He was tested "STRONG HEART WORM POSITIVE".  He had hot tar drip on his side which dried and caused a bacterial skin infection under the tar which was never removed.

This is Chiller at the dog pound in South Carolina
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Under weight - heart worm ++ - bacterial skin infection ... no one wanted him!

Chiller came to us on a transport with Muscles the little crippled dog.  We took him in for heart worm treatment and he came through just fine.  The tar was removed from his side and he was treated with antibiotics for the infection.   You can see some of the black tar on his side in the photo from the dog pound in South Carolina.  What a sad photo!

Little did this dog know his life was going to change for the better.  Chiller was the perfect dog to have here at Saint Francis Animal Sanctuary. He got along with other dogs and never NEVER gave me one second of trouble.  Just a few days ago a women called and said she was looking all over for a dog.  Her dog had passed away a year ago and she was now ready for a companion again.  I told her "no matter how many dogs you look at please stop and just take a look at Chiller ". When she did stop to see Chiller and saw her 4 year old grandson walk him on a leash in the front yard with no problems.... she fell in love.  

Chiller has been ADOPTED! October 20, 2008
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This is Chiller and his new mom... a perfect match....we love you Chiller.

TRAUMATIC INJURY - CHLOE (GSD) CAN ONLY OPEN HER MOUTH 1/2 INCH - SURGERY NEEDED NOW!(9-24-08)

Chloe can only open her mouth 1/2 inch
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The specialist said most likely due to trauma

This poor girl is only 1 year old and she cannot open her mouth more then 1/2 inch.  SHE CANNOT PANT WHEN SHE GETS HOT, BARK, DRINK OR EAT LIKE A NORMAL DOG AND IF SHE HAS AN EMESIS ( VOMIT ) SHE WILL MOST LIKELY DIE BECAUSE SHE WILL ASPIRATE THE VOMIT.  IF CHLOE OVER HEATS AND CANNOT PANT SHE WILL MOST LIKELY DIE.  

This 1 year old dog has learned how to drink water by submerging her entire face into the dish and suck the water into her mouth.  When Chloe eats she has learned out of despiration to push her entire face into a can of dog food and push the food up between her closed mouth.  Dogs perspire ( sweat ) by panting.  Chloe CANNOT pant because her mouth will not open.  Digital  X rays have shown that the bones have grown together on only one side of her face.  She has been to several vets and a specialist that feels surgery may help this dog by releasing the lower and upper jaw bones that have grown together now.  Chloe has an appointment at OHIO STATE UNIVERSITY VETERINARIAN TEACHING SCHOOL on Tuesday September 30, 2008.   

Chloe is only 1 year old
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We want to give this poor girl a normal life....we think it can be done!

Chloe needs this life saving surgery and this is  the way it works at Ohio State as far as paying the bill.  We get a discount because we are a 501(c)3 non profit group.  The discount ONLY applies to the first visit for the pet's current medical condition. So if Chloe goes to her appointment and they recommend surgery she has to stay right then and there.  The discount will apply to the entire bill for as long as she stays and has the procedure done on her first visit.  PLEASE HELP US !  We need donations in the next few days to pay for this surgery.  Please consider a donation for Chloe.   

UPDATE: 10-1-08   CHLOE IS AT OHIO STATE UNIVERSITY ANIMAL CLINIC

Chloe was taken to the Ohio State Veterinarian Teaching Hospital yesterday.  We had her examined by several doctors that were intrigued by her condition.  They took her digital x rays to a board certified radiologist who said he feels this is NOT A TRAUMATIC INJURY!  The diagnosis of trauma came from a speciality hospital in Akron.  The diagnosis they came up with is : CARTILOGENOUS EXOSTOSIS ! 

Chloe at Ohio State University meeting the vet.
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Chloe was nervous and did not know what was going on.
Chloe was found to be over all healthy
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She was examined by several doctors for her rare condition.

I was told this is a conginital condition which is rare.  It was explained to me to be an over growth of bone in that area of the jaw that has now locked her jaw in one position and that is why she has no ability to open her mouth.  OSU is doing a CT ( cat ) scan today which will confirm her diagnosis.  When they do surgery to remove part of the jaw bone they may have to do a tracheotomy ( hole in her throat ) to let her breath while under anesthesia.  They will try to get the endotracheal tube down the throat if the can work it into the 1/2 opening of her mouth.

The only other thing I can remember from the medical visit was this.  If she has to have a tracheotomy then she would be required to stay in intensive care which is $300.00 to $500.00 per day!  Her CT scan is approximately $950.00.  I do not remember the cost but the other factors are the cost of the tracheotomy , medication, if needed biopsy cost and then the cost of the bone removal surgery! Our written estimate is ( MY MISTAKE )  $2000.00 $3000.00 to $5000.00 all depending on what they find out in the CT scan and biopsy.

FOLKS THIS IS OUR "HAIL MARY" RESCUE BECAUSE IT WILL ONLY BE BY THE GRACE OF GOD WE COME UP WITH ENOUGH MONEY FOR THIS LIFE SAVING SURGERY!

UPDATE 10-13-08  Chloe spent almost 2 weeks at Ohio State Veterinarian Teaching Hospital. She was released 10-10-08. Chloe can now open her mouth, pant like a dog and give kisses!  This poor dog can now live a long and healthy life thanks to all those who donated to her care and Ohio State's  Dr. Ball !

Chloe is one happy dog!
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You can see the opening they made in her neck to help her breath during surgery.
Chloe can now open her mouth like a normal dog
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her smile is a little off center but who cares!!!!
This is Chloe with Dr. Ball ( OSU Vet )
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doing a last minute clean up of her treach opening before she was released.

UNWANTED ... DISCARDED.....ALMOST KILLED!

(Greenville South Carolina rescue Sept. 6, 2008 )

Muscles tiny front leg is going to be evaluated
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We hate the thought of amputation but this may be his only option
LOOK AT THESE BABIES TOGETHER !!!!
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THIS IS MUSCLES AND HIS VERY OWN KID TO LOVE.....

Muscles has been adopted! ( 9-24-08)

This baby only 8 weeks old is named Muscles
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His right front leg is cripped from birth and non functional

Muscles is a baby that came to us from Greenville South Carolina.  He has a birth defect to his front leg.  But his little heart is just 100% puppy!  He has been to the vet and nothing at this point can be done.  He uses his crippled front leg as a crutch.  He is full of love and puppy kisses.  Muscles is looking for a family that can see beyond the funny looking leg.  If you would like to adopt a special love please email mparke11@aol.com  .   Vaccinations up to date and he has been wormed. ( puppy worms)  Muscles is micro chipped.

 FAIRYTALE ENDING FOR CAPTAIN HOOK! (8-29-08)

Capt. Hook's photo taken at the dog pound.
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His one leg is 1/4 of the normal size with one big toe nail at the end of it.

Captain Hook ( named by the dog pound workers )  was rescued from the Lorain County Dog Pound a few weeks ago.  With his physical deformity of his right front leg and a severe case of mange his chances of adoption were very unlikely. He was picked up as a stray most likely "dumped" at the near by quarries.  We wanted to give this little guy a chance at life!  Unlike the hartless people who left a 26 pound handicaped dog to fend for himself. 

Hook is the most loving little guy.
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He is 26 pounds of love..he just needed a chance!

Hook was taken to the vet clinic right from the dog pound.  His diagnosis of demodetic mange would be treated with Promeris. He was heart worm negative, given rabies, DHLPP & Bordetella, micro chipped.  Now the question where to put him?  We are full at Saint Francis so we asked our sister in rescue Animal Sanctuary Refuge www.sanctuaryanimalrefuge.org in Clewiston Florida if they would take him into rescue.  They said yes!  

2 weeks after he was pulled from the pound he was sent to Orlando Florida to a foster home for Animal Sanctuary Refuge.  He flew on Continental Airlines.  Now he may have found his forever home because his foster parents love him!

Hook meets his new dad. very kind and loving man
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Hooks new dad is fixing something good!
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Hook is checking out his new home!
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He smells something good to eat!!

This seems like a happy ending to a nightmare story of poor hook.  Who spent a great deal of time alone in the woods by the abandoned quarries in Ohio.  He now has a chance to be loved and that is the way it should be!  Hooks medical expense and flight to Florida is a little over $500.00.  The cost of saving this crippled innocent baby.... priceless!

We would really appreciate donations for Capt. Hook's medical care.  Animal Sanctuary Refuge in Florida has a fundable going now and we are still in need of donations to cover his expense. Please find it in your heart to donate today! 

EMERGENCY:  LORAIN COUNTY OH DOG POUND "BOXER GIRL" RESCUE.(August 14,2008)

I AM WARNING YOU NOW... IF YOU ARE QUEEZIE DO NOT GO ON!
The plan was to pull her from the  Lorain County pound - totally vet her - send her to a rescue.  She looked like a Boxer mix because her face was deformed ( too wide for a Boxer )   this is her pound photo taken almost 2 weeks ago. She is a PB Boxer.

Dog pound photo taken about 2 weeks ago
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She was marked a Boxer mix because of the swelling in her face....

The dog pound workers found blood coming from her mouth and took her to the dog pound vet  today.  They gave her a "very poor prognosis".  The dog warden had to carry her to my car, she could not walk.  We got her from the car into my vet by stretcher. 

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Her jaw line and under her jaw into her neck was the size of a cantaloupe!  Not knowing if this was a tumor or not the vet used a punch biopsy tool to drain the area. He cut  a hole in her neck ( awake ) and this is what happened.

The vet said the abscess was the size
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of a canatloupe. It affected her eating & breathing
A punch biopsy tool was used to make an opening
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in her neck and drian the fluid out of th abscess in her neck.

This Boxer girl has a MASSIVE abscess either from bad infected teeth in the lower jaw or wound bite marks from getting attacked by another animal.  The vet described it as "Large ventral jaw line abscess swollen the size of a cantaloupe likely some anaerobic component based on odor.  " 
Here is the amazing part of this....  she couldn't swallow with the swelling and breathing were getting tough also.  Once the vet drained what seemed like a gallon of fluid out of her neck abscess ....she started to immediately drink water and ate 1 can of low residue food ( was looking for more) .  Look at her just 5 minutes after the neck abscess drained.
Standing - eating - urinating - walking around - breathing fine.

This was taken just minutes after the fluid was
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removed from the canatloupe size abscess on her neck.

UPDATE:  AUGUST 21, 2008  This Boxer Girl is still at the vet. The doctor has determined her wounds were consistent with an animal bite to her neck area.  Her neck drainage tubes were removed a few days ago and the swelling is gone.  Now she looks like a purebred Boxer!  Her medical care expense was over $1,000.00  and we would like to thank all of the people that made  very generous donations to assisted us in getting her back to health. Boxer Girl was not able to be spayed due to the massive localized and systemic infection when she was pulled from the dog pound. She had a complete dental with extractions done, received Rabies, DHLPP, Bordetella ( kennel cough vaccination ) and heart worm check.    We have a rescue in Central Ohio that is willing to take her and find a wonderful home so she can live out her senior years with a family.  The rescue in Central Ohio is taking her at no cost to them... Saint Francis has covered her entire medical expense bill.  Thank you for making this possible.

Here is the baby girl that had all that trouble.
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She looks so much better then when we pulled her from a gassing dog pound on her last days.
Drainage tubes removed from the neck area.
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You can see the swelling from the abscess is now gone!

SASHA 12 WEEK OLD German Shepherd  PUP  HIT BY A CAR (7-4-08)

UPDATE: OCTOBER 2008 ADOPTED! 

Sasha is a baby she has her entire life to live!
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She sat at the dog pound for 2 days in pain and unable to walk
In the right of this photo you can see a fracture
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Sasha has several small fractures in the pelvis and the large fractures in leg.

We are working with Lake Erie German Shepherd Rescue in Huron OH to save this babies life.  She was picked up as a stray in Richland County OH.   One of the pound workers told me she was to be "put to sleep" because of the injuries upon her entering the pound.  She looked as if she was hit by a car because of the abrasions and lacerations on her rear leg and inability to stand or walk.  The pound attendent thought she was just too young to die and put her on Petfinder.  Here she may have a chance to be rescued.   Sasha has a severe fracture to the right leg bone and several fractures in the pelvic area. 

In this photo Sasha is getting the pin placed
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2 vets worked for hours to place the 2 pins in her rear leg.
This pup had 3 vets there while in surgery
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This is one of the doctors holding the pin that would be placed in her leg to hold the fracture

Sasha the 12 week old pup will need kennel rest for the next 6 weeks.  She then must undergo another surgery to remove the pins from the fracture site.  The doctors feel she has a very good chance of recovery. 
The estimated cost for both surgeries now and in 6 weeks is $2,300.00.  We are a 501(c)3 non profit group and donations are tax deductible.  Please consider a donation for this young pup.  She remains at the vet tonight.  Her surgery was done July 3. 

UPDATE : AUGUST 21, 2008   Sasha is at the vet clinic tonight for her pin removal.  The pins were placed in her leg 7 weeks ago.  She had another x-ray a short time ago that showed her leg was doing well.  Sasha will be spayed and receive her Rabies vaccination tomorrow and we hope well enough for adoption very soon.

UPDATE:PUPPIES COVERED IN MAGGOTS ( 7-5-08)

On June 8th. 2008 a 9 year old Lab had 9 babies on a farm in Oberlin OH.  She would never live to see her babies grow.  She died giving birth probably too old and too many litters.  Surrounded by her babies trying to nurse ....  she passed away.  As best I can tell from the story told to me by the owner she was dead for 2 days before they found her in a dog house by their barn.  The puppies were covered in maggots and the owner did not want them.  She brought them to Saint Francis Animal Sanctuary in a dirty old laundry basket.  

ALL OF THE PUPPIES HAVE BEEN ADOPTED!  THANK YOU!!

This photo shows all 9 babies after the first bath
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They were dehydrated and starving covered in maggots and maggot larva.

I gave them a bath and picked maggots off of their little bodies all night.  I used a pair of hemostats to pull the large mature maggots out of the umbilical opening. ( belly button ).   That first night I removed as many as 15 to 20 mature live maggots from each one.  I could see the small maggots all over their bodies because all 9 pups were black and they were white.  When I could not pick any more and it was way past the midnight hour I fed them and went to bed.  When I got  up they were all back again the young small maggots found their way to the belly buttons.  They were taken to the vet and we washed them in a solution of fly spray.  Then we washed them off and prayed it worked to kill the live maggots.  2 pups were not going to make it and had to be euthanized.  The maggots entered through the anal opening and it was just too much for the new born  One pup had a fistula opening from the maggots eating from the inside out.  I cried and held each one as the tiny lives were ended.  How unfair this all is.  Within the next few days 2 more puppies died. 

3 males and 2 females are walking all !
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These pups are eating on their own and up for adoption now.
Now 4 weeks old - eyes open and eating very well
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This pup just had a bath and loved it. I have been these puppies mother since they were born.

MILDRED HIGGINS EYE SURGERY (6-30-08)

Mildred seems to be doing fine her surgery
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Due to the chronic infection and corneal abrasion / laceration she was already blind in that eye.
Mildred Higgins had to have her right eye removed
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In this photo you can see the sutures where her right eye use to be.

Mildred Higgins is a rescue from a dog pound. When she was rescued she had kennel cough / pneumonia so bad we did not think she would make it. She was dirty and matted and smelled the entire room up while I was at the desk signing papers to release her from the dog pound.   She has been with us for several years now.  We had 2 failed adoptions in those years because Mildred just did not want to leave.  She was taken to one adoptive home and she sat at the door that I went out when I left her for 2 days and refused to eat or move.  If they attempted to pick her up she would snap.  This is just so strange because Mildred is such a happy fat little girl here.

This is Mildred prior to her surgery / eye problem
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She loves to play with toys - she has a rubber hamburger in her mouth... wishing it was real...

Mildred developed an infection in her right eye about Jan. 08.  She was treated with antibiotics topical and oral.  The vet said it was a corneal abrasion.  She was seen at the vet several times during the past 6 months as this is where she also  goes for grooming.  He eye infection became so bad at one point she had to stay at the vet clinic for a few days receiving antibiotics and eye irrigations.  Mildred had no sight in her right eye as result of the severe and chronic infection.  The decision to remove her eye came easy as it looked like the cornea ruptured and became very wrinkled along with severe drainage. Mildred's last vet bill was  $725.48 .  She seems to have adjusted very well as she was already blind in that eye and it was causing her discomfort.  Please consider a tax deductible donation as our vet bills have been close to $2,000.00  this week alone and close to $1,000.00  last week. 

Your donation is tax deductible - we are a 501(c)3 non profit group and operate totally on donations.  We take the animals that are sick - crippled - and unwanted - we need and appreciate  your support. Thank you!

WIGGLES BORN WITH NO FRONT LEGS
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Photo by Marc Golub Photography Cleveland OH

CHIHUAHUA BORN WITHOUT FRONT

LEGS 5-15-08 UPDATE DECEMBER 4, 2008  SEE BELOW

I was on a dog adoption 35 miles from my home. I got a phone call and the caller was only 4 blocks away  when they asked me to take a baby Chihuahua only 6 days old... born with no front legs.   The front door and windows  open with a cold breeze blowing in on the card board box with a litter of babies in it.  The fleas were jumping off as I peeked in the box.  The puppies ( 4 ) were all huddled together probably to stay warm and this little guy was off to the side.  The mother dog rejected him and the owners were told by friends to euth. the poor thing.  With no front legs he couldn't get to the food line as the others pushed their way up.  Please say a prayer tonight ... every day that goes by is good... as he is one more day older!

Resting with a full stomach on a heated disc.
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This little guy only weighs about 1 1/2 oz.
weight 1 1/2 oz. 6 days old and no front legs!
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PLEASE keep this baby in your thoughts and prayers ....  were counting on it.... because the odds are not exactly in his favor.  He is on a heated disc and eating with a syringe.  He has already seen the vet and I have picked off fleas with a tweezers.  He is only 6 days old today.  WE NEED  PRAYERS ACROSS THE COUNTRY!
UPDATE:  5/18/08   This little baby is doing great!  He loves to eat and now gets all he wants without having to fight  his brothers and sisters for a place on the mom.  Will update photos soon.

JUNE 3, 2008 - 26 DAYS OLD NOW! EYES WIDE OPEN!!
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9 OUNCES - WIGGLES IS GETTING BIG... EATING FROM A BABY NIPPLE AND 10cc SYRINGE FILLED TWICE .
Wiggles is happy and playful with his friends
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He never had legs so he just plays like he is one of the bunch.
We are working with Wiggles trying to walk upright
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It seems to be natural for him as he never knew what it is like to have 4 legs
Wiggles won 1st Place in a dance contest
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I was so excited I had tears in my eyes as he received his trophy and ribbon.

 UPDATE DECEMBER 4, 2008  "PARVO"
On November 22 & 23 2008 I took Wiggles to the International Exposition Center in Cleveland for the "Great American Pet Exposition".  Saint Francis had a booth there.  The incubation period for Parvo is 5 to 7 days.   Exactly 6 days after the event Wiggles stopped eating,  became lethargic, diarrhea, vomiting. If you ever had parvo at your place you know the smell!  The vet and I were both surprised when he did a parvo test and it came up positive knowing he received ALL his vaccinations on time! 
What ever strain of parvo he has he is fighting for his life at the vet clinic in isolation / intensive care.  He has an IV in his rear leg that we hope will remain good because he has no front legs to use.  Wiggles has been at the vet since November 29.  The vet bill is $1,100.00 right now.  Please consider a donation to help us out here.  We are a 501(c)3 non profit group and donations are tax deductible.

This is Wiggles at the vet clinic in isolation
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It was so sad to see him on his 2 hind legs and an IV hanging out the back leg.

Please consider a donation to help with the medical expense for Wiggles.  Thank You.....  from Wiggles and all the special needs animals of Saint Francis.

                  German Shepherd Dog Rescued
                        He only had hours to live May 6, 2008

Chance was named by the pound workers
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They paryed for a miracle that a rescue would take this boy and give him a chance for life.

I thought I was a seasoned rescue person.  I have seen it all abuse, neglect, birth defects, amputations, diabetes, crippled and just unwanted dogs.  This baby just made me sit and cry.  Saint Francis Animal Sanctuary agreed to take this boy into rescue with only hours left for him to live.  Chance was an owner surrender to the dog pound in Zainsville Ohio.  He was turned in and his owner of several years paid their $40.00 for euthanasia.  THEY DID NOT EVEN TELL THE POUND WORKERS HIS NAME!  The vet at the pound examined him and did a heart worm check along with a physical.  Heart worm negative he decided to name him Chance and give him one chance to find a rescue.  The vet gave the pound / shelter workers 24 hours.  He looked into his face and said he just was not ready to die.  We have Chance in rescue tonight and he is at the vet right now.

Chance has no hair on his body.
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He has open sores on his shoulders that are draining fluid.
Chance was taken to a dog pound to be put to sleep
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But the vet looked into his face and said "we have to give him a chance" so he gave them 24 hr.

Chance is only about 3 years old.  He is most loving and will do anything you direct him to do.  We now know he does not have thyroid problems. His blood work came back normal.  He does not have demodectic or scaroptic  mange, the tests were negative. He is heart worm negative.  A cytology showed bacteria so Chance was placed on a strong antibiotic along with a medication for the topical fungus / yeast infection.  He had a medicated bath today.  I know he has to be feeling better then he was.  A punch biopsy was done under local anesthesia which we will not get the results for a few days.  

Chance has been to the vet and this is the second vet that has told us he has not seen anything like this before.   Negative for everything!  A punch biopsy was sent out yesterday 5/5 and we are waiting for the results.  Chance is on strong antibiotics and anti-fungal meds right now. He had a medicated bath at the vet.   Resting now at Saint Francis Animal Sanctuary we wait for the results of the biopsy to come back.

Chance is a young dog.
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Please donate so we can help the dogs that need a chance to see how good life can be.

Chance has been on Rx. medications ( antibiotics and anti fungal) for a few days now. We still are waiting for the biopsy results and the opinion from the dermatologist in Florida. Click here to see a short clip of our Chance.

UPDATE 11-18-09

* Eeyore has to have a medicated bath about once a month at the vet to remove dry  skin cells and yeast cells.
* Eeyore is on and off Keflex antibiotics to stop secondary skin infections.
* Eeyore is on Ketoconazole  twice a day for topical yeast infections / fungus infections.
* He has to take Benadryl if it is getting close to his bath time and he starts to itch.
* He has no body hair and cannot go in the sun or stay out in the cold longer then 5 minutes at a time. ( if he stays in the sun for any length of time he will blister )
* Eeyore only eats WELLNESS WHITE FISH AND SWEET POTATO dog food.

Please help us. 

FEMALE DOG WITH INSIDES COMING OUT!
         THIS ONE TOOK US BY SURPRISE
           PLEASE DONATE IF YOU CAN! May 6, 2008
                      *** 
( Heart Worm Positive ) ***

This is a dog that has been untreated for weeks.
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She needs vet care and treatment right away to save her life.

This is part of the email I received today:

I had a lady from the poorest part of the county call me tonight wanting help with her dog. She said she has no money and only gets child support and there was something wrong with her female dogs private part and it has been like that for 3 weeks. She wanted to know if I would take the dog. I told her I would come this evening and take some pictures and would see what I could do. I had no clue what I was going to see. I am shocked and floored. 

They have a female yellow lab Shepherd mix, tied to a dog house, about 1 year old with her uterus ballooned outside of her private area. The stench is horrendous. It absolutely killed me leaving her there but I knew I would be coming back fist thing in the morning to take her. That's 9 hours from now.

The lady told the rescue person that the dog has NEVER been to a vet in her life.  She is only 1 year old.
We are in the process of getting this dog to Saint Francis as soon as we can.  Requests to transport have been sent out.  I have already called my vet and she is going right in for assessment / treatment of the emergency then we need to have her treated for heart worm!  Please donate .... we are a 501c3 non profit and donations are tax deductible.

We do not ever know her name yet.  She is getting ready for transport here.  This poor dog has spent her entire life on the end of chain.  She does not even know what it is like to have a family.  Just think back for the last year, Christmas, birthdays, spring, summer, winter and fall.  This baby deserves to find a real family to offer her love!  We are going to get her better and find that home!  This is an Ohio dog who came from an area just South of Toledo. 

When we are asked to take an emergency we
 react right away.  We then ask for donations. 
In this case everything happened so fast! 
Please help us help this poor dog.

          STARVING BOXER LEFT TIED TO A TREE
Update 4-25-08:  Joe is at the vet for neuter today.  He is HW negative .... The vet  feels Joe is approx. 3 years old!  Joe is up for adoption as we have done all we can for him - now he needs some T.L.C. AND FOOD!  Joe Boxer has some hip issues at this time we really do not know the extent of his problem.  ( he walks a little funny in the rear ).  He had dental work done to clean up his mouth also.  UPDATE 5/5/08  JOE HAS BEEN ADOPTED!

This is a severe case of abuse and neglect.
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Meet Joe Boxer.... friendly and loving as can be!

This Boxer was left in the drive way tied to a pine tree behind  the kennels. He is just a living skelaton  of a dog ....  hair and bones.  He has open areas on his hip areas that look like pressure sores from laying on his protruding  bones.  He had dried blood around his ears which look like bite marks from another dog.   The photos that were taken ( 4-17-08 ) will tell his story more then any words I can write here.   He is cryptorchid as he has one undescended testicle.  His teeth are BLACK and green. 

Joe Boxer is just skin / hair / bones
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How could someone let this poor boy get in this condition.
This Boxer had to put a real effort into walking .
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His weak condition and loving disposition just is amazing!

We gave him some food and just seems to thankful for any attention from a human.  I would like to think this dog has been on his own for some time now.  Because if someone did this to the dog it would be criminal.  I am glad somehow someway he found his way to Saint Francis.  He has to gain strength before we can get him neutered. He is cryptorchid and will need abdominal surgery.  He will need dental work because they are black!  Lets hope his heart worm status is negative.  Cases like this just seem to fall our way and we sure could use some help with his medical bills.  Please donate and help us get Joe Boxer healthy and adoptable.

He has NO fat or flesh under his hair...
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just look at his hip bones. He has pressure sores on the bone area that he rested on.

                                      ANGEL
                       THE LITTLE INNOCENT DOG
                   THAT HAPPENS TO HAVE 5 LEGS!

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This is Angel a true gift from God.  Designed by Gods own hand this baby has an extra leg.  We have many 3 legged dogs and even a dog with 2 legs but this is a first.  What her purpose is in life will be seen as time goes on.  Angel was picked up as a stray and taken to a gassing dog pound in a rural town about 2 hours south of Springfield MO.  No one came to claim this little baby as we anxiously waited the 5 days which were required for the owner to find their lost pets.  Angel was pulled from the dog pound by a contact we have in that area and she is in a foster home until she starts her long journey to us here in Vermilion OH in 2 days.  She was loaded with fleas and ticks.  Some abrasions were noted on her tiny 25 pound body along with either flea allergies or demodetic mange. Skin  testing has aready been done and we are happy to report Angel does not have mange.   The dog warden did tell me on the phone that when he would reach for something around her she would cower in the corner and duck her head as if she was going to get hit.  It was obvious that she lived in some kind of an abusive situation and when no one came to claim her I just thought to myself .... they did not even care enough to go get her from a pound that gasses dogs as a form of euthanasia.  Angel's troubles are over and we will be very happy to get her home with us.  She has a vet appointment set up for Monday March 31, 2008.  The doctor will do x-rays and blood work along with a complete physical exam.  The x-rays will show what the bone structure is in the area of her extra leg.  She is approximately 6 to 9 months old so it would be rather safe to assume the blood flow to the legs must be adequate.  In addition to the diagnostic work up Angel will be heart worm checked, micro chipped, checked for parasites,  vaccinated and spayed next week.  The determination will be made from an orthopaidec stand point as to weather she will have her extra leg amputated.  Angel does walk on the longer of the 2 front legs and uses it as a crutch.   What ever abuse or neglect Angel came from her life is about to change.  We operate totally on donations - we are a 501(c)3 non profit group.  Donations are tax deductible. 

This is the x-ray taken showing Angel's double leg
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After examining X-rays, Krupka determined that a genetic aberration split Angel's leg.

Please make a tax decuctible donation to help pay for Angel's medical care.
Donation's make it possible for us to continue taking the abused, sick, unwanted animals from all over the United States.  Please donate so others less fortunate then Angel may have a chance. Thank you.

                         CUSHING DISEASE
Little did we know when we rescued this Chihuahua mix. girl from a dog pound in West Virginia that she would have such big problems.

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We were told by the dog warden in WV that she was pregnant.   She went right to the vet for an evaluation.  The decision was made based on her large abdomin to get a "head count" of how many babies she had inside her.   Much to our shock there were NO puppies viewed on xray.  So Ginny was spayed and vaccinated, heart worm checked and micro chipped.  NO worms were found in her stool.  Once home her adbomin (stomach area) just kept getting larger and larger. Her  coat of hair was getting  very thin at the same time and after a few weeks she almost had some bald spots.    We had blood work drawn for thyroid tests which turned out to be normal.  The next test which was done ACTH stim. test showed Ginny had "Cushing disease". 

The course of treatment consisted of a drug called Lysodren.  The Rx. was picked up at a local drug store for $189.00 / 30 pills!  Let me tell you about sticker shock!   We did find another local pharmacy and got the drug Rx. filled for $159.00/ 30 pills.   Ginny was on the drug everyday for 2 weeks.  We had more blood work done which repeated the tests to see what dose of the medication she needed for maintenance dosing.  She is now on 1/2 pill twice a week.  Repeat blood work will be done in a few months to make sure we have this disease under control.  Ginny will have to remain on the medication the rest of her life with periodic lab work done.  Ginny is up for adoption but if you would like to help us pay for her medical bills and life saving medication please donate today!  Ginny is only one of our many special needs animals here at Saint Francis and your donation goes a long way!

Saint Francis Animal Sanctuary Inc. is a 501(c)3 non profit group and your donation is tax deductible.  Please donate today!

                                         INTUSSUSCEPTION
 UPDATE : 2/14/08 How appropriate Cupid is coming home for the first time on Valentine's Day .... He looks like a normal - happy - healthy pup!

I received an email asking for help with a pup in Kentucky.  The email said the "intestines were coming out".  This is the photos they sent.

This poor baby only had hours to live.
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We had to get him from Kentucky to Ohio within those hours if he had any chance at all.

CLICK HERE TO SEE CUPID HAVING FUN IN THE SNOW AND RUNNING AROUND LIKE CRAZY!

This is a 10 week old 10 pound Lab / Shep mix.
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I am an RN and I know what this is... .intussusception.  His bowels were coming out the rectum and I knew we only had a few hours to surgically correct this or he would be septic and die.  I put out an emergency request on the net to all my rescue friends across the United States and I started getting offers to transport him to me within 10 minutes.  I had to drive to Mansfield Ohio  at 10:00PM  Saturday night and meet the transport.  I had a surgeon standing by at the Avon Lake Animal Clinic and met us there at midnight. The poor dog only weighed 10 pounds and was 10 weeks old. He was tested for parvo and was negative.   He had surgery within a few hours of asking for transport help.  Here is the photos I took Saturday night Feb. 9, 2008. 

Prep for surgery with intubation, oxygen and IV's.
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We had one shot at surgery and little time to get it done.
Cupid could hardly stand upon arrival at the vet.
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Thedistal end of the exposed bowel had already turned necrotic. ( dead tissue )

At midnight on Saturday Feb. 9th.  he had a bowel resection and lost 4 inches of bowel that had already turned necrotic. He was placed on IV's given pain meds and antibiotics. He was placed on a heated pad to keep his body temp. normal it had gone down to 96.0 . I stayed until I knew his condition was ok...  We almost lost him a few times on the table and had to bag his respirations to keep him going .... if we had waited he would have died in a cold dog pound in Kentucky alone and septic... with this being the week end.

THANK YOU TO THE RESCUE IN KY THAT POSTED HIS STORY
THANK YOU TO ALL THE CROSS POSTERS ( SOME EVEN CALLED )
THANK YOU TO ALL THE TRANSPORT COORDINATORS ( THEY CALLED TOO )
THANK YOU TO THE DRIVERS
THANK YOU TO MY WONDERFUL VET...(who met me at midnight to save his life!)


By 2:00AM this pup was in recovery
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He was placed on a heating pad to keep his body temp. up to normal.
The surgery was complicated as you can see.
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Part of the bowel was necrotic and had to be removed.
Chichi is paralyzed in both hind legs.
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We have no idea what happened to him but we can make sure he has a good tomorrow!

            PARALYZED CHIHUAHUA
                           CHICHI                          Chichi is a small Chihuahua that came from a vet clinic in PA.  They contacted us to take a paralyzed Chi that has no use of his hind legs.  He was taken to the vet clinic as a stray.  X-rays were taken and he has a compression fracture to the lower thoracic area.  He needed a hemi-laminectomy where they would have removed part of the spine that was fractured.  NO surgery was done because of the cost, he was just a stray and had no money backing him.   If he had surgery within a day or two of the injury he may still have the use of his back legs.  Now Chichi walks with his front legs and drags his hind quarters along. He is incontinent of urine and stool.   He is about one year old!  Please see the video clip below.   We need donations for a wheel chair from Doggone Wheels in Boseman Montana.  http://www.doggon.com/home.html   If this is not bad enough....  he is cryptorchid.  Chichi needs abdominal surgery to remove his testicles.  Poor little guy. He has open areas on his hind legs from dragging them.  We can let him out in the snow and he loves it because he is not on a hard surface.  We are a 501(c)3 non profit and donations are tax deductible.  We take special needs animals from all over this side of the United States and depend totally on donations to continue this work. Thank you in advance if you can donate.

Click here to see a short clip of Chichi in the snow!

Please make a tax deductibel donation so we can get this poor dog a new wheel chair.  Donations will also help with his medical bills for surgery.

COCO - BIRTH DEFECT - SEVERE CLEPH PALLET AND MICRO-OPTHALMIA

Cleph pallet and micro-opthalmia ( blind )
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This is Coco getting ear rubs and kisses from her foster mom Diane. Coco is 1 year old.

This  Choc. Lab Pit mix girl is the sweetest and most loving dog you could ever ask for.  She has micro-opthalmia which means her eyes never developed before birth and she is blind.  She has a severe cleph pallet.  This birth defect extends up into the roof of her mouth and also involves her nose, lips and teeth.  She is eating regular dry food and drinks water just fine.  Coco is so loving and trusting of humans and we are thankful she found her way to us.  She is the most innocent dog God ever made! 

                             PENNY
PLEASE NOTE THE FOLLOWING PHOTOS ARE VERY GRAPHIC IN NATURE AND NOT FOR THE WEAK AT HEART. 
Penny was an owner turn in to the dog pound in Paulding County Ohio.  Lab mix about 6  years old.   She had a large breast tumor almost the size of  a  baseball.
We were contacted to take her as her chances of adoption from the dog pound were slim due to her condition.

This is the primary mammary tumor on Penny.
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This is Penny at the vets office before surgery
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She is a Lab mix about 6 years old from Paulding County Ohio dog pound

Penny was transported to us and actually had to have a bath at a pet store in the middle of the transport because she was bleeding so bad from her tumor area.  She was taken directly to the vet for assessment on Thursday Jan. 10 th. 
This mammary tumor was removed the next day Jan 11 th.  along with several breast tumors along her entire chest wall. I received a phone call in the middle of surgery to let me know the extent of surgery that had to be done.  We knew it was cancer and no biopsy was needed. A chest x-ray was done to see if the cancer had metastasized to the lungs. Penny's lungs were clear from what they could see on the chest x-ray so the surgery proceeded.

Post op photo with penrose drain intact
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Extensive breast removal surgical scar
Penny is entubated on the surgical table.
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This is the post - op photo showing the penrose drain in place to assist the surgical wound in draining unwanted fluid.  The drain will remain in place when she comes home. 
Penny came out of surgery in severe pain and was medicated with the maximum amount of pain medication to get her over the hump.  She was actually sedated again in order to give her some time after surgery.  She then bloated on us 4 times in 4 hours.  A naso-gastric tube was inserted to remove the gas in her stomach.  The next few times she had a needle decompression done through the abdominal wall to expel the air in her stomach.
The 4th. time she bloated  we were well into Friday night now, a decision was made to place a foley catheter through the abdominal wall so this would not have a chance to happen again.  The catheter was surgically placed and sutured in the stomach.  This will remain here for not less then 2 weeks.  As she gets better and starts to eat the catheter will be capped off to keep the stomach contents in.  Her surgical wounds will be dressed several times a day because of the drainage from her penrose drain.  The drain will remain for a week or two.  Her  lab work came back with all values near perfect! 
Many factors are looked at when we make decisions on how aggressive to get with this type of diagnosis.  The key thing I would like you to take away from this post is this.  We could give up on her and write it off as cancer.... but were not!  She has a chance to LIVE again and be the happy playful girl I met only briefly  I will tend to her wounds both physically and mentally while she recovers and she will become like so many others a part of my life.
Saint Francis Animal Sanctuary is a 501(c)3 non profit organization that depends desperately on donations from people like you.  I did not just take a tumor dog from Paulding... I took a life to have and care for to the best of my ability for as long as she has left on this earth... I have many cases just as intense and just as important as Penny going on right now.  Please help me continue - donations appreciated. 

Penny is home from her week long stay at the vet.
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She has her E-collar removed to eat and walk around. She has only one tube left in her side.
Penny with her new Mom and Dad ..... thank you!
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Penny has had a long rough road and her journey is over- she found her forever home!

         DIAGO - EYE REMOVED 12/2007
Diago and his Mother Diamond have been adopted together..(1-18-08). wonderful news.
 

ONE DAY POST - OP WITH SUTURES INTACT RIGHT EYE.
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HE IS UP AND ABOUT-ALL OVER THE PLACE AND EATING ANYTHING IN FRONT OF HIM!
THIS PHOTO WAS TAKEN THE NIGHT BEFORE SURGERY
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HE HAD BULDGING OF THE EYE BALL AND IT LOOKED LIKE IT FILLED WITH BLOOD.

Diego came to us as an owner surrender a short time ago.   He is about 5 pounds now and 4 years old.  His right eye was always cloudy which could have been a cataract.  We noticed his right eye started to buldge out and it looked like it was blood filled.  We took him to the vet and found upon exam he had glaucoma.  His inter-occular eye pressure was 88 and would have been considered normal around 10.  His left eye was normal and required no medical attention.  Diego had his right eye removed this past week as we feel he was in pain from the pressure.  The cost of his medical treatment - testing and eye removal was $643.00
Diego is a happy healthy young Chihuahua who is neutered, all his vaccinations are up to date and he is micro-chipped.  He is heart worm neg. and on preventative medication.  This baby was surrendered to rescue along with his mother when she had only one pup and it died shortly after birth.  No longer wanted or needed....  they came to us.  Both are up for adoption now and we would love to see them stay together.  Please email mparke11@aol.com if you would like more info on Diego or his mother Diamond.

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SAMPSON - RESCUED FROM FORT BRAGG POUND.
ADOPTED 2/9/08!
The photo below  shows a solider at Ft. Bragg holding Sampson at the time of his intake.  We rescued  him this week and received his medical records.  The documentation indicated 2 months ago he had "nests of  maggots" on his lower back near the tail area.  His ears are  chewed so bad by fly bites not only is the hair missing but also the entire tips of the ears are slightly missing.  Imagine the torment and pain living like this daily.  He has bilateral hip dysplasia and may  need a Femoral Head Ostectomy (FHO) or total hip replacement.  This info came from the vet records.   HE WAS TESTED AT THE BASE AND CAME BACK HEART WORM POSITIVE

THIS PHOTO TAKEN AT THE ARMY BASE
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HE IS NOW IN RESCUE AT SAINT FRANCIS ANIMA SANCTUARY

He is beautiful,  intelligent and will make someone a wonderful companion.  Right now we need donations to treat the heart worm and get x-rays of his hips.  He is not a throw away dog  his owner at Fort Bragg took him to the dog pound to be euthanized - no reason given!   please donate so he can start his heart worm treatment.  We are a 502(c)3 non profit and donations are tax deductible.

Sargent Sampson and his new mom and dad
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What a happy dog... he loves his new home.
                          
 
 
 
                             HOPE
HOPE HAD EMERGENCY SURGERY 11-2-07
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SHE IS BEING KEPT SEDATED TO AVOID MOVEMENT AND PAIN.

 I was asked to take a tripod - 3 legs 2 legs I don't care...yes I will take him.    The "he" turned out to be  a "she" and here is the rest of the story.  
The female Lab mix 43 pounds came from Socioto County Pound. Missing right front leg - large soft ball size mass at the end of the stump.  The dog is paralyzed in the rear quarters both legs and has a dystonic bladder ( no muscle and has to be expressed ).   X rays were taken to see if she had any fractures or other trauma to pelvis, hip, legs.  The vet found her colon ( intestines ) as large as a persons wrist all the way up the large intestine and extending into the small intestine.
He removed 2 pounds of fecal material that he said was like cat litter and cat feces.  But he could not get it all so today she had surgery of the bowel.  He removed 2 pounds of material that resembled horse manure.  Hard to tell where the cat feces ended and the horse manure started.  She lost 4 inches of large intestine - the area that had started to rupture but  not completely.  Like the skin on a tomato where the outer layer breaks open but not all the way through yet.  Our fear is peritonitis from the bacteria and material getting into the abdominal cavity. 
 
Notice the large swelling at the end of her amputated right leg. This is a fluid filled seroma.  She has IV's going and is sedated heavily  because of the pain and to stop her from moving around.  Hope is on several antibiotics and anti-microbeal drug to fight infection.  She has a massive bladder infection from urine collecting in the bladder and not being able to void.  We can find no orthopedic reason for the rear leg paralysis.
This poor dog is missing her front leg, paralyzed in the rear was picked up as a stray when a complaint came into the pound that a dog  was crawling around under a trailer . She sat at the pound 9 days from October 23 to yesterday when we took her into rescue. 
She was starving and had to eat feces of other animals to survive.  She couldn't walk around and find food.  She was seeking shelter under a trailer probably terrified.  9 days while sitting in a dog pound she couldn't go to the bathroom.  She couldn't eat because the pain was so great.  That mess of feces and material lay in her bowels like clay paste.  She couldn't urinate on her own. Imagine the pain and discomfort she felt everyday with a severe bladder infection while  sitting in a dog pound waiting to be euthanized.  Unable to walk or get up and get a drink of water when she was thirsty. 
  We do not know if she is going to make it through this.  All seems so avoidable if she only had food and water. 
  We just posted about our Parvo Pups and requested donations.  They are at the same vet now and remain hooked up to IV's antibiotics while in the isolation room. 
Please consider a donation to help with the extensive and very much unexpected  medical care for Hope.  She has to have a bowel movement and start to eat something  tomorrow or we are going to lose her. Hope is only about 2 years old!  She has suffered enough.
 
Everything happens for a reason and thank God she found her way to us.  We are a 501(c)3 non profit group and her vet bill is growing daily.  Donations are tax deductible. PayPal button  with the code:  HOPE  Please donate today!
THANK YOU .... DONATIONS ARE THE ONLY THING KEEPING US GOING....
 

 

THE NEXT 24 HOURS WILL BE CRITICAL FOR HER
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WE NEED PRAYERS AND DONATIONS.....

UPDATE: Hope went in last night at 9:00PM for emergency surgery. We thought she had an infection in her abdominal cavity ( peritonitis ) but she did not. I was there for surgery and here is what we found. Every thing looked great. The vet saw no sign of infection. We can not explain the elevated temp that she was having. Her bladder was the size of a large grapefruit - she has no muscle tone. A urine speciman was obtained and sent away for culture and sensitivity. The bladder was expressed. She had 2 tumors on the spleen and the entire spleen was removed and sent for biopsy. She was sutured and sent to recovery with an endotreacheal tube in place. Less then 1/2 hr. after surgery she was already holding her head up and looking around. She was sedated for pain and slept well through the night. We have received a generous outpouring of well wishes and donations from all of you. We still need money / donations to cover her vet bill. If you have not donated PLEASE consider a donation. Some people have expressed opinions as to why we spend so much money on one dog when we could have saved so many more. That is what we do at Saint Francis.... we take the ones that no one else would have. The ones that would never have a chance at adoption or rescue. Hope is such a fighter and wants to live like no other dog I have seen before. She may be missing one leg and not have the use of the rear ones but she is happy to be getting so much human attention and love. She pushes herself to stand while eating and drinking all the time looking around to see if she can get anyones attention for just a simple pat on the head. Hope is an inspiration and we already have a cart for her to make mobility possible. We hope she touches many lives as she recovers and please donate if you can. Thank you.

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UPDATE Hope is home from the vet and doing well. She is such a good girl. She is on Rx. low residue dog food and antibiotics and pain meds.
She is incontinent of urine and stool which we use a chux diaper on her and A&D ointment to keep her from getting red and irritated. We have her on a Kuranda bed with a doggie heating pad on it. Thank you for all the support and prayers for Hope. Her vet bill was near $3,000.00 which we still need donations to cover! We are a 501(c)3 non profit and donations are tax deductible. PayPal on the web site under "Hope".

PostPosted: Mon Nov 12, 2007 11:17 pm    
Post subject:
  

UPDATE ON HOPE: NEW INFO. The vet called me tonight and the results of her tumor on the spleen being sent for pathology came in. I posted a photo of her last operation where the vet discovered a tumor on her spleen and removed the entire spleen. She has cancer.
Lymphoma (lymphosarcoma or non-Hodgkin's lymphoma) is a malignant cancer that involves the lymphoid
system. In a healthy animal, the lymphoid system is an important part of the body's immune system defense
against infectious agents such as viruses and bacteria. Lymphoid tissue normally is found in many different
parts of the body including lymph nodes, liver, SPLEEN , gastrointestinal tract and skin. Lymphosarcoma is
classified according to the location in the body in which the cancer begins.

I thought this poor baby had it kicked... she was rescued and had necessary surgery to make her better. She is eating the best Rx. food money can buy and being taken care of so well, warm safe and comfortable now... then the news. When I reach down to clean her she reaches up with her one functional leg and trys to paw me...as if to say thank you.... her young eyes so clear.... why things happen we will never know. I thank the thousands of people following her story. We will continue to do support care. We will keep her comfortable and she will never want for food again. She is safe and we will see her through this illness until she crosses the bridge. What ever it takes. Thank you.

 
PostPosted: Fri Nov 30, 2007 1:42 am    
Post subject:
  

I have received many emails asking how Hope is doing.   Hope is now doing better then ever. However we had a major set back this week. She is too heavy for me to carry her up the stairs at night so she sleeps in the kitchen hall with the Saint Bernard Arnold. I just went to bed and I heard a noise so I went back down stairs to find her at the bottom of the steps trying to get up the stairs ( with one leg ). I went down to move her to a blanket over where she was in the kitchen. Keep in mind she had an amputation to the right front leg that was a "botched" job. They left a stump of about 4 to 5 inches of leg and it had only a thin layer of skin covering it. That area developed a seroma which is a grapefruit size fluid filled sack around the end of the amputation. Hope's stump bone came through the skin and you could see the bone, muscle and just about right inside her with a hole large enough to put a fist in. This poor dog's luck just goes from bad to worse. So this week she had a stump revision and the bone that should have been removed up to the shoulder was now removed. She came through the surgery great and was up eating a few hours later. She was sent home a day after surgery and is eating great. Her bowel movements are firm and she seems to have fully recovered from her bowel resection surgery. She interacts with the other cripple dogs and she now seems content to sleep with the Saint Bernard in the kitchen. . We already have a quad wheel chair for her and in the Spring we plan to get her out and about ! Thank you for all your words of encouragement and hope.
 

3 OPERATIONS LATER AND HOPE IS HOLDING HER OWN!
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SHE IS VERY MUCH A PART OF THIS FAMILY AND SAINT FRANCIS ANIMAL SANCTUARY.
THIS IS HOPE AFTER HER THIRD SURGERY
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SHE HAD TO HAVE A STUMP REVISION DONE AFTER A BOTCHED UP AMPUTATION

Hope passed away a short time ago - she died in my arms.  I would like you to know she was a lady until the very end.  Hope:  May you find the peace you never knew in this life...

 
 
BOTH PUPPIES HAVE BEEN ADOPTED TOGETHER!
Happy - Healthy and acting like normal pups!  Thank you
                    PARVO PUPPIES
Every time I opened my email last week someone was sending me a request for rescue of 2 yellow lab mix pups in Carroll County Ohio dog pound. I wished and prayed I would not see their photos pop up again because they were adopted but they were not! When I could not stand it any longer I sent a request for anyone to help pull them for me. No one responded and the pound already had people going in the other direction. So I left messages not to euth. and we drove hours to this rural pound. While we were there we also picked up a starving skin and bones Treeing Walker Coon Hound. She had little to no hope of getting out of the pound alive. This was Friday Oct. 26, 07. They received a DHLPP / Kennel Cough vac. and rabies vac. on that day. Sat. and Sun. they ate fine and stool was normal. Monday I noticed loose stool and I wormed them with Nemex -2. Tuesday morning liquid diarrhea and not eating. They were taken to the vet for parvo check and both were ++. I have unvaccinated puppies at Saint Francis Animal Sanctuary and they did not come in contact with them but you all know how parvo goes. We are waiting the incubation period out and with a hope ad prayer we will be safe. The pups were vaccinated. I used so much Clorox bleach my hands are bleeding, cleaning everything I could think of. The pups are at the vet tonight on IV's - antibiotics - anti-emetics ( for vomiting ) they had a CBC ( complete blood count ) to assess the white blood cell count to see if they were trying to fight the virus. They are being kept in isolation.

PUPS SITTING IN BLOOD FROM PARVO VIRUS
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LOOK AT THE INNOCENT LOVING FACES JUST ASKING FOR HELP!

Look at their faces - these innocent precious babies as sick as they are still thumping their tails with a happy wag when you look at them.  In just 1/2 hr. ride to the vet while in a large Vari kennel they were sitting in almost pure blood  mixed with the liquid foul smelling  diarrhea that only parvo smells like.  With each thump of the tail I said to myself " I am not giving up on you baby I am not going to let you down" I was told the cost of this treatment would be about $250.00 / per day PER DOG! With all the medical bills that Saint Francis has for amputations, surgeries, and tumors along with medical supplies of our sickest dogs like antibiotics and insulin we are in need of donations.  We take the worst of cases from all over this side of the United States and now we are reaching out for help.  We are a 501(c)3 non profit group and donations are tax deductible. Please go to the  PayPal button under Parvo Pups.  If you have already given to us then we thank you!  If you can make a donation you have no idea how much we appreciate it..... in this time of despirate need.
 If you would rather mail a donation the address is  Saint Francis Animal Sanctuary Inc. 12516 Cherry Road Vermilion OH 44089  please mark your donation for  " PARVO PUPS" . 
 
  

UPDATE: NOVEMBER 1, 2007
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STILL IN ISOLATION AND RECEIVING IV's AND ANTIBIOTICS NO CHANGE YET!
Quint has no use of his rear legs
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NEW WHEEL CHAIR .... CLICK HERE TO SEE HIM GO!

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Quint had  all the necessary lab work and it came back negative for this disease.  We are not exactly at square one at least now we know what it is not!  We have spent over $1,000.00  so far on this baby.  We have a few more tests that we can do before we exhaust all options.  We need donations to help cover Quint's medical tests.  Please donate today.

  Donations are tax deductible. 

                                                         MAC
UPDATE:  MAC PASSED AWAY AND NOW RUNS WITH THE DOGGIE ANGELS AND EATS ANYTHING HE WANTS TO.  WE LOVE YOU MAC. 11/07
 I guess I get my share of the sick ones but it's the nature of the business. Saint Francis Animal Sanctuary Inc. takes the sick, abused and senior dogs. This poor guy named Mac was the "product of divorce". The wife thought the husband wanted the dog and the house. In fact he wanted neather. 3 months after the divorce she found out he let the house go back to the bank. The idiot must have thought the dog went with the house because that is where he left him. For 3 months Mac lived around the house eating what he could and living outside. ( WIFE'S STORY ) Well she caught him and got him to me. We took him in and he has been here for almost a year. He had a large fatty tumor on his rear leg and no one even asked about adopting him. He never had one call. A few weeks ago he starting going to the bathroom in his kennel. More and more... so I walked him often and it didnt matter. When taken to the vet we discovered he was a diabetic. His blood sugar was near 500 after not eating for 2 days. While in the vet with IV's going and blood sugar monitored several times a day his rear hock on one side " exploaded" according to the vet and fluid like a strawberry milk shake flowed out. Then the next day his other leg at the hock did the same thing. This poor boy has had a awful life. He was septic with diabetic keto acidosis, uncontrolled blood sugar and open wounds to both legs. His medication now is antibiotics and insulin. I could not tell them to euth this dog! We have given insulin to dogs for years and that was not the issue. Mac wants to live... you can see it in his eyes. He ambulates out side at the vet clinic with his IV in his arm just to go to the bathroom now. I need help with the vet bill which for Mac alone is in now way over $1,250.00 and he is still there! We are a 501(c)3 non profit group that takes special needs animals. Mac is one of our own since chances are no one will ever adopt him. He will have a home with us for the rest of his life if needed. If you have already donated to Saint Francis Animal Sanctuary then ... thank you. If you care to make donation for a shelter animal very much in need .. please help. 

THIS IS MAC AT THE VET WHERE HE SPENT A WEEK
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WHILE RECEIVING IV's THEY WERE TRYING TO FIND THE RIGHT INSULIN TO MAINTAIN HIS BLOOD SUGAR.

MAC UNWANTED UNLOVED AND LEFT ON HIS OWN. 
Mac has been out of the vet for a week now. He is on insulin with twice a day blood sugar checks. His blood sugar has been running about 400 to 500 and we are increasing his insulin daily. His leg ulcer is being treated with daily dressing changes and Rx. medication. He is on Clavamox antibiotics. Mac is now being fed Rx. restricted cal. food with an attempt to control the blood sugar.
The previous owners didnt want this poor dog and he came to us bewildered lost and not understanding why no one loved him. He was abandoned left at the house he called home... but no one came home one day and he was left to fend for himself.... for months on end. Well I have tried to make up for his uncaring humans that abandoned him. Now as I stick him day and night with needles to get blood and give insulin he just rests his head on my arm and I know it hurts. He never makes a sound and never moves. He has been in rescue looking for a home for over a year and no one gives him a second look. I see the beautiful soul and his need for love even if it is just a pat on the head he is always looking for someone to touch him. As he lived here for a year and no one wanted him he now is ill and no one cared enough to even send one single dollar to help with his medical cost. Mac's vet bill was over $1,250.00 and everytime I stick him with a needle I tell him ... I love him and everyting will be OK. You will never be abandoned again Mac... I need help with his vet bill and on going expenses of insulin, syringes, blood testing strips and Rx. meds for his leg ulcer. We are a 501(c)3 non profit donations are tax deductible. Please help.  

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                             STUMPY
Stumpy is a Pit Mix that came out of North Florida. He was in a dog pound and had little chance of being adopted.  Stumpy is missing his feet ( paws ) on both rear legs.  The pound in Florida thought it was a birth defect however once we got him here we took him to the vet and had 3 vet opinions.  This was a traumatic amputation to both rear legs.  He walks on his stumps which is sometimes painful. 

STUMPY IS MISSING BOTH REAR LOWER LEGS
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THIS IS DUE TO A TRAUMATIC AMPUTATION
STUMPY SPENT 2 DAYS IN RESCUE CARS GETTING TO US.
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EVERYONE WHO MET THIS LITTLE GUY FELL IN LOVE WITH HIM.

One man cared enough about Stumpy to get photos and send out the request for help!  He became Stumpy's God Father and  his name is Don! Stumpy was left in the over night drop box ( kennel ) at the dog pound with a note that said he was one and his rabies shot was ok. 

DON DONATED HIS TIME AT A LOCAL POUND IN FLORIDA
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HE FELL IN LOVE WITH STUMPY AND TOOK THE TIME TO FIND HIM A SAFE PLACE TO GO!

STUMPY IS A MOST LOVING AND WONDERFUL DOG
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THE VET SAID HIS IS 9 MONTH TO 12 MONTHS OLD. JUST A BABY!

Stumpy is heart worm negative and over all got a good bill of health from the vet.  We are going to check into getting him leg ( foot ) implants.  This will be artifical legs that do not come off. 

Chronicle Telegram : October 28,2007

VERMILION — It’s hard to imagine that Stumpy could ever be vicious, says Deborah Parker-Garcia — about the worst the little pit bull can manage is to gnaw on your shoelaces.

CARL SULLENBERGER/CHRONICLE
“Stumpy,” a pit bull found with his rear paws cut off, has found a new home.

“It’s amazing to see after what he’s been through how loving he can be,” she said. “Stumpy proves that not all pit bulls are bad.”

A little more than a month ago, Stumpy was found dumped in an overnight drop box at a Florida pound with his rear paws amputated.

A network of animal lovers formed a car chain to take the yearling to the St. Francis Animal Sanctuary in Vermilion, where Parker-Garcia cares for dozens of animals with disabilities.

There are plenty of refugees at her 30-acre safe haven, including dogs with heartworm, frost bite, breast cancer, mange, cleft lips and diabetes — even a little pup named Merlin who uses a wheelchair to get around.

Others were abandoned, starved, neglected or have reached extremely old age.

Right now, Parker-Garcia has almost 50 dogs in her care, as well as horses and a pot bellied pig.
Stumpy has healed in her care, learning to tip-toe on the long bones of his hind legs. Walking on the concrete is still hard for him, Parker-Garcia said.

Tuesday morning, a Lamborghini limousine will take the pup to Hopkins International Airport to catch a Delta Airlines flight to Cheyenne, Wyo., where his new family awaits.

It will be a tearful good-bye for Parker-Garcia, who is glad to see a family adopt a pit bull even as so many communities consider banning the breed.

In March 2006, an Ohio court struck down Toledo’s attempt to outlaw pit bulls in the city. Now, Lorain and other cities across the state are thinking about banning so-called “bully breeds.”

Lorain Animal Control Officer Mike Mattei has said that pit bulls were responsible for 20 percent of all dog bites in the city in 2006.

He had picked up 146 pit bulls this year as of Oct. 23, he said, and 85 percent were euthanized because no one stepped forward to claim them.

But Parker-Garcia says people — not nature — are to blame for how some pit bulls act.

“It’s not the dogs. There has to be another way to go after the people responsible for raising them,” she said.

Pit bulls have been bred by people to fight, she said, and any breed involved in that kind of activity would have the same bad reputation.

For more information about the rescue operation in Vermilion, visit www.saintfrancis
animalsanctuary.org.

Contact Jason Hawk at 653-6264 or jhawk@chroniclet.com.

STUMPY LOOKS LIKE HE REALLY KNOWS HE IS IN A LIMO
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HE LOVED THE RIDE.... AND PEOPLE THAT SAW HIM THOUGHT HE WAS A STAR!!!!
STUMPY ON HIS WAY TO THE AIRPORT !
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LOOKING OUT THE WINDOW OF A STRETCH LIMO!

A SPECIAL THANK YOU TO AL MIELCAREK OWNER OF SAFE AND RELIABLE LIMOUSINE OF LORAIN  FOR PROVIDING TRANSPORTATION TO THE CLEVELAND HOPKINS AIRPORT FOR STUMPY! 
(I wish the people in Florida that left him at a dog pound to die could see him now!)

   SLUGGER!  WERE GOING TO FIX HIM RIGHT UP!
Slugger is up for adoption and waiting for his new home!  He is house trained, loveable and one of the smartest dogs we have ever had here!  He is a big teddy bear. 

This poor dog was pick up as a stray
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How could his previous owners let something like this get so out of control ?
We did not even name this poor dog yet!
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He will be having surgery as soon as we can !

Hello All.... this poor boy is really in need of medical attention.  I just got off the phone with the pound volunteer ( 12:00 AM )  and we are taking him into rescue.  He will have surgery as soon as we can arrange it.  We are 501(c)3 non profit and take special needs animals from this side of the United States. 
We are now looking for donations to help get this guy the medical care he needs.  If you would like to make a donation PLEASE go to the  PayPal button or the address is 12516 Cherry Road Vermilion OH 44089.  
I have several dogs coming in this weekend ( 9-8-07) with open wounds from a chain embedded in the neck and another one dragged behind a car till her feet pads were worn off and toe nails missing.  She now has infections on her front legs and she is skin and bones!  They couldn't find the pups she just had.  The tics were so bad in both ears you couldn't see the ear canal.  They are coming from Georgia.  So if you want to know where your donation money is going please look at this web site.  These are some of society's out casts and throw away dogs. They have feelings and emotions and a need to be loved too. 
Thank you for taking the time to read this and please help me if you can.  

Everything went fine during surgery for Slugger
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He is now on the road to recovery and looking for a new family that will love him!

2 BOXER MIX DOGS FROM CATOOSA COUNTY GEORGIA- ABUSE CASES
BOTH BOXER MIX DOGS HAVE FOUND NEW HOMES!

THIS IS ROXIE SHE WAS TIED TO THE BUMPER OF A CAR
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SHE WAS DRAGGED ON A ROPE UNTIL HER PAWS WERE RAW, TORN AND BLEEDING THEN THE ROPE BROKE.
THIS IS BOSSY AT THE DOG POUND
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SHOWING THE OPEN WOUND AROUND HER NECK WHEN SHE WAS PICKED UP BY ANIMAL CONTROL.

Bossy and Roxie came from a dog pound in Catoosa County Georgia.  Both are Boxer mix girls.  Bossy had a chain around her neck until it cut so deep you could not see the chain.  The pain and suffering this poor girl must have gone through is unreal.  Roxi is a Boxer mix that was dragged behind a car until the rope broke to set her free.  This was reported to the 911 dispatch operator in Georgia.  Animal Control picked her up and took her to a vet.  All 4 paws were raw and toe nails torn with leg abrasions and lacerations.  They knew she had pups but could not find any when they picked her up.  This poor dog had so many ticks on her the scars still remain.  Her wounds became infected while she lay in the dog pound waiting for someone to adopt her and no one came!

ROXIE HAS BEEN ADOPTED!.
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THIS IS A PHOTO TAKEN ON THE LONG DRIVE TO GET TO US IN OHIO.
BOSSY IS NOW IN RESCUE AND VERY HAPPY
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THIS IS HER SLEEPING ON THE LONG TRANSPORT OUT OF GEORGIA.

They arrived at Saint Francis Animal Sanctuary Saturday night September 8th.  2007 at 10:00 pm.  Both were taken to the vet that Monday morning.  Both dogs  are heart worm negative and fleas, ticks and medical problems are being taken care of.  Bossy and Roxi are so good and loving, forgiving, loyal dogs it is hard to think that someone could cause such neglect to these two wonderful girls.  Both are up for adoption now and will make a wonderful pet.  Every time I walk Bossy I hug and kiss her and her smile causes wrinkles all the way up to the top of her head.  Then I tell her " Bossy you put the sun shine in my life today".  Please email mparke11@aol.com if you would like information on adoption.

     20 YEAR OLD CHIHUAHUA RESCUED
           FROM LORAIN DOG POUND

20 year old Chihuahua rescued from dog pound
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This little 6 pound Chi was rescued from the dog pound.  He was found by some lady who took him to a local vet.  The vet sent him to the dog pound without treathing him.  He sat at the dog pound for  a week.  Because he was picked up as a stray he had to stay his waiting period.  While he was there people called the pound and told them the dog belonged to their mother who was a senior and the kids ( grown adults ) let him out.  They told the pound he was 20 years old and they would be in to get him.  NO ONE CAME AND NO ONE CALLED FOR HIM.  So on the first day he was available to the public we went and got him out of there.   

Patches of hair are missing from fleas.
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He has an eye infection in both eyes and is receiving medication now.
This is the dog pound photo
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We asked the dog pound to at least give him something soft to lay on in the kennel.

NO senior should spend the last days of their life in a dog pound where they gas dogs.  This little guy was headed for the gas chamber.  He is now resting and eating well safe and sound. 

THIS IS GRAMPS JUST A FEW WEEKS AFTER RESCUE
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HE LOVES TO EAT AND LOVES TO SLEEP! THE PERFECT DOG.

            TWO PUPS WITH PARVO

I pulled a GSD / pup with mange and a hound pup that was hit by a car and had a severe fracture to the left rear leg yesterday August 9, 2007 .  The dog pound was located in Scioto County, Ohio. 
 
From the transport we went directly to the vet not knowing what type of mange the dog had demodectic or Sarcoptic and the fractured leg had to be seen urgently also. 
 
From the transport pick up  area to the vet was less then 10 minuets and the mange pup was kept in the rear of the car in a kennel.  When we got to the vet the mange pup had liquid explosive black diarrhea in the crate.  I told the vet to check for PARVO.  It was positive and in his words "off the charts positive". 

This little angel rests with God now.
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How unfair it all seems sometimes.

This little angel was euthanized yesterday and it was a gut wrenching absolutely horrible decision.  The vet said she was already compromised by the mange and add to it heavy parvo... this was the best decision for her and for us.  We have 2 litters of puppies at Saint Francis Animal Sanctuary and can not take the risk.  I went to bed thinking of her face and her puppy cry's... I never want to make this decision again.  Those of you who had to do it...know what I am talking about. 
 
The second pup who is named Bradley was also found to be + for parvo.  However he was not symptomatic yet.  He is in isolation at the vet and receiving appropriate antibiotics and fluid replacement.  He has been treated for whip & hook worms and he has kennel cough. 
HE HAS BEEN HIT BY A CAR AND HAS A SEVERE FRACTURE TO THE REAR LEFT LEG ( FEMUR )

             UPDATE: AUGUST 14, 2007
Bradley started to develop respiratory problems and several chest x-rays showed he had a diaphragm tear and his intestines were up in his chest.  We are guessing this happened at the time he was hit by the car that fractured his rear leg.  Bradley had emergency surgery during the night and died while on the table. He survived parvo and seem to be on the road to recovery.  Many dogs pass through Saint Francis Animal Sanctuary and when things like this happen it affects us as if it were the only animal here. We can at least feel we did everything possible for this little guy, so young and innocent.  He did not die on a cement floor in a dog pound or in a gas chamber somewhere.  If God has a special place for the innocent then this baby sits at his side somewhere over the Rainbow Bridge. 
 

REST IN PEACE BRADLY
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AND RUN WITH THE WIND AND SORE WITH DOGGIE ANGELS YOUR TORMENT ON EARTH IS OVER.

The splint was put on by a vet in southern Ohio.  However the splint is in the wrong place as our x rays showed and was causing pressure on the fracture site.  The fractured bone shows about a 1 inch separation in the bones.
HIS TAIL HAD TO BE AMPUTATED BECAUSE OF THE SEVERE INFECTION AND MAGGOTS THAT WERE IN THE WOUNDS.
Our first though was to place a pin in the fracture site but now we know he has pravo and the operation cannot be done at this time.
Bradley's leg has been fractured for some time now and because of the parvo situation and the delay in medical treatment he is going to have his rear left leg amputated in 2 weeks.  Providing the parvo clears enough to undergo surgery.
 

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This 10 week old baby has been HIT BY A CAR, TAKEN TO A DOG POUND, FRACTURED HIS LEG, HAD A TAIL AMPUTATION, HAS KENNEL COUGH  AND IS FIGHTING PARVO....  Dear God... what a little fighter!
We are desperatly seeking donations to help this little guy get to a family someday!  We are a 501(c)3 non profit group - donations are tax deductible.  The address for mail is 12516 Cherry Road Vermilion, OH 44089.   We have a PayPal button also for Bradley!
We operate on donations and thank you very much!

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                                      SYRINGOHYDROMYELIA
                 BIG DIAGNOSIS FOR SUCH A SMALL BABY!

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Pu is a 4 pound 8 month old Chihuahua girl that went to Ohio State University Veterinary Hospital where she  stayed for days. Pu started yelling in pain and bending her head down a few weeks ago. Treated by a local vet with Prednisolone she improved. When the drug was decreased she was suffering in pain again. We took her to OSU where she had extensive blood work, x-rays, and MRI. Pu has a condition called : syringohydromyelia   (syringomyelia, hydromyelia, syrinx, SM) is a congenital or acquired intraspinal disease. It is a disorder where a cyst or herniation, known as a syrinx, forms within the spinal cord and cause the flow of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) to become obstructed and accumulate, causing symptoms such as scratching, pain and limb dysfunction. In some cases it is seen in combination with hydrocephalus. Pu also has been diagnosed with hydrocephalus. She has a cyst in the brain that is causing the above 2 problems.

Pu is going to a hospital in Michigan called   Michigan Veterinary Specialists

Our diagnostic work up to find out what exactly was wrong with this 4 pound little girl came to $1,800.00.  OSU can not help us with this dogs problem.  We are not going to put her through major surgery if the specialist in Michigan  feels her condition is too severe.  But we have to know if she could have a chance at a normal life.  Her MRI has been sent and she will be evaluated on Monday August 13, 2007.
We have been instructed to watch for signs of neurological problems, intense pain, inability to walk or seizures.  She cannot stay on the current dose of medication the rest of her life and her condition if left untreated will most likely take her life.  Please donate to help us pay for her medical bills. 

 OOOP's!! THAT'S NOT A DOG!
                        I THOUGH THEY SAID "DOG"  NOT "HOG" !
 

Piggy Sue is a rescued Pot Bellied Pig
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She came from a Pig rescue in Florida and now lives at Saint Francis Animal Sanctuary

Piggy Sue is a Vietnamese Pot Bellied Pig who came into rescue with Saint Francis Animal Sanctuary April 1,2007. 

Vietnamese Potbelly pigs are a dwarf swine breed which were developed in the 1960's from the Í breed of Vietnam. They were originally brought into Sweden and Canada and have since moved into a number of countries.

Piggy Sue was a rescue from Florida. She was on a piggy transport and arrived in fine condition!  She is spayed and all her vaccinations are up to date.  Piggy Sue is about 5 months old and weighs 40 pounds. 

                                MOLLY
LEFT REAR LEG AMPUTATED AND RIGHT REAR LEG  FHO OPERATION DONE MAY 18, 2007!  SHE IS STILL WALKING ON HER 2 FRONT LEGS.

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Molly came into rescue at Saint Francis Animal Sanctuary May 12, 2007.  She came from Blacksburg Virginia on a rescue transport and spent the entire day traveling by car.  We knew that she had 3 legs but here is what we did not know!  Judging from her hair growth on her left hip area we can guess her left rear leg was amputated a few months ago.  The hair is not completely grown back.  Molly first showed up in VA at the shelter on 1/25/07.  She already had a left rear leg amputation.  The shelter contacted ALL the vet clinics around Blacksburg VA and no one remembered the dog. No owner could be found.  This poor dog was adopted in early February and showed back up as a stray at the same shelter in mid May.  When she showed up she could not use her existing rear right leg.  Her bones were sticking out of her rear area causing deformity.  She could not walk on her rear leg.  This poor girl is walking on her 2 front legs only. She holds her right rear leg tucked up under her abdominal area as if in pain to put weight on it.  She was adopted out again in this condition with out any ortho consult or evaluation.  Poor Molly!  She was only kept for 2 weeks and taken back to the same shelter as an owner surrender.  The shelter took her to a vet where she did not have any x-rays done.  The vet watched her walk on her 2 front legs and tuck her rear leg under her.  They said she had a fracture of the right rear leg above the knee.  She most likely had a shattered pelvis also.  No x-rays were taken because the doctors told the shelter the injuries had probably healed by that time.  Sorry folks... that's just not good enough for us.

THE RIGHT REAR LEG IS NOT USED TO AMBULATE.
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THE VET SHE WENT TO IN VA SAID SHE HAS A FRACTURED RIGHT LEG AND SHATTERED PELVIS.
MOLLY TUCKS HER FRACTURED LEG UNDER HER.
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SHE CAN ONLY WALK ON HER 2 FRONT LEGS FOR A SHORT DISTANCE UNTIL SHE GETS EXHAUSTED.

We can not let this poor dog go with out a complete evaluation of her rear leg and pelvis.  She is a young dog perhaps one or two years old.  What if  a surgery would give her the use of her only rear leg?  We are in the process of getting a wheel chair donated for Molly but that's still not good enough.  We really need donations now so Molly can get the medical care and evaluation  she needs.  Molly has suffered almost her entire life with failed adoptions, living in the dog pound and awful injuries that have changed her life forever.  Please send a donation to help us figure out what we can do to help Molly have  a  wonderful life without pain. She is a survivor!  The shelter where she came from had no funds set up for x-rays or surgeries  Molly may need and we  understand.  Lets hope it is not too  late and Molly will have a chance at a more normal life.

I OPENED MY EYES FROM A NAP! THIS IS WHAT I FOUND
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I TOOK THE PHOTO WITH MY CELL PHONE! MOLLY SLEEPING RIGHT NEXT TO ME! SHE IS A WONDERFUL DOG!

UPDATE:  MAY 16,2007
Molly is scheduled at the vet this week where she will be spayed and get the much needed x-rays to determine if any thing can be done for her.  If her hip is "out of the socket" she may a procedure called FHO:

Femoral Head Ostectomy

The weight of the dog has some bearing on the outcome on this surgery. In the surgery, the ball portion of the hip joint (the femoral head) is removed and the bone smoothed, if necessary, so that no bone to bone contact occurs between the pelvis, which contains the now empty socket and the remaining portion of the femur. The joint is not stabilized, it is destroyed. While that sounds bad, in almost all dogs under 40 to 50 lbs in weight, this surgery will provide reasonable comfort. A "false joint" forms, consisting of fibrous scar tissue around the bone end. This forms in the muscles over the hip, which fortunately are strong enough to provide some stability. It is less painful than leaving the dislocated femoral head rubbing against the pelvic bone.

We have to see what is going on with her fractured rear leg that may have already fused.  Please donate!

 

UPDATE: MAY 21,2007  : Molly is home today and had her  FHO operation.  She can stand on her rear leg to balance herself but can not walk on it yet.  She is still walking on her 2 front legs.  We do not know if she will ever walk on her only rear leg she has.  She was also spayed while she was having her FHO.  Molly is on antibiotics and pain medication.  The vet did not see fractures as we suspected.  The vets that looked at her  in VA prior to her transport to Ohio said she had a fractured pelvis and rear leg.  Molly's femur ( thigh )   bone was so far out of the socket it had to be removed . Please see the updated photos.

This photo shows Molly running after her operation
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This shows her right leg tucked up under her as she moves on her 2 front legs
Molly is home 5-21-07 here she is standing.
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She uses her rear leg to balance herself but can not walk on it at this point. She has no left leg.

We need emergency funds for Molly who will be evaluated by a vet.  We are a 501(c)3 non profit group and donations are tax deductible  Thank You.

         PLEASE READ CODY'S STORY

PLEASE TAKE A MOMENT TO READ THIS.  I WAS AT THE DOG POUND WHEN A MAN WALKED UP TO THE DOOR WITH HIS DOG.  I ASKED HIM " ARE YOU TURNING  YOUR DOG IN TO THE POUND? "  HIS REPLY:  " YES WE HAVE A BABY NOW AND JUST THOUGHT IT WOULD BE BEST"

HOW COULD YOU? - By Jim Willis, 2001

When I was a puppy, I entertained you with my antics and made you
Laugh. You called me your child, and despite a number of chewed shoes
And a couple of murdered throw pillows, I became your best friend.
Whenever I was "bad," you'd shake your finger at me and ask "How
Could you?" -- but then you'd relent and roll me over for a belly
Rub.

My housebreaking took a little longer than expected, because you were
Terribly busy, but we worked on that together. I remember those
Nights of nuzzling you in bed and listening to your confidences and
Secret dreams, and I believed that life could not be any more
Perfect. We went for long walks and runs in the park, car rides,
Stops for ice cream (I only got the cone because "ice cream is bad
For dogs" you said), and I took long naps in the sun waiting for you
To come home at the end of the day.

Gradually, you began spending more time at work and on your career,
And more time searching for a human mate. I waited for you patiently,
Comforted you through heartbreaks and disappointments, never chided
You about bad decisions, and romped with glee at your homecomings,
And when you fell in love. She, now your wife, is not a "dog person" -
- still I welcomed her into our home, tried to show her affection,
And obeyed her. I was happy because you were happy.

Then the human babies came along and I shared your excitement. I was
Fascinated by their pinkness, how they smelled, and I wanted to
Mother them, too. Only she and you worried that I might hurt them,
And I spent most of my time banished to another room, or to a dog
Crate. Oh, how I wanted to love them, but I became a "prisoner of
Love." As they began to grow, I became their friend. They clung to my
Fur and pulled themselves up on wobbly legs, poked fingers in my
Eyes, investigated my ears, and gave me kisses on my nose. I loved
Everything about them and their touch -- because your touch was now
So infrequent -- and I would've defended them with my life if need
Be. I would sneak into their beds and listen to their worries and
Secret dreams, and together we waited for the sound of your car in
The driveway.

There had been a time, when others asked you if you had a dog, that
You produced a photo of me from your wallet and told them stories
About me. These past few years, you just answered "yes" and changed
The subject. I had gone from being "your dog" to "just a dog ," and
You resented every expenditure on my behalf.
Now, you have a new career opportunity in another city, and you and
They will be moving to an apartment that does not allow pets. You've
Made the right decision for your "family," but there was a time when
I was your only family

I was excited about the car ride until we arrived at the animal
Shelter. It smelled of dogs and cats, of fear, of hopelessness. You
Filled out the paperwork and said "I know you will find a good home
For her." They shrugged and gave you a pained look. They understand >
The realities facing a middle-aged dog, even one with "papers." You
Had to pry your son's fingers loose from my collar as he
Screamed "No, Daddy! Please don't let them take my dog!" And I
Worried for him, and what lessons you had just taught him about
Friendship and loyalty, about love and responsibility, and about
Respect for all life. You gave me a good-bye pat on the head, avoided
My eyes, and politely refused to take my collar and leash with you.
You had a deadline to meet and now I have one, too. After you left,
The two nice ladies said you probably knew about your upcoming move
Months ago and made no attempt to find me another good home. They
Shook their heads and asked "How could you?"

They are as attentive to us here in the shelter as their busy
Schedules allow. They feed us, of course, but I lost my appetite days
Ago. At first, whenever anyone passed my pen, I rushed to the front,
Hoping it was you that you had changed your mind -- that this was all
a bad dream... or I hoped it would at least be someone who cared,
anyone who might save me.

When I realized I could not compete with the frolicking for attention
of happy puppies, oblivious to their own fate, I retreated to a far
corner and waited. I heard her footsteps as she came for me at the
end of the day, and I padded along the aisle after her to a separate
room. A blissfully quiet room. She placed me on the table and rubbed
my ears, and told me not to worry. My heart pounded in anticipation
of what was to come, but there was also a sense of relief. The
prisoner of love had run out of days.

As is my nature, I was more concerned about her. The burden which she
bears weighs heavily on her, and I know that, the same way I knew
your every mood. She gently placed a tourniquet around my foreleg as
a tear ran down her cheek. I licked her hand in the same way I used
to comfort you so many years ago. She expertly slid the hypodermic
needle into my vein. As I felt the sting and the cool liquid coursing
through my body, I lay down sleepily, looked into her kind eyes and
murmured "How could you?"

Perhaps because she understood my dog speak, she said "I'm so sorry."
She hugged me, and hurriedly explained it was her job to make sure I
went to a better place, where I wouldn't be ignored or abused or
abandoned, or have to fend for myself -- a place of love and light so
very different from this earthly place. And with my last bit of
energy, I tried to convey to her with a thump of my tail that my "How
could you?" was not directed at her. It was directed at you, My
Beloved Master, I was thinking of you. I will think of you and wait
for you forever. May everyone in your life continue to show you so
much loyalty.

This dog was going to the pound 5/12/07
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HOW COULD YOU?
This dog is up for adoption
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He was going to be left at the pound and now has a second chance for life!

I received the above story just prior to going to the dog pound on May 12, 2007.  When the man taking his dog of many years to the pound's front door stood before me and said he had a child now and they just do not have time for the dog.  Cody has a bacterial skin infection that can be treated with medication. We expect a complete and full recovery.  He is lost without his humans and really does not understand why he is here.  Cody would have been an owner surrender which means he could have been gassed at any time without a 3 day hold.  With his skin condition I feared he would not be adopted.  He is on several medications now and will be a wonderful companion to someone.  He is neutered and will be given all his vaccinations.  He is going to be heart worm checked and is micro chipped.  Cody is 100% house trained and was trained with invisible fence.  He has gone to obedience training and is totally non aggressive. We are working on his skin condition with the much needed oral medications and baths.  Please help by sending a donation to help cover his medical needs.  Cody is an American Eskimo that will be 5 years old next month ( June 2007).  email if you would like information on adopting him.  mparke11@aol.com
If Cody knew he was being taken to the pound where he faced a most certain gas chamber death he would have said, "HOW COULD YOU?"

                           MEET LILLY !
Lilly is a  Boston Terrier with mega esophagus and neurological problems. We received her  from a Boston Terrier rescue in Ohio.  Lilly eats 3 meals a day standing in a mail box to keep her in an upright position.  She receives a Rx. medication called Cisapride before each meal. 

LILLY STANDS IN HER MAIL BOX 5 TIMES A DAY
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SHE HAS TO REMAIN IN A VERTICAL POSITION DURING AND AFTER HER MEALS

             GUS FROM NEW YORK!
 

Gus has a long sad story.  One of the many e-mails I received asking for a rescue to help a dog in need touched me.  Below is the request as it was sent.
BLIND !
 
 
THIS IS GUS.....
 
HE IS A LABRADOR MIX....HAS LONG CHOW LIKE HAIR AND A BLUE TONGUE.
 
HE IS MAYBE 6 YRS OLD AT MOST AND WEIGHS 55 LBS.
  
GUS  IS BELIEVED TO BE COMPLETELY  BLIND AND WE HAVE NO IDEA IF HE IS IN PAIN DUE TO HIS ENLARGED ONE EYE. :-(
 
 YET WITH NO VISION,
HE SPENDS HIS DAY LOOKING OUT OF HIS CAGE WITH BLANK,
YET PLEADING EYES.
 
YES, GUS  BEGS WITH HIS EYES.
 
" PLEASE PET ME? PLEASE TALK TO ME?"
 
HE GETS VERY HAPPY WHEN HE REALIZES SOMEONE HAS INDEED, NOTICED HIM.
 
BUT THE SAD PART IS....HE GETS OVERLOOKED ONCE PEOPLE LOOK AT HIM- AND THEN  SEE HIS EYES.
 
GUS LISTENS INTENTLY FOR FAMILIAR VOICES( VOICES THAT ARE NOT GOING TO RETURN. YOU SEE, NO ONE CAME TO RECLAIM GUS)
 
GUS USES HIS EARS AND NOSE A LOT.....
 
IT'S THE TWO SENSES THAT HELP HIM TRY TO UNDERSTAND THINGS.
 
 HE  LISTENS TO VOICES, TRYING TO GAUGE WHO SOUNDS FRIENDLY AND MIGHT WANT TO BEFRIEND HIM.
 
HE  SNIFFS THE AIR FOR SMELLS HE HAS COME TO KNOW, SUCH AS THOSE PEOPLE THAT DO STOP TO TALK TO HIM OR PET HIM.
 
PLEASE HELP US GET GUS OUT OF HERE.
 
HE IS IN A STRANGE PLACE.
 
    HE HAS NO IDEA WHAT IS HAPPENING TO HIM- WHY HE IS THERE- WHERE THE PEOPLE HE USE TO KNOW ARE.
 
HE HAS NO IDEA THAT HE IS IN SERIOUS DANGER....
 
 WE ARE SICKENED BY  THE THOUGHT THAT THIS SWEET, INNOCENT BLIND SOUL WILL BE LED TO THE EUTHANASIA ROOM,
VERY TRUSTINGLY, HAPPY FOR THE ATTENTION HE IS GETTING, PEOPLE TALKING TO HIM, PETTING HIM- ONLY TO PUT A NEEDLE IN HIS VEIN.
 PLEASE DON'T LET GUS DIE.
 
 

Gus came home from the vet today May 7, 2007
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He is doing very well and seems to act like it's no big deal!

UPDATE :  MAY 7, 2007  Gus is home from the vet. He had both eyes removed due to severe - untreated glaucoma.  He had several teeth removed and he was neutered.  He is really doing well we feel because he was already blind and it seems like it's not a big deal to him.   Now at least he is not in any discomfort.

This is Gus - he is 100% blind
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His teeth are in need of extensive dental work

This poor dog was in a dog pound in New York when he was pulled and taken to a vet for medical evaluation.  A person in New York paid his entire bill for tests, medical evaluation and board.  Gus had no place to go!  His urgent story went out on the rescue groups e-mails.  He had a rescue say they would take him and then backed out leaving poor Gus stuck in a vet office.  We are taking Gus into our rescue!  Gus will receive the medical care he needs.  Many people asked about sending  donations when he was in New York.  The person who paid his entire bill has requested that donations now go along with Gus!  We are a 501(c)3 non profit group and donations are tax deductible.  We are agian asking for help.  Gus needs to have his eyes evaluated as you can see in the photos taken in New York - his right eye is very large and seems to be bulging out.  His left eye is not as bad although they are both blind.  He has a severe infection in his mouth and will most likely need antibiotics , dental work and extractions.  We will know more soon.  Gus is in the process of trying to catch a ride with a truck driver to make the 530 mile ride.  If this fall through he has a rescue transport set for this Saturday.  Please consider giving a donation to help us get Gus the medical care he needs.
We are not sure we know all of his medical problems at this point but his tests and boarding so far has reached between $600.00 and $1500.00.   Now he needs the rest of the treatment.   
UPDATE :  APR. 24TH. 2007   Gus is on a transport with a truck driver heading to Ohio.  He will be here around midnight.
PHONE CONVERSATION WITH THE VET: GUS IS ON PAIN MEDICATION BECAUSE THE PAIN IN HIS EYES DUE TO GLOCOMA.  THE INTER-OCCULAR  EYE PRESSURE BUILDS AND CAUSES PAIN, GUS IS ALREADY BLIND.  THE VET WILL REVIEW ALL THE TESTS THAT WERE DONE IN NY AND MOST LIKELY HAVE HIS EYES REMOVED. 

UPDATE:  MAY 4, 2007   GUS is at the vet clinic now and just finished up with his surgery.  He had both eyes removed, several teeth removed due to infection and abscess and he was neutered.  The vet said he came through just fine and will remain at the clinic for a few days now to monitor his condition. 

PLEASE CLICK IN THIS xxxxxxx SPACE xxxxxxxx TO FIND OUT MORE ABOUT OWNING A BLIND DOG.

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STAN - 7 POUND CHIHUAHUA NEGLECTED IN THE HANDS OF HIS FOSTER HUMAN
STAN THE MAN! HAS A NEW HOME AND A NEW MOM. HE HAS BEEN ADOPTED! 10/07

THIS PHOTO TAKEN PRIOR TO GOING TO FOSTER CARE
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STAN WAS PICKED UP AS A STRAY IN TENNESSEE THEN WENT TO FOSTER CARE
STAN IS STILL IN TN AWAITING A RESCUE TRANSPORT
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HE IS ON ANTIBIOTICS AND WILL NEED EXTENSIVE MEDICAL CARE WHEN HE GETS HERE.

We have another urgent need! As many of you know we take the special needs cases that most will not. I have a Chihuahua in Mt. Juliet TN that was picked up by the dog pound in Jan. 07. Some how at some time the dog was sent to a so called "foster" for the pound. When I said I would take this dog into rescue the person who sent me the e-mail went to get the dog from the foster. She was shocked at what she found. Stan ( the 7 pound Chihuahua ) was so dehydrated that when she pinched his skin she said it did not go back into place. She smelled his breath and looked in his mouth an found pure "green" on his gums from a massive infection. His toe nails were curled around into his pads and he could not stand. When this rescue person asked about his condition she was told " he's not adoptable anyway" This poor boy was close to death. She took him to the vet and he is now on antibiotics and was given IV fluids to re-hydrate him. She said he received so many injection of fluid when she picked him up her shirt was soaking wet from the holes in him. She is not in a position to say anything for fear they will not let her pull from that pound again as a rescue! We have searched and searched for a rescue transport and now he is on his way to Saint Francis Animal Sanctuary in Vermilion Ohio. Next week if all goes well. Stan is 90% BLIND AND 100% DEAF! We are going to pay his vet bill in Tennessee and pull fee. In addition to his current vet bill he will need extensive medical care when he gets here next week. I am asking for tax deductible donation to Saint Francis Animal Sanctuary Inc. We are 501(c)3.
UPDATE APRIL 5, 2007  Stan's transport North to Ohio filled and he will be traveling this weekend.  His foster mom had to take him to the vet and receive necessary medical attention.  We need to send her money to help cover Stan's vet bill.  Please consider a dontion as his medical treatment and assessment will continue once her arrives here this Easter. 
EASTER DAY UPDATE:   Stan arrived on the rescue transport from Mt. Juliet , TN  today.  He is a wonderful little dog and we are glad to have him with us.   
UPDATE: MAY 4, 2007  Stan the Man is at the vet clinic tonight and had SEVERAL  teeth removed due to infection and abscess.  He will remain on antibiotics for a period of time.  The clinic is monitoring his progress and said he is up and walking around now. 

                            ALBERT
 

LOOK AT ALBERT NOW!  WOW!! ADOPTED!

Albert was taken into rescue today.
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He needs medical help ASAP and will be taken to the vet tomorrow morning.

LOOK AT ME NOW!!!!
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JUST A LITTLE FLUFF BALL

ALBERT is a Shih Tzu - Right now he is lucky  to be alive.  He came from a kill pound south of Toledo OH. A friend that donates her time at that pound Lynn,  pulled him and arranged a transport for this poor boy to our rescue.  We received him today ( 3-25-07)  This poor dog was picked up as a stray.  He weighs about 6 or 7 pounds.  Albert is a PB Shih Tzu and may have been used for breeding some place.  He has awful sores on his face, head and neck.  His ears are infected with some sort of fungus.  He is just skin and bones.  He has tape worms and a little blood in his stool.   Tomorrow morning he is going to the vet where he will receive all he needs to get him on the road to recovery.  This dog is not a senior he just is a poor boy that is suffering from severe neglect.  We really need the donations for this guy.  He will need a complete make over with blood chemistry, grooming, antibiotics, anti fungal and worm medication.  He will be heart worm checked and given appropriate vaccinations.  When his health is good the vet will neuter him.  Please help by making a donation for his direct medical care. We thank you.

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Please send a tax deductible donation to help with his vet bills.

Through all this suffering he has endured with open wounds and fungus infections, starvation and neglect, today he went for a brisk walk and enjoyed the feeling of having quality food on his little stomach.  He enjoyed a soft bed to lay on and a loving touch. He will make someone a very nice lap dog when he recovers.
 

This little guy has had his first mitaban Rx. bath
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He will be going to the vet for weekly baths trying to control his mange.

Albert's primary problem is his face and neck.
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This is Albert after he has been shaved down to the skin.

UPDATE:  3-27-07   Albert is home from the vet.  He is heart wrom negative.   He has corneal abrasions on both eyes and is receiving antibiotic eye medication.  This poor dog was in so much pain when they were trying to shave him the vet had to put him in  a light sleep.  Albert has a severe yeast infection over his entire body including his ears.  The skin scraping showed demodectic mange ( non - contagious )  again over his entire littel 8 pound body.   The vet examined his mouth to see if he could tell how old he is and much to our surprise he found he still had baby teeth that had not fallen out and should have been removed when he was younger This was causing some gum irritation.  This dog is about 3 years old!  No more then 4 years old max. He will be neutered and have his baby teeth removed as soon as his skin infections are somewhat under control. Albert was also treated for tape worms, whip, hook and round worms.  This poor little guy had a really neglected life. 
We received a donation to cover his entire vet bill.   If you would like to donate to other dogs in need at Saint Francis Animal Sanctuary please know your money is spent on medical bills for our special needs animals. Thank you.

ALBERT HAS HAD SEVERAL MITABAN DIPS NOW 4/8/07
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HE HAS ADJUSTED WELL TO OUR HOME BUT HE HAS TAKEN OVER SOME THINGS LIKE THIS CHAIR!

CHRONIC STARVATION - ABUSE - NEGLECT

      O'l  Yeller passed away at 1:30 AM                          April 5,2007
She was resting well , warm and peaceful. She took her last breath and went to a better place where she will not ever feel hunger pains or lonely nights tied in someone's back yard or alley.  This was the worst case of starvation I have ever seen.  Waiting at the bridge....
rest in peace Yeller. 

Ol Yeller Dog is home!  She spent a few days at the vet to evaluate her current condition.  She has a hard time walking and had x-rays of her hips. She has no orthopadiac problems however the vet feels she has neurological damage from CHRONIC STARVATION.  Yeller had a full blood chemistry done and is heart worm negative!  She is suffering from anemia ( low red blood cells ) from CHRONIC STARVATION!   She has no open wounds and loves to eat.  She is now getting fed 3 times a day in small amounts of a high quality food.  Yeller is resting well on a big fat fluffy pillow!  This girl will gain some strength and then be evaluated for a much needed dental procedure.  Yeller had no internal parasites found.   This poor dog was picked up by animal control with a chewed rope hanging around her thin neck and nails so long she could hardly stand.  She was staved and near death.  Now she is resting well with food in her stomach and a loving hug now and then....

THE YEARS OF ABUSE AND NEGLECT SHOW IN THIS PHOTO
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THIS IS THE WORST CASE OF STARVATION I HAVE EVER SEEN.

SOME HOW SHE GOT AWAY FROM HER HUMANS
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WHEN PICKED UP AS A STRAY SHE ONLY HAD A ROPE AROUND HER THIN NECK TO TELL HER STORY.

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
This dog has spent her senior years at the end of a ROPE  God knows where and why.... her rope was around her poor neck and some how she managed to chew her way to freedom... This is a severe case of CHRONIC STARVATION - SEVERE NEGLECT AND ABUSE   the worst case I have ever seen in a living dog! 

OL YELLER IS HOME! SHE IS RESTING VERY WELL NOW.
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AFTER THE HELL SHE HAS SURVIVED - SHE WILL NEVER HAVE TO WORRY AGAIN... WE LOVE HER. 3-9-07

THIS GIRL WILL BE GOING RIGHT TO THE VET FOR CARE
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HER SUFFERING IS OVER! SHE WILL KNOW WHAT IT IS LIKE TO BE LOVED AND TAKEN CARE OF. GOD BLESS HER.

                             CHANCE
This little guy was picked up as a stay and taken to a dog pound in NE Ohio.  Chance is getting a second chance in life and we need your help!
Chance received his name because the people at the pound wished and wished he could have a second chance at life.  Picked up as a skinny stay - COVERED with mange!  We now know he is also Heart Worm +.
When a seasoned volunteer gave Chance a bath a few days ago at the pound   his paws and legs were bleeding from the open sores,   I was told she left the pound in tears!  They fell in love with this little guy and placed him in a area away from the other dogs on soft bedding.  No one knew if he had demodectic or sarcoptic mange but they knew something had to be done soon!

This is Chance
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The mange was getting worse everyday as you can see his legs and chest.

It was getting worse by the day as you can see in this photo taken today.  We agreed to take Chance into rescue  not knowing which type of mange he had  -  Tonight this dog is at a vet clinic in Lorain and received his first treatment for demodectic mange ( non - contagious )  he will have to stay at the vet awhile receiving multiple treatments.  He is heart worm positive.  He will need  medication, medicated shampoos and dips for months.  Chance received his first heart worm treatment today ( 2-28-07) We feel we can get his immune system back to normal and he will be a happy healthy dog in no time! 
 
We take special needs cases and we are glad to give this dog a second "CHANCE" to be a normal, healthy dog!  Please consider a donation to help Chance during his months of recovery and multiple treatments he will  need to receive. 
 

Chance is being treated for mange. PHOTO :3-7-07
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He has some open wounds and bleeds if he is touched the wrong way.
THIS IS THE DOG POUND PHOTO WITH MANGE ON HIS FACE
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IN THIS PHOTO CHANCE STILL HAS HAIR ON HIS BODY WITH THE MANGE ON HIS FACE.PHOTO TAKEN 2-24-07
CHANCE IS BEING TREATED FOR MANGE
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HE HAS LOST ALMOST ALL OF HIS HAIR NOW AND SCABS AND WOUNDS REMAIN ON HIS ENTIRE BODY. 3-10-07

UPDATE: MARCH 6, 2007   Chance has been home from the vet a few days now. He had a nice warm medicated bath yesterday and I know he feels better.  He made friends with Patches another dog that lives here.  He wags his tail all the time when he thinks you are paying attention to him.  We are letting him rest most of the time since he just received his heart worm treatment a few days ago.  He is loving and working on trust issues with humans.  When he first came to us he would duck his head as if he was going to be hit. We are sure he came from an abusive situation and we know he came from a neglect situation.  Chance is doing well and resting. Chance is 22 pounds and we think he is around 2 or 3 years old. He is a very good dog.

 UPDATE:  3-10-07  Chance is the most loving little guy you could ever meet.  He will now wag his tail when you talk to him and seems to be showing some trust.  He is such a good little guy... he has now gained 3 pounds since his rescue!  Chance will be going for Mitaban dips every 2 weeks while we work on this severe case of mange.  As if Chance does not have enough going on with the mange he is also receiving heart worm treatment and has to go back to the vet for another injection. The mange treatment  will take months of baths/dips to get this guy back to normal!  Your donations matter...  Please help. 
UPDATE: MAY 4, 2007  Chance is MANGE FREE!  HE WAS TESTED YESTERDAY AND NO MITES WERE FOUND.....   Chance was neutered and looks like a new boy!  This baby is up for adoption and he is waiting for his forever humans to come and get him!

IT TOOK MONTHS BUT LOOK AT CHANCE NOW! 11-1-07
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HEART WORM AND MANGE UNDER CONTROL- LOOKING GOOD CHANCE!

                        SCOOTER
             FACING AMPUTATIONS OF BOTH REAR LEGS
 
        SEE SCOOTER'S UPDATE BELOW      FEB. 6, 2007  Scooter went to the vet today and he now faces amputations of his rear legs.  The left leg that is completely twisted and facing a backwards direction will be amputated for sure and the right leg is being evaluated at this point.  It is doubtful that the right leg will be functional.  This leg also will be amputated. THE AMPUTATIONS WOULD ELEMINATE THE RISK OF PRESSURE SORES ON THE REAR LEGS.  THE REAR LEGS ARE NON - FUNCTIONAL AND CATCH ON THINGS LIKE BEDDING AND CARPET WHICH HAS A RISK OF ADDITIONAL INJURY.  The amputations would leave enough of his rear legs so he could be fitted for a doggie wheel chair when he grows up.  The key here is "when he grows up"
Scooter is going to get that chance to live and grow into the little pup he should be.  This is a far cry from the gas chamber he faced at a local dog pound where he was taken a few days ago by is previous owner. 
 
This baby of only a few weeks of age who is a BIG  1 pound 7 oz. also faces abdominal surgery for a necessary hernia repair.
 
Scooter will be taken care of for the rest of his life.  He will not have to fear cold weather or hunger.  He will get his wheel chair and in time play with the other little dogs.  His life was changed the day he went to the dog pound to be put to sleep forever when we found this precious little life and took him into rescue.    Please make a donation to help pay for this little ones medical bills. 
 

UPDATE: 3-10-07 SCOOTER IS DOING WELL AND HAS GAINED A FEW OUNCES!  SURGERY SCHEDULED FOR NEXT MONTH WHEN HE GETS A BIT OLDER AND LARGER. 

SCOOTER IS A NORMAL PUP IN EVERY WAY
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HE JUST HAS NO USE OF HIS REAR LEGS
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WHEN SCOOTER CURLS UP TO SLEEP HIS LEGS END UP IN ALL POSITIONS.
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HE IS LEARNING TO LIFT HIS HIND QUARTERS UP TO MOVE AND WALK ON HIS FRONT LEGS ONLY.

Just when you think you have seen it all ... This 1 pound Chihuahua baby came to me from the dog pound.  He was taken to the pound for euthanasia.  This innocent soul, a creature of God was born with a birth defect.   Our guess is his brothers and sisters needed more nutrition from the mother dog as they got older and bigger so  it was decided the crippled dog would go to the dog pound and make more room for the other healthy babies.  Scooter has a most grotesque disfiguring birth defect that surely would make him a dog no one would purchase.  He has no use of his back legs.  His right leg is curled up towards his abdominal area in a fixed position  and his left leg is completely facing the opposite direction that it should be.  It is as if he has no bones in his hind legs.  Yet the sprit shines in his little 6 week old eyes.  In his young life of 6 weeks he has already taught himself to lift his hind quarters with his strength in the front of his body, his 2 front legs.  I think he will eventually walk on his 2 front legs.   He scoots all over the place because this is the only thing he knows.  He is full of life and lives to eat soft puppy food.  He wags his tail when you walk into the room.  He wants to be held and loves kisses.  The owner told the pound workers he needed surgery  on his legs and they didn't have the money to spend on that.  Scooter will never walk, his condition is forever and permanent.   
Scooter's most urgent need  is to have a hernia repaired.  Weighing   one pound this will be a most delicate operation.  We are asking for donations again.  Perhaps we ask for donations  more then the normal rescues but we take special needs cases and they require more then a spay and neuter. Scooter will get his wheel chair when he gets older and he will be just fine.  We need to get his hernia operation and we depend on donations to save lives. We are a 501(c)3 non profit organization and your donation is tax deductible.  Please send donations to Saint Francis Animal Sanctuary Inc. 12516 Cherry Road Vermilion, OH 44089  or you may use Paypal   Thank you!

HIS RIGHT LEG IS FLEXED UP - THE LEFT IS BACKWARD
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YOU CAN ALSO SEE ONE - PERHAPS TWO HERNIAS. SCOOTERS HIPS ALSO SHOW DEFORMITY

UPDATE: JUNE 2, 2007
Scooter has his wheel chair.... it was donated by a lady in Calf. Melissa K.  The wheel chair was custom made for Scooter!  He can now get around and see places he never could go in the past.  He was restricted by the fact that his rear legs would get abrasions from rubbing on the ground.  Now Scooter has discovered his new found mobility and we can hardly keep up with him.  Thank you Melissa.

Scooter took about 2 minuts to adjust to his cart.
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He can now run like crazy on the grass or any place he wants to go.
Scooter's making new friends!
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His new cart is now taking him places he has never gone before.

Scooter has had a rough start in life! He was born with a birth defect to his rear legs which looks like both are on backwards.  He was taken to the pound for euth. at 10 weeks old, just about one pound.  We were collecting money for his bi lateral leg amputations when he had a major set back.  His "private part" had to be amputated! Yes that's right!  It came out did not go back in and the circulation was cut off.  We tried a surgical procedure first where it was sutured in place but it was not viable.  As bad as this sounds he is still able to use it without additional surgical repair.  Now we need donations to go ahead with his leg amputations to both rear legs.  If you can donate please know how much you will be helping Scooter !  He is so full of life! 

    Adoption event Sunday June 17,2007
           This is a very touching story
 
Yesterday.... was one of those moments that probably will not be forgotten too soon.  While Scooter was playing .... running... and having fun in his wheel chair... This little boy who was missing one leg came all the way to the end of the field where we had set up our tent. 

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Not a dry eye around...as he reached down from his wheel chair to touch Scooter... then the little boy asked about Scooters back legs. 
A little taken by surprise I didn't want to use the word "amputation" so I said it was a birth defect but his questions kept coming so I said   they were going to be removed.

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As he lifted Scooter - wheel chair and all up ... I heard him tell Scooter "don't worry it will be OK"...
 

If you would like to donate to Scooter's operation and medical care please click the PayPal button. Your donation is tax deductible.

                     THE TREE SISTERS!
UPDATE:  AUGUST 2010   LUCY THE DARKER OF THE TWO AND THE SMALLER WEIGHING ONLY ABOUT 3 POUNDS HAS PASSED AWAY.   SHE TOOK HER LAST BREATH ON MY CHEST AS I HELD HER CLOSE AND GAVE HER WARMTH.   I LOVED LUCY.....

These 2 girls weigh 2 1/2 pounds and 5 pounds!
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How did they survive a December in Ohio - outside - alone !

                          LUCY AND ETHEL

Lucy and Ethel had surgery today Jan. 19,2007.  Both dogs did well and are going to spend the night at the vet clinic.  Lucy is the 2 pound Chihuahua and she had a breast tumor removed, hernia repair, spay and dental!  She has 2 teeth left in her mouth.   Ethel  was spayed and now has NO teeth in her mouth!  Poor little girl!  They both will be on antibiotics and pain medication when they come home tomorrow.  THE PHOTOS BELOW WERE TAKEN JUST ONE HOUR AFTER SURGERY.  THEY WERE BOTH UP AND WALKING AROUND.
 
January 30, 2007  The girls are doing well and will be going to have sutures removed this week.  Lucy is the top dog and Ethel is the follower. 
 
UPDATE: FEB. 2, 2007
Lucy ( little one ) is scheduled for another surgery in 2 weeks.  She now has another hernia.

Perineal hernia - 

  • A perineal hernia is a condition that occurs in both dogs and cats in which there is an abnormal displacement of pelvic and/or abdominal organs (small intestine, rectum, prostate, bladder, or fat) into the region around the anus called the perineum.
  • This condition occurs secondary to a weakening of the muscles, which form the pelvic diaphragm.
  • Signs of this problem include straining to urinate or have bowel movements, constipation, and swelling around the anal region.

    Poor little Lucy ( 2 pounds ) did so very well on her first few operations.  We think she will be just fine again.  Both Lucy and Ethel are going to the vet clinic because they can not be without each other. Surgery is in 2 weeks.

 

UPDATE: Lucy had her second surgery on 2-16-07 .  Lucy had 2 more hernias removed ( reduced ).  She is doing great and eating very well.  Her sutures will be removed in another week.

Lucy is doing well after her extensive surgery.
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Lucy is a 2 pound Chihuahua
Ethel was spayed and had a dental.
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She has no teeth left in her little mouth.
Just one hour after surgery
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This little girl is up and walking around looking for her sister Ethel

UPDATE: JANUARY 16, 2007 :  THESE 2 LITTLE LADIES HAVE BEEN EATING WELL AND GETTING STRONGER FOR THE PAST FEW WEEKS.  THEY ARE GOING IN FOR SURGERY THRUSDAY NIGHT 1-18-07.  THEY WILL RECEIVE PRE-OP BLOOD TESTING AND OVER ALL EVALUATION.  THEY ARE HAVING SURGERY FRIDAY MORNING 1-19-07 AT AVON LAKE ANIMAL CLINIC 124 MILLER ROAD AVON LAKE, OH 44012.   
 

TWO  SENIOR CHIHUAHUAS SEEKING SHELTER IN A HOLLOW  TREE.
 
2 Chihuahuas were found by a cat in the base of a hollow tree in Lorain.  The owner of the cat went to see what the cat was doing in the base of the old tree.  She found 2 little, starving, cold dogs looking back at her.  She took them to the  Lorain County Dog Pound on December 21.  Because the pound was closed for several days at Christmas the little dogs spent 9 days in a cold cage and all they had was each other.  We were contacted by a fellow rescue person who had been to the pound and saw them.  They were available for adoption December 29, 2006 at 10:00 AM.  No one called the pound looking for these 2 little girls.  No one placed a "lost dog" notice in any paper that we know of.  The smallest of the two weighs 2 1/2 pounds and the other one weighs 5.0 pounds.  They are both at the Avon Lake Animal Clinic tonight safe, warm and being treated for fleas and worms.  The little dog which we have no name for at this time has an abdominal hernia the size of a giant grape on her side and a breast mass.  Both dogs have about 3 or 4 remaining teeth and they may need to be removed when they have dental work done.  Both dogs are also in need of spay to prevent complication as they grow older.  The are about 12 to 15 YEARS OLD. 
 
It seems the Chihuahuas have been on their own for awhile now.  They are under weight and need some good food and love.  We are guessing they will be strong enough  to have surgery next few weeks.  If we had a normal winter this year they would not have survived out side for more then a few hours.  How did they know to seek shelter in an old tree? 
 
We take several special needs dogs here at Saint Francis Animal Sanctuary and we seldom turn away the sick, senior and injured dogs.  Please consider a donation and help us give these many fine dogs a second chance in life.  Please help with the medical cost of these two lucky Chihuahuas!
 
December 30th. 2006  The girls are home tonight and eating like crazy!  They are great little girls. 

We need help to cover the  medical cost of these two little Chihuahuas.  You may also send a donation to: Avon Lake Animal Clinic 124 Miller Road  Avon Lake, OH 44012. c/o Saint Francis al Sanctuary Inc. We are 501 (c)3  and your donation is tax  deductible.

Link to Chronicle Telegram News Paper CLICK HERE

Please check out 2 of our new dogs under"available dogs".   Shadow and Wags.  Both are special needs and have 3 legs each. They came to us the night before Christmas Eve.

Wags is missing his rear left leg
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Shadow is missing his front right leg.
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MERLIN IS GETTING HIS WHEELS !  SUNDAY DECEMBER 3, 2006
PLEASE CHECK BACK TO SEE PHOTOS!!!

Merlin's little legs go every where when he walks
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He can get up and start to walk but falls after one or two steps.
Merlin can get to a standing position then falls
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We want to get him a wheel chair so he can run and play like all 5 month old puppies should!

MERLIN NEEDS A DOGGIE WHEEL CHAIR!

Merlin is a 5 month old hound that came from Virginia in a special rescue transport.  He was born as all the puppies in the litter were.  But soon the rescue group that saved the hound dog mother noticed this one little pup was not up and walking like the others that were the same age.  He love to eat and kisses all over your face!  Soon the others were running and playing but Merlin sat and watched.  When he did try to walk he would go from side to side like a new born colt walking for the first time. Merlin spent much of his time with his mother sitting in a kennel and they watched all Merlin's brothers and sisters find forever homes.  Merlin was never picked to go to a new home.  When Merlin saw children coming to pick out a puppy he would try to stand and try to run and play as if to say " look at me - look at me"  but in the end Merlin went back and found a warm spot to curl up next to his mother.  Merlin has what we think  is something like cerebral palsy in a human.  His mind is 100% with it and his body is not!  This baby would walk around the world if all it took was effort. He wants to walk and run so much it would make you cry to see him try.  WE ARE TRYING TO GET ENOUGH DONATIONS SAVED TO GET A " DOGGIE WHEEL CHAIR " FOR MERLIN!   YES THEY HAVE THEM AND WE FEEL HE IS A GOOD CANDIDATE.  PLEASE GO TO THE WEB SITE TO SEE THE PHOTOS OF THE WHEEL CHAIR WE WOULD LIKE TO GIVE THIS BABY AND LET HIM KNOW WHAT IT IS LIKE TO RUN AND PLAY FOR ONCE.  WHEN ALL THE OTHER RESCUES SAID " PUT HIM DOWN"  "HE'LL NEVER WALK"  WE SAID " SEND HIM - WE ALREADY LOVE HIM!   Merlin is up for adoption but must have a very special person to help him live out his life with a disability.

WE ARE USING A HARNESS TO HELP MERLIN WALK
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THIS DEVICE WILL HELP STRENGTHEN HIS LIMBS SO HE WILL BE ABLE TO WALK IN HIS NEW WHEEL CHAIR SOON.
THIS IS A QUAD CHAIR TO GIVE A DOG MOBILITY
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WE NEED TO MAKE ADJUSTMENTS AND GET A NEW HARNESS FROM THE COMPANY
MERLINS GETTING PUT IN HIS NEW WHEEL CHAIR
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HE IS NOT SURE ABOUT WHAT IS GOING ON!!!!

MERLIN'S WHEEL CHAIR NEEDS SOME ADJUSTMENTS
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THE WHEELS HAD TO BE LOWER AND MERLIN REALLY HAS NO IDEA WHAT HE IS IN FOR!

MERLIN WILL BE GOING ALL OVER THE PLACE BY NEXT SPRING WHEN HE GETS HIS WHEEL CHAIR FIGURED OUT!  HIS LEGS DON'T EXACTLY TOUCH THE GOUND YET BUT BY SPRING HE WILL BE LARGER AND HIS NEW HARNESS WILL BE HERE!

THIS WHEEL CHAIR WAS DONATED BY THE PELLITTI'S
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THEY LIVE IN AMHERST OHIO ABOUT 10 MILES AWAY AND HAPPEN TO SEE OUR WEB SITE ONE DAY! THANK YOU !

 
Merlin is just  a pup.  He is only about 8 months old.  The new wheel chair that was so kindly donated by the Pellittieri's from Amherst is a little big.  They had it custom made for their own dog who never used it.  Their dog is doing fine now.   We are contacting the company ( DOGGON WHEELS  -BOZEMAN MT )  to purchase the correct fitting harness for him.  The cost of this new chair WHICH WAS DONATED  was $810.00 /  this  was more then we originally thought it would be.  THANK YOU !  AND THANK YOU TO ALL WHO DONATED MONEY FOR MERLINS WHEEL CHAIR .   WE ARE GOING TO  USE THE MONEY THAT WAS DONATED  TO PURCHASE THE HARNESS AND STRAPS SO MERLIN WILL FIT INTO HIS NEW CHAIR.

PATCHES - LOST HER EYE AND THEN LOST ALL 8  OF HER PUPPIES! PATCHES IS UP FOR ADOPTION. THIS IS ONE OF THE BEST DOGS WE HAVE HERE.
SHE WOULD MAKE A WONDERFUL THERAPY DOG VISITING NURSING HOMES AND HOSPITALS.  HER DISPOSITION IS THE BEST!

Patches is missing her right eye.
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Patches is about 4 years old.  She came to us in a rescue transport after we were told she was " SHOT IN THE EYE" .  Patches came from a dog pound in southern Ohio near the Kentucky line.  When she arrived at Saint Francis Animal Sanctuary she was full of kisses and very lovable.  Yes she was missing her right eye but we feel it was not  "SHOT OUT " .  What ever the trauma was that caused her to loose the  entire eye out of the socket must have been very painful and just an awful experience for this little girl. 
She had flies all around her face where the eye had been and now just a hollow opening remained.  The plan was to clean out the eye socket, remove the lids and suture the eye socket closed completely. When Patches was put to sleep to have her eye closed she would also be spayed.  She was sedated and while in the process of making the incision to spay her the vet realized she was pregnant with 8 babies.  I was told the babies died from the anesthesia she received. They were removed, all 8 of them, slightly larger then golf balls.  We are very sad by this unfortunate mishap.  We are a NO KILL  sanctuary and that means even the unborn.  This poor dog lost her eye in a traumatic event.  She lost all her unborn babies.  Patches needs to find a home where she can be loved and she can put the awful things behind her that life has thrown her way.  If you would like to make a donation towards Patches medical care please send to : Avon Lake Animal Clinic 124 Miller Rd. Avon Lake OH 44012 C/O Patches.
If you would like information on adopting Patches please call 440-897-2662

 
 
PATCHES WOULD BE A PERFECT THERAPY DOG!
 
ALL OF THE STAFF THAT WORKED WITH PATCHES AT THE VET CLINIC MADE COMMENTS LIKE "WONDERFUL DOG"  AND "SUCH A GOOD DOG" THEY FELL IN LOVE WITH HER AND YOU WILL TOO!
 
Patches is our "THERAPY"  dog around here.  She walks out with each dog and plays with them all. She learned her name and listens better then other dogs that have been here for years!  THIS DOG WOULD MAKE A WONDERFUL THERAPY DOG FOR NURSING HOMES AND HOSPITALS - PLEASE PASS THIS INFORMATION ON TO ANYONE YOU MAY KNOW WHO IS LOOKING FOR A DOG THAT THEY MAY USE AS A THERAPY DOG.  PLEASE GIVE PATCHES A CHANCE. !

Patches is not blind - she is missing her right eye. Please see this web site for dogs who may have visual impairments. XXXclick hereXXX

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Patches is resting well after her surgery
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The lids were removed and her right eye was closed she is resting well and waiting for a loving home

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Ug only weighs 13 pounds
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Ug is missing 50% of his hair due to fleas

THE STORY OF A DOG NAMED   UGLY

He is full of hugs and kisses
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Ug loves to be held and talked to.

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Ugly has won NOVEMBER 2006 "UGLY DOG CONTEST"  This site has ugly dogs from all over the United States!  We are so proud of our Ugly! Remember : UGLY IS IN THE EYES OF THE BEHOLDER!
Be sure to visit the Worlds Ugliest Dog Contest and see Ugly!
 

THE GRANDADDY OF ALL UGLY DOG CONTESTS! xxxxCLICK HERExxxxxx TO GO TO THE UGLY DOG CONTEST WEB SITE AND SEE OUR UGLY!

CLICK xxx HERE xxx TO SEE A VIEDO OF THE "WORLD'S UGLIEST DOG CONTEST" HELD AT THE SONOMA-MARIN COUNTY FAIR IN PETALUMA CALF.

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UG WON FIRST PLACE AT THE OBERLIN DOGGIE DOO ON SEPTEMBER 23, 2006
" MOST UNUSUAL LOOKING  DOG"   WAY TO GO UG - WE LOVE YOU!!

 
Ug came into rescue 8-3-06.  His owner was placed in a nursing care facility and when the estranged daughter went into his home this is what she found. The owner named this poor dog "Ugly" Ug for short. The sad part is after years of being called Ugly - he knows his name.  We were told Ug probably  suffered years of abuse and neglect at the hands of his owner. He was so flea infested he could not even grow hair on parts of his body.  He has anemia and a bacterial infection on his body and in his ears.  Ug went to the vet  just prior to coming to Saint Francis Animal Sanctuary and is now on antibiotics and has anti-fungal shampoo for baths.  He has antibiotic eye ointment and ear medication for a fungus infection. Ug had blood work and done along with a heart worm check which is NEG.  Ug even had the pressure checked in his eyes and it was found to be normal. Ug is blind but he sure can hear! We are going to treat the bacterial skin infection and then assess the situation in his mouth.  The bottom of poor Ug's lip seems to be missing and he drools as the tip of his tongue sticks out.  We were told he may have been kicked in the face. Ug has a heart mummer and arthritis.   Almost all of Ug's teeth are rotten and when the vet thinks he is physically ready to have a dental done he will be scheduled.  The e-mail requesting us to take Ug was a desperate plea from a concerned family member who said she didn't want to put him to sleep if he could find some peace and happiness after all the years of abuse he endured. Well, Ug is in his new retirement home and he is the most  lovable and good natured dog in the world!  Ug will have a home with us for ever but he is up for adoption if you have it your heart to help this wonderful and  loving  dog out.  If you can not adopt a dog like this with special needs please consider making a donation for the extensive dental work he is going to need in the next few weeks.  Please send donations to :
Avon Lake Animal Clinic c/o Ug.  124 Miller Rd. Avon Lake,OH 44012 Thank you

          CHIHUAHUA FOUND IN BIRD CAGE   
                           Left to die in the woods                           
UPDATE:  AUGUST 2010   TWEETY IS ALIVE AND DOING FINE.  HE STILL LIVES UNDER THE SAME BLANKET HE HAS HAD FOR 4 YEARS.  EATING WELL AND GOING OUTSIDE NOW AND THEN.  

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July 18, 2006
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Tweetie Pie enjoys a time out after playing with Isabell another 4 pound Chihuahua

Chihuahua found in bird cage: UPDATE APRIL 20,  2006
     As many of you may have seen on the news in he past weeks this little guy is now with us and his story is posted below. 

Found in a bird cage
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Left in the woods to die

Notes: Found in a bird cage and left in the woods to die. This 3 1/2 pound Chihuahua was discovered in some woods located in Lorain County a few weeks ago. A person that wishes to remain anonymous said they were going to feed some deer and found this little guy crying with his last breaths of life - crying for help. He was freezing to death , starving and dehydrated. We may never know who did this inhumane and awful thing to such an innocent life. He was taken to a local vet to be euthanized . The vet felt he was a little fighter and felt he could save him. Due to his complicated medical condition and diagnosis of congestive heart failure he is still fighting and getting much better. He was adopted to a wonderful couple but due to his need for complex medical care he is now with us at Saint Francis Animal Sanctuary. He is a little fighter and we feel he can have a good chance at a normal life like all senior Chihuahuas deserve. We need some donations to help at this point! If anyone can help please send donations to : Avon Lake Animal Clinic C/O Chihuahua - Found in woods. 124 Miller Rd. Avon Lake, OH 44012 or call 440-933-5297 for a credit card donation. We are a private sanctuary and pay for everything ourselves, every once in a while we have to ask for help. Thanks to people like you we are able to continue to save the helpless and abused animals we care for. Thank you. We are searching for an appropriate name for this little guy so if you have any ideas please e-mail us and tell us what you think. mparke11@aol.com

UPDATE: March 24,2006

This little Chi has an oral nasal fistula and pneumonia. The site of this opening is where he had a tooth pulled ( or fell out ).    He is back home from the vet and on breathing medication & antibiotics.  He loves to be held almost non stop!  We are doing what we can.

UPDATE: April 20,2006

Tweetie had his surgery to repair the hole in his mouth that went into his sinus cavity.  Then as luck would have it, he somehow managed to open the surgical incision up again and had to have another repair done today 5 days after the first repair.  He is going great!  We are not seeing any coughing when he eats or drinks fluids now.  He was also neutered while he was asleep for the oral surgery.  This little guy is going great and runs and plays with the other larger Chihuahuas.  He loves to eat and pulls his blanket up over his head when he naps.  He has come a long way from the BIRD CAGE!

Tweetie Pie is a little shy !
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Running all over the place!
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Tweetie is waiting for surgery to correct his oral / nasal fistula.

May 1, 2006  Thank you to all that suggested names for this little one.  His name is "Tweetie Pie" .  Tweetie Pie will soon be up for adoption if you would like to be put on the list please fill out the application and email it back to us.  This little guy is 4 pounds of pure energy.  He want to be held and loved on all the time.  Loves to eat! Loves to go for walks and see what the heck is going on in this big world. 
 
UPDATE:  JUNE 5, 2006.  TWEETIE PIE HAS BEEN THROUGH A LOT FOR SUCH A LITTLE GUY.  WE HAD HIM TO THE VET AND x- rays show HE HAS A COLLAPSED TRACHEA. THIS IS MOST PROBABLY THE CAUSE OF THE COUGHING.  HE IS OBVIOUSLY GETTING ENOUGH  OXYGEN TO SURVIVE BUT THE AREA THAT IS COLLAPSED IS LOCATED IN THE WORST PLACE POSSIBLE.  SURGERY IS PROBABLY NOT AN OPTION FOR THIS LITTLE ANGLE.  THIS POOR BOY WAS FOUND IN THE MIDDLE OF THE WINTER, STUFFED INTO A BIRD CAGE AND LEFT IN THE WOODS TO DIE A HORRIBLE DEATH OF STARVATION, DEHYDRATION AND FREEZING TO DEATH.  WHAT AN ORDEAL FOR A 4 POUND LITTLE GUY!  WE MAY ATTEMPT BREATHING MEDICATION AT SOME POINT.  RIGHT NOW HE HAS MADE FRIENDS WITH ISABELLE ANOTHER 4 POUND CHIHUAHUA AND THEY PLAY TOGETHER!  Tweetie will remain with us at Saint Francis Animal Sanctuary and receive any and all medical care needed to make his life comfortable.  If you would like to donate money for Tweetie's on going medical care, please send donations to :  Avon Lake Animal Clinic C/O Chihuahua - Found in woods. 124 Miller Rd. Avon Lake, OH 44012 or call 440-933-5297 for a credit card donation.   We thank you
 
UPDATE: JULY 14, 2006  TWEETIE IS DOING VERY WELL AND HAS ADJUSTED TO HIS NEW WAY OF LIFE. 
 
Jan30,2007 UPDATE:  Tweetie Pie is still with us and doing very well. He loves to eat and hide under his covers.  He still have some breathing problems and we know this will be a problem for the rest of his life. He is happy and well adjusted.  Thank you to all who have asked about him.

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XXXX CLICK HERE FOR HANDICAPPED PETS INFORMATIONXXXXXXXX

If you would like a "RESCUE" car magnet
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Please send $5.00 to Saint Francis Animal Sanctuary Inc. 12516 Cherry Rd. Vermilion OH 44089

We always accept donations of paper towels,  blankets and pet supplies.