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| Health Update March 2024 Brett came to Glen Highland in December when other rescuers felt he was unadoptable due to his medical condition. As the only Senior Sanctuary for Border Collies, we accepted him as a Resident and then went to work to improve his health. They had made great strides to save him from near death and his horrible life but he deserved more help and happiness. The Border Collie now in our care has blossomed beautifully and is step by step transformed into a happier guy. We have health concerns to monitor and manage but overall, we couldn’t be more pleased about his progress. He is a VERY different Border Collie now! While Brett is clearly stronger than before, he is weaker than a normal 10 year old Border Collie, with more lethargy due to poor health and severe pain. Our diagnostics of radiographs and an echocardiogram led to the discovery that he has degenerative heart valve disease, pulmonary hypertension and/or chronic bronchitis. His heart and lungs are definitely damaged and he requires careful monitoring. Plus, Brett’s orthopedic evaluation explained the difficulties we have seen in his mobility. He looks like an ancient Border Collie when he gets up and down though thankfully once up, can trot pretty well until he can’t support his weight and sinks to the ground. Orthopedic specialist, Dr Bookbinder found that Brett has SEVERE bilateral hip dysplasia with the left joint so awful it is likely from a trauma - hit by a car. He also has a chronic collapsed disc space in the middle of his spine making his back pain very significant. Brett is at risk of a spinal episode and paralysis due to the disc issue and that he is heavy weighted long-bodied at almost 60 pounds. We understand this can happen at any time with the simplest movement. The news for Brett is deeply sad and rather maddening since it was the neglect that caused what we are seeing now. The joy we can rest in, however, is his happiness NOW, no matter what.
Brett just loves his new life… he enjoys the company of all his new BC pals. He will join in their antics when outside, happy to be a Border Collie. And of course, he loves his tennis ball and recently decided he loves the plush squeaky toys! Brett is a major cuddler, and is always checking in with you all the time and he will lay happily at your feet for hours. |
The Rutherfords and GH Alums, Lewis & Minna, so other dogs can have a life like they have! With love from Vicki Buono & GHF alum Cookie (in spirit) Our continued love & support - Cathy & Steve Bouck, Ziggy and GH alum Lincoln Positive health prayers for you. In loving memory of Cooper and our former loving boys! - Sandy & Mike Fazio In memory of GH Alums Doc & Rosie - Pete & Renate Goodloe & GH alum Gypsy From Gregg, Jodi, Mia, Charlie, Zorro and Apollo celebrating Charlie's 1-year anniversary as a member of the "Ruff" pack.
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Brett is in a comfy home at Glen Highland, hanging with other rescues and having great food and great fun…of course a lot of love. He has been thriving and gaining strength. Brett’s expression is softening and he is asking for lots of time to cuddle which is pretty challenging considering he is a whopping 57 pound dog! But, Brett doesn’t care…make a little room for him and he’ll nestle right in that spot. This sweet guy previously had a nasty life, living in a pen 24/7 in Louisiana. We’re told he escaped often which is likely since his teeth were clearly not worn down from playing ball. Then he was on a chain to stop the escape which apparently didn’t stop him from getting out. But then, life on the road meant he was hit by a car, supposedly two years ago. The Brett that local rescuers found was dying - he could not even lift his head, so weak and malnourished…even the local vet agreed so he was not returned to the owner who came to claim him. Instead, he was threatened with cruelty and Brett finally had his freedom.
A heartfelt thanks to Amy Leigh and Elaine Kilgore who contacted us to help Brett.
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STARTING A NEW LIFE…
