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We knew Patches would be a complex Resident since she has diabetes AND pancreatic enzyme disorder (EPI) which means regulating her body is hard and requires constant monitoring. Since arrival in January, we have done weekly vet consultations and blood glucose curves, among many other things in order to determine the proper insulin level. In May, we were finally on more solid ground until June, when her liver values rose and protein in her urine appeared, rising… bad signs to see. Heading off to a specialist for those problems, one of her eye lens ruptured in the left eye during that visit due to the diabetes. GOOD NEWS - rushing her to cataract surgery handled the bad eye and gave her a GREAT eye that works perfectly, so we wanted to share some HAPPY PICTURES OF PATCHES NOW…. WITH HER EYE LITERALLY ON THE BALL!!!
She has exploded into a toy maniac beyond what she was already with only using her sense of smell. This lovely sweet girl is now a dynamic, controlling female Border Collie! WHO SAYS YOU NEED TWO EYES! ONE IS JUST FINE! |
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UPDATE June 2025: PATCHES, our problematic diabetic, EPI girl has revealed new problems with high liver values and protein in her urine - neither a good situation. While heading to the specialist in Richmond, an acute eye problem surfaced with a ruptured capsule causing painful high pressure in her left eye. Literally driving from one vet location to a different one, we had to put ophthalmology top of the list and worry about the other problems later.
She underwent cataract surgery on her right eye and fingers crossed, hope her recovery is smooth. So, now Patches CAN SEE for the first time since she’s been in rescue! Lots of medicines on board for both eyes and soon we will tackle medicines for her liver and protein issues! Patches is another GEM... just the kindest, most outgoing girl who now can SEE rather than bump into things!
UPDATE April 2025: We are happy to report that PATCHES is doing much better! It’s been three long months of monitoring every detail of her health including drawing blood for weekly glucose curves and tracking urination daily for glucose but finally her insulin levels are going the right direction. We’ve gone through FIVE insulin adjustments to date. Throughout all this commotion, Patches has been a superstar, truly one of the nicest, most outgoing Border Collies EVER…not one bit of push-back and all joy, joy, joy! She is clearly feeling great now! And so are we! Fingers and paws crossed for this girl to stay stable…she has a rough combination of diseases. One day, we hope soon, we can tackle her eyesight and give that back to her! PATCHES' HISTORY A 9 year old Border Collie, Patches is a sweetheart through and through. This joyful girl loves everyone she meets and is up for any activity! Patches will invent all kinds of games with toys or sticks or anything else she finds! A totally tuned-in, smart and adorable Border Collie, no one would ever guess she has medical challenges. Diabetes and EPI often occur together when the pancreas is not functioning properly. Diabetes often leads to cataracts which Patches now has resulting in limited sight. If all goes as we expect, Patches will undergo cataract surgery. She is a great candidate for the operation. Then, three to four months post surgery, it will be clear if her eyesight permanently returns to normal. Sadly, Patches original guardian did not have the means to handle her care. A Border Collie lover, Natalie Shipley, stepped in and took Patches in August 2024. Patches went from a mere 20 pounds to about 35 pounds and of course, a much happier dog. Due to the activity level of toddlers in the home, it was best for Patches to make a move to rescue. Patches came to Glen Highland from Tennessee.
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Gregg, Jodi and GH Senior Sanctuary Alums Mia, Charlie, Zorro and Apollo: In memory of Dexter, our first GH Senior Sanctuary rescue who started us on this incredible journey. In loving memory of Dudley, Nell & Snidely & the current pack of Reagan & GH alum, Jack - Sue & Bob Strange In memory of GH alum Finn Give Patches a good head rub and a kiss from us. We talk about her often - Natalie Damico and family Sending love, hugs and continued support to Patches, in memory of GH alums Mika & Cassy Denise Hocking
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Ironically, Patches was due for cataract surgery in a week but instead rushed in to insure the other eye had the best chance at successful results. 
