Arrived into Rescue in 2018 at age 8

RESIDENT DOUGIE is now 11, in rescue for two years due to his guardians returning to Australia. Glen Highland was the only place to support his complex medical needs. Dougie has a combination of challenges - born without hip sockets so he endures constant pain which has worsened with aging and arthritis, as nature created solutions to this oddity. He is also prone to ACL tears as his back legs turn in strange directions as he walks and runs. We’ve already tackled one TLPO to fix the back right leg and now are considering the left back leg since he is ‘toe-touching’. Regardless of his body pains, Dougie is full of energy as if nothing hurts, but we are hyper-vigilant about his exercise levels.

Dougie also has another medical challenge with extremely low blood sugar levels. We give five meals spread over the day to maintain his glucose level or he could have a seizure. His blood levels are checked every six months. Fatigue, heat or over exercising can add to a dip in glucose and Dougie is then wobbly and delirious. Plus he has renal disease so a special kidney diet is required to support him. His kidney levels are regularly evaluated.

Such a fragile physical state is no reflection on Dougie’s mental or emotional state - he is a full Border Collie through and through, ready to go, go go! Thankfully, he accepts this 24/7 supervision well and has been responding to all the supportive care we are offering.

Linda Whitman, Skye & GHF alums, Anney & Connell

Kathy & John Bagnudo, in honor of Jack

Dougie needs 1 more angel!