Hi- finally, here is an update on Mr Obie. When he came to us we had him tested for heartworm and it was lightly positive. So, positive is positive and we treated him for heartworms. That took about a month. Heartworms are not uncommon to have in dogs coming from the South and if you keep reading this blog you'll read about many others who I've fostered through treatment over the years. So, Obie is done with treatment and now just needs to stay on a monthly preventative (like Heartgard) for at least 24 months. After the 24 months you could decide just to give the preventative during the warmer months, it's up to you.
When we had the testing done I also had the vet look at his right rear ankle and test his urine. His rear ankle hyperextends (think...double jointed) according to her and there's nothing that needs to be done for it. It's a little noticeable when he walks and looks just like he's got extra flexion when he steps. It doesn't affect him at all and he runs, plays and walks just like all the others. We tested his urine and the vet said there were some crystals in there and put him on 2 weeks of meds. We then retested and all is clear.
He is great with my dogs, loves all the people he has met and sleeps through the night without a peep. He has not been afraid of the storms or fireworks.
He is not fully housebroken although I do feel like things are getting better. I started using a belly band on him and that was able to catch any accidents before they happened. I feel like the last week has been better and now maybe that his treatment is over and he's understanding the household routines he's understanding. I did have the vet check his kidneys and everything was good there so there's no physical reason he can't hold it and he does hold it all night which also tells me it's possible.
There are a few videos attached. If you have any questions please contact the rescue!
I've added a video of him walking. The video is crooked but you can get the idea. He's got a little extra flex in his right rear ankle. Not much but it's there.
Thanks for reading and thanks for thinking rescue!
Obie Update Video
Obie giving kisses
Obie walking
I am having trouble uploading photos right now so these couple videos will have to do. The videos are great because they really let you see Obie in action!