A dog was brought to the Humane Society of Macomb Animal Clinic on September 17 by a good Samaritan who found her wandering the streets.
The dog, estimated at 12 years of age, was so severely matted it was impossible to determine what breed she was.
The dog was immediately examined by a staff doctor, who discovered the dog’s problems went far beyond the matting.
Her left eye protruded significantly and was very cloudy. She also had several breast tumors, as well as a mass on her back. Severe dental disease added to the dog’s list of ailments, and it was clear she was going to need an extraordinary amount of medical care.
The dog, whom the shelter staff named Pookie, was also intact, which likely led to the formation of the breast tumors.
The doctor ordered bloodwork and x-rays for Pookie, all of which came back relatively normal. Eye tests indicated Pookie had glaucoma. Because glaucoma can be extremely painful, Pookie was placed on a pain medication and an anti-inflammatory medication. She also received antibiotics to treat infection in her mouth.
Pookie was scheduled for several surgeries in the Humane Society of Macomb Animal Clinic. Due to the condition of her left eye, it was decided the eye should be removed. Dogs tend to do very well with only one eye, so her prognosis for recovery was very good.
While awaiting surgery, Pookie was treated to a thorough grooming. After nearly an hour of clipping, Pookie could finally be identified as a Shih Tzu. Pookie was very thin, and shelter employees worked hard to help her gain weight. The first surgery was performed on October 11, during which Pookie’s left eye was removed, as well as the mass on her back. Pookie’s eye was sent off for biopsy, and the results indicated that the glaucoma was caused by a type of cancer called melanom
a
After spending a week recovering, Pookie had her second surgery on October 18. The doctor removed the breast tumors and spayed her. Pookie was then returned to the shelter to rest before her next procedure.
Pookie will soon have a dental performed, during which she will have several teeth extracted and the remaining teeth cleaned and polished.
Almost immediately after each procedure, Pookie returned to her perky self, and showed the shelter and clinic staff that she was ready to take on whatever came her way. Her strength has been an inspiration to staff. Missing one eye hasn’t slowed her down, and she can spot a treat from a mile away.
Pookie has made a remarkable recovery. She is goofy, sweet and loves to snuggle. She is sure to make a great addition to any home. Come visit Pookie and the other adoptable animals today at the Humane Society of Macomb Animal Shelter!