Rocky Bullboa came into us as a shelter transfer. He'd arrived to them absolutely inundated with fleas, emaciated (body condition score 1/9), flaky/patchy skin with fur missing in multiple spots on bony areas, and gums that were not a normal pink. We picked up shortly after his stray hold was up and found a gentle spirit in a starved body. His condition indicated Rocky hadn't had regular or good nutrition in a long period of time.
He headed out of the shelter on the wobbliest of legs, needing to stop and rest on the trip to the car. Rocky's fosters could already see the spark in his eyes though--this beautiful boy appeared so grateful for the gentle pets and kind voices now in his life.
Rocky visited the vet ASAP where bloodwork was our top priority. As expected, his hemoglobin/hematocrit (red cells) were exceptionally low indicating his fleas were nothing new to his life. He was given Drontal to ensure no wiggly worms of any sort were living in his GI system and causing further blood loss. We were excited to learn his thyroid panel, chemistry, and electrolytes were all ok. His heartworm test was negative. Xrays were obtained showing a pneumonia (with a cough, gooey eyes and a runny nose, no one was suprised) and will be rechecked along with a CBC at his two-week follow up. His care staff gave him a serious ear clean and pulled out so much ick--but no infection! We don't think he'll end up having a tail pocket but, until he gets back up to his "fighting weight," we can't be certain.
Rocky's enjoying a slow and steady weight-gain program including some puppy food, Honest Kitchen, and bone broth--all of the yummy things to help a boy grow up to be big and strong!
Rocky Bullboa is potty trained, is figuring out how to walk well on leash, how to play, and all about the comforts you find in a loving home. He's had quite a few baths in the first two weeks to help soothe his skin and get rid of the overwhelming sour smell he had. Rocky has done well with people of all ages, seems indifferent to cats, and seems to enjoy his English and Frenchie fur foster sibs.
Rocky does not have a current estimated available for adoption date. We need to get his bloodwork up to a healthy level before we (or any vet) could consider an anesthetic for a neuter. All of his vaccinations are also on hold until he's shown himself to be a bit more healthy at the vet.
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