A dog walked into a bar..... well, that's the way the joke starts, but the situation this poor Boston Terrier found himself in was certainly anything but funny. He was skinny, dirty, dehydrated and hungry. Around his neck was a deep open bleeding sore – had he been tied up somewhere and forgotten, painfully working his way free of his collar, only to find himself on the streets scared and alone? Unfortunately, a thorough vet check revealed that "Wendel" had a number of more serious medical issues. He suffers from a heart condition, mitral valve disease, which makes putting him under anesthetic very risky. Although he did need to be neutered, the most immediate problem was his teeth – he was in desperate need of dental work, with several of his teeth cracked, broken off and badly infected. It is a wonder that this gentle senior was as loving as he was, with the pain he must have been suffering from the horrible condition of his mouth.

Through the recommendation of a cardiologist, Wendel started a treatment of 2 daily heart medications, helping his heart to work more efficiently and increasing the odds for a successful surgery. Ultimately it was a risk but he simply couldn't continue to live with his teeth in the condition that they were. With the entire BTCC Rescue group pulling for him, he came through the procedures with flying colours. The change in him was immediate and remarkable - it must have been such a relief to finally be free of pain - and although he has only a few teeth remaining, his appetite has returned with a vengeance and he's not one to turn down a meal or a biscuit!

Because of ongoing health concerns, Wendel will remain in the care of BTCC Rescue. He must continue to take his heart medication twice daily for the rest of his life. The combination of drugs is very effective, but does not come cheaply. As well, he suffers from "borderline" dry eye and his eyes must be tested on a regular basis and may eventually need daily drops. He also has a small tumour on his tail. (Because it is the type that is slow growing, seldom metastasizes, and tends to recur after removal, there are no immediate plans to remove it.)

Given all he has been through, Wendel is a happy, loving senior who, after a short burst of energy and playtime, loves to cuddle on the couch with his foster mom. Wendel would like to thank Harbourview Veterinary Hospital in Collingwood, Ontario for their care, and he also sends a HUGE thank you to everyone whose support of BTCC Rescue allows him to enjoy his senior years safe, warm, with a full belly and free of pain.

 Kelly Pankatz
 Ontario BTCC Rescue Representative

Kelly Pankatz
BTCC Rescue

Donations to the BTCC Rescue Program can be made by mailing a donation to:

BTCC Treasurer
Marlene Allott
525 Nootka Street
Comox, BC
V9M 2L8

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