Ricky the Min Pin
Easy going and enjoying life!
Ricky came into Old Dog Haven care after his former owner went into assisted living. Although he had an interim caretaker she was unable to keep him permanently.
Ricky arrived at his ODH Final Refuge home underweight with insulin dependent diabetes and a diagnosis of Cushings disease. He also had GI issues and very low intermittent blood sugars. On occasion his blood sugar would drop so low that he experienced seizures. Thankfully the Maranda Fund was used to pay for multiple visits to a veterinary specialist, and it turns out that Ricky does NOT have Cushings disease, which is a relief.
Although it took several months and trials of multiple types of insulin things did turn around for Ricky. His life has improved significantly and he is now a happy-go-lucky dog. He has been seizure free with a special canned food, a probiotic canine dietary supplement, and a stable insulin regimen. Ricky is on a strict diet for his diabetes, so the only treats he gets are bully sticks, which he loves.
Ricky is an easy-going fellow who gets along well with the humans and other dogs in the house. His favorite thing is sleeping under a throw on the couch though when he awakens he bounds about the yard like a gazelle chasing the chippies and squirrels (fortunately they are faster than he is and much better at finding cover). He can be a bit yappy and barks at the birds, bees, dragonflies and tumbling tree leaves. He tires easily though, and quickly returns to his undercover position on the couch – something his people appreciate. Ricky proudly carries stuffed toys about the house, especially the stuffed heart that is his fave.
There were times when Ricky was doing so poorly his people wondered if he would make it. But because of the excellent care he was able to receive due to the Maranda Fund–and his stubborn ODH family who wouldn’t give up on him–Ricky is stable and enjoying his life.
Many thanks to you generous souls who provide financial support for the Maranda Fund and make stories like Ricky’s possible!
Update: After 3 1/2 years, Ricky’s family had to say goodbye. Amazing that he was able to have stay for that long given his diabetes and the challenges of managing it. Clearly he LOVDED his family and they did everything to keep him stabilized and enjoying life. This wonderful fellow will be greatly missed.
With his favorite toy!
RIcky wrapped up when he had his glucose monitor so it would not fall off.
