TK

Last December, we were contacted about a tiny 13-year-old poodle mix named TK, who found himself alone at a shelter suffering from some serious medical issues. He had terrible teeth, a wheezing cough, and a worrisome grade 4 heart murmur. He exhibited all the classic signs of heart trouble, and we knew we had to get him help right away.  Thankfully, a wonderful foster family with experience caring for dogs with heart issues stepped forward to give TK the second chance and home he urgently needed.

His initial appointment with the cardiologist showed that his heart was enlarged and he was diagnosed with congestive heart failure. He was put on medication to manage his heart disease and would be closely monitored by his vet team. Everyone was a bit surprised that once he got the care he needed, he acted more like an energetic puppy than an old dog! His foster family delighted in watching him bounce around the room, playing with his favorite toys as if every day was the best day ever! TK became fast friends with the resident dogs, and really bonded with Angel, considering himself her bodyguard and fierce protector. You will often find them barking in unison, going for walks, or snuggling together on a soft, cozy bed.

One day last month, TK’s foster mom noticed his breathing had become very fast, and he couldn’t stop coughing. She sensed his condition was worsening and rushed him to the emergency vet, where he was admitted for an overnight stay and placed in an oxygen tank. They realized how serious his situation was and, after much discussion, decided that if TK wasn’t able to recover within 24 hours, they might have to consider letting him go.

Luckily, the amazing vet team did everything they could to ease the stress on TK’s heart, and to everyone’s great relief, he was released to go back home the very next day.  A follow-up cardiology appointment eventually diagnosed him with, yet another condition called a chordae tendineae (a ruptured heart string), and he was prescribed additional medication to help manage the symptoms and slow the progression of his heart disease. We are thrilled to report that the medications are doing their job, and TK has not had any other heart-related episodes.

Thanks to the resources available through the Maranda Fund, TK was able to receive the expensive life-saving emergency treatment he needed to survive that day. His foster mom gave us an update on how he is feeling now.

“TK’s medical condition has not stopped him from being a happy-go-lucky dog. He still enjoys short walks or rides in the stroller, likes to play with his favorite treat-filled ball, and loves to snuggle and follow me everywhere.

“The biggest challenge we have with TK is that he is a food snob. This is when his name changes from TK to Tiny King, a dog who wants a different meal every day, and nothing ever seems good enough for his majesty!

“We all love him very much, and we are so blessed to have him in our family. We are very thankful to Old Dog Haven for giving these senior dogs a chance to live a happy and loved last chapter of their lives.”

Update:  sadly, dear TK’s health suddenly failed him, and his loving Family had to say goodbye.  We so wish he could’ve stayed longer, but he made the very best use of the time he had and knew he was loved and very much cared for.