UPDATE ON SWEET OXFORD

Sweet Oxford is a wonderful older pup who has been with our rescue for way too long!

He came back to us in September from his out-of-state foster home to meet a prospective adopter. Our hopes were for the best - that Oxford would finally find the forever home he deserves.

Sadly, the adoption did not move forward as the adopter was understandably put off by Oxford's health issues at the time. We had prepared her the best we could, as we knew prior to his arrival that he was still battling skin challenges - but reality of the moment was that Oxford needed more medical attention before he could go to a new home.

Oxford was having much more serious skin issues than we anticipated - resulting - we thought, from his thyroid condition. Poor boy could not stop itching. He was missing all of the fur around the base of his tail - the vet was not sure it would ever grow back.

Oxford was up all day and all night scratching. He was also showing signs of arthritis. He just seemed miserable.

Oxford's thyroid test results showed that his medication dosage was too low. Thyroid issues are easy to treat in a dog (inexpensive daily pill that costs $10-$15 month) - but making sure that the medication dosage is correct is critical to the long term health of the dog. If a dog is still showing symptoms of an under active thyroid once on medication for a fair amount of time - it may be a sign that the medication level is incorrect.

PAWS volunteer, Leanne put a gallant effort into getting Oxford back into good health over the last few months.

Oxford's thyroid medication was increased. He was also put on flea/tick prevention, antibiotics for his skin, a vet-issued medicated shampoo, a grain-free diet, fish oil, and Dasuquin supplements for his joints.

Leanne's hard work has definitely paid off! Today, Oxford is feeling and looking like a new dog!

His itching has stopped, his fur has grown in (even around his tail!) and you can tell by his energy level and playful spirit that he is feeling soooo much better!

Oxford's foster mom, Leanne, recently reported:

Oxford is feeling so much better and his hair is almost completely grown back in around his tail The vet said it will probably take another couple of months for him to be 100% but he is definitely headed in the right direction. He is starting to "run" around inside the house and outside. He also enjoys some playtime and toys.

Oxford's follow-up thyroid tests came back and his levels are in the normal range!

Oxford is a wonderful dog who would make someone a fabulous companion. He gets along great everyone and everything (dogs, cats and children). He is a friendly, loving pup who has waited way too long for his forever family to find him. If you have the love in your heart and room in your home for this cutie pie - please drop us an email.

Please consider donating towards Oxford's vet bills and maintenance
http://www.pawsofmarion.org/donate.html

If you prefer to make in-kind donations - please contact Leanne, lnbslacker22@yahoo.com

Oxford's ongoing wish list includes:
- Salmon Oil supplements
- Natural Balance Limited Ingredient dog food
- Dasuquin supplements

As always - thank you for caring about our pups!

http://www.pawsofmarion.org/