by Lorraine Monfils
Every day we hear of stories that touch our hearts, make us cry or make us angry. As bad as it sounds these stories bring out the best in us and make us more determined to make a difference. Such is the story of Jack. As most of you are aware Jack was the lab mix that we had taken in almost two months ago. Jack was emaciated and in critical condition. We brought Jack’s story to you a week after he was surrendered to The Ark. We decided that now would be a good time to update you on Jack’s progress.
About two weeks ago, Jack was not feeling well. On that Sunday, he could not keep anything down including water and he seemed disoriented not to mention he was having a hard time walking. We thought maybe it was the heat, so we bought an air conditioner that Monday night after I got home from work. Around 7:30 p.m., it was clear Jack needed medical attention. We called the vet and she met us at the clinic at around 9 p.m.. Jack was diagnosed with vestibular disease, which is something like vertigo in humans. Jack was given two injections and sent home on Dramamine. Five very long days passed and Jack was still not eating that well and was not real active, but the vet had told us that would happen. It was just heartbreaking because he was losing all the weight that he had just gained.
Then Sunday, we heard a dog barking and sure enough it was Jack he was standing at the door asking to go out. It was music to our ears. His tail was wagging and he was clearly feeling much better. His appetite was back and he was able to keep everything he ate down. Jack has made a full recovery.
Jack is a dog with the most beautiful soul. You look into his eyes and you see years of wisdom. He is a fighter and loves just being alive. He has fought hard for his life and at the end of the day he wants nothing more than to be with his humans and of course sleep on his L.L. Bean dog bed and eat all of his treats thanks to Auntie Kat.
Jack has touched the lives of so many people and has set an example for all of us. When the odds were against him he gathered all of his strength and in that instant he was able to escape the life that was slowly killing him. He was rescued by his guardian angel, who was very determined to save him and in the end did just that.
Jack’s story has made us well aware that horrible things are happening in our own back yards. We encourage everyone to report animal neglect and abuse when they see it. Make a difference and save a life. The rewards are priceless.
When we first met Jack he was emaciated 15 to 20 pounds under weight. Infested with fleas, his nails were so long they were curling, he had no fur from his neck down. You could count every bone and every rib, he was anemic and the list goes on. These days Jack is sporting a whole new look. He has gained over 10 pounds (amazing what proper nutrition can do) and he also has fur now, we are not just talking peach fuzz anymore we are talking beautiful shiny fur! In Jack’s eyes all is good in the world.
Jack sends tails wags and kisses to everyone who was involved in his rescue.
Please join us for dinner at The Horn on July 16 as part of the proceeds go to benefit the animals in our care. There will be a bake sale outside Hollywood pet Salon on Saturday, July 26, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Thank you for your continued support and as always thank you for reading our column.
