Wednesday, January 7, 2009

Introducing Sophie & Raleigh

Allow me to introduce Sophie and Raleigh - two extra special pooches in need of forever families! Miss Sophie is a marvelous 1 year old Pit Bull Terrier with a heart of gold. Her left front leg has been amputated, so Sophie has a unique way of walking which is hybrid hop/wiggle. Make no mistake, however, because being a tripod doesn't seem to damper her zeal for life one bit! Sophie is a genuinely affectionate dog who has a knack for charming everyone she meets. She shared her previous home with dogs, kids, and cats and she is friendly and gentle. In short, it's hard to imagine a family that Sophie wouldn't adore. If you live in the Pacific Northwest and are looking for love on three legs, please email me about Sophie!

At just 18 pounds, Raleigh is a little goofball who is also available for adoption at the animal shelter where I work. This 8 1/2 year old Mini Schnauzer is a mini comedian with plenty of tricks up his sleeve. Raleigh would love nothing more than a home where he could keep everyone entertained with his antics.

After Raleigh was surrendered to the shelter, he was diagnosed with Cushing's Disease. The technical term for Cushing’s Disease is hyperadrencorticism (try saying that three times fast!) and it affects humans, dogs, horses, and occasionally, cats. The most common form of Cushings occurs when the pituitary gland produces an excess of cortisol. In dogs the symptoms typically include hair loss, skin abnormalities, an enlarged abdomen, and excessive drinking and urination – approximately 2 to 10 times the normal amount. Cushings is chronic and incurable, but several medications can be used to manage the symptoms. Raleigh is not currently on any medication since his symptoms are still mild, although he may need more extensive treatment in the future. Feel free to get in touch with me for more information about Raleigh, and please help spread the word that disabled dogs have the ability to make wonderful companions!

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