In March 2023, we received a horrific plea for help from a Georgia county shelter. Two dogs, near lifeless, were found parallel to each other in the woods. They were strategically placed beside each other and dumped in horrific conditions in a deliberate act of abuse.
Both dogs were barely responsive, and had low blood pressure. Their hair was matted over and covered in feces, and they were soaking, contributing to their dangerously low body temperature; they were freezing.We wasted no time and took them under our wing and rushed them to Blue Pearl, and we prayed we weren’t too late as both boys, whom we named Simon and Garfunkel, were critical.
The doctors informed us that their prognosis was poor and that Simon would likely pass overnight. But we don’t give up that easily, and neither does the team of specialists at Blue Pearl. They fought throughout the night to stabilize them.
The doctors told us that Simon was doing a little better and could lift his tiny head. Their blood pressure had stabilized; however, their glucose levels were still dangerously low without medical intervention. They were placed on a dextrose drip to help them maintain. They both had sepsis, which is an infection that enters the bloodstream and is very aggressive and is fatal without treatment; they received IV antibiotics to fight it.
The doctor said their X-rays were disturbing; these boys were all bones, and they had no fat or muscle; they were likely starved for weeks straight. They are worried about re-feeding syndrome and reintroduced food in moderation to avoid a crash.Neither of the boys could stand, nor were they mentally appropriate. After all they endured, being unable to walk or think straight was not unexpected.
Their eyes were ulcerated; the doctor said there was no explanation as to why two dogs would have identical issues other than possible abuse with a chemical or blunt trauma. They were estimated to be less than a year old.After a few days, the doctor called us to let us know Simon and Garfunkel stood up for the first time. Their little legs quickly gave out, but the doctor felt this was encouraging.Other great news included that Garfunkel no longer required supportive care to maintain his blood pressure or sugar levels; he was weak and exhausted but fighting.
Simon, on the other hand, remained critical. His blood pressure dropped overnight but was quickly brought back up. He is still on a dextrose drip to assist him in maintaining his blood sugar.
Both saw the ophthalmologist for the ulcerations in their eyes. The ophthalmologist felt that the damage could have been due to chemical exposure. The only way to correct the eyes properly was to put them both under anesthesia to perform a procedure. However, critical care doctors believed that if they had gone under anesthesia, their little weak bodies would have given out, and they would have likely died.
We were not willing to take that risk. Simon and Garfunkel began treatment with antibiotic drops, and we hoped for the best. Sadly, the doctor informed us that they might eventually lose one eye. We hoped this wouldn’t happen and focused on our primary goal to save their lives.
After spending weeks in the hospital fighting for their lives, we were happy to finally share that Simon and Garfunkel were doing amazing. They were still hospitalized and being treated for eye ulcers.The vet informed us that they’re doing amazing and even gained 3 lbs! Simon and Garfunkel were two sweet boys who would soon be ready to leave the hospital and start living the life they always deserved.
Through the unbelievable support of our community, the skilled and compassionate hands of our veterinary partners, and the sheer will of two young dogs who wanted to LIVE,
Simon and Garfunkel survived.And now, they are home. They have a furry sibling and a loving family. Thank you all for rallying behind these little miracles and for their adopter who has shown them what life is meant to be. Our hearts are full.