Please consider donating to our Critical Care fund so we can continue to help each and every Lucky Dog that Comes our way!

Sunday, February 26, 2012

Update on Frankie the Champ!


One week ago today Frankie underwent surgery on the triple fracture in his pelvis! Today, he is enjoying relaxing at home and being completely spoiled! Frankie gets to take short walks in the park as part of the healing process and although he can't play or run around just yet, he enjoys sitting and observing...especially since the weather has been so pleasant! During the day he has been content taking naps and chewing on what seems like an endless supply of rawhide bones. Frankie is walking quite well and you would have no idea that he has a bunch of pins and wires in his behind. His foster mom is working hard to keep this puppy quiet!!

Check out Frankie's cool pair of pants he has to wear while walking. They're pretty awesome, although Frankie may beg to differ :)

You Can't Keep a Good Dog Down!


Spot got the go ahead to come home today from the vet. Not only did he get released, but the vets allowed him to walk out all on his own!!! This is amazing given he had surgery just a few days ago to correct a fractured pelvis and fractured tibula/fibula. The vet is encouraging him to go for (very) short walks daily as part of his physical therapy and he is allowed to move around the house as long as he doesn’t jump, run, or attempt the stairs.  If you take a look at Spot’s x-rays I think you’ll agree with me, that he is one amazing little boy!!!





Spot is adjusting well to the new accommodations: following his foster mom and doggie foster brother Stalone, all over the house.  He’s sniffed, checked out all the dog beds, and claimed his own bone that he has been carrying around the house.

Spot has a long road ahead of him, but we are SO proud of the little guy’s fighting spirit. Spot has gotten the all clear to attend adoption events from the vet, as long as he doesn’t too much walking. Spot will be getting his own chair and looks forward to meeting you soon!!

Now, Spot has a message for you!

Spot is going home!!


Spot got the ok to leave the hospital today!! WHOO HOOOO!!! Stay tuned for an update from his new foster!

Friday, February 24, 2012

Wednesday, February 22, 2012

Spot -- another victim of a reckless driver.


We hope bad things happen in threes and that this news is number three in a bad luck streak. Tonight, little Spot got hit by a car. We're not sure how he got out of his foster's house, but once he did, he unsuccessfully tried to cross River road and was hit. The driver did not stop, but luckily a good Samaritan did. She rushed Spot to Friendship Animal Hospital where vets and technicians immediately got to work.

At this time, we know that Spot has multiple fractures in one hind leg and his pelvis. We expect that the orthopedic surgeon will operate tomorrow so long as no complications emerge overnight.

Because this is our third surgery -- the second over $5,000 -- in 2 weeks, we really need help in the fundraising department. Please help Spot by donating through the Click-in on this page or by visiting our donation page.

Frankie Comes Home


Frankie left the hospital yesterday without his pants!! 5 screws and 3 wires later in his left hip, Frankie is recovering quite remarkably at home. He has a fun little sling to take the weight off his back end and an E-collar to help him heal just right. His tail hasn't stopped wagging and he is giving more kisses than before!!

This pup will have to stay quiet for another 6 weeks before being able to run around again! Although he is not too happy about that, he is enjoying laying around and receiving constant belly rubs and lots of treats.

Frankie is a champ.

Monday, February 20, 2012

Frankie is the man!

One day post surgery and Frankie is doing super! He is eating normally, and even almost took off his nurse's hand who was giving him a piece of chicken. He is sporting a very handsome E-collar to keep him from nibbling on his bandages and incisions. Frankie is headed home tomorrow where his foster mom already has his bed, treats and toys ready to go! It will be a long road ahead for his hip to heal and Frankie to play again like he used to but thanks to all the great people at Friendship Hospital for Animals and Lucky Dog, he'll be good as new!!

Devon - Doing Well Following His Surgery!

Devon's report is very positive!!! He is healing very well and gets to leave the hospital!!! And, if that isn't good news, try this... one of the gals who works at Hayfield Animal Hospital has decided to adopt him! WHOOO HOOOO. We're still trying to raise money for the surgery to repair his broken jaw! But, the good news is he gets to recover in a happy ans safe forever home!

Sunday, February 19, 2012

Frankie's surgery a success!


Frankie got through his surgery today like a champ! Unfortunately the fracture was more severe than the x-rays originally showed. But, a few pins and wires later to repair the triple fracture, Frankie is recovering at the hospital. Prognosis is good and lots of rest and physical therapy will bring Frankie back to good as new!!

Saturday, February 18, 2012

Poor Frankie was Hit By A Car Last Night


This sweetheart is Frankie. He got away from his foster mom last night and was hit by a car! He needs major orthopedic surgery on his pelvis to fix the two fractures. Surgery is tentatively scheduled for tomorrow....and the estimate is $5,000!!! Please share Frankie's story so we can fix him up!

Friday, February 17, 2012

The Horrible Things Peope Do....


This Little guy is Devon. He was at the vet in South Carolina early last week getting neutered in advance of his big transport to the DC area. As they were intubating him, the vet noticed the back of his jaw was fractured, and recommended immediate follow up. As soon as he made it to the big city, we took him straight to Hayfield Animal Hospital where Dr. Smith took x-rays to confirm.

Devon's entire lower jaw was fractured. It looked like someone KICKED him in the face. How anyone could do that to a 10 lb chihuahua as sweet as little Devon, is completely beyond us!

Devon was immediately scheduled for surgery, part one of which happened yesterday and part two of which happened today. The report is VERY positive!! Dr. Smith was able to wire Devon's lower jaw back together and align it with his top jaw. A few hours after surgery, he was leaping around his crate in the recovery room!

Keep your fingers crossed for little Devon as we monitor him through the weekend!

Thursday, February 16, 2012

Who's the cutest girl?

Tavi is! Look at this sweet face with her squeaky Christmas tiger. She loves this toy. I looked over last night and she was asleep with it between her paws, so of course I woke her up to take pictures. She's getting used to getting her photo taken, as you can tell from her poses and comments. Her silly ear is starting to flip up all the time too. This is a new thing, and it seems to happen often. It's quite cute. 

 "Really? Another photo?"
 "Fine, take it already."
 "I'm literally so bored by this right now" 


"This is not my happy face Ms. Jen, but I know I'm still cute, so one more photo won't hurt." 

She's doing great! She's a pro at entertaining herself if Hanna and Max have other things to do. Of course, she tries to engage the cats, and that doesn't always go over well for her, but she keeps trying. 

She walks very well on her leash and our walks are getting a little longer. She is one spoiled child, that's for sure. 

We will be at the adoption event on Sunday! We look forward to seeing everyone there and hopefully for Tavi to find her forever home. I know I say this every time, but she is truly an amazing girl. She's sweet, loving, she listens (most of the time) and is going to be a GREAT addition to a family. 

Saturday, February 11, 2012

Look at her go!

We had our second swimming therapy today at Old Towne Pet Resort and Tavi had an audience! Ms. Suzy came to see her and cheer her on.  From the moment we walked in, the staff all said hello and wanted to know how she was doing. They love her there! 


Tavi actually played pretty hard this morning, so she was a little tired this afternoon, but she still swam like the little champ she is! 


Check her out...


Ms. Suzy figured out that if she walked around the pool, Tavi would follow so she can do her laps. Check out Ms. Suzy doing just that. Then she and I started taking one side each to help little Tavi along.  


We weighed her on our way out and she's almost 28 lbs! She's growing up so fast. 

Now, she should be asleep for the rest of the afternoon and evening, except of course for her dinner. She would NOT miss that. 

So happy Ms. Suzy came to visit and cheer Tavi on! Tavi was happy she was there. 

She's settled on to her dog bed already curled up in a little black ball as I'm writing. She will soon start to snore :-) 

Till next time Tavi fans....

Friday, February 10, 2012

Love dog alert

Could Octavia, a.k.a "Tavi" be any more adorable? I think not. 



Look at her breaking all boundaries at our house by sharing the dog bed with BOTH DOGS! She cuddled up with Hanna last night and we were so impressed Hanna allowed her to do it, we had to take a couple photos. 


Then as I walk to the living room this morning, there she is with Max! She loves her foster brother and sister. I think she needs at least one other dog in her household to play her silly games and to cuddle next too. 


We had a friend over for dinner last night and he swears she's grown in the week since he saw her last and we think she has too. She gets plenty of outside time and exercise to get her little legs back in shape. 


She is going to be an amazing addition to a family. 


We have another swimming lesson tomorrow afternoon and we're excited that first foster, Ms. Suzy, is going to come watch! Tavi will be thrilled to see her! We'll take pics and more video to post. 


Enjoy your Friday and weekend! Don't forget to come to the adoption event on Sunday at The Dog Shop in Georgetown. We're not sure if Tavi will be there or not, but if you're interested in seeing her sweet face, we'll make a point to come by. 

Wednesday, February 8, 2012

Will it actually snow in February?

From 70 degree weather to snow today...could it be? Octavia and the pups enjoyed lots of outside time yesterday, it was so beautiful. Chance was off so the little one got to spend all day  playing and wearing herself out. For a 4 month old puppy, it doesn't take much to wear her out. Some wrestling with her squeaky toy or a little outside time and she's ready for a nap. And when I say nap, I mean, full on snore fest! 


She's eating well, still 3 times a day, and goes to the door when its time to go out and do her business. She sits for her food, sits for her treats, basically sits whenever there's something to eat. She's real smart. 


I don't have any new pics, but I'm hoping with the little bit of snow we will get today, I can get some this afternoon or tonight. 


Tavi is one special pup. She gets around so well, loves other dogs and people, submissive, not at all aggressive, and would make a wonderful addition to any home. She may walk and run (gallop more like it) a little funny, but it doesn't take away from her absolutely adorable face and sweet personality. As most labs, she can be vocal when she yawns or stretches or lays down. Always something to say. 


She needs to be near your neck when she sleeps...not sure why, but I have been woken up several times with her entire nose in my neck. Plus she snores so can't help but wake up. This morning she was spooning with me. She's the biggest lover dog, and we keep telling her that she will get bigger and can't be a lap dog like she is now. She's looks at us funny. I don't think she believes it. 


Stay warm today and I do hope to see some snow!


Another swimming lesson this Saturday at 3pm! I'll make sure to update her blog after with more pics and videos. 

Monday, February 6, 2012

Sleepy, happy girl

Seems the only photos I've taken lately are of her sleeping. We had a very busy weekend. Between swimming on Saturday, the adoption event yesterday, and Superbowl last night, she is exhausted. 


There were so many Octavia fans at the adoption event yesterday and everyone commented on how well she was walking and getting around. She has a little more pep in her step even in the week we've had her. She can do an entire lap around our building and keep up with her foster siblings, Hanna and Max. She's starting to come when she's called...we use a real fun "Tavi" and she's comes a galloping. 

She is really one of the sweetest little babies I have ever seen. All our neighbors just adore her and Chance and I can't get enough of her. I think Max and Hanna are a little jealous, so we're making sure we spread the love. 

Funny story. We have a 12 year old rescue, Hanna, who is a little cranky in her old age, and Tavi can not get enough of her! The one dog that doesn't want anything to do with her, she is all over. Every time she comes in from outside, she runs immediately to find and kiss Hanna. It's the funniest thing...She's saying, "You WILL love me".  
She's been a delight and we love having her, but know she's ready to find her forever home. She needs and wants a lot of human interaction, and another dog would be a bonus to keep her company. She spends about 4 hours in her crate daily, other than that she's roaming the house looking for someone to love her, playing with her toys, outside playing in the bushes or sleeping. 

I am jealous of the family that adopts her, they will be the luckiest people ever! 

Saturday, February 4, 2012

Water baby...

We have a natural born swimmer on our hands folks! We just returned from our first swim lesson at Old Towne Pet Resort in Springfield, and we are exhausted. From the minute we walked in to the second we walked out, she received more attention and love from all the staff and other pet customers as well. She is one special girl. 


Here we are with Amanda, our friend in the pool, getting ready to get in. She was a little hesitant at first, but once she got the hang of it, she swam her little heart out! 

Check her out! 




I'm not a great camera person as you can see, but look at how great she swims! Amanda said she has lots of dogs that suffer from hip dysplasia and arthritis that she sees on a weekly basis and it gives the dogs such good mobility. Well our little Tavi is no exception. 


She's had a great week. Met lots of new dogs in the neighborhood, has gone with us to friends homes for dinner and just been delightful. She has been waking up the last couple nights every couple hours needing to go outside, still can't figure out what her belly issues are about. I'm sure its the move to a new home, as nothing else has changed food wise. I'm sure its an adjustment period. 


Can't wait for our next swim lesson or maybe her new family will have a pool, because she will be one great little swimmer. Might not be able to go on long walks or hikes, but I'm sure she will love a beach or lake trip!


Well, we're all off to take a nap, foster mom included! See you all at the adoption event tomorrow from 12-2pm at the Falls Church Petsmart on Arlington Blvd. 


Thursday, February 2, 2012

Settling In to new digs...

Octavia (we're calling her Tavi for short) is settling in just fine in her new foster home. She arrived Tuesday afternoon and we loved her immediately. She loves kissing on our pup Max and keeps barking at the cats, but they just ignore her. She wants so badly to play with them, but they just don't seem to care. 

She is happy to greet all our neighbors and their dogs, but gets a little shy if there's too much excitement around. To entertain herself she throws her new squeaky toy in the air and chases it or tries to catch it. Definitely an entertainer!

Thanks to her first foster, Ms. Suzy who saw her through her surgery and recovery, she is potty trained and sits when she is fed her breakfast, lunch and dinner, and has no problem going in her crate. She goes to the door or whines when she needs to go out. We LOVE Ms. Suzy for teaching her all her manners.  

Last night was bath time, and I think I got just as wet as she did! She is not a fan of the bath, but settled down once scrubbing and massage started. She had so much fun getting dried off that she decided to play with the towel a little more. 




We did carry on the tradition of her sleeping in the bed with us. I take her in with me about 11pm and when Chance gets home from work about 3am, she gets to go out for a potty break and comes right back to bed with us. She is a true snuggle bunny. She can in fact go the entire night with not having to go out, but she feels left out if Chance doesn't come get her. Oh, and she snores! 

We have a swimming lesson on Saturday morning at Old Towne Pet Resort, and lots of photos will be taken. Make sure you come back Saturday afternoon to see how she did on her first hydrotherapy session. We feel swimming will help her gain some more movement and strength in her little legs for a full, happy recovery!