Rusty 13-116 [1]

Sponsored by:

Wendy W.

Paul and Mary T.
"Bless you Rusty, bless you!! Get well soon!!"

    Happy Valentines Day love Hailie,Kathy and Oliver Wellcome

  For Rusty in memory of Sadie who we lost to blasto.

May 6, 2013

Rusty was tearfully surrendered by a family that were unable to provide for his special needs. Rusty is 11 months old and lived on a resort in northern MN. He was the resort greeter and loves all people and kids. He loved swimming and roaming around the resort helping all of the visitors enjoy their stay. Sounds like a wonderful life for our boy!

Unfortunately, Rusty contracted Blastomycosis dermatitidis, a fungal disease found in sandy soil near lakes. He was treated as soon as symptoms began but within two days he lost most of his vision. The owners called RAGOM so we could help find him a family that matches his special needs.

This is an amazing boy! He memorized our home within two days and does not bump into things, He is so sweet! He has no issues with people, kids or other dogs. Rusty has even mastered a flight of stairs in our home.

We were very hopeful that early treatment provided by his surrendering owners would help resolve Rusty's blindness. However, our vet tested the pressure in his eyes and it was very high in one and low in the other. The low pressure meant that Rusty's eye had ruptured. This is very painful and you can tell how irritated his eyes were from the pictures. Our vet consulted an eye specialist and she said that at this point Rusty's chances of regaining his sight were very slim. She recommended removing his eyes in order to stop the pain.

What a remarkable difference this made! Rusty is pain free and even happier than he was when he came into our home.

Blastomycosis is a fungus that requires several months of medication to cure it. It is often deadly but we are very hopeful that early treatment will save Rusty's life. He is not available for adoption until we have a better idea of the prognosis for Rusty. Don't let his blindness scare you away! Dogs don't need their eyes like people do and Rusty has already adjusted beautifully without his. He runs, he plays, he knows where the water and food bowls are and he is HAPPY. RAGOM has adopted out many blind dogs who go on to live long and happy lives.

Rusty would really appreciate your generous donations and sponsorship to help cover his medical expenses. His medication comes from a special pharmacy and is very expensive. He will need frequent vet visits over the next few months to assess the progress of his treatment. Thank you in advance for anything you are able to give.

Enjoying a cone at DQ after his surgery