Hi, I’m Mindy! I am sharing this not only because of my love for dogs, but because I know a sweet puppy named Lando who really needs our support.

I met Lando’s human mom through a bible study group, and week after week her prayer requests were about her young puppy. The more I learned, the more I knew I wanted to figure out a way to help with his medical journey. I’d like you to meet Lando and hear a little more about his story:

Lando was born in the shelter on Easter Sunday (April 12) of 2020 as part of a 12-puppy litter! The Domain family took him home at 8 weeks of age and he soon became best buddies with his two (human) brothers. He loves rough-housing with dad and always needs to be in the same room as his new mama. (He’s even had playdates and a birthday party with several of his litter mates and his birth mom!)

Three months after celebrating Lando’s first birthday— right around the 4th of July— he began acting strangely. He was weak, lethargic, and had no appetite. He was drooling and seemed extremely anxious. We thought maybe the fireworks had something to do with it, but after a couple days of this happening, we knew something was wrong.

After multiple visits to animal hospitals, veterinary clinics—and a variety of tests—they finally had some answers. Lando had what doctors considered a “mysterious infection” that was depleting his neutrophils – the white blood cells that fight infection. His situation quickly became very serious. Lando spent multiple days in the clinic getting IV fluids, antibiotics, and steroids, which ended up saving his life! ❤️Lando’s doctor, Dr. Walley and lead vet tech, Craig, became very invested in Lando’s case.

“What had happened to him was rare,” said Craig, “And it’s not fair… but all the medical treatment he’s already been through has helped him so much. He’s worth it.”

Lando was being well cared for… however, his road ahead was still not certain. Before treatment could continue, doctors needed to know if he was still able to produce these neutrophils. This required a bone marrow biopsy.

Lando was suffering from a chronic illness that would require long-term care. We knew we did not want him to suffer through what could inevitably lead to a short life so we quickly had to make some really difficult decisions. We did not want Lando to have a short, painful life, and we also couldn’t afford the treatments doctors were requesting; however, if the results were promising, we trusted that God would make a way.

Lando’s doctors believed this was likely an isolated illness that they could manage so we decided to go forward with the treatments. The first biopsy showed he was producing the neutrophils, but they were being attacked once they entered his bloodstream. The doctors wanted to see how he’d respond to the therapy before any further decisions were made.

Fast forward a couple of weeks—Craig had tears in his eyes when he announced, “Lando is good!” His numbers had leveled out, and he finally began eating again! It was truly a miracle!

The next couple of months were challenging. Lando has been closely monitored with countless blood tests, but sadly he is still suffering from many side effects from his medications including weight gain, skin infections, insatiable appetite, liver toxicity and weakened tendons.

With continuous close monitoring and guidance, the doctors have been able to wean Lando down from his high doses of steroids and antibiotics to just a small daily dose of steroids. Sadly, Lando is still dealing with the liver toxicity and he now needs two ACL repairs as a result of his medications. His activity has to be limited and he hasn’t been allowed to play with other dogs, which may be the most disheartening part for this super friendly pup. Not only because he’s been so susceptible to infection, but because of his injured legs. He is no longer able to run or jump like he used to, and watching him climb stairs, you’d think he was 12 years old. This is absolutely heartbreaking.

This is the Domain’s first family dog and this wasn’t how anyone would expect things to go. Life throws you curveballs and we have to be an advocate for Lando.

Lando’s mom said “he has taught us a whole new meaning of unconditional love and we want to be able to show him the same. We’ve come so far and we pray that all we have done and continue to do for Lando leads to a long, healthy life! Lando’s sweet and gentle demeanor shows us everyday that he is grateful for our care.“

Sadly, all of these unexpected costs have added up and put the family in a place of major concern financially. Lando is still in need of two ACL surgeries in order to live a functional life moving forward, along with continuous medical monitoring, treatments and blood tests. Any donation is appreciated ❤️

If you prefer Venmo: @Landosmedicalfund

A Few Words From Dr. Walley

“I have been working with Lando since July of 2021 when we diagnosed him with Immune-mediated Neutropenia, which is a disease that causes severe suppression of his Immune System. It is a treatable disease, but unfortunately the drugs that are used to treat it can have bad side effects. Unfortunately Lando has had a rough road so far. His disease is in remission but unfortunately he has had severe side effects from these drugs that have caused other issues such as damage to the Cranial Cruciate Ligaments in his knees which is very debilitating and requires surgery which is costly. We are currently trying to find a combination of drugs that he can handle that will keep his neutrophil disease in remission but not cause more side effects. I do feel that we will find the right combination of drugs to control his disease but he still has a long road to go. Lando is one of the sweetest dogs I have worked with, especially with all of the things he has gone through over the last 4 months. His owners are very committed to Lando and have done everything I have asked of them in order to help him. Unfortunately all of these health issues have been a lot financially for owners especially now that Lando needs both of his knees repaired. This is a family who is doing everything they can for their pet.”