Help Polly's Heart
Polly is a four month old Chihuahua mix, currently weighing in at a tiny 4 pounds, that was brought into care after one of Manitoba Underdogs Rescue's spay/neuter clinics in a northern community.
Polly was the runt of her litter, and came into care with severe sarcoptic mange. At that time, it was noticed she had a heart murmur. However, these can be normal in puppies, and it is common for them to outgrow the murmurs.
After a couple of months of treatment, her mange cleared up well and she was much more comfortable. Unfortunately, the murmur was also rechecked at this time, and it was graded as a 3/6 murmur, so we had a cardiac ultrasound and x-rays completed.
The results of these diagnostics did not bare good news. Polly has been diagnosed with Pulmonic Stenosis. Pulmonic Stenosis is a congenital heart defect of the semilunar valve that is between the right ventricle and the pulmonary artery (great vessel that takes blood to the lungs).
Polly will be starting a medication (Atenolol) for her condition but without surgery, the prognosis is poor. Even with medication, she could pass away due to heart failure any day.
The treatment option that would give Polly the best chance at a normal life is a balloon valvuloplasty with a veterinary cardiologist in Minneapolis at the vet college. This surgery would cost approximately $4800-5500 CAD. Additionally, there will be travel and accommodation costs for us to bring her there.
We understand this is a lot of money to spend on "one" dog. But Polly has stolen the hearts of our Underdogs team, and most of all, her foster family. When we brought Polly into care, we promised her a better life, and to commit to her health and well-being. We aren't about numbers. We are about giving the best chance possible to each dog we bring into care, and focus on them, giving them our all until they find their forever homes.
We are in desperate need of help to fund this procedure and trip for Polly. Manitoba Underdogs Rescue is a registered charity (#820283331RR0001). This means we can offer tax receipts for all donations over $20. Each and every donation, no matter the amount, helps. If you can't donate, please share and spread the word to Help Polly's Heart!
