Arco Needs Help w/ Mystery Ailment

Arco can't eat or drink due to a possible neurological disorder.  His jaw hangs open making it impossible for him to eat or drink normally. As a result, the muscles around his head and neck have atrophied. We have fashioned a sling that supports his jaw but doesn't press against his throat causing discomfort.

We have to hand feed him and administer sub cutaneous fluids to keep him going. But time is running out. We need a diagnosis urgently and that could cost our rescue up to $3000.

Arco's Story:

A vet tech phoned Strays That Can't Pay asking if we could help Arco.  The family that owned him could no longer afford vet care or even the cost to euthanize him. They agreed to surrender Arco to us. 

They told us that in July they noticed he was not closing his mouth.  He went to the vets and was prescribed steroids in hopes that his condition would improve - vet thinking it was an immune deficiency disorder.  A month later Arco had not been improving.  

So I met with the vet and she explained the options.  We decided to start from the beginning and try the steroids again.  But his jaw still hangs open.  Xrays were done with no apparent fractures being seen.  Blood work done - again nothing jumping out.  

With his mouth closed more he can eat meat ball type consistency food. He LOVES cooked chicken and raw hamburger!  As for drinking water he needs a 5 gallon pail filled to the top so he can lap at a comfortable height.

Our vet in Virden has now given us two options - euthanize or send to a specialist in Saskatoon for a check up/diagnosis/prognosis.  Tests/expenses are expected to run up $3000.  We do have fundraisers in the works but no immediate money coming in.  

Please help us help Arco get a diagnosis so we can decide the next step.  Saskatoon vet needs to determine if its peripheral nerve or central nerve causing the issues (neurological).  Once that is determined we will know what to do.  

If the prognosis is poor then euthanasia may be the only solution - but if the prognosis is good then we have a fighting chance and will proceed from there with more fundraising and treatment - all depending on tests Tuesday.  

Arco is a sweet, gentle soul who follows me around like a puppy - always has a tail wag and a smile. :)  If you haven't heard of us before please read about us on Facebook, the web or contact many of our followers for 'references'.  

We are a registered charity so you will get a tax receipt for your donation. Thank you and please share, donate and pray!