Help Mend Chessie's Broken Heart

Chessie is in foster care through the Leadville Lake County Animal Shelter, and she was born with a heart defect.  

A vessel in her heart did not close properly at birth, causing a severe heart murmur. Patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) has given her congestive heart failure, with fatigue and rapid breathing, at only 6 weeks old. Without surgery, she will live for less than a year.

A special surgery can give her a full and healthy life! 

The cardiology team at Colorado State University (CSU) Vet Teaching Hospital specializes in procedures to correct PDA. They have evaluated Chessie. She has no other health issues and is a strong candidate for this surgery. 



Chessie will need to have surgery as soon as possible, in mid April.

This surgery involves an overnight stay at the vet hospital and has a high success rate. Animals who are treated usually start to feel better very soon, because pressure on the heart is relieved quickly. 

Planned Pethood Leadville is helping to raise private funds to help pay for Chessie's surgery. We are working with CSU to apply for Saving Animals in Shelters through Teaching (SAST) funding, which will reduce the cost. 

See how this procedure and funding helped another kitten who had PDA . 


Will you donate to help save this sweet kitten?

Any funds raised in excess of the cost of Chessie's surgery will be used to help Planned Pethood Leadville pay for spay/neuter programs, medical and dental treatment for animals whose guardians cannot afford care, and educational programs to help families take great care of their pets.

Please donate today!

THANK YOU for helping save Chessie's life!