The Penny Project
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PENNY'S STORY
About 5 years ago, we adopted an energetic pit-bull/lab mix puppy, named Penny, from a small animal shelter and immediately fell in love with her sassy personality. Although we both dedicated our time and effort to raising our free-spirited canine child, it truly took a village. Every dear friend and family member who came into contact with Penny helped us learn and grow as dog owners. We did not realize at the time how important this support network would become a few years down the road.
In the Spring of 2017, we noticed Penny had started limping severely. She appeared to have a hard time walking after longer periods of resting, an unusual occurrence for our lively 4 year old pup. After several consultations with our local vet and various orthopedic surgeons, Penny was diagnosed with something called “Erosive Immune Mediated Polyarthritis” or IMPA. IMPA results in painful inflammation of the joints and reduced mobility. We immediately began a treatment regime which now involves daily medications, trips to the physical therapist for water therapy and a constant stream of home remedies and exercise.
Unfortunately, Penny’s disease has progressed, leaving her barely able to walk. After quite a bit of research and endless conversations with our vet, we've decided to pursue a surgical route with Penny. She will undergo 4 separate procedures, 1 for each leg (so that recovery doesn't completely eliminate any mobility). The procedure, Carpal Arthrodesis, will allow Penny to regain some limb function and relieve her of pain. Experts are confident this route will allow Penny, still a young pup, the chance to live a full and active life. The operations come at a cost though, approximately $16,000. While we hate to ask for help, we realize it might be time for Penny's sake. Her first surgery is scheduled for 8/22/2018.
OUR STORY
Now that we’ve introduced the most important character in this story, Penny, we thought it might be nice to introduce her humans! We currently live in Madison, WI. We love our community, especially all the love and support Penny gets! After working as an elementary school teacher for several years, Katherine now spends her time working with young children at the local children's museum. Penny's other co-owner, Allie, has also dedicated her career to education and currently attends graduate school at the University of Wisconsin-Madison.
THANK YOU
Most importantly, thank you to all of Penny's friends, new and old. She (we) so appreciate you and your support each and every day.
Allie, Katherine & Penny
About 5 years ago, we adopted an energetic pit-bull/lab mix puppy, named Penny, from a small animal shelter and immediately fell in love with her sassy personality. Although we both dedicated our time and effort to raising our free-spirited canine child, it truly took a village. Every dear friend and family member who came into contact with Penny helped us learn and grow as dog owners. We did not realize at the time how important this support network would become a few years down the road.
In the Spring of 2017, we noticed Penny had started limping severely. She appeared to have a hard time walking after longer periods of resting, an unusual occurrence for our lively 4 year old pup. After several consultations with our local vet and various orthopedic surgeons, Penny was diagnosed with something called “Erosive Immune Mediated Polyarthritis” or IMPA. IMPA results in painful inflammation of the joints and reduced mobility. We immediately began a treatment regime which now involves daily medications, trips to the physical therapist for water therapy and a constant stream of home remedies and exercise.
Unfortunately, Penny’s disease has progressed, leaving her barely able to walk. After quite a bit of research and endless conversations with our vet, we've decided to pursue a surgical route with Penny. She will undergo 4 separate procedures, 1 for each leg (so that recovery doesn't completely eliminate any mobility). The procedure, Carpal Arthrodesis, will allow Penny to regain some limb function and relieve her of pain. Experts are confident this route will allow Penny, still a young pup, the chance to live a full and active life. The operations come at a cost though, approximately $16,000. While we hate to ask for help, we realize it might be time for Penny's sake. Her first surgery is scheduled for 8/22/2018.
OUR STORY
Now that we’ve introduced the most important character in this story, Penny, we thought it might be nice to introduce her humans! We currently live in Madison, WI. We love our community, especially all the love and support Penny gets! After working as an elementary school teacher for several years, Katherine now spends her time working with young children at the local children's museum. Penny's other co-owner, Allie, has also dedicated her career to education and currently attends graduate school at the University of Wisconsin-Madison.
THANK YOU
Most importantly, thank you to all of Penny's friends, new and old. She (we) so appreciate you and your support each and every day.
Allie, Katherine & Penny
Organizer
Katherine Ann
Organizer
Madison, WI
