Harold entered the world in a space pet mill, where mother dogs are kept in cramped cages and puppies are bred for profit.
Pets from puppy mills are at a greater risk of developing serious health issues such as heart disease, kidney problems, blood disorders, deafness, and life-long paralysis due to excessive breeding.
After a few quick toddler breaths, Harold was sold to an unsuspecting buyer for $7,000. The new owner took him home and cared for him as he battled through a respiratory illness.
After some time, Harold found himself unable to use his back legs due to a spine curvature caused by overbreeding at the puppy mill. This condition, similar to scoliosis, has resulted in him losing all feeling in his hindquarters.
Harold’s new owner handed him over to Dallas DoggRRR, who wasted no time rushing him to the animal hospital for emergency care.
Harold spent two days in the hospital and had a hard time keeping his food down without vomiting.
During an emergency exploratory surgery, medical professionals identified ulcerations, a narrowing in Harold’s intestines, adhesions in his stomach, swollen lymph nodes, heightened liver levels, and fluid in his stomach and esophagus.
This young lad has been a beloved member of the Dallas DogRRR family for a few years now, serving as our rescue mascot and social media representative.
Here are 10 tips for keeping your furry friend happy and healthy:
1. Regular Vet Check-ups: Make sure to schedule regular visits with your vet to ensure your dog’s overall health and catch any issues early.
2. Balanced Diet: Feed your dog a well-balanced and nutritious diet based on their age, size, and activity level. Avoid giving them table scraps and stick to high-quality dog food.
3. Proper Hydration: Always provide your dog with fresh, clean water. Hydration is essential for their health and well-being.
4. Regular Exercise: Engage your dog in regular physical activity to maintain a healthy weight, strengthen muscles, and keep their mind stimulated. Activities like walking, running, playing fetch, or agility training are great options.
5. Mental Stimulation: Keep your dog’s mind sharp and prevent boredom by providing them with puzzle toys, interactive games, and training sessions.
6. Grooming: Regular grooming, such as brushing their coat, trimming nails, cleaning ears, and brushing teeth, is important for their overall health and hygiene.
7. Vaccinations: Keep your dog’s vaccinations up to date to protect them from common illnesses. Consult with your vet to establish a vaccination schedule tailored to your dog’s needs.
8. Parasite Prevention: Protect your dog from parasites like fleas, ticks, and worms by using preventive medications recommended by your vet.
9. Safe Environment: Ensure your dog’s indoor and outdoor environment is safe by removing potential hazards, securing toxic substances, and providing a comfortable shelter for them to rest.
10. Love and Attention: Shower your dog with love, attention, and affection. Building a strong bond with your pet enhances their emotional well-being and strengthens your connection with each other.
Remember, every dog is unique, so tailor their care routine to their individual needs and preferences. If you have any concerns about your dog’s health, always consult with your vet for personalized advice and guidance.
