Skiatook Paws Claws Animal Rescue reported that Phoenix was found wandering the streets of Collinsville in search of food. This pup was rescued from the streets of Collinsville.
After being rescued from the streets, Family Animal Medicine in Owasso, OK has been caring for the dog. The organization swiftly assessed Phoenix’s condition:
“We are investigating all possible causes of Phoenix’s condition and conducting lab work to identify the underlying causes of his skin disease. He is receiving frequent baths and medication to improve his skin health and comfort him,” they stated.
Initially, veterinarians were unsure whether Phe’s disfigurement was the result of abuse or a disease.
While it may seem like Phoenix has suffered terrible abuse, the veterinarians caring for him are hesitant to jump to such conclusions:
“We have received evidence from a former Good Samaritan who has photos showing a progression of Phoenix’s facial deterioration. It is possible that there is a medical condition causing his disfigurement. It is important that we do not automatically assume malicious intent. Animals without homes and proper care, without shelter, food, and water face so many obstacles; especially if they have an underlying medical issue,” the professionals stated.
The latest update on Phoenix’s travel adventure reports:
Phoenix was fortunate enough to travel to Kansas, where he had the pleasure of meeting two amazing specialized veterinarians, Dr. Karen Trainor and Dr. David Senter. These incredibly unique veterinarians focus solely on skin diseases. Phoenix’s journey to Kansas actually began when we first rescued him.
In November, the veterinary staff here in Owasso at FAM took skin biopsies of Phe’s troubled skin to try and solve the mystery. They sent the samples to Dr. Trainor, a veterinary pathologist specializing in skin diseases. What a brilliant mind! Dr. Trainor’s job is basically to examine Phe’s skin biopsy under a microscope and tell us how her skin is behaving. Phe’s adventure then led her to the allergy and dermatology veterinary clinic in Overland Park, Kansas.
There, he met Dr. David Senter, a veterinary dermatologist who specializes in treating animals with skin diseases. Thanks to the expertise of Dr. Trainor and Dr. Senter, as well as the hard work of the animal family medicine veterinarians, Phe is getting better every day. He has gained weight, his skin is healing, and he is now able to play and bark. He loves chasing balls and playing tug-of-war. He even sleeps on his own dog couch. His goofy and shark-like smile will always be there, but the muscles in his head will never fully recover. Sunlight triggers a skin flare-up, so he needs to wear clothes and sunscreen at all times. But don’t worry, Phoenix’s spirit is strong! Phoenix has a rare autoimmune disease called systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE).
There are no specific tests to identify LES. It is a disease that is diagnosed after all other diseases have been ruled out. Because it is an autoimmune disease, the body attacks itself, making treatment sometimes difficult and delicate. But thank goodness for all the veterinarians (here in Owasso and in Kansas too), we have now taken control of her disease. Thank you to everyone for your support and encouragement. Phe would never have made her brave journey without you.
Phoenix is receiving top-notch care, getting all the necessary medical attention, and is showing signs of a good recovery. Skiatook Paws Claws Animal Rescue is keeping everyone updated by sharing photos and videos of Phoenix’s journey.
When he is ready for adoption, he will be handled through Skiatook Paws and Claws Animal Rescue. If you would like to contribute towards his medical care, you can do so by clicking here.
