Category: “Advocacy”

Patrick’s Pups began with 1 heart.

WH_Logo_Patricks-PupsPatrick’s Pups started because of one young boy’s passionate heart for animals in need.

Meet Patrick Raymond Boswell who died tragically on Friday, January 2nd, 2015 as a result of a random act of street violence. He was 14 years old and an eighth grade student at Iroquois Community School in Des Plaines, IL. He is survived by his mother, Patricia Frontain, his father, Robert Boswell, his sister Zoe Boswell, his many cousins, aunts, uncles and his grandmother.

Let’s tell you a little bit about who Patrick was … he was an excellent athlete and played football for five years for the Maine Wast Junior Warriors where he was known for encouraging his team mates to do their best. He was often seen riding his dirt bike in his neighborhood. After the ride he would sit for hours and “tinker” with the bike. This brought to light a big talent for machine mechanics and he was excited to take an auto mechanics class in High School next year.

Patrick loved rap music, clothes, Nike shoes AND … animals. He recently rescued a sweet dog found wandering who would have undoubtedly found herself headed to a high-kill shelter but instead found her way into Patrick and his families heart. He was especially delighted when they discovered a few weeks later that she would bless his family and their home with eight beautiful puppies!! But unfortunately Patrick would not witness his momma dog Diva’s pups grow up to be adopted into loving, forever families. Instead Patrick’s family was saying goodbye to their young son and entrusting his pups to Wagging Hearts so they could find their way into loving homes … just like Diva did all because one boy cared enough to act. Instead of standing by to watch her plight unfold.

Patricks PupsSo in honor of the deep and loving heart within this boy, we present to you ‘Patrick’s Pups.’ A small way to honor the memory of one who left us too early with a heart full of desire to make a difference in the lives of animals in need. Now Patrick will make a difference in a great number of animals’ lives. His heart and mission to help those without will not fall into darkness nor end with the passing of his young life. Wagging Hearts will continue his work through the donations and proceeds generated in his memory. All proceeds will be used to save more lives, treat more medical cases and shine a brighter light into the darkest recesses of animal rescue. Patrick Raymond Boswell will live on in each life that comes our way because of the Patrick’s Pups funds.

Come back often to see the impact he is making through the eyes of the animals he saves. Let’s remember the heart inside a boy who’s action’s would tragically transcend his life.

SERVICES for PATRICK:

Saturday, Jan 10th, 2015 at Our Lady of Hope Church 9711 Devon in Rosement, Illinois. Visitation from 9:00 ­11:00 am followed by a Mass. (Wear Nike tennis shoes to service…it would make Patrick laugh.)

DONATIONS in the name of PATRICK:
Can be mailed to: Wagging Hearts at 260 E. Belvidere Rd., #369, Hanisville, Illinois 60030. Or feel free to visit our website to read more about Wagging Hearts and donate online. http://wagginghearts.org/about-us/.

QUESTIONS/CONCERNS:

Can be directed to contactus@wagginghearts.org or feel free to call (855) WAGGING.

Spring Hidden Dangers

Spring Hidden Dangers

Are YOU aware of the hidden dangers spring can bring?

 

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BLASTOMYCOSIS: A systematic fungal infection

Diligence is key and knowledge is power. Please take a minute to visit our Blastomycosis post to become familiar with this hidden danger. We have personally felt the impact of losing one to this deadly fungal infection. This is an alert to become aware of the hazardous environments that can have life-altering consequences for your pet if you are not careful to watch for the signs and symptoms.

 

LEPTOSPORISIS: It’s not just a brochure at your vets office. It’s real and deadly.

Or perhaps you might visit a NBC news article on Leptosporisis and become aware of the signs and symptoms of this deadly infection. Are your animals vaccinated from its potentially life-threatening effects? Ask your veterinarian today and inquire on the assistance this vaccination provides for the protection of your pet.

 

Let’s keep our family members safe through sharing and updating each other on the ever evolving ways to protect our loved ones.

Sniffing Out A Deadly Disease

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20130713_130445Wagging Hearts is sending out a HIGH ALERT to all DOG OWNERS to be on the look out for a disease called BLASTOMYCOSIS. It is ugly and impacts your dogs entire system. It is dangerous and could be fatal if left untreated. Do you know the signs? Do you know Chicago has been sending out alerts for sightings of infected dogs at lakefront beaches? Did you know Libertyville, IL has also seen an increase with the recent loss of 2 dogs. We have personally felt the impact at Wagging Hearts with the tragic loss of one of our rescue’s Goofy to Blastomycosis and we want to help prevent you from suffering the same horrible outcome. Watch Goofy’s seizure video taken by his diligent and loving foster who witnessed this serious symptom of the degenerative disease which subsequently ended up taking his life too early. He was a beautiful and loving spirit ready to find forever love in the arms of his potential adoptive family upon their return from vacation. Unfortunately the ‘Blasto’ answer came too late for Goofy as the disease ravaged his weakened immune system. Goofy slipped away in the middle of the night during his treatment leaving us to actively spread the alert for the dangers lurking in the natural environments around us. Knowledge, awareness of your pet’s health and prompt response will help arm yourself with the tools necessary to save the life of your pet. Don’t let them become a statistic. Do you know what Blastomycosis is? Do you know what the symptoms are and where this disease exists? Read on to find out:

Blastomycosis

WHAT IS IT?  A serious fungal infection that spreads throughout the body caused by an organism called Blastomyces Dermatitidis which releases airborne spores into the environment that can be inhaled. It can be rapidly fatal if not diagnosed and treated promptly. Unfortunately, many do not recover from the wide-spread infection and relapses can occur. Treatment can be aggressive but the disease will more than likely kill without.

Inhalation is the most frequent method of transmission and occurs simply by digging in the soil which releases the spores. The spores travel through the lungs and become large, thick-walled, yeast-like organisms that multiply within the lungs and other tissues of the body. This disease then spreads via the bloodstream or lymphatic system from the lungs to involve the eyes, brain, bone, lymph nodes, urogenital system, skin and subcutaneous tissues. Direct contact with spores through a puncture wound is another method of transmission which may cause localized infections.

WHERE IS IT FOUND? Thrives in rotting wood, wet soil, wet environments like swamps, lakes, riverbanks – where lack of direct sunlight encourage its growth. Also found in areas with decaying organic matter like wooded areas, forests and farms. Most competing soil organisms will kill off the blastomycosis spores unless the conditions are nearly perfect for the fungus to survive. This explains why blastomycosis is often found in small pockets instead of being widespread.

GEOGRAPHIC LOCATION:  Blastomycosis has a well-defined endemic area where it is found. The area includes the Mississippi, Missouri and Ohio River valleys. The Mid-Atlantic States and parts of Quebec, Manitoba and Ontario. The range appears to be growing.

WHO IS AT RISK?  Occurs primarily in dogs and humans. But on rare instances it has been diagnosed in horses, cats, ferrets and even sea lions. Hounds, Retrievers, Pointers, Coonhounds, Shepherds, Beagles and other sporting dogs are particularly susceptible because of their outdoor activities. Also dogs that live within a quarter mile of a body of water. One study in Wisconsin showed that 95% of the dogs diagnosed with Blastomycosis lived within 400 yards of a body of water.

SYMPTOMS: Loss of appetite, fever, weight loss, eye problems (such as redness, pain, swelling, excessive tearing, clouding of the corneas), chronic cough, shortness of breathe/wheezing and skin problems such as pus-filled skin lesions. More serious symptoms can include sudden blindness, lameness, inflammation of the testicles, enlarged lymph nodes and seizures. Signs are usually present for a few days to a few weeks. The disease can wax and wane with the severity of the symptoms improving slightly and then worsening again.

DIAGNOSIS: Unfortunately, Blastomycosis is often misdiagnosed as cancer OR pneumonia. Watch your dog for symptoms that last six weeks or more with no noticeable improvement and especially if they have been in an environment that could have the fungus, ask your veterinarian to test for a fungal infection. Blastomycosis is best diagnosed through examination of a lymph node, skin lesions or by lung tissue. There’s also a blood test called an AGID test or antigen ID test for exposure to Blastomycosis. But a positive result doesn’t mean your dog necessarily has the infection, only that he’s been exposed. Chest X-rays of a dog with Blastomycosis often reveal a sort of snowstorm-type pattern. Urine screening tests can also be very beneficial for diagnosis.

TREATMENT: Oral administration of an antifungal drug. These medications all require long-term treatment, sometimes for many months. Some professionals recommend a ‘nutraceutical called quantum nucleotide’, which helps to stimulate an immediate immune system reaction, as well as oil of oregano in capsule form, which is excellent support for a body fighting a fungal infection. The antifungal drugs are very expensive and often have serious side effects. For many dogs, the critical period during treatment is the first 24 to 72 hours, as the antifungal drug begins to kick in and kill off the fungi. Since there are typically a large number of organisms in the lungs, there can be an overwhelming inflammatory response that can result as the fungi die off. Respiratory distress can be a big problem during the first few days of treatment. The sooner you seek treatment, the better chance your dog has to fully recover.

PREVENTATIVE SUGGESTIONS: There is no vaccine available to protect you or your pet. It is next to impossible to avoid as it is difficult to determine where the fungal spores can be found. Limiting your time in the environments Blastomycosis can be found in may help prevent exposure to the spores. Recognize if the disease exists in your area and know the symptoms. Prompt veterinarian attention can be a matter of life or death.

CAN YOUR DOG INFECT OTHERS? If your dog has Blastomycosis, it is unlikely that you could get the disease from your pet, but it could indicate that you have both been exposed to a contaminated environment. Although Blastomycosis can affect humans, it cannot be transmitted through the air. Handle bandages carefully because on rare occasions the fungus can grow in bandages or on open wounds. Most human cases are contracted in the same way – in nature.  However, your pet is 10 times more likely to get the disease after being exposed to a contaminated environment, because their nose is closer to the ground.

MORE INFORMATION needed?

We partner with some of the best veterinarian practices and are lucky enough to have their guidance and support with life-saving tips. If you have additional questions or concerns, please feel free to reach out these partner offices as they have experience with Blastomycosis:

Wonder Lake Veterinary Clinic at 4405 E Wonder Lake Rd, Wonder Lake, IL  (815) 653-3586

Care Animal Hospital at 1101 W Park Ave., Libertyville, IL  (847) 549-8500

 Goofy’s Seizure Video.

NEWS COVERAGE:

http://chicago.cbslocal.com/tag/blastomycosis/

http://www.suffredin.org/news/newsitem.asp?newsitemid=5810

http://www.livescience.com/37607-fungal-infection-blastomycosis-wisconsin-outbreak.html

http://www.dogheirs.com/events/611

http://m.daily-chronicle.com/2013/04/23/letter-blastomycosis-warning-for-dogs/au1px72/

http://plainfield.patch.com/groups/around-town/p/plainfield-woman-warns-others-after-rare-disease-claims-dogs-life

http://www.myfoxchicago.com/story/19446225/dog-goes-blind-after-getting-fungal

References:
http://www.miravistalabs.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/Blastomycosis-Vet09172012.pdf
http://healthypets.mercola.com/sites/healthypets/archive/2013/05/13/blastomycosis-infection.aspx
http://vetmed.illinois.edu/petcolumns/petcols_article_page.php?OLDPETCOLID=67
http://www.canismajor.com/dog/blstomyc.html
http://www.peteducation.com/article.cfm?c=2+2102&aid=401

Dog Days of Summer Comes to an End Once More

Dog Days of Summer Comes to an End Once More

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What A Unbelievable Event Filled With Dedication, Support and Love for the Animals!

Continuation from Dog Days of Summer Day One …

We could not be more thankful for all that attended this year’s Dog Days of Summer event.
Our volunteers worked hard to provide fantastic, positive exposure for our adoptables.
Many made real connections with the lives that Wagging Hearts saved along the way. Nothing is  more powerful than to witness a life that was destined to fade away — tucked alone and abandoned in a shelter — find a family to love them, care for them. And to insure that they finally understand what forever really means. That is the goal for each of our events … get the word out. Rescue animals have so much to give but sometimes it is buried a little deeper inside them because of the journey that life has taken them on. But events like Dog Days of Summer, presented by Pampered Pupz, allow us to showcase these lives. To thrust them out into the light of day to present the unique and utterly beautiful personalities that each of them are. Small, medium and large breeds all looking to settle down and find that one home ready to provide all the permanent love and care they will ever need. What a journey we are all taking together for the rescued lives we are meeting along the way. They are all that really matters, right?

What Support!

We are humbled!! Our volunteers, fosters, boarding facilities, family, friends and new acquaintances came out in full support on Saturday and Sunday.

Special thanks to:

Summer, our littlest volunteer walked the crowds with her cuteness alerting many to our donated gift basket raffles each day. Summer brought the masses to our booth and filled our donation jar with her young, gifted tenacity to work hard for the animals. What a rescuer in the making and how lucky we are to have her support!!

Natalie, nothing stops her when it comes to putting it all out their for the rescues. She gives us all of herself; dedication of immense time, effort and a great, big heart.

Care Animal Hospital in Libertyville, for transporting our rescues to and from your facility. Guess what … all of them found forever or foster homes. THANK YOU from the bottom of our hearts for your assistance. Such support provides ripples of assistance to our organization. Jenna (found forever love), Skyler (found foster love) and Thema (found forever love).

Adoptions this weekend: Alyassa, Dixie, Foxy, Gretchen, Jenna, Jenny and Titan

All our volunteers who gave their all to us on both days. We watched you talking, showing off and loving our rescues. We saw lives being altered with each new connection. We watch young volunteers 8 years and up helping the animals stay cool and provide a lap to nap in when things got to be a bit too much. Our event was in simple words … amazing and successful. Lives have been altered and love has been shared. What more could we ask for — oh yeah … we did raise some good, old-fashioned money which goes directly to the care of the animals in our rescue.
We raffled two gift baskets away that were donated. Provided homemade treats to four-legged pets through-out the event, as well as playful bandannas. We are glowing with happiness and can’t thank everyone who came out enough for the love and support. Enjoy the photos from
Dog Days of Summer Day 2:

Connect with us if you can assist with adoptions, fostering or just through supporting our organization. Thank you as always for the phenomenal support given.

One in three pets will become lost at some point in their life.

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A microchip could make the difference between being reunited with your lost pet, or losing them to a system that returns only 22% of lost dogs to their families while 52% of microchipped pets made their way back home. 

In today’s busy lives we can never tell what can happen in a blink of an eye. Is your pet covered if they should slip out the door and run? Will they make it back home if a gate is left open by mistake and they wander away? How will animal control or a local citizen unite you with your lost pet? Microchipping can help insure your pet is reunited with your family. Most vet office’s can assist in scanning an animal for a microchip. Don’t be fooled into thinking that you could easily locate your pet if they get lost. Animals can trek far distances in search of their families and change appearances based on outdoor conditions. These pets are entering a system already overwhelmed with surrendered, abused or neglected animals and a lost pet can easily go unnoticed. The American Humane society estimates nearly ten million pets are lost or stolen each year. Why become part of the statistics? A study published in the Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association, including 53 animal shelters across the U.S., confirmed the high rate of return of microchipped dogs and cats to their families, and the importance of microchip registration.

What is microchipping? Microchipping is a way to register your companion pet into a database to be accessed should that animal be lost. A microchip the size of a grain of rice is inserted under the animal’s skin by a special injector. This procedure can be done during vaccinations or routine check-up at your veterinarian office. The microchip is encoded with a number that is registered to the owner/rescue of that animal with specific contact information. A handheld scanner is used to search for a microchip which can be read by most veterinarians, animal control officials, etc. Microchips can migrate around an animals body which is why the entire body should be scanned. External tags placed on collars can be lost, removed or altered. Don’t be left without a way to reconnect with your pet should you be tragically separated. Microchipping provides an extra layer of comfort and hope. Talk to your veterinarian about microchipping today and remember to confirm the number has been added to a National database.

Wagging Hearts microchips every rescue with each adoption insuring that the lives we save always have someone looking out for them in all the days of their lives. Join us in microchipping to help keep our animals safe by insuring they always make it back home.