Meet Ishtar!
Ishtar is a wonderful and sweet owner trained service Dobe! She lives with Jill, her owner in Filmouth, KY. Jill says that Ishtar helps her in more ways that you can imagine. She picks things up for her, opens doors, and even takes out the garbage. She says that she "loves Ishtar like a daughter". Ishtar's name means "goddess of love" and Jill says that is a very fitting description of her. Jill does not have access to a digital camera or scanner, but will be sending picture of Ishtar very soon for us to scan and post to her page.
Recently Ishtar became lethargic and Jill took her to the vet. He said that
Ishtar had fluid in the sac surrounding her heart, prescribed Lasix and
referred them to a Veterinary Internal Medicine specialist. Dr. Rogers, the specialist
ran numerous tests on Ishtar, including an echo, ultrasound and EKG. His diagnosis
was pericardial effusion with the possible onset of cardiomyopathy. Ishtar is currently taking
Lasix, Enalapril, and Predisone and is responding well to treatment and beginning to
act like her old self again! The continued testing and medication is beyond Jill's means
as she live on a monthly $599 disability check.
Ishtar is loved not only by Jill, but many others in her community. When Jill
adopted her stray Doberman, there was no animal shelter in the community. Jill
says that stray
dogs were usually shot by the police. After adopting and training Ishtar, Jill
and Ishtar lead a campaign for a shelter in their area, and even appeared on
local TV! They were
successful largely because of Ishtar's model behavior. Members of the community
have contributed toward Ishtar's current bill, but have not yet raised the amount
needed.
Jill has asked SND to help her help Ishtar.
Ishtar will soon need to be re-examined. Please contribute what you can to help her to have the care she needs! No amount is too small! You can mail a donation or use the PayPal button below to assist Ishtar.
Updates:
06/06/03 - On June 5, 2003 Ishtar collapsed and was rushed to the vet. She was suspected of having a stroke! The next day, at the vet's office, Ishtar rallied to the point of even being frisky! All of her bloodwork came back with good results, and the vet is very optimistic for her. Please continue to send Ishtar your good thoughts and contributions so that she may continue her happy life with the human who loves her.
June 22nd, 2003 - Ishtar goes for her re-check!
July 17th, 2003 - We are very saddened to tell you that Ishtar has passed away. Please read the letter from Marie, Jill and Ishtar's friend.
