Copper was a stray dog who was obviously abused by his previous owners. He had heartworms, and was probably not going to live very much longer on his own. If you are considering a dog as a pet, please check your local animal shelter. With a little love and affection, these dogs who have been abused and abandoned can become a great pet and a very important part of your life.
At the end of 1999, Copper had heartworm treatments which were unsuccessful in getting rid of the heartworms Around the first of June 2000 he again underwent treatment for heartworms. Unfortunately, this treatment was also unsuccessful.
After discussing the situation with Copper's Vet, we have decided to hold off on any heartworm treatments for the time being. Copper is doing very well and showing no real symptoms or ill effects of the heartworms. Since as few as 1 or 2 adult worms can cause a positive test result, my Vet is confident that he will be OK so long as he continues his monthly anti-heartworm preventative.
In addition to the heartworm problems, Copper was very sick during the end of March 2001. He had internal bleeding in his urinary and digestive systems. Copper lost a lot of blood and was in the hospital for 4 days. He came very close to passing away, but he has now made a full recovery and is doing fine again. They don't know what exactly caused the bleeding, but the vet's best guess is that he somehow got into some rat poison. I don't know how he could have gotten into rat poison, but I am very relieved that he is still with me :-)
