Staff Puzzled As Perfect Dog Still Waiting for Forever Home 1026 Days Later
Perhaps the hardest part of working at a shelter or rescue is watching dogs with all the right qualities of a perfect canine companion go for months or, worse, years without a forever home. This is exactly the kind of heartache staff at Marleys Mutts Dog Rescue have been dealing with for the past (almost) three years because of one lovely yet unlucky girl at their Ranch: Sierra, an Australian Kelpie.
Sierra has been at Marleys Mutts Dog Rescue for a staggering 1026 days. One would expect, and understandably so, for long-term stayers like Sierra to have lost all hope of ever finding a permanent home. Yet, Sierra wakes up every day holding onto hope that she’ll soon land at the welcoming doorstep of a home that will cherish her forever.
A Fighter From the Very Start
When Sierra was first brought to Marleys Mutts Dog as a puppy, she had a serious health defect that made her an ideal candidate for euthanasia. Sierra suffered from an imperforate anus (she had no anal opening- see FAQs below), which made her pass feces through her vagina. A high-risk surgery was needed to correct this medical issue, and even though staff at the rescue had little hope of her coming out alive, she did.
Sierra eventually made a full recovery, a sign that fate wasn’t done with her yet. Given all that she’s been through and the magnitude of her health victory, it’s a pity that Sierra’s existence for the past few years has largely been defined by kennel solitude. While she’s grateful to be in a safe environment surrounded by amazing staff, her happiness can only be completed by this one thing: finding a loving permanent home.
Sierra Has It All, She Just Needs a Home
Being one of the rescue’s longest residents, staff have watched Sierra blossom into an all-round dog. She’s an energetic, playful, social pup who loves interacting with people and dogs alike. Sierra is a fun lover who’d give anything to be part of an active household where she’ll make unlimited adventure memories with her loved ones.
Besides being dog-friendly, Sierra also gets along wonderfully with cats (see, we meant it when we said she’s all-rounded).
Although she may seem a bit shy at first, it won’t take long before her true personality emerges and for you to see why she captures the hearts of everyone around her. It’s only fair for good girl Sierra to finally bid the rescue goodbye, but she can’t do that without your help.
If you’d love to be the forever person that Sierra has been waiting for all these years, please reach out to Marleys Mutts Dog Rescue for details on her adoption process.
FAQs About Imperforate Anus or Atresia Ani in Dogs
1. What is an imperforate anus in dogs?
An imperforate anus in dogs, also known as atresia ani, is a birth defect where the anal opening is either absent or blocked, preventing the normal passage of feces.
2. What are the different types of imperforate anus in dogs?
There are several types of imperforate anus in dogs, including those where the anal opening is missing entirely or where there is a blind pouch with no outlet. These types vary in severity and may require different treatment plans.
3. How is atresia ani diagnosed in puppies?
Atresia ani in puppies is typically diagnosed through physical examination and diagnostic tests, such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) or X-rays, to determine the extent of the anorectal malformations.
4. What are the common symptoms of atresia ani in dogs?
Common symptoms of atresia ani in dogs include an absence of an anal opening, fecal incontinence, distended abdomen, and difficulty passing stool. In female dogs, a rectovestibular fistula may be present, where the rectum opens into the vaginal area. In male dogs, feces may accumulate in a blind pouch or be redirected through abnormal openings, such as fistulas, near the perineum (the area between the scrotum and the anus) or other areas around the genital region.
5. What treatment options are available for atresia ani in dogs?
Treatment for atresia ani in dogs often involves surgical repair to create or open the anal opening. This surgery, known as posterior sagittal anorectoplasty (PSARP), aims to restore normal bowel function.
6. What is the prognosis for dogs with atresia ani after surgery?
The prognosis for dogs with atresia ani after surgery depends on the severity of the condition and the success of the surgical repair. Many dogs can achieve a good quality of life with proper treatment and care.
7. Can atresia ani affect a dog’s urinary tract?
Yes, atresia ani can sometimes be associated with abnormalities in the urinary tract, which may require additional medical attention. A thorough evaluation by a veterinary care team is essential to address all potential issues.
8. How can a bowel management program help dogs with imperforate anus?
A bowel management program can help dogs with imperforate anus maintain control over their bowel movements. This program may include dietary adjustments, medications, and regular enemas to manage fecal incontinence.
9. What role does the anal sphincter play in atresia ani canine treatment?
The anal sphincter is crucial in controlling bowel movements. In atresia ani canine treatment, ensuring that the sphincter functions properly after surgical repair is vital for the dog’s long-term bowel control.
10. What should pet owners expect during the treatment of atresia ani in dogs?
Pet owners should expect a comprehensive treatment plan that includes diagnostic tests, surgical intervention, and ongoing care to manage the condition. Working closely with a veterinary care team is essential to ensure the best possible outcome for the dog.
