Nina joined the League's Sponsor Program in 2003. Nina is a loving and gentle terrier-mix that came to us as a puppy battling pneumonia. The League's on-site veterinarians found that Nina had very weak ligaments in her legs, causing her to grow bow-legged. She was diagnosed with Diabetes Mellitus. Nina's condition led to cataracts which, unfortunately, led to blindness. Luckily, Nina was adopted from the League and has found her forever home. Though her condition remains, and she has had to work through the challenges of becoming blind, she is as happy as any other normal dog could be.

Her treatment will remain life-long, but with the good wishes and monthly donations from Sponsors just like you, Nina will have the best medical care for the rest of her life. Thank you so much for caring about this innocent and worthy gal!

Nina's Updates

2nd Quarter 2009
Nina has completed her chemotherapy treatment and we couldn't be happier with her prognosis. Her lymphoma is now in remission and Nina can spend her days relaxing, playing and being the happy pup we know and love. She continues to have a healthy appetite and her adoptive mother will monitor her weight to see if she begins to gain back any weight she lost during her treatment. The most exciting thing about Nina completing her treatment is that she can now spend more time playing outside; just in time for the warm, sunny weather! While Nina can not see, she doesn't let that slow her down. Her adoptive family says she loves to play outside and enjoys spending time with her adoptive sibling while running around in the sunlight.

1st Quarter 2009
We are very happy to report that Nina is doing very well since starting her chemotherapy treatment. She has recently been taken off of Prednisone because it was making it difficult to regulate her diabetes. She has since gained back some of the weight she had lost since starting her treatment and her diabetes is now more under control. Her family reported that Nina is handling her treatment quite well and continues to have a great personality. Nina will soon have another check-up including an echocardiogram and we are hopeful that she will continue to show improvement.

4th Quarter 2008
Nina recovered well from her recent surgery, in which one of her eyes was removed. Her family advised that Nina went back to her normal routine within a day after returning home. She had a very healthy appetite and easily navigated through her home. Nina adjusted so quickly because over the past few years her eyesight deteriorated. She learned to no longer rely on her sight to find her way around. More recently Nina's adoptive mother felt that Nina's glands were swollen and brought her to the Animal League's medical center where it was determined that she was suffering from pneumonia. Nina was prescribed medication and is expected to recuperate just fine with some rest at home.

3rd Quarter 2008
Nina visited the Animal League's medical center to get a routine check-up last month. Before entering the medical center Nina pranced around outside and it seemed as if she enjoyed sniffing around the shrubs and greeting some of her friends from the Animal League. During her check-up Nina had blood work done; the results revealed high levels of glucose, which indicated that her diabetes is currently not regulated. Her medication will be adjusted to help regulate her diabetes and she will be coming back to the Animal League for another check-up shortly.

2nd Quarter 2008
Nina's health has been right on target and she has been eating well as usual. She has learned to control her bladder with practice so there haven't been any accidents in the house lately. Nina has learned to let her family know when she needs to go out to the yard in a very special way. She stands on her hind legs and wiggles around as if she is dancing. Her family knows when Nina starts her boogie to let her out in the yard.

1st Quarter 2008
Nina recently came to the League for a physical and check-up. Her blood work tests came back looking good. Her adopted family just couldn't be more pleased with her progress. We are also happy to report that Nina has taken up a new hobby…dancing! She has been prancing around on her hind legs until she is able to find her loving companions. She doesn't let being blind slow her down. You can tell by her busy schedule of resting, playing and exercising with neighborhood walks, which her loving family help her stick to. This petite pup is such a delightful sight to see.

4th Quarter 2007
Even though Nina cannot see, she still zips around the house without a problem. She certainly has no problem finding her food, as her appetite is always very hearty. Recently, Nina's adopted family has expanded. They adopted two kittens from the League because they lost their family cat who was 20 years old. The kittens are named Wizzle and Darla, and Nina loves to sniff them out and go nose to nose with them. It's funny and lovely how it's almost like the kittens know Nina cannot see, and take that into account as they try to help her.

3rd Quarter 2007
Nina is still going strong with an old squeaky toy that a sponsor provided during the holidays. It's her favorite toy, and though she plays with it all the time, she's careful not to ruin it. She's so appreciative of all her good fortune.

2nd Quarter 2007
Nina is so grateful to have so many people care about her. Her sponsors are always so generous and caring and send her plenty of presents and treats. Her adopted parents love her to pieces, and they like to spoil her, too. Nina is just a young pup, and she is very vibrant and animated. Her various medical conditions don't hold her back, and she can run, jump and play just like any other champion puppy.

1st Quarter 2007
Nina is doing quite well! Her eye hasn't gotten worse so surgery isn't necessary right now. Her adopted mom tells us that there's nothing young Nina loves more than to be touched and caressed. Even though she can't see them, she knows her adopted parents' voices and loves to be near them. Her ears perk up and she prances happily. Nina never lets her handicaps get her down. She runs and plays as best she can to enjoy life. She adores her adopted brother, Danny, and they have become best buddies.

4th Quarter 2006
Nina's ongoing challenge with diabetes has led to some bad news - the loss of sight in her remaining eye. She is now blind. That said, dear Nina remains in good spirits. Since she already has a good feeling for the layout of her house, she manages well and plays in the backyard with her canine housemate. At night, she sleeps on the bed with her adopted Mom and Dad, flipping over on her back for a good old fashioned belly rub! Your donations enable Nina to keep on living life despite her challenges.

3rd Quarter 2006
It sounds like Nina really has the life! Her family absolutely loves her and loves spending time with her. Currently there are no guide dog puppies in the house being foster cared, and Nina loves all the extra attention. Earlier this year, Nina accompanied the family on their annual trip to North Carolina and got to walk on the beach with her beloved family. The insulin continues to regulate her diabetes, so she has been very healthy. She continues to come in for check ups and have her blood glucose levels monitored, but the combination of insulin and prescription food seems to be doing the trick. She sleeps on her mom's bed at night, and in the morning sits up when she hears her mom go into the cookie jar. Nina can eat special treats that do not interfere with her diabetes, and she gobbles them happily. It is your generosity that allows Nina and the other special needs pets to enjoy each and every day. Thank you.

2nd Quarter 2006
Despite all of Nina's obstacles, she is doing very well according to her mom.  She has lost almost all of her sight, however she gets around the house with great ease. She loves playing outside in the yard, and relaxing in the nice warm sunshine. Her diabetes has been under control and she is still on insulin two times a day. She still has her special prescription food, which is very important for a dog with diabetes. When she came back to the League to have her photo taken, we were all so happy to see her and to see how well she looks. Thanks to your love and support, she is content in her home and that makes us all ecstatic.

1st Quarter 2006
Nina, we are very pleased to report, is doing very well. She seems to have really become part of the family and her Dad couldn't say enough great things about her. She still is on her insulin two times a day and is eating her prescription dog food like a good girl. She has to be fed at the same time everyday so her shots can be administered in a timely fashion. We're so happy to hear that everything seems to be under control. Did you know that lucky Nina went on a family vacation earlier this year? From what we were told, she's a great traveler in the car! She loves her family and they love her. It makes us so happy to hear that things are going so well. Nina has been through a lot in her short life, we're so glad she has a family who loves her.

December 2005
Overall, Nina is doing very well however we do believe that she is now losing sight in her left eye. Her next visit to the Medical Center will more than likely confirm that. Our smart girl gets around the house rather deftly nevertheless her Foster Care family wouldn't dare to move the furniture around! We don't want Nina to lose her way! Her diabetes is under control which we are very happy to report. Also Nina has a playmate to help keep her spirits high-a seven month old Labradoodle from the Guide Dog Foundation. Her name is Dani and she keeps Nina very active. Nina's mom is helping to train Dani to someday become a seeing-eye dog. Thank you for making Nina's story such a success!

November 2005
Nina certainly has a lot to be thankful for this Thanksgiving – her diabetes remains under control and her eye is stable. Isn't that wonderful? Of course we know that her condition could change at any time, but Nina is fortunate to have a loving family that is committed to her well-being, and that will monitor her closely for any shifts in her situation. We can't begin to put into words how grateful we are for your support. It is because of your kindness that Nina and the other special needs animals are living their days in comfort, with the love and attention they deserve.

October 2005
Nina has become finicky with her prescription food. This has happened before – it seems to be a stage she goes through from time to time. Because of her diabetes though, it's important that her eating habits remain consistent – otherwise it can wreak havoc with her blood sugar levels. We'll keep a close eye on her and will continue to encourage her to eat her special food. It is because of your kindness and generosity that Nina and the other special needs animals are receiving the love and care they so desperately need. Thank you for making it all possible.

September 2005
Fortunately there has been no change in the condition of Nina's remaining eye, and overall she's doing great. There have been some fluctuations in her sugar levels from time to time, but her Mom does a great job of keeping everything stable. Nina has bonded nicely with her family – her days here at the shelter are now just a faded memory – and she has been enjoying her time outside. We couldn't be more pleased for Nina – she had such a rough start, it's nice to see her happy. Nina and the other special needs animals are living much better lives because of your kindness. Your generosity has allowed them all a second chance – thank you.

August 2005
Surprisingly, Nina seems to enjoy the heat. We wonder though whether it's the warm temperatures she likes or the sunlight. Often she can be found stretched out on the deck of her house, soaking up all the sun. Nina likes to take long naps there – if shade has overtaken her spot when she wakes up, she quickly moves to another sunny spot and proceeds to lounge again. Nina's Mom, concerned that Nina might be getting overheated, encourages her to come inside after a while; but before long Nina wants out again. Nina and the other special needs animals truly appreciate your friendship. It is because of you that they are getting a second chance at a new leash on life.

July 2005
Nina loves to stay outside – no matter how hot it gets. Her foster care Mom worries that Nina will overheat, so she's hoping Nina will learn to like the pool. Last year she tried to introduce the pool to Nina – Nina didn't hate it, but she didn't exactly like it either. Her foster care Mom held onto her the entire time as they walked around the pool. After a while Nina began to relax, but her foster care Mom was afraid to let her go. Hopefully Nina will enjoy the pool more this year, and she'll have a nice place to cool off during those really hot days. Your generosity means the world to Nina and the other special needs animals. You are truly a hero to them.

June 2005
Nina's doing great! Her diabetes remains under control – her insulin levels are stable and she's maintaining her weight. No surprise given how much Nina likes to eat! The drops for her eyes also prevent cataracts from forming. Initially Nina had a hard time adjusting to the routine in her home and had a few accidents. Now everyone is comfortable with everyone else and their schedules – so no more messes! We truly appreciate your continued support of Nina and the other special needs animals. It is your love and generosity that allows them to enjoy each and every day. Thank you.

May 2005
Recent test results revealed some changes in Nina's condition. We have altered her medication and will monitor her closely to see that it has the desired effect on her blood sugar levels. Our sweet Nina has been through so much in her short life; we want to do everything we can to make her as healthy and as comfortable as possible. Thank you for your love, your support, and your friendship. It is because of you that Nina and the other special needs animals are enjoying each day to its fullest.

April 2005
Poor Nina – her Mom brought her to the Medical Center because she was concerned about Nina's low blood sugar levels and frequent trips to relieve herself. We're still waiting for the test results, but we're encouraged that Nina's appetite remains strong. We'll of course keep you posted on her condition – we all hate to see this sweet, cuddly dog ill. Your love and support means the world to Nina and the other special needs animals. It is because of you that they have a second chance at happiness.

March 2005
Good news – Nina's eye is doing great! Her Mom brought her in for a re-check and a test of the eye revealed normal pressure – obviously the eye drops prescribed are doing the trick. Her diabetes also remains under control, thanks to proper management from Mom. We couldn't be happier for our sweet Nina! She had such a rough start in life; it's nice to see her doing so well. Your generous support of Nina and the other special needs animals is truly appreciated by us all. It is because of your kindness that we are able to give them the love and care they deserve.

February 2005
We continue to wait and see how Nina's eye problems will progress and what the best course of action should be - we don't want to rush into any decisions prematurely. In the meantime, Nina is getting around well. Her diabetes remains stable, and she's running around and playing just like a puppy should. Her Mom raises guide dogs for the blind and there's a new dog in training in the house. Nina just adores the younger pup and loves to romp and chase with him - of course, she's already let him know that she's the "older" dog and in charge! Your support of Nina and the other special needs animals means the world to them. Because of you, they are living happier and healthier lives.


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