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Victoria is an adult Cavalier King Charles Spaniel. She is also a puppy mill victim and survivor. Victoria came to the Animal League as part of a collaborative puppy mill rescue the Animal League took part in. Puppy mills are mass breeding operations that run solely for the purpose of making a profit. In these mills, the health, happiness or well-being of the animals is of no concern. |
Because of the total disregard for medical care in puppy mills, Victoria's vision became impaired. Eye problems are common to her breed; however, they can be prevented or postponed with appropriate veterinary care. Victoria also has a mild heart murmur which will remain with her for her entire life. Though the murmur currently does not require any medication, it still needs to be monitored with regular checkups, as it will likely progress with age.
In addition, she has mitral valve disease (MVD). MVD is a degeneration and fibrosis of the heart's mitral valve (one of four sets of valves in a canine's heart. This valve is designed to prevent the backflow of blood from the left ventricle into the left atrium of the heart. Unfortunately, as the disease progresses, the valve no longer fully closes after each pumping action and blood moves backwards into the atrium again. This eventually causes the heart to enlarge.
She is still also feeling the effects of severe dermatitis. It is not known yet whether her constant itching, scratching and licking are caused by environmental allergies or not. More testing may have to be done.
Regardless of her harrowing ordeal, Victoria is an incredibly loving dog. She enjoys cuddling close and being held like a baby. While many puppy mill victims often experience behavioral issues from their abuse and neglect, Victoria has remained true to her breed - an eager, affectionate tail-wagger who wants nothing more than love and companionship.
The Animal League is happy to oblige Victoria her needs and gladly welcomes her into the Sponsor Program. With the help of generous monthly Sponsors like you, Victoria will live out the rest of her days as healthy and happy as possible. We hope that you will choose to be her Sponsor Program Pet Parent - thank you!
Victoria’s Updates
4th Quarter 2009
New to Program! We are thrilled to report that Victoria has found a loving foster care home. She will be fostered by an Animal League Associate and her family. She has fit right in with all family members and even another small dog. Now that she knows what a "walk" is, she gets very excited. Her "Cavalier" King Charles spaniel instincts are very strong-she's ready to chase any small creature that moves. If she hears some birds chirping, she cocks her head to listen and then she must find them. She also enjoys just relaxing on the couch and cuddling with her new human brother. When they fall asleep on the couch together, you can imagine what an endearing sight it is!
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