Special Needs: In Sanctuary Care

Description:
Unlike most of the other Papillons that come into our PAP 911 Rescue, Oliver came from a home where he was very loved and well cared for. Early in his life, he developed allergies and had itchy skin. His concerned owners took Oliver to a good vet and even to the University of GA where he was tested for all kinds of environmental allergies. Despite diets and medications, Oliver just kept itching. No one ever came to a real conclusion, but there might be a clue in the fact that his owners ran a doggy bakery for a living, and Oliver tried everything they baked! Anyway, he became grumpy, ill tempered, and spoiled. Then real tragedy occurred. First, the man of the house died suddenly of a heart attack. Before the grieving widow got back on her feet, she was diagnosed with stomach cancer and 6 weeks later, she too was dead. Oliver was left in the care of the young daughter and her family. But the stress had taken its toll. Oliver's hair was falling out in handfuls and his personality became sullen and snappy. He needed a change. When he arrived at his foster home, Oliver had itched himself raw. He was bleeding in several places and he had a bag of medications and skin treatments with him. First, his diet was changed to a strict hypoallergenic one, and after a visit to the vet, all meds were progressively withdrawn. Long soaking baths and oatmeal rinses eased the itching and his attitude began to improve dramatically. Today, Oliver has become a beautiful boy. He is still on his special diet and he is learning to play with other dogs. Oliver will need a firm dog savvy person to stay in charge. He must have someone interested in careful nutrition who is willing to follow a diet. He can have other dogs in the family if they are submissive, because Oliver is the dog that will be king! He needs human companionship and a firm loving hand. Please visit Oliver in Marietta, GA