When a beloved pet falls ill, the emotional toll on an owner is immense. For Sweet Face, a one-year-old Yellow Labrador, her journey has been particularly arduous, marked by a severe diagnosis of Blastomycosis. This aggressive fungal infection presented a grave threat, leading veterinarians to initially recommend euthanasia. However, against the odds, Sweet Face has shown remarkable resilience, and her story is now a beacon of hope, albeit one accompanied by significant veterinary expenses. This is an urgent plea for assistance to help cover the ongoing costs of her treatment.
Sweet Face and her littermate, Big Boy, were surrendered to GRRAND (Golden Retriever Rescue And Retirement Network) in December, and their lives took a dramatic turn shortly after. Sweet Face developed open sores, struggled with breathing, and experienced vision difficulties. A swift transfer to Metropolitan Vet Specialist revealed the severity of her condition: Blastomycosis, a fungal infection that can be life-threatening. The veterinary team, having never encountered such an extreme case, believed her prognosis was dire.
Against the dire predictions, GRRAND opted to give Sweet Face more time. Miraculously, she stabilized and even began to show signs of improvement. Placed in an oxygen tent and treated with the costly medication Itraconazole, she slowly but surely started to recover. After just over a week in intensive care, Sweet Face was discharged with a staggering vet bill exceeding $10,000.
Reunited with her devoted littermate, Big Boy, Sweet Face continued her recovery under the dedicated care of GRRAND volunteers. The infection in her eyes necessitated a rigorous eye drop regimen every six hours to preserve her vision. She remained on Itraconazole, a daily expense of hundreds of dollars for GRRAND, and required ongoing consultations with an ophthalmologist, along with regular MiraVista testing to monitor the disease’s progression. In total, GRRAND has invested between $12,000 and $15,000 in their efforts to save Sweet Face, with the hope that she will achieve a full recovery and lead a normal, happy life.
Currently, Sweet Face must remain in the Louisville area to be close to her specialists. The scheduling of her spay surgery is imminent, as vets believe she is finally well enough for the procedure. Her bond with Big Boy is undeniable; they have been inseparable, except during her hospitalization. For Sweet Face to be declared free of Blastomycosis, she must have two consecutive negative MiraVista tests. Due to the disease’s potential to lie dormant and resurface, annual testing will be required for life to ensure her continued health and to detect any recurrence swiftly.
This courageous Labrador is more than just a patient; she is a testament to the power of perseverance and the importance of specialized veterinary care. The financial burden of her treatment is substantial, and GRRAND is appealing to the public for support. Donations, no matter the size, can make a significant difference in Sweet Face’s ongoing recovery. Please consider clicking the “DONATE” button at the top of the GRRAND website to contribute to her veterinary bills.
Sweet Face and Big Boy are described as delightful dogs, surrendered due to their previous owners facing difficult circumstances. Big Boy is not fond of cats and will vocalize his displeasure if they are near. He is an affectionate dog who thrives on contact and enjoys running and wrestling with his sister. Sweet Face, while not as overtly cuddly as Big Boy, seeks affection on her own terms. She enjoys resting in her open crate and prefers cooler environments, with a penchant for chewing. Both dogs are crate-trained and have had no reported potty issues, though Sweet Face does dislike her crate and will vocalize her desire to be let out. They both love water, and are described as strong, beautiful, and sweet dogs.
The GRRAND kennel staff characterize the pair as “two big, goofy, sweet dogs” who eagerly seek attention, whether through play, walks, or petting. They are a bonded pair of Labs who require a home that can commit to providing them with ample exercise and guidance. As young, energetic dogs, they need consistent training and activity to ensure they grow into well-behaved adults.
GRRAND will continue to provide updates as more information becomes available. For those interested in meeting these two charming canines, an application can be submitted at GRRAND.org.
