Winston:  Adopted

Winston came to us in May of 2008, when he ended up at a local kill shelter after his health had been severely neglected by his previous family.  He had severe dental problems, an ugly black growth on the top of his head, heartworms, and something that had caused his skin to darken and his coat to be very sparse and coarse.  Our vet thinks that it may be sunburn, or perhaps malnutrition.   At any rate, he made it to CTDR, has had his teeth fixed, the growth removed from his head, and has been put on proper nutrition.  Because he has symptoms of Cushing's but his tests are inconclusive, and given his previous poor health and age, we chose not to put him through the difficult heartworm treatment, but rather treat him conservatively with Heartgard.  All of these health issues led us to decide to place him in our Hospice Care program.

Winston lives in a foster home where he gets along with everyone, including the cats.  He is so mellow, calm, and laid back - Mr. Cool!  You just can't help but fall for Winston.  His foster mom and dad took in one of the very scared puppy mill dogs from a recent bust, and Winston was so good with her and helped tremendously to get her out of her shell.  He has so many talents.

Winston participated in the Northwest Austin Civil Association Fourth of July Parade and had a great time marching along and meeting people and dogs and kids. He loves people and just wants to be by your side all the time.  He also dressed up as a Winasaurus for various costume contests, and completed the outfit by walking with very stiff legs!  While he didn't win any prizes, he certainly won hearts, which everyone knows is much more important anyway.

UPDATE

Winston has been diagnosed with diabetes.  We caught it very early so he has no physical effects at this time, and it is very well controlled with daily insulin shots.  He comes in monthly to have his sugar levels monitors.  In true Winston fashion, he just takes it all in stride.  Such a special boy!