Saved by Love and KodiakCare

Luis and Manchita - happily together

On a bustling May morning at Dakin’s Community Spay/Neuter Clinic, 57 animals were being admitted for surgery when Luis quietly walked through the door. He spoke Spanish, and waited patiently until a translator could assist him.

When we learned his 9-year-old Chihuahua, Manchita, had been bleeding for nine days and had never been spayed, we urged him to bring her in right away. Moments later, Luis returned with a tiny dog full of big personality. Despite being visibly unwell - dehydrated, underweight, and with a painfully swollen belly - Manchita made her opinions known, especially when it came time to step on the scale.

Manchita had pyometra, a serious infection of her uterus. Dr. Therrien brought her into surgery that same morning. Manchita’s uterus was so enlarged from the infection that the little dog lost a full pound after it was removed - going from 6 pounds to just 5.

As the team turned its focus to her recovery, there was deep concern. Manchita wasn’t eating and was in fragile condition. But when we called Luis the next morning, we were overjoyed to hear that once she was home in his loving care, she ate right away.

Luis was able to contribute what he could toward Manchita’s life-saving procedure. The rest was covered by KodiakCare, a nonprofit founded by Glenn and Nancy Shapiro in memory of their beloved Bernese Mountain Dog, Kodiak, who experienced multiple medical challenges over the years.  While the Shapiros were able to meet their pet’s medical needs, they understand that not everyone is able to similarly cover unexpected costs, so KodiakCare came to the rescue. KodiakCare saves the lives of dogs by providing funding for critical veterinary care to families who face unexpected financial challenges in pet care. Fortunately, Dakin was able to connect Luis to this important funding source, and provide excellent care for Manchita.

“Kodiak was with us for nine years longer than expected, and all pet parents should have that chance,” Glenn shared.  Thanks to the generosity of his organization – and Luis’ deep love for his little dog - Manchita is back where she belongs, with the person who adores her.