Human with humongous heart needed for dog who's losing his
Tuesday, August 25, 2015
By: Wendy Welch

Can you help?

Ann Arbor, MI (July 31, 2015) –   Chase, a three-year old dog, is in a run for his life, and the Humane Society of Huron Valley (HSHV) is hoping for a hero to come forward and give him his final home.

Chase, a happy-go-lucky black and white Mastiff/Pit Bull Terrier mix, has "subaortic stenosis," a genetic heart condition narrowing the blood stream pumped from the heart. This affects the left side of Chance's heart; heartworm disease affects the right side. Though veterinarians at HSHV are treating the young dog for heartworm, nothing can be done about subaortic stenosis.

"We're not sure how long Chase will live," says Dr. Carolyn Allen, HSHV's Lead Shelter Veterinarian. "He is at risk for sudden death at any point, and it's important that we be very upfront and clear with the serious nature of his situation. He's been evaluated in detail with an echocardiogram, and we've crafted a treatment plan that gives him the best chance of survival through heartworm treatment and beyond. But the 'beyond' portion hinges on some very special person."

HSHV is seeking an adopter who will not only continue his medical treatment, but who will also "seize the day" -- understanding that Chase may have a week, a month, or years to live -- and give him all the snuggles and love they can now. Medically-speaking, Dr. Allen says the "couch potato" life would be best for him, "though nothing is a guarantee."

Chase came to HSHV after his owner died. Though he appeared large and invincible, he was scared of everyday things.

"He had to learn about kennel doors, how to use the flap that allows him to go outside and enjoy the sunshine-- even how to use the automatic watering dish without being scared by the noise it made," says Dr. Allen. "Over several weeks, he made the transition from being a quiet statue of a dog to being the happy, outgoing guy that he is now."

HSHV has published a video of Chase to show potential adopters what he's like: http://youtu.be/qhXvQKTE1o0.  

"To adopt a dog with this condition is an emotional challenge, for sure," says Matthew Schaecher, HSHV's COO. "But Chase still has lots of love to give, and we're sure there's someone who wants to do the same in return."

People who have a serious interest in adopting Chase can go to www.hshv.org/howtoadopt to learn more about adopting and complete a dog adoption application. Completed applications can be brought in to HSHV, faxed to 734-929-0814 or emailed to adoptions@hshv.org.