Kaja is a great reminder why it's so important to spay/neuter your pets and keep up with their oral health.
February 1, 2022
At only 3.5 lbs, Kaja is one tiny (and absolutely adorable) 9-year-old Yorkshire Terrier. She was surrendered to HSLM in November of 2021 when her previous owner was unable to cover the costs of her urgent medical needs.
Previous medical records indicated that it was suspected that Kaja was suffering from pyometra (a life threatening uterine infection that most typically effects older, un-spayed, female dogs and cats) however diagnostic testing had not been done to confirm this.
Once in the care of the incredible HSLM Animal Health Team, Kaja was promptly taken to a local Veterinarian for diagnostic testing and treatment. Kaja was in a fair amount of discomfort and pain, so ensuring she was given pain management medication and made comfortable was the first priority.
While awaiting the results from the diagnostic tests, we funded the removal of twelve teeth from Kaja's mouth as she was suffering from severe dental disease and tooth decay. Although dental disease is not life-threatening it certainly decreases a pet's overall health and can cause significant pain and discomfort.
Dental disease, infections and other oral issues most commonly effect small breed dogs so taking proper care of their teeth is vital.
Diagnostic test results concluded that Kaja was not suffering from pyometra, but had developed tumors within her mammary glands.Surgery was quickly scheduled to have the masses removed and for Kaja to be spayed. This is a costly surgery, which we were able to fund thanks to the support of our generous donors.
Mammary cancer is the most commonly diagnosed tumor in intact female dogs that are older than seven years of age. If spayed before the first heat, the risk for a female dog developing mammary cancer is less than 1%. After the third heat the risk for development of a mammary tumor increases dramatically to 26%.
Spaying and neutering your pets has several health benefits, aids in them living longer and helps to control the pet overpopulation.
We at HSLM are so proud that we have the ability to save the lives of pets, like Kaja, thanks to the support of our donors. As a non-profit, charitable organization who does not receive government funding we simply could not do the important work we do without you!
Please consider making a donation TODAY to help provide life-saving surgery, procedures and medications for pets in your community!
