April 2021

It’s Earth Day & National Heartworm Awareness Month!

Lila came to TLC a little before Christmas 2019 as a pregnant, heartworm positive Momma from Darlington, SC.  She settled into her Tricia Gonci’s (her foster) house pretty seamlessly and after a long/tough  labor, had a total of 8 puppies with 5 surviving.  At a little over 6 weeks old, her puppies went to another foster, and all found their perfect families when they were ready.  Lila went to Sierra Dawn to be fostered through her heartworm treatment and spay.  The transition was tough on Lila, but she had an amazing foster who was willing to give her the time and space she needed to become that pup that happy spins when it’s time for a meal or a walk.

Once the puppies were weaned and they were all adopted, Lila transitioned to another  foster, Sierra Calaman. After Lila arrived at Sierra’s home, she began heartworm treatment. Thousands of dogs are diagnosed with Heartworm Disease each & every year.  Heartworm is a mosquito transmitted, preventable disease in which parasitic worms infect the dog’s heart & lungs. 

Fortunately, there is both a preventative and a cure for Heartworm. While treatment is a costly, 4 month long process, prevention is an inexpensive, once-a-month chewable. Once cured of this mosquito transmitted disease, most dogs (including Lila) go on to lead a happy & healthy life! 

In addition to the struggles of undergoing heartworm treatment, being moved to a different foster and being away from her puppies was a difficult transition for her. She needed time to decompress, and Sierra did a great job giving her the time and space she needed! After a little time, Lila started to trust Sierra, Lila began opening up and becoming more comfortable with her surroundings. During that time, Lila had another setback and spent some time in the ER for an unexpected illness. However as resilient as Lila is,  she recovered quickly and began opening up and trusting more with each day.  Lila was able to become the pup that happy spins when it’s time for a meal or a walk because of Sierra who was willing to give her the time, space, and work that she needed to become her best self.

Some dogs come to us with health or trust issues, and they need a little extra TLC. Because of our wonderful foster families, we are able to do what we do and we can give all of those dogs a second chance to find their loving furever homes.  Lila’s story is one that reinforces that rescue isn't always easy, but it is ALWAYS worth it. 

To learn more about Heartworm Disease, prevention & treatment, please visit www.heartwormsociety.org.