Pepper the beaglier was just nine weeks old when she became part of Vicki's family.
"When I first met Pepper – she picked me. She sat between my legs and looked up at me with big eyes. I believe had I not taken her she would not be alive today," says Vicki.
You see, Vicki thought she was buying Pepper from a reputable Victorian breeder. She later discovered Pepper was actually born on a puppy farm in New South Wales. Without Vicki knowing, Pepper had been transported to Victoria and sold as if she was born in Victoria, under its stricter breeding guidelines.
"I think it's such an important thing for people to be aware of when buying from breeders, they need to check things thoroughly. This is where I went wrong," admits Vicki.
I cannot stress enough how critical it is for people to do their research and are diligent in where they are getting their pets from.
Vicki
A serious diagnosis
Just three days after she arrived, Pepper became very unwell and tested positive for canine parvovirus. This highly contagious virus attacks the lining of the small intestine, leading to loss of appetite, lethargy, severe vomiting and diarrhoea, often with blood. This can cause severe dehydration, shock and death, especially in small dogs and puppies. Infection comes from contact with infected animals or contaminated environments.
Vicki chose to transfer Pepper to Lort Smith. "I knew this could be a long-term game, but I was committed regardless of the financial implications. Pepper was a lifetime decision. And I knew Lort Smith offered payment plans.
"An old housemate/close friend adopted a dog from Lort Smith and the care Lort Smith provided was a testament to their authenticity in their care for animals," says Vicki.
Pepper spent nine days in hospital in our isolation unit. She had blood tests, intravenous fluids, pain relief and anti-nausea medication.
Our vet nurses tried to feed Pepper by syringe, but this didn't work, so she was fitted with a nasal feeding tube.
Pepper also had multiple faecal transplants. This involves faeces being transplanted from a healthy donor dog into the unwell patient, to restore the balance of bacteria in their gut. For these, Lort Smith staff dogs came to the rescue!
"Lort Smith ensured I got communicated with twice daily. They were very honest about the fact they would let me know if it was time to say goodbye to Pepper, thankfully this never happened. They told me everything and answered all of my questions no matter how big or small."
"I cannot stress enough how critical it is for people to do their research and are diligent in where they are getting their pets from," warns Vicki.
Full recovery
We're delighted to report that Pepper has made a full recovery. She now goes to doggy daycare and socialises really well with other dogs and people.
"She is rather famous and loved in my neighbourhood for how cute and sassy she is. She has earnt me many free coffees and treats from cafes just because of how cute she is and because of her wonderful nature!" laughs Vicki.
If your dog shows signs of parvo, please contact Lort Smith or your local vet immediately.