Dewey was a stray Pit Bull mix. Once he was rescued, he became spunky and loving with a zest for life. Dewey loved to catch snowballs in the snow. He was a guy of mischief, stealing food off counters or wherever he could reach human food. Dewey was especially fond of Girl Scout cookies! Dewey loved to chase things, including the notorious laser light. And, Dewey loved belly rubs and a good nap.
In 2018 Dewey suddenly began having trouble walking. Within three months his gait was worse. He would fall when squatting. Soon, he could no longer jump. Dewey was clearly in pain because he whined. Dewey began eating less. He developed urinary and bowel incontinence. He also needed an assistive device for mobility. At the age of 10, Dewey was diagnosed with an incurable disease Degenerative Myelopathy (DM). DM is a neurological spinal cord disease. Dewey inherited a gene mutation that is the same gene mutation for ALS in humans. Before his diagnosis, Dewey had no known health concerns pertaining to his diagnosis. Since Dewey’s passing, Dewey’s owners continue to raise awareness to help keep his legacy alive by assisting other owners who are coping with this incurable disease with their pets. A research hospital can help dogs like Dewey and give them a better quality of life. As with Degenerative Myelopathy, animal diseases can be similar or the same as human diseases. Companion animal research can be beneficial to humans as well.
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The Newman Veterinary Research Hospital (NVRH) is a non-profit 501(c)3. All contributions are tax deductible.