Stevie Nicks Joyce

Stevie needs our help! 

Stevie is an awesome girl, rescued by trainer Jennifer Joyce of Dynamite Doggies in San Francisco.  I first met them on the photo site Flickr - drawn by Stevie's amazing appearance and those startling eyes.  We became fast friends fast.  Jennifer has given me wonderful guidance and support for my shydog Scotty.  This is my chance to give something back. 

Here is her story...

I adopted Stevie Nicks from the San Francisco SPCA in October of 2007. She was 3 years old. My Border Collie, Merlin needed a wife and I knew she was the one when I saw how strong and resilient she was. Turns out that was more than true…

August 20, 2009: Stevie became lethargic and vomited up some crab shells she had eaten on the beach. This was not new for her, as she is a devout scavenger. I kept my eye on her, but wasn’t worried until she urinated what appeared to be blood. Our vet recommended the emergency room at San Francisco Veterinary Specialists- internists always on duty to deal with serious cases. I had no idea how serious this was at the time.

After examination, tests and an 8 hour wait Stevie was diagnosed with Auto Immune Hemolytic Anemia. She stayed overnight for observation; the next day we went home with a litany of meds and detailed instructions for monitoring. Prognosis: 60-70% chance for survival. I sat through the night with her, checking her respiratory rate, her energy level and the color of her tongue and gums. Initially her breathing was mostly normal and her coloring was slightly jaundiced. Overnight things changed drastically - breathing labored, gums white - she collapsed, so I rushed her back into the hospital. Her red blood cell count was at 9%, near death. She received her first transfusion and remained at the hospital overnight. Prognosis: 50% chance for survival.

Post transfusion her red blood cell count fell again, indicating she wasn’t producing her own. I had to make the decision for a second transfusion and treatment with a very expensive, human-grade medicine or say goodbye. I could not let this 5-year-old dog die, who two days prior had been full of life and vigor. I knew that if she lived through this extremely rough patch that she would bounce back. Prognosis: Extremely guarded. After more testing, Stevie was diagnosed with a second disease called Lupus Erythematosus, which means more lifelong medication. Neither of these diseases have cures.

Fast forward to the good news: Stevie improved massively after her second transfusion, IVIG treatment and careful aftercare at home. Prognosis: Likely to keep improving and live a long, happy life!

The reality: I applied for Care Credit (www.carecredit.com) which allows me 6 months free of interest to pay off this $10,000+ vet bill. Friends, we need your help.