Species: Canine / Pitbull Mix
Sex: Male
Estimated Birthday: 9/16/14
On October 16, 2014 a 4 week old pit bull puppy (one of a litter of 8) was brought to Northwood Animal Hospital. All but 4 of the pups had already succumbed to an unknown illness. This little one was now very ill, dehydrated and unable to walk, his left rear leg very swollen. X-rays did not show any obvious fractures. The puppy was given subcutaneous fluids for dehydration and went home with an NSAID to treat possible trauma. About a week later, the puppy returned. He had developed a seroma (accumulation of blood and serum) at the site of SQ fluids. Worse than that, though, he was now profoundly neurologic. The puppy was vocalizing as if in pain, still couldn’t walk and would periodically extend his head dorsally as if having a seizure. The progression of his neurologic signs pointed towards brain involvement, either a congenital cause, an infection such as meningitis or trauma. Iago entered the CARE program and was placed on an antibiotic, pain medicine and steroids for possible meningitis. Within 2 days, he was more neurologically appropriate, though still weak in the rear. Iago grows stronger every day. He has started his puppy vaccines and dewormings. All indications is that Iago will go on to become a normal dog.