2017 CVM News: Cardiology team saves street dog from deadly heartworm condition

Abstract

This news item is about: Flyer, a mixed breed dog, has been rescued twice this year: once from Jamaican streets by a Canadian charity and a second time by a team of veterinarians at Cornell University’s Hospital for Animals (CUHA). Flyer is a Potcake, the name given to feral Caribbean dogs with cocked ears who were traditionally fed the caked remains of a rice and pea dish. Flyer lived on the streets and in a sanctuary until Allison Shalla, co-president of Eastern Ontario Potcake Rescue, brought him back to Ottawa last February. Not having received any heartworm prophylaxis, Flyer began taking medication when tests on Valentine’s Day indicated heartworm disease.