MRI Results are in !

Here is our interpretation of the results....

Leo's Spinal Cord was "tethered" to a vertebrae in his back from birth. As he has grown, the cord remains attached and is forced to stretch as the spine grows, causing strain on the cord, and holds the spine back from properly growing. Leo has more growing to do and this will get worse as the spine continues to grow. The vet said that surgery can be risky and there is a possibility it could do more damage, but as we see it that damage may also happen if he continues to grow and the cord is still attached. The vet also said if Leo may regain some function if the surgery is performed.

The surgery will cost at least $3000, so Leo will need many angels to help him along the way, he will also have to be confined to a crate for 2 weeks after the surgery and then 6-8 week of recovery time.

More info on Leo's condition in human terms: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tethered_spinal_cord_syndrome

We will need to figure out a plan now.....

**If you could use a tax write off before the year is over, think of Leo!

MRI Fund Contribution Summary

These nice people donated funds so that Leo could have an MRI to find out what is wrong with him.
Funds Raised for MRI: $1,590 of $1,800
Rachael Jacobs, Gresham, OR - $10.00
Julie Potter, Vashon Is, WA - $10.00
Mie Larson, Denmark - $30.00
Bianca Derrico, Vernon, BC - $10.00
Jim and Dyane Savino, Portland, OR - $20.00
Don Blackett, Vancouver, WA - $20.00
Ruth Nash, Vancouver, WA - $20.00
Carrie McDougle, Fair Oaks, CA - $100.00
Kristine & Olive Brande, Issaquah, WA - $100.00
Tracey Pedersen, Hansville, WA - $25.00
Diane Mack, Rochester, MN - $50.00
Judy Harvey, Pearland, TX - $25.00
Elaine, NorCal Bulldog Rescue - $20.00
Andrea Dooley, Portland, OR - $50.00
Christa Sanchez, Seattle, WA - $100.00
Cheryl Duarte, Tigard, OR - $75.00
Lynda Oswald, Maple Valley, WA - $25.00
Christine Roberts, Oak Lawn, IL - $600.00
Cascade Bulldog Rescue/Rehome - $300.00

Leo is scheduled for his MRI consult !!

Leo will be having a consult for his MRI on Monday the 3rd of Dec. We will then find out his status, and if they feel the MRI will help tell us more about his issues.

Cascade Bulldog Rescue would like to thank Dr Sanders and his staff for helping Leo reach his goal. Without the generosity of some wonderful vet clinics, rescue would have a harder time helping dogs and being able to do what they do efficiently. So than you again for being part of our team!!

We will keep you posted after Monday's appointment.

Leo is Blessed

Leo is blessed to have such a wonderful following. From people donating to his MRI fund to people hunting around for donated/discounted vet care. Even people just thinking about him and wishing him well. Although he has no idea this is all happening, if he did he would be overwhelmed with joy!

Many have asked what his past vet had said and done regarding his medical. Below is a letter from his vet that will hopefully help shed some light on his status so far. Click the letter to enlarge it.




A glimpse into what Leo will need in a future home.

Leo will only be placed in a home where he would be treated like any other Bulldog we place. He will not be placed in a home where he will live outdoor or in a kennel run. Leo requires a wonderful, loving, indoor life like all our others with a few additions. Since Leo has no control over his pottying he will need to wear a diaper that will need to be changed multiple times a day just as a baby would need. Please remember this will be a life long commitment and Leo at 6 months old is just starting out on that life!

If you are interested in Leo please first fill out out online application prior to contacting us about placement.

Leo needs an MRI and your help.

Leo is just 6 months old. He was born with no feeling in his rear, so he has no control over pottying, and doesn't even know when he is going.

Leo will need to wear a diaper his entire life. His owners have spent tons trying to fix him or find out exactly what is wrong. The only thing left that has not been done is an MRI. The cost of the MRI is extensive. Maybe a vet will see this and be willing to donate the MRI.

Right now Leo's future is unknown, there are very few people that are truly able to care for a dog in diapers for 10 yrs. Hopefully Leo will find a person like this to love him.

Leo's family is the 3rd already in his 6 short months. People thought they could help him, not knowing what was wrong, but his current family took him on with the intent of spending whatever was needed to fix him. That amount has now passed beyond their means, and are heartbroken that they have not been able to fix the problem. They are unable to care for a doggie in diapers for it's entire life and are hoping that someone is out there for him.

For more information on Leo please contact Tegan: tegan@cascadebulldogrescue.orgFeel free to email Tegan after you apply to adopt Leo.