We will also occasionally post special case pets that need adoption. Note: We are not an adoption agency, but we are dedicated to helping our clients in any way that we can.

Featured Case

Bailey, a 4-year-old spayed, female sheltie was running and playing one day while her owners gardened nearby. Suddenly she cried out and became paralyzed in her hind end. Bailey was immediately brought to the Northampton Veterinary Clinic, where her owner is a veterinary technician. She was given pain medication and survey x-rays were taken to rule out any spinal fracture or dislocation. Her x-rays were normal. Bailey needed to be transferred to the Massachusetts Veterinary Referral Hospital, a specialty clinic in Woburn, MA, where she would be able to have an MRI and spinal tap to determine the cause of her paralysis. Testing revealed that Bailey had suffered a fibrocartilaginous emboli (FLE). The exact way an emboli (or clot) enters the spinal vasculature is unknown. It is likely that the intervertebral disc material or bone marrow of the vertebral body is the source. The emboli blocks the blood supply to the spinal chord, causing acute ischemic damage. The amount of damage stabilizes over 24 hrs., but the nervous system must then recover, a slow process which can take up to six months. Bailey started to improve slowly within 24 to 48 hours, and has steadily continued to regain function of her hind legs. Aggressive physical therapy, including multiple exercises, massage, swimming and gait retraining, as well as her very dedicated owners, have helped to expedite her recovery. (Bailey is sporting her swimming vest in the picture at left.) Many dogs will return to pre-injury status, some others will be left with neurologic deficits, but can still lead normal lives as companion dogs.

Top

Tinker appeared as a loveable stray found wandering the streets of Greenfield. He is a 6-year-old, long haired, neutered male cat. Even though he was living on the streets, Tink has adapted amazingly well to life indoors. Good nutrition and veterinary care have changed his life. His coat is shiny, full and meticulously clean. He always uses his litter box, and he enjoys sleeping on the bed. Tink really likes the company of people, but he has some issues with other cats and with dogs. He would prefer living in a household free of other pets. Otherwise, Tinker is extremely friendly and personable. He can often be found sitting on someone's lap. If you are interested in meeting this sweet, handsome boy, please call Kelly at the clinic.

We will post pets needing homes as we can. Occasionally we have a pet in the clinic needing a home that does not make it to this site. Feel free to call. For more information contact the clinic at (413) 584-6309.

Top