Raleigh, a senior Great Dane male was pulled from the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Animal Shelter on January 8th, 2007. He was very malnourished and had been diagnosed with Heartworm Disease by the vet at the shelter.    Six days later, on January 14th, he passed away at the Emergency Veterinary Clinic. The morning of the 14th, Raleigh's foster mom became concerned when Raleigh would not eat his breakfast, which, because of his undernourishment, was usually eaten with gusto. Shortly after, she found Raleigh on the floor, fighting to breathe. She rushed him to the Emergency Vet in Matthews.    Raleigh's struggle to breathe was a very clear sign that his case of Heartworm Disease was in a very advanced stage.    Several other members joined Raleigh's foster mom at the clinic where it was explained to the staff that Raleigh had made a visit to Dr. Davis at Monroe Road Animal Hospital three days earlier to determine what his treatment would be. Blood tests and x-rays at Monroe Road showed that Raleigh's lungs were badly inflamed, making him a poor candidate for the Heartworm Treatment. It was suggested that Raleigh be given an anti-inflammatory drug for a few weeks before going ahead with the very aggressive treatment plan.    At the Emergency Clinic, it was decided that another blood test and an x-ray should be done to determine if the Heartworms had spread. Dr. Ellison had taken Raleigh's case and, after reviewing the results of the bloodwork and x-ray, informed Raleigh's foster mom and the others that the spread of microfilaria (baby Heartworms) was very bad and the adult Heartworms had badly infested his heart and lungs. The options were weighed, factoring in Raleigh's age, current condition and the severity of the Heartworm treatment. His chances of surviving it were very slim. Raleigh was brought into the room, along with an oxygen tube to help ease his breathing. The group's President arrived and after a brief discussion, it was agreed that euthanasia would be the most humane solution.    Raleigh passed away peacefully, surrounded by those who loved and cared for him.    In memory of Raleigh, Crossroads decided to set up a special fund, donations to which would be used solely for the treatment of Heartworm positive dogs taken in by the group. It will hopefully enable us to rescue and treat a Heartworm positive dog when we might not otherwise have been able to. It will also keep our Veterinary Care Fund (used for all other expenses) from being depleted from the costly treatment.    Any donations made to The Raleigh Fund are tax-deductible and you will receive a donation receipt either by US mail or email after the end of the year for your tax records.
Checks or cash may be sent to: Crossroads Animal Rescue Attn: The Raleigh Fund 5405 Olivia Ct. Marshville, NC 28103	Make a Donation through PayPal