When five-month-old Glinda, a tiny black Terrier mix, arrived at North Shore Animal League America, she was in crisis and fighting for every breath. Initially rescued by the Animal Care Centers of New York, she was suffering from severe pneumonia. Her lungs were filled with fluid, and her little body was working overtime just to stay alive.
When Glinda was transferred to our Pet Health Centers, the team moved quickly to stabilize her. “Her X-rays showed moderate to severe pneumonia,” explained Dr. Mark Verdino, Chief of Veterinary Staff. “The entire left side of her chest was affected, and part of the right side also had fluid in it. She was working extremely hard to breathe. It’s always touch-and-go when a puppy this young comes in with pneumonia, but she’s responding well to treatment.”
After receiving intensive care in our Elizabeth Freed Special Recovery Center, Glinda was finally on the mend. This unique facility allows us to safely isolate and treat animals with contagious or serious conditions. Within its quiet, climate-controlled rooms, Glinda could be closely monitored and supported with IV fluids, antibiotics, and vital nutrition to help her body heal.
“The Special Recovery Center is truly what makes this kind of care possible,” said Dr. Verdino. “Most shelters don’t have a place where they can safely house and treat sick animals for the duration of their illness. Here, we can give them the time, attention, and medical oversight they need to recover without putting other animals at risk.”
With each passing day, Glinda’s breathing grew a little steadier and her strength slowly returned. Thanks to the specialized care and round-the-clock compassion she received, Glinda is now well on her way to a happy, healthy life, and a home filled with love and security.