Texas Boxer Rescue - Malcom
Forever in our hearts…..
In May of 2002, our rescue received a call about a Boxer in a local shelter. This dog had been picked-up as a stray and not reclaimed by his owners. When we went to get this boy, little did we know the impact that he would have on our hearts…..
As all too frequently happens when we receive such a call, we found a friendly, happy Boxer boy who was in horrible physical shape. He was emaciated, coughing, and positive for heartworm infection. He had been covered with ticks and had been dipped by the shelter employees. During the ride to our vet clinic, he was named Malcom.
With the help of our wonderful veterinarians, we began to treat each of his many physical problems. Good food, antibiotics, and a soft warm bed were accepted with a wiggle of his Boxer behind and many kisses.
As Malcom grew stronger and healthier, his beautiful temperament became increasingly apparent. Malcom loved everyone and never hesitated to show each one just how much. He emerged as a beautiful flashy fawn Boxer that was everything we treasure so much in the breed.
Shortly before he was deemed healthy enough for heartworm treatment, Malcom began to drink large quantities of water and to urinate more frequently and in larger amounts. Blood tests showed that his kidneys were not functioning properly. Because he had such a large number of heartworms, and circulating microfilaria (baby heartworms in the blood), it was felt that the kidney problems were probably related to his heartworm infection. The decision was made to do an almost “reverse” heartworm treatment, where we gave him medication for the microfiliaria first, before doing the treatment to kill the adult heartworms. Since the medication used to kill the adults can have very bad effects on the kidneys, this was considered the best treatment for him. Malcom was placed on IV fluids and given the medication to kill the baby heartworms. His condition was monitored closely over the following days and he seemed to improve. And he certainly enjoyed the special attention given him at the vet clinic by day and the emergency clinic at night! His wonderful temperament and good-natured acceptance of each medical procedure made him a favorite a both places.
Malcom was placed on a special diet for his kidneys and a single injection of the medication to kill adult heartworms was given a month later. He did not do well, and again spent several days shuttling between the vet clinic by day, and the emergency clinic by night. Ten days later, an embolism meant yet another night at the emergency clinic.
One month later, Malcom was scheduled to have two more injections of the medication to kill adult heartworms. These injections are normally given 24 hours apart. Shortly after the first injection, it became apparent that Malcom would not be able to tolerate a second.
For several months, Malcom's condition remained stable, and we began to hope that he had a chance for long term survival. Sadly, that was not to be the case. Shortly after the New Year, Malcom's kidney function began to deteriorate.
On Tuesday, 3/25/2003, Malcom's 10-month battle with renal failure ended. When he was no longer able to keep down even water, we knew it was time for him to leave us.
In true Boxer fashion, Malcom was both a gentleman and a clown. Regal and dignified at one moment and yet ready to explode into foolish play at the slightest invitation. He charmed all that met him and is greatly missed.
Malcom spent his last moments surrounded by a few of the “angels” that had come to know and love him while they cared for him during his time in our rescue program. Our sincere thanks to the Drs. and staff of Angel Veterinary Clinic and North Texas Emergency Veterinary Clinic for the care and love that they provided to this most special Boxer boy.
Thanks to Dr. Beverly Unger for her unfailing kindness. We can never adequately express our gratitude for her gentle handling of Malcom during his last moments.
Wanda Brawner
Texas Boxer Rescue
