The Story of Violeta

meet violeta.

On any given day, you could expect to find Violeta, a 9-month-old Shepard/Pit Bull mix playing in her pool, watching squirrels with her housemate, quietly chewing on her stuffies, or running like a deer in the yard – full of puppy energy and happiness! 

Violeta was diagnosed with a rare disease that could have cost her her life. One day, Violeta’s foster family noticed something not quite right. She was lethargic, not eating, and didn’t have the same bursting energy as she usually would. At that time, they rushed her to Vet Partners in Plymouth, a partner clinic of Ruff Start. There, they took x-rays and blood samples, ruling out a foreign body being the root of the problem. A few days later, the symptoms were still apparent, and she had a fever. At that time, the vet had prescribed some antibiotics and pain medication in hopes of healing the problem.

Weeks later, the symptoms returned, along with some severe swelling around her neck. Feeling very concerned and uncertain, the foster family returned to the vet with Violeta, knowing there must be something more to these recurring issues – it was time to consider all the options. The vet took a sample of the lump using a fine needle aspirate to rule out an abscess. Under careful examination of the sample, the vet determined that the swelling was inflammatory tissue and diagnosed Violetta with puppy strangles.

Puppy strangles is an uncommon skin condition that typically affects puppies four months or younger. It is a painful disease that can be life-threatening if left untreated. To learn more about puppy strangles, read the article here.

With steroids and the love of her foster home, Violeta is now on the mend for this extremely rare diagnosis. She is now resting, healing, and waiting to find her family!

Apply to adopt Violeta today: https://ruffstartrescue.org/view-pet?id=17849233

In rescue, we never know what to expect. We are lucky that our fosters, veterinarian team, and partner clinics are always willing to go the extra mile to ensure the health and safety of the animals in our care.

Do you want to help animals in need? Sign up to foster for Ruff Start today! https://ruffstartrescue.org/get-involved/foster/
Or, you can donate to our Animal Care Fund. Our Animal Care Fund supports the medical and veterinary needs of all Ruff Start Rescue animals.