The Story of Tott

Tott, the 8-month-old border collie, recently became a brand-new Minnesotan.
Although a bit shy initially with the new, snowy environment, Tott slowly started showing his foster family his friendly, happy, and curious personality. After a long, 20-hour car ride from Texas, it’s expected that an animal will need a few days to re-energize and get comfortable in their new life. The foster family knew that Tott would need some time, so they gave him plenty of space to rest and relax.

Once he had some time to get his bearings, he started to shine. His first reaction to snow was to investigate why and how this cold, wet, fluffy stuff was all over the ground. He loves playing with toys and thinks making new canine friends is a blast. He enjoys his new humans, too, especially using their socks and sweaters as a warm place to lay his head.

Although Tott was starting to warm up, his family noticed that even after five days he still seemed a bit lethargic and uninterested in some of the things that had recently given him so much joy.

Although initially intrigued by the snow outside, Tott began refusing to go out, and even started nodding off while walking around the yard. He no longer had the energy to greet the passerby dogs or even walk to his food and water bowls. While relaxing on the couch Tuesday evening, his breathing became very rapid and sporadic, even while he was fast asleep. These symptoms alarmed Tott’s family, so they called the 24-hour emergency line. They determined it was in Tott’s best interest to visit one of Ruff Start’s partner clinics yesterday morning to resolve what was happening with this sweet, curious boy.

The doctors quickly started to examine the loveable pup to get to the root of the problem. They noticed he had low oxygenation and immediately put him in an air chamber. They also took x-rays to see if there were any artifacts in the lungs, which had no conclusive evidence. The doctors continue investigating possibilities to ensure this loveable, intelligent, energetic pup gets the life he deserves. Tott returned home yesterday afternoon with his foster family while they wait to hear the diagnoses.

Tott likely still has unknown needs ahead, but Ruff Start and his loving foster family will be with him every step of the way. Donate today and support the care of this adorable little fighter and others like him.