Amelia came to us briefly a few months ago for an ear infection and was treated. The owner had purchased her from a breeder in Peru and was basically unhappy with the dog he received.The owner returned to the Society's Medical Dept. on January 24th to euthanize the 10 month old Afghan due to a very bad skin problem that he left untreated. Society veterinarian, Dr. Deborah Burke, diagnosed the skin problem as sarcoptic mange. Fortunately, there are treatments which can easily control the problem. Left untreated, the mange mites burrow under the skin, creating a massive allergic reaction which creates even more problems -- biting and intense scratching which has left her paws red, scaly and raw.

Amelia has been medicated, given dips and within a day after arrival, she romps around and is not as miserable as when she came through our doors. Although it will take several weeks of veterinary care, she is much more comfortable than she was. Since the mange mite is transmissible, she is kept in an isolated area and will be available for adoption in several weeks. Any donations for her care can be made through the Res-Q Fund. File 57546-F (Newark).

Update 2/28/07: Please take a look at Amelia's wonderful progress.