The Charlotte Heartworm Treatment and Prevention Fund

Page last updated on Saturday, March 31, 2007 .

Charlotte came to OBG in March 2002. She passed away on June 9 after a valiant battle against heartworm

Her name was Charlotte, she was only 3 years old. Another stray on the streets, she soon found her way to the local shelter. So small, her tail always wagging, this little black cocker came to OBG to find a home. Sadly, that would never happen. Heartworm disease claimed Charlotte at the young age of three. Charlotte tried hard to live, she survived the first heartworm treatment and we were all so hopeful for her; the volunteers at OBG, the vet and his staff, and you, our supporters, who sent loving words of concern and financial support for out little girl. She was very very sweet.

Soon it was time for the second treatment. Three weeks later Charlotte gave her last breath. The vet technician’s arms that saw her through so much, now tearfully comforted her in death. All from a mosquito bite.

Every year, almost 50% of the dogs without heartworm preventative are diagnosed with heartworm. Those pets, whose owners choose the costly treatment have a chance, but many end up like Charlotte, fighting hard and losing the battle for life. Many owners or rescue groups cannot afford the treatment. This horrible experience can be prevented with heartworm preventative that costs about $5 a month. The cost of heartworm treatment can be anywhere from $400- $5,000 depending on the complications.

All it takes is one infected mosquito bite on a dog. Heartworm larvae multiply and invade your dog’s heart. Eventually, left untreated, the dog will die from the worms. Treatment is costly and very dangerous, as the worms die they lodge in the lungs and can cause sudden death.

OBG takes in too many heartworm positive dogs each year, sometimes we have to turn some away since we do not have the funds. This summer (2002) was especially heartbreaking to us because so many wonderful dogs came in to us that turned out to be heartworm positive. We were able to successfully treat many of them, but others, such as Charlotte unfortunately don't win the battle. Of course we provide heartworm preventative to all of our dogs in foster care to protect them.  While it's worth it; the cost of all this is quite a strain on our budget.

In memory of Charlotte, and with thanks for your support, OBG has started The Charlotte Heartworm Treatment and Prevention Fund . This program will provide funds for heartworm prevention and heartworm treatment for our dogs, and for educational pamphlets.

If you would like to make a tax deductible contribution to this effort, please send donations to the following address:

Oldies But Goodies Cocker Rescue, Inc.,
P.O. Box 361
Newington, VA 22122-0361

Attn: Charlotte Fund

Or to donate via credit card in a secure environment, click on Helping.org below: (Please specify Charlotte Fund)

Thank you!!

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