River was found wandering as a stray in the blistering July heat last summer. We suspect she was abandoned—and after her veterinary exam, we began to understand why.
River has a severely enlarged heart, a grade 4/6 murmur, and a serious congenital defect called pulmonary valve stenosis. She also suffers from right-sided ventricular hypertrophy. Sadly, she isn’t a candidate for surgery. And when we tried medication, she suffered a severe reaction. We’ve had to face the painful truth: we can’t fix what’s broken inside River’s heart.
So our beautiful River is considered hospice.
Day to day, she seems like any other dog. But moments of excitement or exertion can cause her to faint. Thankfully, she always recovers quickly—getting right back up as if nothing happened. Still, her condition is serious, and we know it will shorten her life.
But if you met her, you’d never guess any of that.
River is pure sweetness. She loves people and follows her foster parents everywhere. She lights up for car rides and snuggles. She’s dog-friendly, gentle with cats, easygoing, and curious. She enjoys splashing in a kiddie pool on warm days.
We'll always be here for River, for as long as she needs us. Her foster family absolutely adores her. However, if the perfect family came along—one who understands the reality of her condition—she could be adopted. But for now, she’s home.
If you’d like to help River live her very best life, we would be so grateful for your support. Donations help us provide her with the medical care and comfort she deserves.
Please donate and help us make the most of every day River is with us.
