Zion - In Memory

Name: Zion

Breed: Yorkshire Terrier mix

Age: 12 years

Sex: Male (altered)

Location: Near Vancouver, British Columbia

Vet Info:  Zion is neutered. He is heartworm negative. He is not up to date with vaccines. Zion was diagnosed with chronic KCS (dry eye). Zion’s owner says, We frequently went to the vet (in the beginning, we didn't know it was KCS) and he was put on various medications (antibiotic injections, oral antibiotics, Tobramycin drops and ointment). After multiple visits to the vet when his condition didn't improve, we saw an ophthalmology veterinarian in January, who diagnosed him with KCS. Since then, he has been on prescription drugs (cyclosporine) and I also used artificial drops (tear-gel) for comfort. The ophthalmologist had said that the cyclosporine would encourage tear production, but I did not see an improvement at all. I had been cleaning his eyes liberally with water, flushing out the mucous at least two times a day before putting the drops/medication since fall, but I could not care for his eyes as diligently when I had a baby several months ago. To make the long story short, it is clear that he is now blind in both eyes. It looks like there's prolapse in his eyes and the eyeballs themselves are raw and red--like there's a thick, raw covering on top of this eyes. We believe at this stage of his illness, his eyes are completely blind... we are hoping that there is a chance of recovery, but the eyes do appear severely damaged at this point.

Owner Info: Zion is a Yorkshire Terrier mix who developed chronic KCS (dry eye syndrome) last year and is now completely blind. His owner has been diligently caring for his eyes with medications and drops but this became more difficult after she had a baby several months ago. Zion’s owners are now making the heartbreaking decision to re-home him. Zion is an indoor dog confined to one area of the house. He is house-broken and leash-trained. Zion is a smart boy who knows several commands: sit, shake, lie down, pee, poo, and come here. Zion is described as nervous and shy but good with men, women, and teenagers. Zion is not possessive of toys, treats, or food and has never shown aggression toward anyone, “outside of the rare occasion where he feels cornered and snaps.” Zion’s owner says, he doesn't particularly feel comfortable around young toddlers that try to chase him around and 'pet' him. He gets flustered when they do and he can make his usual 'grrrr' sound to warn them. But on a couple of occasions he did snap at them, but no harm was made and he has never broken skin.” In response to a question about how is is with other animals, she said, "Zion is very timid around other dogs. He hasn't been around cats before. Zion is by no means aggressive and has never bitten another animal or person. He tends to run away and hide.” Zion's owner wants us to know he is a great dog and they just want what's best for him.