CALDWELL, Idaho — Last month we told you about a dog who was abandoned in a backpack, left for dead on a rural road in Canyon County. That same dog was later named "Zoe" by the West Valley Humane Society. Three-year-old Zoe is a Chihuahua/Terrier mix. Her life has been anything but easy, but just looking at her, she's easy to love.
Upon her arrival at WVHS, it was clear that Zoe has some serious medical issues. What those issues were was unclear until a formal exam was performed. Talitha Neher, the only veterinarian on staff at WVHS, says after watching Zoe spin in tight circles, miss food right in front of her and failing to display any basic reflex she definitely had, "some kind of lesion on the right side of her brain that is making it hard for her to function as a normal animal."
Dr. Neher goes on to say that she felt "very pessimistic" about Zoe's condition. With the staff at WVHS unsure about Zoe's future, they wanted to do everything in their power to give this small dog "the best chance at a second chance." Until they could raise enough money to get Zoe the proper medical care she needs they decided to place her in a foster home. Her foster mom Mindy Homer has never fostered a special needs dog before, but has raised two in the past. In just two weeks, Mindy has seen little Zoe put the word "possible" into "impossible."
Zoe's brain lesions are not a result of any abuse from her previous owners. Dr. Neher says that neurological conditions, like brain lesions are common in smaller breeds. While this little pup is making tremendous progress she will continue to live with her foster family until WVHS is ready to place her in a forever home.
If you're interested in donating to West Valley Humane Society or would like to sponsor one of Zoe's many doctors appointments you can reach their Public Relations Specialist Kierra Larson at kierra@westvalleyhumanesociety.org.
