Arthritic dog needs more medical treatment
By Barbara Petrie Special to The Acorn

PURE MAGIC- Merlin is a wizard, indeed. The stray dog was taken in by Barbara Petrie, who made sure he received muchneeded medical care. Today she's asking for donations to help cover the mounting costs of his treatment.

This is a story of a 12-year-old dog we named Merlin.

In early October he collapsed on the front lawn of a couple's home in Inglewood. They did not think he would live through the night, but he did. Even though he was in very poor condition and dirty, flea-covered, very thin and with tapeworms, we later found out, he had the will to be here.

The couple could not take care of him as the man was in his 80s and the woman, although somewhat younger, had a hefty travel schedule. They were looking for a home for the dog. I received an e-mail from a friend telling of the dog and the need for a home for him. I immediately forwarded his information to my network of friends.

During the day I kept returning to his picture. That evening at my home in Oak Park I sat on my couch with my two dogs, one on each side of me, in a state of gratitude and thought, "We have enough love here for a third dog."

It took me two more days before I e-mailed the couple to see if they still needed a home for him. They did and I offered to take him. This was absolutely a heart decision.

He had some dental surgery before he arrived and had been treated for fleas. On the day he arrived he trotted right in and made himself at home. When I looked in his eyes, I saw such sadness and I felt that he had been on a very long journey to get here. His breath was very bad and I knew he needed to see a vet.

Dr. Tiffany Margolin from the Animal and Bird Wellness Center agreed to barter our respective services and she came to see Merlin. She examined him and I got the bad news. Merlin was not in great condition and in pain. His abscessed teeth were making him very ill. The next day he could barely get around and would not eat. I called Dr. Margolin and took him right in.

The majority of his teeth were abscessed and eight had to be surgically removed. He now only has four remaining teeth. Merlin also has severe arthritis, for which he still needs treatment. To make matters worse, he had been shot and a BB remains inside him.

Although Dr. Margolin kindly reduced her fees, Merlin's medical bills to date amount to $854, with more treatment needed. We are looking for donations to help with his medical bills. Any donation will be greatly appreciated.

Donations may be dropped off at the Animal and Bird Wellness Center, 2806 Townsgate Road, Ste. C, Westlake Village. For more information, please call (818) 706-8923.

Merlin is recovering nicely from his surgery and his eyes are bright and happy. He is a gentle soul and has much wisdom to teach. Already he has brought new and wonderful people into my life and has reawakened a dream I've had of establishing a sanctuary for people and animals. I am so grateful for this little angel, Merlin.