Merengue's story

　　Merengue is one special dog and so lucky to have come to Fort Collins, Colorado! She is an outgoing, incredibly friendly young boxer mix. She's one of the happiest pups you'll ever meet, always brightening the day with whole body wagging and a big smile every time she sees you. This cutie enjoys the company of everyone, including kids and other dogs.

　　When she arrived at Animal House in April our vet team immediately noticed a very abnormal sounding heart. Within days she was able to get in to see CSU's cardiology department, and we learned that Merengue was born with two different heart defects. One of the defects, called a PDA (patent ductus arteriosus), causes blood to bypass the lungs preventing oxygen delivery to the body. Most dogs with this condition don't live beyond one year. Fortunately, the generous cardiologists at CSU were able to do a minimally invasive procedure to fix Merengue's PDA. Her other heart defect is called aortic stenosis, and this condition will need to be monitored closely as she grows since further treatment may be needed in the future. Call the shelter to learn more about Merengue and her unique medical needs. She will need continued care with CSU cardiology, so financial stability will be important for adopters.