The journey of Sally, the Dachshund puppy, begins in an oxygen chamber. Diagnosed with pneumonia just weeks after her birth, she struggled immensely to breathe independently and was often gasping for air.
After her breeder was nearly ready to abandon her, Sally found refuge with Kathryn Mongrain, a veterinary technician at the Bottle Brigade animal rescue, who chose to assist her. This marks the start of her bubble adventure…
Sally Was Nurtured In An Oxygen Bubble In A Home Nursery
Only a few weeks post-birth, Sally’s breeder determined he could no longer care for her. She was battling canine pneumonia – the respiratory condition that prevented her from breathing correctly.
Not only did Sally encounter challenges in breathing independently – she was perpetually lethargic and drained of energy. Enter Kathryn!
Kathryn Mongrain, the veterinary technician and founder of the Bottle Brigade animal rescue, welcomed Sally into her care until she recovered fully.
She crafted an oxygen chamber for this Dachshund puppy, filled it with blankets and toys, and ensured Sally received adequate oxygen for breathing.
She Had “Everything” In Her Bubble, But Nothing In Reality
Sally had all she required within the bubble, yet she could not venture outside even for a moment. Her lungs remained too fragile for the outside world, prompting Kathryn and her family to take Sally wherever they went.
Throughout, she remained a curious canine, constantly peeking outside her bubble and yearning to escape.
“She was wagging her tail, she was licking the window of the oxygen chambers… We were battling for her. We couldn’t even approach her because the moment we unzipped it, all the oxygen would escape,” remarks Kathryn.
Sally Never Gave Up Her Enthusiasm
Sally never lost her zest for life or her desire to join her family in play. She continuously observed them, trying to claw her way out.
“It was evident she was always watching us because wherever we went, we brought her bubble along so she could see what we were up to. Then, one day, she began to paw to be let out.”
In that instant, Kathryn opted to unzip the bubble, allowing Sally to step out briefly. She eagerly ventured outside but couldn’t endure even fifteen seconds. Sadly, Sally still required oxygen to breathe normally.
The Progress Was Gradual
Each day, she would have a quick walk, rushing back inside when she felt like she was running out of breath. The process took time.
In the initial weeks, she couldn’t last a minute outside. However, with each passing day, her outdoor time gradually increased until one day, she chose not to return to the bubble anymore.
“One day, she simply refused to go back inside the bubble… She decided that day she was done.”
Months later, after spending most of her time in the bubble – Sally reached a tipping point. She was finally robust enough to never return to her bubble. Instead, she would take small breaks to rest whenever she felt fatigued or struggled to breathe fully.
Bonnie, The Veterinary Technician, Chose To Adopt Sally
Kathryn’s colleague, Bonnie, had been present throughout. She was involved in the entire recovery process of Sally and they both knew that she would ultimately adopt this lovely Dachshund.
When Bonnie brought Sally to her home, Kathryn felt relief knowing that this dog was going to a wonderful environment.
Bonnie was committed to offering Sally a nurturing household filled with joy. She already had several other dogs and small children, which aligned perfectly with Sally’s cheerful demeanor.
“Her true essence emerged… Our aim is to ensure she enjoys her life. There are plenty of experiences she missed while in the bubble,” stated Bonnie.
The Dachshund Who Lives The Best Life
Sally plays with children, enjoys her time in the yard, goes shopping, and even camps with her family. Initially timid around water, she now swims like an expert.
Once a sluggish, unfortunate puppy, Sally has transformed into the perfect companion who knows how to spread happiness among her loved ones.
Sally’s A Thriving Dachshund Now
She no longer experiences breathing issues and has no requirement for the bubble anymore. Currently, Sally is a robust Dachshund, fully embracing her life.
She even participated in the local “Wiener dog race” and, believe it or not – she won! One thing is for certain – her troublesome days are definitely behind her.