Meet Poppa.

The ten-year-old beagle mix was at risk of euthanasia at a local shelter due to overcrowding. Oklahoma Pet Collective Society saved him not once but twice.

Late one Friday night, Poppa was rushed to an emergency clinic due to a sudden onset of vomiting, bloody diarrhea, and lethargy. "Poppa crashed around 4 am on Saturday with no readable BP and a heart arrhythmia," the shelter shared with us.

The medical team was able to get his blood pressure up with aggressive treatment and he became stable by Saturday evening. The sweet boy was diagnosed with Acute hemorrhagic diarrhea syndrome (AHDS) which can occur without warning. Without treatment, it can be deadly.

Photo: Oklahoma Pet Collective Society

VCA Animal Hospitals states, "The exact cause of AHDS remains unknown but there are several possible contributing factors, such as the bacteria Clostridium perfringens, dietary indiscretion (ingesting non-food items or different foods), immune-mediated disease, toxins, or pancreatitis. Stress, anxiety, and hyperactivity are thought to be possible contributing factors in many cases."

Poppa remained at the clinic for three days receiving IV fluids, pain meds, and 24-hour care. The shelter contacted Greater Good Charities' Emergency Animal Medical fund to help cover his vet bills. Animal shelters are already stretched thin trying to cover the cost of food and supplies and are unable to afford emergency vet bills.

The fund was started to provide emergency medical care to dogs like Poppa and give them the second chance they deserve. We are only able to help him and countless other pets with your support.

Poppa remains under the watchful eye of the foster family as he recovers. Once he has regained his strength and gets the all-clear from the vet, he will be put up for adoption. He loves people and wants to find his special someone. His foster family shared, "He gives the BEST hugs. He lays his head on your chest and sighs with contentment. There's nothing like it!"

Photo: Oklahoma Pet Collective Society

Pets receiving critical care facilitated by an Emergency Animal Medical grant may not be eligible for adoption until they have completed their course of treatment. If you would like to inquire about adoption of a specific animal, we strongly encourage you to visit the shelter’s specific website first as that is often the most up to date place to learn about available pets and review the adoption policies and process. Check out the shelter’s website to see all adoptable pets.

Help us meet our goal of $7,000 for Poppa. Your gift will not only give him the hope to keep fighting, but your donations will help cover his ongoing care.