Tyler 1995 - 2014

On February 23 Tyler was lethargic and dehydrated. In our onsite clinic, we gave him oxygen, fluids, vitamins and antibiotics. Tyler's blood work came back showing elevated kidney values so we increased his fluids, changed his diet and supplemented him with a drug to support kidney function. But worse, his blood showed elevated calcium levels, which could mean cancer. Tyler's breathing worsened, so he saw Dr. Schirmer for x-rays and further evaluation on March 3rd. His radio-graphs showed no sign of respiratory difficulties. He stayed in the clinic where he received TLC and medical care from Kendra and Micah, our veterinary technicians. After a few more days in the clinic he was back to his bright, happy self so we released Tyler back outside with his companions, Elvis and Sammy. While we kept a close eye on him, Tyler enjoyed the outdoors with his friends for almost a week before he began having trouble breathing again and had to return to the clinic. His blood work showed that his calcium levels had continued to increase. These values further suggested cancer. Tyler continued to decline.
Sweet Tyler put up a good fight, but in the end cancer took his life on March 10, 2014.     

Mary Anne, our special needs volunteer and supporter, wrote this tribute to Tyler:
"Tyler's 18th birthday was documented with great fanfare on TV 20 News last May. I never had a little brother, but knowing Tyler gave me the opportunity to experience what it is like to have one! Funny, pesky, sweet, infuriating, gentle, destructive and loving - Tyler was all of those wrapped up in one! He was the Master Eyeglass Thief, having stolen and destroyed at least 6 pair of mine. No one will ever match his speed and precision! He kept us all on our toes, that's for sure. I will miss you, Tyler, and am thankful for the wonderful memories."