March 2, 2009: Ten-year old Dozer was turned into the Camarillo shelter when his family lost their home. On March 2nd,  an SCGRR volunteer met Dozer and offered him a new life. A quick evaluation let us know that although Dozer is only about 90%  Golden Retriever, his heart is pure gold.

A trip to the vet revealed that underneath his very long matted fur were horrible open sores. Dozer sat quietly and never complained about the pain while Dr. Miller of the Anza Animal Clinic opened many of the sores and was able to rule out a staph infection. He believes that the sores were caused by another bacterial infection compounded by neglect and the filth of Dozer's matted hair. Besides the massive sores, Dozer has an infection in both ears.

Dr. Miller said that Dozer had to be shaved so the next stop was a groomer. After being totally shaved, it was time for a bath. The special medicated shampoo burned the open wounds but again, Dozer was a wonderful, well behaved boy.

When Dozer met his foster mom, Ann, she threw her arms around him and proclaimed him to be the most beautiful dog she has ever met.

Dozer's prognosis is good. He is on his first round of massive antibiotics. Each day the sores have to be cleaned and covered in special ointment. Ann has made a committment to help Dozer made a full recovery. Check back again for an update on how Dozer is healing.

Dozer's medicines and vet care are expensive. If you'd like to send a small donation to help out, we'd really appreciate it!!