Alex the Schnauzer

First family had him for about 10 years.

Second family saved him in October 2021 and he weighed only 4kg. Photo of skinny schnauzer was provided by second family. 

What a sad mess

Alex, when he was rescued by 2nd family. Photo from 2nd family.

Second family surrendered him to HOPE and he weighs 9kg. And so Alex came to us. 

Although he has gained weight, he is a big boned schnauzer and could afford to put on a bit of weight as his skull is slightly sunken. 

Nasal discharge

We have been asked, by taking in people’s dogs, we are encouraging them to take the easy route out. But our rationale is, if we don’t help, what if they chose to abandon them somewhere else or keep them at home while the poor dog may require medical care.

Taking nasal swab

Apart from being extremely unkempt, his nails were overgrown and his dew claw was almost imbedded into his flesh. Poor Alex must have been wearing diapers for a long time because we noticed that the lower half of his body no longer has fur, possibly from long term diaper wearing. His belly and groin area was so badly matted, we needed the vet nurse to slowly shave it off. His paw pad fur was so long, we could hardly see his paw pad. Can’t imagine how he could have walked without slipping.

Very sparse fur

Lower half of body no longer has fur from constant use of diaper

Alex is 12 ½ years old and we’re terribly upset that he has suffered for so many years. Like all our rescues, we take them to the vet immediately and spare no expense in getting them checked out.

• Mildly anemic, can be from old age or diet. Will require regular blood tests.
• Active inflammation in the body could be something underlying – we have made an appointment for ultrasound next week. 
• Chronic infection 
• Kidney values are elevated / chronic kidney disease 
• Liver – elevated readings. 
• Suspected Cushings as his fur is very sparse 
• Negative for tick fever & heartworm
• Drinks a lot and pees a lot – could be from Cushings or kidney issues 
• Wheezing sound when he breathes 
• Nasal discharge
• Rotten teeth – his mouth smells like a sewer 
• Blood drawn for thyroid – awaiting results 
• All these are just from the first vet visit ☹️ 

Rotten teeth 

Overgrown nails 

Volunteers grooming & cleaning Alex

Alex will be scheduled for the following tests next week :

1. Cushings
2. Ultrasound  

And when he is more settled, undergo sterilization and dental. 

For now, he is safe with a temporary foster. He will not be up for adoption till he is healthy and happier. They say our eyes are windows to our soul and if you saw Alex, you would have agreed that he had given up on life. We hope that with your help, we can bring back that sparkle in his eyes ❤️

Eyes that no longer shine

To date, his first vet bill was $1100. Please email hopedogrescue@singnet.com.sg if you would like to help with Alex’s vet bills. Thank you