Elodie’s Journey
The destined union of two lives is often referred to as fate, a concept synonymous with Elodie’s journey. Found as a stray in Texas at just six months of age, this sweet pup was brought to a shelter by animal control where she was flagged ‘code red,’ a designation indicating high euthanasia risk due to overcrowding. A compassionate foster took one look at the new arrival’s thin frame and knew she had to take the tiny puppy home.
Elodie on her way to foster care in Texas
Elodie grew physically and behaviorally during several weeks in foster, not only gaining six pounds, but befriending her foster mom’s resident canines. After being cleared medically, this Southern girl was ready for her road trip to Massachusetts!
Elodie in foster care in Texas
Welcome to Baypath
Shortly after arriving at Baypath, Veterinary Consultant Dr. Andrea Moolenbeek noted labored breathing during Elodie’s exam. Chest X-rays at Thrive Pet Healthcare in Natick revealed a severe case of congenital diaphragmatic hernia, a condition where multiple abdominal organs (including the small intestine, stomach and liver) migrate into the chest cavity.
Fate
It was at this very moment that fate began to play a role in Elodie’s life. Michelle Damon, a veterinary technician at Thrive Pet Healthcare, was immediately smitten upon crossing paths with her newest patient. When surgery was deemed necessary to mend the hernia, Michelle kindly offered to welcome Elodie into her home so she could prepare for her procedure in a loving, calm environment.
To Live, To Breathe
At the time of their serendipitous meeting, Michelle was in the process of renewing her critical care medicine (ECC) certification, offering her the opportunity to study Elodie’s case. Michelle’s efforts on behalf of her furry patient included cage rest and assisted bathroom breaks, both of which prevented further medical complications.
Michelle’s expertise in fear-free handling proved invaluable throughout this process. To engage Elodie both mentally and physically, Michelle used enrichment puzzles, short training sessions, calming sprays and soothing music. Elodie’s meals were portioned into small servings to prevent overeating and exacerbating her health issues.
Unable to deny their indestructible bond, Michelle decided to officially adopt Elodie! To honor the essentialness of their connection, Michelle settled on the name Evie, an English name meaning ‘to live, to breathe.’
Evie in Foster care with Michelle
Michelle was understandably nervous as she drove Evie to Tufts Hospital in North Grafton on surgery day. Thankfully, Michelle was able to breathe a sigh of relief upon receiving news of Evie’s successful surgery!
Evie post-surgery
Destiny
Eight months after arriving in Massachusetts, Evie is thriving thanks to Michelle’s nurturing care. Michelle says her new family member is “healthy, happy and well-adjusted in our dog family. She has also become a seasoned traveler, accompanying my partner, Pat, and me on our adventures.”
Evie’s adventures
This petite princess has already enjoyed several road trips to Cape Cod beaches and completed two 5K races! From her initial journey north, to her path to recovery, through road races and road trips, the power of destiny truly brought Michelle and Evie together.
