At the end of August, 2013, Bindi suddenly became very ill. He was extremely lethargic, and behaved as though it was painful to move his limbs. In addition, his appetite plummeted to the point where he even refused treats. After numerous trips to the vet’s office and many overnight stays during which Bindi was continuously attached to IV drips, his condition continued to decline.
Thankfully, Stephanie’s persistence and Bindi’s indomitable will finally paid off. He was eventually diagnosed with a very rare auto-immune disease known as Auto Immune Hemolitic Anemia (AIHA), which was destroying his red blood cells. It is believed that this auto-immune condition was triggered by a tick bite. Since there are no ticks living in the mountains where the rescue is located, it is possible that Bindi sustained the tick bite while participating in a Wanagi WR event that took place in Rio Rancho.
Bindi was been treated with a variety of drugs, including the steroid Prednisone. This medication not only helped Bindi on his long road to recovery, but also increased his appetite somewhat dramatically. Over the next few months, Bindi was transformed from a lithe and lean canine weighing around 60 pounds, to an all-time high weight of 78 pounds!
However, this weight gain was temporary, as Bindi’s dosage of Prednisone was being gradually decreased, and the medication was permanently discontinued on January 15, 2014.
Unfortunately, during the early months of 2014, Bindi was unable to maintain his blood counts without the help of Prednisone, so he was put back on the medication. Everyone who knows Bindi hoped and prayed for his recovery and, with the help of modern medicine, it appears that prayers have been answered. At just over 5 years of age, Bindi is “one tough pup” and appeared likely be around for a long time to come.
As of the end of March 2014, Bindi was making steady progress in his recovery, but continued to take Prednisone every other day during the month of April. His next appointment with the veterinarian was scheduled for April 30, at which time his condition was re-evaluated. We all wished Bindi the best of luck of good health.
On May 16, 2014, doctors announced that Bindi was cured of AIHA after nearly 9 months of treatment. I thanked everyone for their prayers, love, donations, and kindness. Way to go, Bindi-Boy! We were so glad you were healthy and well again!
Bindi lived well for another four and a half years, until, suddenly, Bindi passed from cancer on October 13th, 2018. I was truly blindsided by this event.
Bindi was fine and dandy and then … fell over and struggled to stand. When he did stand, I immediately brought him to VCA where they did an ultrasound, X-rays, and blood work. Cancer had spread everywhere.
We would have only had about three more weeks together, and there is no sense in letting Bindi dwindle and be in pain as the days moved onward. I held him in my arms as he ascended to Heaven where I know he is running, playing, and telling everyone that the UPS truck is coming! I know that Bindi and my Dad are taking strolls together.
Blessings to you, my sweet Bindi-Boy. I miss your form here on Earth.