We offered help and got Dodger to our vet for an exam to see if his tumors could be removed. Unfortunately, during the exam, the vet discovered that Dodger had a galloping heart, so he was referred to a cardiologist for an echocardiogram to determine if he was healthy enough to undergo anesthesia to remove the tumors in his mouth.

One morning, Dodger wandered out of the tent they lived in. His dad found him lying down and unable to get up. He carried him back to the tent and stayed with him until he crossed over peacefully. We offered to take care of the final arrangements for Dodger’s body but his dad ultimately decided to bury him under a tree nearby, so he could still be close to him.

DODGER

RIP DODGER

One of our volunteers met Dodger and his dad, who lived on the streets of Van Nuys. Dodger was 11 years old and had large painful tumors growing all over his mouth. As you can imagine, this made it very hard for him to eat, and was overall very uncomfortable for this poor boy!

Dodger was scheduled to see the cardiologist, but unfortunately Dodger’s dad was late to the appointment and we had to reschedule. While waiting for another available appointment, Dodger’s tumors grew rapidly and his health declined. After consulting with Dodger’s vet, we decided that putting him under to remove the tumors would be too risky and he would likely not survive. Dodger was on heart and pain medication to keep him comfortable and we began having end of life conversations with his dad. Dodger’s dad kept him comfortable and we supplied pain meds, food and checked in frequently. Dodger had good days and bad days and his dad was adamant on wanting him to go on his own terms.

Dodger was such a special boy and our hearts are broken for his dad, who loved him very much. Thank you to everyone that donated and contributed to supplies for Dodger. We are grateful that you afford us the privilege of being part of the lives of these sweet souls.
Rest peacefully, Dodger