Phillip and Phlicka's vet bills (Julie Gwin)

I am fundraising for my friend Julie Gwin who many of you probably know. Julie teaches our local handling class and breeds and owns Pharaoh Hounds. She is passionate about all things dogs and has helped so many of us in the local dog show circle.

Julie has had 3 of her Pharaoh Hounds at Metropolitan Veterinary Hospital in the last 10 days with a yet to be diagnosed mystery illness.

The nightmare began with Phocus who spent 1 night in the Metropolitan ER after a few days with bloody diarrhea and no appetite. After IV fluids and some meds, Phocus was allowed to rest at home. She is still recovering although not quite 100%.

Shortly after Phocus came home, Julie's best old boy Phillip (age 13) came down with it. Unfortunately he has not bounced back as easily. He has been in the ICU for 4 days now. He was initially diagnosed with acute hemorrhagic diarrhea but despite multiple medications he has not improved. Phillip won’t eat so he was being syringe fed but that wasn’t enough to sustain him and he has become weak. Yesterday they inserted a feeding tube while they continue to run tests to determine the cause of his illness.

A few days after Phillip’s admission, Phillip’s 7 year old granddaughter Phlicka was admitted to Metropolitan with the same symptoms. She is also being treated with multiple medications while they wait for test results. She is refusing food as well.

With all of the treatments and ongoing ICU care, their bills have already exceeded $10,000, completely depleting the emergency fund Julie keeps for her dogs. And unfortunately they are going to continue to pile up until the vets figure out what they are dealing with and how to treat it.

Julie has been burning the candle at both ends between working, caring for her pack at home, and visiting with Phillip and Phlicka at the hospital. I know she is also extremely concerned about what this is and how to keep her other 3 dogs healthy. I would love to be able to at least ease her worry over the mounting bills. Any amount would be so appreciated! All funds will be applied directly to Julie's Metropolitan bill.

If you can’t contribute please be sure to send healing thoughts Phillip and Phlicka’s way.

Thank you!

Allyson