Dog of the Month, May 2019: Lola
Lovely little Lola, a nearly 6-month-old Chihuahua mix, has learned to take life in stride after a little mishap that left her with a couple less toes.
In December of 2018, Lola became a part Rainier Veterinary Hospital assistant Chalaia’s life in the sweetest possible way; as a gift from her family for Chalaia doing so well in school. The then 6-week-old pup settled right in to her new home and even helped pick out her new name.
“Lola was a random name that we were trying out,” said owner Chalaia. “Her little ears just perked right up when she heard it, so we knew it was meant to be.” Continued Chalaia, “it is actually perfect, as she is now named after a Barry Manilow song and she is ever the entertainer who loves to dance!”
Unfortunately as can happen, sweet little Lola faced her first life setback recently with an injury at the local mall. Lola and Chalaia were out shopping when Lola escaped her leash and made a beeline for the escalator. (Escalators are incredibly dangerous for dogs as the grooves and moving stairs can snag a toenail and lead to potentially severe injuries.) Luckily Chalaia got to her right away, but some damage had already been done. In the end, Lola was rushed to Rainier Veterinary Hospital where she had to have one toe amputated and two more broken digits splinted so they could heal.
“That was such a close call,” said Chalaia. “We are just so thankful that the injuries were not more serious and her foot continues to heal up great. I just want to remind everyone to be extra careful around moving walkways and escalators with their pets as they can be quite dangerous.”
Added Dr. Colleen Beestman, “Lola did an awesome job of healing! She had a broken piece of toe bone that had to be removed, so she is without a toenail; but with time and lots of bandage changes she healed well. Also, we managed to save the majority of the digital paw pad which was really cool.”
Little Lola is healing up and getting back to her old self which includes chasing her own tail, going on long walks with Chalaia and playing with her purple bunny. Her love of the latter has led to her sometimes being called Lola Bunny or just Bunny.
“She is truly a feisty little lady that loves going on adventures and meeting new people,” said Chalaia. “Truly just loves everyone she meets. I am so glad her injury didn’t slow her down and she still has such a spice for life, well, and a good slumber and snuggle at the end of the day.”
At Rainier Veterinary Hospital, we are so happy to have Chalaia on our team and so very glad we were able to come to the aid of dear, sweet Lola. Here is to a long happy life together you two!
About Our Dog of the Month Program
Here’s how our Dog of the Month program works: Each staff member provides a nomination for the distinguished honor, and then we vote. The highest vote wins! Any pup patients who visit us during the prior month are eligible.
