Heidi and Tyson have been a part of Karen's and RTWC life since they were born. Heidi is the daughter of Lola, a black Lab we transported from Darlington shelter to her foster so she could give birth before heading north to her rescue. That was 11 years ago. In 2018 Tyson was acquired from another rescue in MD. Unfortantely, over the years things changed. From 2021 to 2025 things were not good for Heidi and Tyson, we prayed and asked and hoped for their return but always faced resistence from their previous owner. We knew they needed help. June 7, 2025 we retrieved Heidi and Tyson with the help of our wonderful Board Member Tim. We immediately met with law enforcement and our Vet for assessment. It was worse than we imagined. Both dogs were covered in a nasty smelling caked on substance that appeared to be a mix of rain, sewage and muck. They were given baths and that's when all the ticks came out! We had to shave Heidi in order to get her cleared of ticks! We stopped counting at 43 ticks on her alone. Both dogs tested positive for brown tick disease. Both had dential disease and ear infections, thankfully heartworm negative! They were updated on vaccines, dental cleaning, full blood work and prevention. Karen noticed a golfball size mass on Tyson's chest that was growing, she sent him for tests and our fear was correct, he had cancer. In January 2026 Tyson underwent surgery to remove the mass and send for biopsy. It was positive for soft cell sarcoma (cancer). Tyson underwent treatment. Heidi was suffering from Thyroid issues and neurological brain trama, she also underwent treatment. Due to the poor condition of her skin and tick infestation she developed a dead skin area "black skin" on her back. Over the past year both dogs completed treatment. Both had a wonderful Christmas and have lots of family and friends on the farm. Tyson gets endless toys while Heidi enjoys her quiet time and treats. To date Tyson is cancer FREE! Heidi is thriving and now has healthy skin and fur, no more black skin or baldness. She is on the right medicine for her condition and loves running and playing with other dogs just as much as Tyson. They get walks on the trails and most of all lots of love. "It took me a few months to realize I had them, I cried a lot because they didn't deserve the treatment of neglect they were given. They deserved more and now that get that. During their treatments I kept hugging them and telling them no where but up from here. Alot of long nights, cleaning wounds, throw up and other accidents in the house and patience but with the love and support from the farm, family, Tim, Board Members and volunteers they have thrived. I am very grateful for the support from my best friend their Uncle Gerald."-Karen
We are very grateful for Karen's determination and the love and care she has given Heidi and Tyson like she does with all animals. She says they fit into her family perfectly.
This is an example of animal neglect which is animal cruelty. If left untreated both dogs would have died a horrible painful death. A year with the right people made a world of improvement for Heidi and Tyson. As Karen always says, "it's no where but up from here".
IF YOU SEE SOMETHING SAY SOMETHING! IF YOU KNOW AN ANIMAL IS BEING NEGLECTED MAKE THE CALL, IT WILL SAVE THEIR LIFE!
We are very grateful for Karen's determination and the love and care she has given Heidi and Tyson like she does with all animals. She says they fit into her family perfectly.
This is an example of animal neglect which is animal cruelty. If left untreated both dogs would have died a horrible painful death. A year with the right people made a world of improvement for Heidi and Tyson. As Karen always says, "it's no where but up from here".
IF YOU SEE SOMETHING SAY SOMETHING! IF YOU KNOW AN ANIMAL IS BEING NEGLECTED MAKE THE CALL, IT WILL SAVE THEIR LIFE!
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