Medical Pets
The dogs posted on this page are not part of AFRP’s adoption program. They are included on our website as a courtesy to other rescue groups and individuals looking for homes for their dogs. We give priority to animals looking for homes in Monterey County, Santa Cruz County and San Benito County. All dogs and puppies must be spayed or neutered to be eligible for a courtesy post. Learn more about submitting a courtesy listing for a pet in need of a home.
AFRP has not met, evaluated or interacted with these animals and cannot make any guarantees about their health or temperament. To learn more or arrange a meeting with these pets, please use the contact information listed for each animal. Do not contact AFRP or fill out an AFRP Adoption Application for these animals. Adoption process and rehoming fee is at the discretion of the pet’s guardian.
Marliya
Breed: DSH Grey Tabby
Age: Young
Weight: 4 Pounds
Gender: Female
Marliya, a sweet 3-month-old kitten with a congenital deformity, underwent a special procedure that will allow her to live a long, healthy life. Marliya is one of four kittens that were raised in foster care after coming to AFRP from the Salinas Shelter in November. It did not take long for her foster mom to notice that there was something different about Marliya. She was not growing at the same pace as her siblings, and she would tire easily when playing.
A visit to the vet resulted in a bleak prognosis. Pectus excavatum is a congenital defect which occurs when the sternum and ribs grow in an unnatural way, limiting the amount of space available in the chest for the heart and lungs. As the kitten grows, the heart and lungs are unable to function effectively, and without treatment, most cats with this condition die before their first birthday.
The only option for Marliya was a life-saving procedure which involved surgically anchoring a splint to her sternum, which will apply gentle traction to her chest and over time, correct the deformity. If all goes well, the splint will be removed after six weeks, and her heart and lungs will have all the space they need to function properly. Marliya underwent surgery with Dr. Dearmin at Monterey Pet Specialists on Thursday, January 23. He has successfully treated this condition before, and we are grateful that he worked his special magic on Marliya. Please send your positive thoughts to this precious kitten as she begins her journey of healing.
