03/06/2026
Devastating News About River
When we brought River to the hospital, our intention was to help him. He was scheduled to undergo surgery to treat the severe sinus fistulas caused by years of untreated dental disease. These open channels between his mouth and sinus cavities had resulted in chronic infections and ongoing pain, and we hoped that surgery would give him a chance at a more comfortable future.
However, after extensive examinations and blood tests, we received heartbreaking news.
River has been diagnosed with severe anaemia and advanced kidney disease. The veterinary team found that he is suffering from massive renal insufficiency and is extremely anaemic. His body condition score is only 2/9, reflecting the extent of his physical decline.
Further investigations revealed that River is affected by Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD), a condition in which fluid-filled cysts develop and progressively destroy healthy kidney tissue. As the kidneys fail, they lose the ability to perform essential functions, including supporting the production of red blood cells. This has left River unable to maintain a healthy red blood cell count.
In addition to his kidney disease, River also suffers from chronic respiratory problems and the long-term consequences of years of neglect. The damage to his body is extensive and irreversible.
The veterinary specialists have informed us that River would not have survived the surgery we originally brought him in for. While we wanted to address the painful sinus fistulas and chronic infections caused by his untreated teeth, his underlying condition is simply too severe.
This is not the outcome we hoped for. We are devastated 😢
