Alfie, a Spaniel, came into rescue on the 5th December 2008 age 6 months. His previous owner contacted Three Counties Dog Rescue as they were no longer able to keep him, due to a change in circumstances. His former owner mentioned he had a skin problem and they were asked to take him direct to the vet, where he could be seen and also signed over to the rescue. At the vet's his skin was diagnosed as Dermotetic Mange. This is a generally non-contagious and if caught early fairly easy to treat. Unfortunately Alfie has been left for some time loosing a considerable amount of hair and had developed sores.

Following his second special bath at the vets, on the 16th December, Alfie was collect by his Fosterers and taken home where he was to live until full recovery with 3 other dogs.

Alfie's progress was very good as you can see from the pictures above. He was then joined in the foster home with a 5th dog, a very old Yorkie. Alfie at first was put in his place and soon realised that she was not going to play with him.

Alfie was given the "All clear" on the 20th of February and had the first of his two protection vaccinations, his second being in three weeks later. As you can see in the photos his coat was very much improved and his good looks restored.  Although Alfie was initially put up for adoption after just a couple of failed enquiries his fosterers decided they were going to find it to difficult to part with him and accordingly fully adopted him.

The cost to Three Counties of Alfie's treatment, vaccinations and neutering amounted to £650. Had he not been in an foster home kennelling would have cost another £350 without the added cost of the 15 return trips to the vets. It is very easy to see how the vets bills soon add up.

Despite having been given the all clear Alfie's condition returned. Fortunately as it was noticed in the very early stage,  there was this time very little hair loss and no sores. It can, in some cases take up to three years for a dog's immune system to fully develop and it seems this is to be the case with Alfie. He is to receive a monthly treatment for at least the next 2 years. This will hopefully keep the condition under control.

Alfie has turned out a very loving dog who seems to fear nothing. He is typical of his breed and age, mischievous, playful and at times a real handful just like any other spaniel of the same age.

Alfie is to be one of the dogs on this year's Three Counties Dog Rescue Xmas cards. You will also see him on occasions out collecting/fund raising. His "Mum and Dad" feel that it important that he helps give the same chance to other dogs that need the help of The Rescue.