Meet Little Peri! This tiny fighter was born with a cleft lip, a cleft palate, and an issue with his right eye—it appears smaller and is just starting to open at only a few days old. Unfortunately, it doesn’t seem like a fully developed eye is behind the lid. Peri was rescued by The Bottle Brigade immediately after birth, as he had no mother to care for him.
Day 1: A Fragile Start
We dropped Peri off at the vet’s office to be hospitalized while we were away for a few hours. He showed slight improvements overnight but remained extremely weak and showed neurological issues. He was kept on IV fluids and tube feedings as we hoped for a miracle. He’s such a sweet baby.
Peri had a tough night dealing with diarrhea, so we made sure to keep him hydrated to prevent further complications. He also received several shots in hopes of stabilizing his digestive system.
Day 6: Small Steps Forward
Peri is getting a little better each day. While the diarrhea has decreased, it is still present. He will remain under the care of a veterinarian, where he will be closely monitored and kept on his medical treatment plan.
Day 19: Fighting Through Challenges
Little Peri has developed a noticeable head tilt, but that doesn’t slow him down! He’s a lively little pup who loves his binky and surprisingly enjoys his tube feedings—he even slurps the feeding tube like a noodle!
We are hoping and praying that he outgrows his condition and that it is not related to hydrocephalus. Thankfully, he has an amazing rescue team supporting him, ensuring he gets everything he needs to live the best life possible.
Day 30: Progress and Hope
Peri continues to improve each day. He’s getting stronger, and it’s heartwarming to see his little personality shine.
Day 35: A Sudden Decline
Just when everything seemed to be going well, Peri suddenly took a turn for the worse. His body can no longer regulate his blood sugar, requiring hourly glucose boluses and a high-dose dextrose drip. He has become septic and is now receiving a plasma transfusion. He’s had two seizures and is incredibly weak.
I have no idea what went wrong, and it’s breaking my heart. I’ll never understand why these special little souls have to endure so much just to have a normal life. I haven’t been able to sleep because I’m terrified that if I close my eyes, I might lose him.
We continue to hold onto hope for Peri, praying that he pulls through and gets the second chance he so desperately deserves.
