From the night 10 years ago when David Blank rescued her and her sister from the side of the road, Peanut has been a happy and playful dog. Even after being home alone when her house caught on fire. Even after jumping from the second floor balcony as soon as her leash burned through. Even after sustaining kidney failure, edema and major burns covering her head and back. Peanut is happy.
Peanut was first treated at White Oak Animal Hospital, her usual veterinary clinic, which suggested the Blanks take Peanut to the LSU Veterinary Teaching Hospital. One of the treatments Peanut underwent was continuous renal replacement therapy (similar to dialysis); LSU is one among only 10 places in the U.S. to offer this treatment for animals. The research and resources at LSU enabled doctors to heal Peanut in remarkable time.
This year marks the LSU School of Veterinary Medicine’s 40th. To celebrate the special anniversary, the school has launched a $5 million fundraising plan; the “Above and Beyond Capital Challenge” will augment three key programs: advancing cures for cancer, biomedical research, and companion animal health facilities equipment and enhancements.
Ginger Guttner, LSU SVM director of public relations, said the challenge “represents our future, our mission and our service to the community.”
Funding for these programs is what enables victories like Peanut’s. Through ICU, a “wound VAC” (i.e., a sterile infection vacuum) and the constant care of doctors and students, Peanut has bounced back.
“She’s back to her old self,” Blank said with a thankful smile.
Published in Cornerstone Summer and Fall 2013.
Lauren Cathleen 