Good Samaritan and local veterinary teams helped save puppy found with severe facial swelling
A four-week-old puppy found suffering from a suspected rattlesnake bite has made a full recovery after receiving emergency treatment and continued veterinary care at NOCO Humane.
Keota, a stray Labrador retriever puppy, was rushed to Pets Emergency Hospital by good Samaritan Caleb Schwartz after he noticed significant swelling along her lower jaw and the side of her face. The hospital immediately administered antivenom and pain medication. A Weld County Animal Control officer then transported Keota to NOCO Humane’s Weld Campus for continued veterinary care and sheltering.
The swelling was so severe that Keota could not comfortably open her mouth. NOCO Humane’s Animal Care team softened her food to make eating easier, while the Veterinary Services team closely monitored her condition and managed her pain.
Although the swelling began to improve, tissue surrounding the bite later started to deteriorate. Keota was placed under anesthesia so NOCO Humane’s Veterinary Services team could remove damaged tissue, thoroughly clean the wound and place a drain in her jaw to support continued healing.
Keota improved day by day, and as the swelling subsided, her playful personality began to emerge. Her recovery faced one additional setback when she was diagnosed with giardia, an intestinal parasite. After receiving treatment and a specialized diet, she was cleared of the infection one week later.
Keota’s recovery was made possible through the quick action and collaboration of a concerned community member, Pets Emergency Hospital, Weld County Animal Control and NOCO Humane. Now, after overcoming a venomous bite, surgery and illness within the first several weeks of her life, Keota is safe and healthy with her new family.
NOCO Humane encourages pet owners to seek emergency veterinary care immediately if they suspect their animal has been bitten by a rattlesnake, as swelling and tissue damage can progress rapidly.
