Dumped, Burning With a Fever, and Fighting to Survive

Teresa's Cat and Dog Rescue refused to let a ditch become the end of Diezel's story.

He was found abandoned in a ditch in 86-degree weather, dehydrated, starving, covered in fleas and ticks, and burning with a dangerous fever of 104.5°F. He was rushed straight to the veterinary hospital, where he received emergency treatment, was started on antibiotics, and was stable enough to return to the rescue.

Diezel is a fighter, and everyone caring for him is fighting right alongside him.

At his recheck appointment, additional testing revealed intestinal infections and worms, so he received treatment for those as well. Because his little body is still so fragile, his veterinary team is taking things one step at a time. He is scheduled to receive his first round of vaccinations on Saturday, once he's strong enough.

He's still unsteady on his feet, but he hasn't stopped trying. Every small step forward is a testament to just how determined this sweet boy is to survive.

Diezel still has a long road to recovery, and his medical care is far from over. If you're able, please consider making a donation to help Teresa's Cat and Dog Rescue continue providing the treatment he needs. Every contribution, no matter the size, helps give Diezel the chance to grow stronger and leave this painful chapter behind.

\### 7/18/26 Update: Diezel Needs Urgent Help as His Medical Bills Continue to Grow

Diezel had to return to the vet yesterday after his fever came back. To help him continue fighting the infection, his veterinary team started him on additional antibiotics and took X-rays of his swollen leg.

Thankfully, nothing is broken. However, the X-rays showed inflammation and fluid around his ankle. To give it the best chance to heal and prevent further injury, his leg has been placed in a cast.

Even with this encouraging news, Diezel still has a long road ahead. In just one week, his veterinary expenses have already reached $500, and that doesn't include the puppy vaccinations and additional medical care he'll still need as he grows.

At only 5 to 6 weeks old, Diezel has had an incredibly difficult start to life. Along with his ongoing medical treatment, the rescue is also providing everything a growing puppy needs, including food, milk replacer, enrichment, and other special supplies to help him thrive.

The costs are adding up quickly, and the rescue's resources are being stretched thin. If you're able to help, your donation will make a real difference in giving this little fighter the care he needs to continue healing.

\### 7/29/26 Update: Great News From Diezel's Latest Vet Visit!

Diezel went back to the vet for follow up bloodwork to make sure his elevated white blood cell count was coming down, and we have wonderful news... it did!

This is a huge milestone in his recovery. Because his bloodwork has improved, Diezel is now healthy enough to receive his puppy vaccinations and can begin getting ready to search for the forever home he deserves.

While we're celebrating this progress, his care isn't over yet. Between his vaccinations and the ongoing costs of raising a growing puppy, the expenses continue to add up. Caring for a baby in rescue hasn't been easy, but seeing how far Diezel has come has made every challenge worthwhile.

Thank you for cheering him on and helping make his recovery possible.

\### 8/2/26 Update: From Barely Hanging On to Thriving

Just a few weeks ago, Diezel was fighting for his life.

He was found at only 5 weeks old with a dangerously high fever of 104.8°F, weak, dehydrated, and barely hanging on. Today, he's almost unrecognizable. Diezel now weighs 13.7 pounds, is growing fast, and is finally getting to enjoy being a happy puppy.

He loves to run, play with the other dogs, and has even figured out how to use the dog door so he can join everyone outside. Watching him gain confidence and energy has been incredible.

Although Diezel is doing so much better, his journey isn't over. His veterinary bill has already reached $513.18, and he still needs his puppy vaccinations and neuter surgery before he's ready for adoption. Thankfully, the rescue already has a microchip ready for him.

Between his medical expenses and the cost of feeding a growing puppy, the rescue is running low on funds. If you're able to help, your support will go directly toward giving Diezel everything he needs to continue healing and find the loving forever home he's been waiting for.