Every Breath Is a Struggle for Dior

Dior is a tiny, one-year-old Pomeranian with a huge personality and a dangerously fragile airway.

He was found abandoned in poor condition by a senior volunteer with New York Cat Warriors. He had a severely matted coat and was covered in ticks and fleas. But the most frightening problem was something we could hear: a harsh, hoarse cough followed by episodes of gasping and labored breathing.

Dior is a happy, affectionate little puppy who wants to play, explore and be close to people. But excitement and stress can make him pant heavily and struggle for air. Ordinary moments that should be joyful can become frightening because his airway cannot reliably remain open.

Dior’s preliminary examination, bloodwork and chest X-rays have been completed. The radiology report confirmed collapse of his trachea where it enters his chest, along with collapse affecting some of his smaller airways. His condition also creates additional risk under anesthesia, particularly during recovery.

Dior has now been referred to the specialists at the Schwarzman Animal Medical Center for the advanced care he needs, including an anticipated tracheal stent procedure.

The AMC estimates that Dior’s surgery will cost approximately $16,000.

Right now, the costs are the obstacle standing between Dior and the specialty care that could allow him to breathe more safely and comfortably.

Although New York Cat Warriors is ordinarily a cat rescue, we could not turn away this tiny abandoned dog when he needed help. We are a small, all-volunteer, foster-based organization with limited financial resources, and this balance is more than we can absorb without help.

Dior is now safe in foster care with the volunteer who found him. She is seriously considering adopting him once his airway condition has been treated and he is medically cleared. Dior may already have the loving permanent home he deserves but first, we must help him breathe.

Please help us raise the final costs needed to unlock Dior’s procedure. NYCW will remain responsible for his medications, follow-up care and recovery needs as they arise. Every donation will help turn AMC to the Rescue’s extraordinary assistance into the specialty care Dior needs and bring him closer to the secure, happy life that should have been his all along.