Jax's Journey

Jax’s story begins with something that should have been simple.

Puppy strangles, when caught early, is often very treatable. With prompt veterinary care, many puppies recover quickly and go on to live full, healthy lives. But Jax didn’t get that chance.

For three full weeks, Jax suffered without treatment. His condition worsened day by day, until his previous owners finally asked for help. By the time Jax came to us, what could have been a manageable illness had turned into a medical emergency.

The moment Jax was in our care, we took him straight to the veterinarian. He was started on IV antibiotics and intensive treatment right away. We were hopeful—but his infection was already severe, and his little body wasn’t responding the way everyone wanted.

Despite aggressive care, Jax continued to struggle.

On January 19, the veterinary team began hydrotherapy in an effort to reduce inflammation and help his wounds heal. We hoped this would be the turning point. Unfortunately, even with this added support, Jax’s condition did not improve enough.

The damage from prolonged untreated infection had already taken hold.

On January 21, Jax underwent sedated wound debridement. During this procedure, veterinarians were forced to remove large amounts of necrotic (dead) tissue in order to stop the infection from spreading further.

So much tissue had to be removed from Jax’s left ear that only cartilage remained.

All of his wounds were carefully cleaned and closed in hopes of giving his body a chance to heal and fight back.

As of today, Jax is still hospitalized and under constant veterinary care. Tomorrow, we will learn whether Jax is able to keep his left ear.

On January 22, Jax woke up alert and active, seemingly happier than yesterday. While its the best news we have gotten from the vet so far, they want to keep him until Monday to watch his ear over the weekend. While it looks better, he is still at risk of losing the left ear flap. 

No matter the outcome, we are committed to him—fully and completely.

Jax did not choose neglect. He did not choose to go untreated. But he did get one thing right: he held on long enough for help to find him.

And we are not giving up on him now.

How can you help Jax?

Jax is still in the middle of his fight, and he needs a village around him.

• Donate to Jax’s care using the links below. Every contribution—no matter the size—goes directly toward his ongoing veterinary treatment, hospitalization, medications, and recovery.

• Call Hope Animal Clinic at 205-426-2828 to make a donation directly to Jax’s account.

• Keep Jax in your thoughts and prayers as he faces the next critical steps in his healing journey.

Your kindness, support, and belief in Jax mean more than words can say. Because of you, he is still fighting—and he is not fighting alone.