Birdie 6854 and Bernie 6857 were found together roaming rural South Carolina. They showed up on a man's porch one morning and he immediately called authorities given the terrible condition both dogs were in. They arrived at the shelter and were such sweethearts with everyone. Both were emaciated, flea infested and showed signs of severe neglect. Poor Birdie had opened wounds on her face, around both eyes and her ears were bloody. She had hair loss on her sides and under her neck and her skin was crusty. Bernie was almost completely hairless and every bone in his body was visible. We decided these babies needed intense care and made the decision to bring them to our home together.

Two days later we had their first vet visit. Both had awful bacterial skin infections, ear infections in both ears and parasites. We started several antibiotics for each. Eye drops for Birdie's infected eyes, and medicated bathes. Birdie has perianal fistulas that are not severe and we have started a modified cyclosporine for her. Due to the generosity of wishlist items, they are eating a great food to help them gain much needed weight, have good quality supplements and salmon oil as well as medicated shampoos and spray for their skin and comfy beds for their sore bodies. Even though they have a long way to go, they are looking better already! Once their skin clears up and they gain weight they will be spayed and neutered. Otherwise, their bloodwork showed anemia but was otherwise unremarkable. Both are negative for tick diseases and heartworms which is amazing considering where they came from. 

Although we don't know their history, we feel that Birdie and Bernie have been together for a long time and may even be mother and son. Birdie is estimated to be 6-7 years old, while Bernie is estimated to be 4-5 years old. They do not have to be adopted together but Birdie and Bernie go together like peas and carrots so if they were adopted together it would be amazing!

Now, a little about Birdie's personality: she is the sweetest and most loving dog you'll meet. She loves to burrow her head under your leg or behind your body. She has some pep in her step but is a low energy dog. She loves food and treats are her kryptonite. She has learned to "sit" and has no problem going up and down stairs. The only thing she's a little afraid of is getting in the car and we have been lifting her up but she is the perfect rider. She's adjusted to our routine very well and easily goes into the crate and sleeps in her crate throughout the night. The sleeps hard and usually doesn't hear you until you open the door. She's got the cutest mannerisms and likes playing with toys. She's been friendly with everyone she has been and is a gentle soul. We absolutely love Birdie and love seeing her and Bernie's antics together! They're a very easy pair. 

If you're interested in Birdie, Bernie or both please email their foster at gsd2020k9@gmail.com