Meet Rhoen, the “sweetest, most loving, goofball, teddy bear dog,” as described by his loving owner Liz Randall, a professional dog trainer in southern California. Randall has trained numerous dogs to compete in agility events over her career; however, her current border collie, Rhoen, stands out in a unique way.
While he is a big ball of love and fluff, Randall explains that “when it is competition time, he flips the switch, becoming very intense, fast, and powerful.”
But in November 2020, shortly after competing in agility events, Rhoen began experiencing respiratory distress. After consulting Julie Fisher, a veterinary specialist in San Diego, Randall was referred to Dr. Carol Reinero, a professor, researcher, and co-director of the BREATHE (Bringing REspiratory and Aerodigestion Toward HEalth) Clinic at the University of Missouri’s College of Veterinary Medicine (Mizzou).
Randall was willing to go wherever she would receive the best treatment and most professional care for Rhoen, which was what brought her to Dr. Reinero. Reinero and her team diagnosed Rhoen with a developmental lung disease using advanced imaging techniques and ultimately a lung biopsy.
“Mizzou provided the best veterinary experience I have ever had in my life,” Randall said. “The doctors and staff were so caring, clear in their communication with me every step of the way, and I never felt like I was being rushed. The Mizzou veterinarians were so patient, empathetic, and thoughtful. I have so much respect for them and how they run their practice.”
The Road to Recovery
Thankfully, Rhoen was able to compete in agility events again after only several months of recovery. “When dogs have lung disease severe enough to impact their breathing, it is not expected for them to return to the status of an elite athlete,” Reinero said. “It was the combination of Rhoen’s tenacity and Liz’s unwavering support and training that allowed him to exceed all expectations.”
His recovery was so successful that he even won an overall championship in 2022 at a UKI Agility International event.
Another Health Scare
All was looking well for Rhoen after his big international win, but in the summer of 2022, he had another respiratory setback. Thankfully, the team at Mizzou knew his case and were ready to help.
With the support of the Mizzou vets and Dr. Reinero, they were able to put together a strategy to keep him closer to home and get him the support he needed. Rhoen underwent a second surgery in the San Diego area which removed identified diseased tissue that could have led to life-threatening complications if left untreated.
Randall shared that Rhoen has made a remarkable recovery, and expressed that her relationship with the Mizzou vets is what has helped Rhoen to continuously receive excellent care, even if it isn’t in their clinics, thanks to their support and communication.
Back Where He Belongs
Rhoen is now six years old and is still competing thanks to the veterinary team at Mizzou. Randall keeps in touch with Dr. Reinero, too, because she knows how important hearing positive recovery news is to veterinarians, who often have to deliver bad news.
“I’m just astounded with how well he is doing now. I knew [Dr. Reinero] would be excited to hear about his recovery,” Randall shared. “It felt good to give her some good news and say ‘thank you.’”
Featured image courtesy of Sydney Ryan
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The Road to Recovery
One Response
"Rhoen’s story is nothing short of extraordinary! From facing a life-altering diagnosis to making an incredible recovery and continuing to compete at the highest level, his journey is a testament to the power of determination, expert care, and the unbreakable bond between a pet and their owner. Liz’s dedication and the outstanding care provided by the Mizzou veterinary team are truly inspiring. Wishing Rhoen continued health, success, and joy in all his adventures!"