Donor-Funded Medical Service Helps Animals At Northbrook Shelter

NORTHBROOK, IL — Medical costs for pets can get pricey. Luckily for two local animals, Northbrook's Heartland Animal Shelter and Northfield's Wags on Willow is helping them out in their times of need.

Aerith, a shih tzu mix, was suffering from a huge bladder stone. Lionel, a cat, is getting ongoing treatment for diabetes. The two residents of the shelter at 2975 Milwaukee Avenue are having their medical treatments covered by the Heartland’s Dr-Do-More-Fund — a donor-funded medical resource for seriously ill rescue dogs and cats.

"When I heard about this amazing behind-the-scenes care at Heartland I was determined to help,” said Mary Bowler, owner of Wags on Willow grooming parlor.

Bowler is sponsoring a three-week-long campaign to raise at least $500 for the program. To launch the effort, she pledged $250 and hopes contributions from Wags clients will help to reach the campaign’s goal.

The fund drive began Oct. 17 and continues through Nov. 7. Bowler anticipates clients will donate at least $1 each time they book a groom.

Aerith was transferred to Heartland from an animal control facility with an apparent urinary tract infection. Routine x-rays revealed the bladder stone followed by surgery to remove it. Lionel also arrived at Heartland with urination issues caused by a large mass in his abdomen. His care will require x-rays and an ultrasound.

"These are rescued dogs and cats without a family to care for them," Bowler said. "Heartland is their temporary family."

The Dr. Do More fund covers extraordinary expenses for treatable animals requiring specialized medical care. The campaign to raise money for the fund is the latest initiative by Wags on Willow to support the North Shore’s rescue shelters. Previously, the grooming salon has collected and donated food, toys, collars and leashes and bedding supplies.

Wags on Willow, at 300 N. Happ Road, has been repeatedly voted one of the best grooming spas in the North Shore by many local media outlets for a number of years. Learn more here.

Visit https://heartlandanimalshelter... for more information on Heartland Animal Shelter.