clementine updates

3/13/2026

Clementine had a great day yesterday. She went back to the vet and is currently hanging out there receiving fluids. Because of the severe damage done to her intestinal tract from starvation, she is still very sensitive and can be prone to bouts of diarrhea while her body continues to heal.

New medications have been ordered, essentially mini fecal transplants to help restore the healthy bacteria in her gut, along with new probiotics that should arrive soon.

She is receiving fluids today, is eating, and otherwise doing well. Things like this are expected as her body recovers from everything she’s been through. We are hopeful she will be back with Ash tonight!

3/10/2026

Kayla (our VP) and I (Jill, President) had the chance to visit Clementine today with her wonderful foster, Ash, and her foster siblings, Guppy and Sharkey.

Years ago we rescued Sharkey from a breeder as an 8 week old puppy after he “fell” and broke his back. We honestly didn’t think he would survive, but Ash worked her magic. 

Later, we rescued Boop (now Guppy) from ACCT. He was about to be euthanized and was in horrible condition; emaciated, covered in wounds and scars, unable to walk, with legs deformed from being locked in a crate. After several surgeries and lots of rehabilitation, Ash ended up adopting both of them. They both have special needs that could appear again later in life, which is why Ash is fostering Clementine to help get her healthy and strong.

Clementine is doing remarkably well. She still occasionally holds up her back hind leg, although she does use it. Because all of her organs had completely shut down when she was found, there is a chance she could have complications later in life or even a shortened lifespan. However, she could also defy the odds, again. Right now, she is the happiest little girl ever, and truly amazing.

She has already doubled her weight, though she still has a long way to go. Her legs are improving, but they also need more time and strengthening. Clementine is incredibly smart! She already sits and is learning to ring a bell to go potty. Most of all, she is the sweetest girl you could ever meet.

She loves life, people, dogs, food, and everyone and everything she meets.

3/9/2026

This little girl is working so hard, and it truly shows. Clementine loves her walks and being outside, soaking up every moment of fresh air and freedom. Tomorrow a few of us from the team will be visiting her, and we can’t wait to see how she’s doing!

We’re so proud of this girl. When Clementine was found, she was near death and severely emaciated at just 6 pounds. Today she has doubled her weight and is now 12 pounds. Watching her fight her way back to health has been nothing short of incredible.

Keep going, sweet girl. We’re all cheering you on.

3/5/2026

We didn’t think Clementine was quite ready for aqua/hydrotherapy yet. Because of how fragile she’s been, any diarrhea means she can’t safely go into the water. Thankfully she’s been free of it for over 24 hours, which means she’s cleared and in the tank today!

Hydrotherapy is an important part of Clementine’s recovery. The warm water supports her body weight and reduces pressure on her joints while allowing her to gently move and strengthen her muscles. 

After being found severely emaciated, her body is still rebuilding strength, and this type of controlled exercise helps improve circulation, mobility, and muscle development without putting stress on her growing body.

This is a big milestone for our little fighter, and we’re so proud of the progress she’s making. Every small step like this helps her continue on the path to healing.

3/3/2026

Clementine had a full exam and X-rays, and the good news is that nothing abnormal or painful was found. Both the orthopedic surgeon and the head of physical therapy evaluated her. A neurologist may still do an exam just to be thorough, but right now the leading thought is that what we’re seeing could simply be growing pains. Her growth plates are still open, confirming that she is definitely still a puppy.

Based on her size and features, we believe Clementine is likely around 5–6 months old, and she’s probably not a small dog. She may have some Aussie, Border Collie, or Spaniel in her mix, which means the body we’re seeing now is far from what she was meant to be. She’s been so severely emaciated that she simply hasn’t had the chance to grow and develop properly yet.

The best part is that she’s starting to act like a puppy now that she’s feeling better. She's playful, curious, and full of personality. Ash, her incredible foster and rehab extraordinaire, will begin very slow, controlled exercise to help her build strength safely. We’re also consulting with specialists about whether adding Vitamin D could help with possible bone discomfort. 

As always, we’re being extremely careful with any medications or supplements because of how sensitive her stomach has been.

For now, Clementine continues to move forward one small step at a time, and every day she gets a little stronger.

3/2/2026

Since coming into our care, Clementine has experienced ongoing diarrhea, which initially included mucus and blood due to internal bleeding. The bleeding has resolved completely, and this type of gastrointestinal upset was expected given the severity of her starvation and emaciation. Reintroducing nutrition after prolonged deprivation takes time, and her digestive system is still adjusting.

To ensure she is properly absorbing nutrients, she had follow-up bloodwork and began supportive medications. Her bloodwork has improved across the board, and her body is beginning to rebuild red blood cells as her nutrition increases. After starting medication, she produced normal stool overnight. We expect some fluctuation as her system continues to regulate, but today her stomach is stable.

She remains under close supervision at all times and is never unattended with toys or chews. She is bright, playing, and in good spirits. X-rays of her hind leg are scheduled for tomorrow, and we will provide an update once results are available.

Thank you for your continued support and trust in the veterinary team guiding her care.

3/1/2026

Clementine has started walking (which is amazing), but her rehabber has noticed lameness in her left hind leg. She uses it for balance and slight walking, but cannot fully bear weight when standing. She has a consult and X-ray scheduled Tuesday to determine whether this is a fracture or soft tissue injury. Until then, we’re limiting activity to short potty trips, range-of-motion work, and massage.

Her bloodwork was rechecked today and has improved across the board! Her weight is up nearly half a pound. She will be on metronidazole for 5 days to address ongoing diarrhea. If symptoms return after stopping the medication, we may consider a fecal transplant or long-term low-dose Tylan. A full GI panel is also recommended after treatment to establish a baseline, including B12 levels.

Despite everything, Clementine continues to improve. She wants to play, eat, be loved, and just be a dog. She truly is a dream. We’ll get to the bottom of her leg issue and continue moving forward. Thank you for your continued prayers and support.

02/25/2026

Clementine continues to show us just how strong and determined she truly is. This week brought some beautiful milestones. She pottied outside for the very first time and even rolled onto her back all by herself thanks to strengthening little abs. For a pup fighting so hard, those “small” victories are actually huge. She’s rarely without one of her comfort buddies, JoJo, her emotional support pig, or her new heated puppy with a heartbeat, generously gifted by a donor’s thoughtful children who used their own Christmas money to make sure Clementine felt safe and warm. She also received a stunning handmade blessing blanket, plus a sweet cow and angel for her recovery, reminding us how deeply loved she is by this community. 

02/24/2026

Clementine began real therapy and physical therapy sessions. She is a warrior! Brave, determined, and the definition of courageous. She tires quickly and needs plenty of naps, but she shows up and gives it everything she has. Her handmade sweaters not only keep her warm but help support her delicate head and neck as she continues healing. Clementine keeps proving that strength doesn’t have to be big to be powerful. Every step forward is hard earned, and she is never walking it alone.

02/23/2026

Two weeks ago, we weren’t sure if Clementine would survive the night. Today, she left the hospital. 

Clementine endured severe abuse and prolonged neglect that left her body completely depleted. When she arrived, she was clinically lifeless and had to be revived. She had no muscle mass, no reserves, and was suffering from internal gastrointestinal bleeding due to extreme starvation. She was unable to lift her head or move, required heat support to maintain her temperature, and was battling anemia, dehydration, unstable glucose and electrolyte levels, and significant weakness.

During 9 days in ICU and 13 days hospitalized, she received multiple blood, platelet, and plasma transfusions, IV support, a feeding tube, extensive monitoring, and specialized interventions to stabilize her fragile condition. Despite everything her body endured, her eyes stayed bright, and she showed an unwavering will to live every single day.

Her steps are slow and still a little wobbly, but they are deliberate. The tiny body that couldn’t lift her head now moves forward with intention and quiet determination. Where there was zero muscle mass, there is now rebuilding. Where there was only fragility, there is resilience.

This progress is the result of extraordinary medical intervention, proper nutrition, and the beginning of guided rehabilitation. Now in the expert hands of her foster, Ash (a PT and rehab specialist) Clementine will continue structured physical therapy, massage, monitored refeeding protocols, and gradual muscle rebuilding in a calm, loving home environment.

She is still fragile, and she still has months of healing ahead. However, today proves what we already knew: her spirit never left. Once frozen and barely able to move, to settling into her foster home for continued healing and recovery.

We are beyond grateful to her veterinary team, the doctors, nurses, and technicians who refused to give up on her. Thank you to every single person who donated, prayed, shared her story, purchased items from her wish list, and stood beside her during the most critical days. Your support quite literally helped save her life. From Clementine, from Delco Dawgs, and from Ash, THANK YOU.

02/22/2026

Holding Clementine’s tiny paws and feeling how little strength she has right now is a powerful reminder of just how hard she is fighting. The fact that she is still here with us truly feels like a miracle.

Throughout the day, Clementine has small but meaningful victories. For a few brief moments at a time, she is able to pull herself into a sitting position and lift her head on her own. She doesn’t yet have the muscle strength to hold it for long, but these moments show us what’s possible. With proper nutrition, rehabilitation, and steady weight gain, we know her strength will continue to grow.

She still has a long road ahead, but the progress she has made in just three weeks is incredible. We are so hopeful and can’t wait to watch her transformation unfold.

Thank you for standing beside Clementine and being part of her journey. Your support means everything.

02/21/2026

Clementine continues to show us just how resilient she truly is.

Today, she stood up on her own and took a few steps. She was understandably shaky, but she did it. A huge milestone in her recovery! While she is not yet fully stable and still has a long road ahead, these small victories are powerful signs of progress.

Clinically, some of her levels are still lower than we’d like, and she remains under careful monitoring. However, she is steadily improving each day. Her strength is returning little by little, and her determination is undeniable. From lying in ICU fighting to survive… to sitting up bright eyed and alert. Clementine is showing us everyday that she’s not giving up.

She still needs time, continued medical care, and lots of support, but her progress so far is incredibly encouraging. We are hopeful and committed to walking every step of this journey with her. Thank you to everyone who has supported her recovery. Your prayers, donations, and encouragement are helping make these milestones possible.

 02/20/2026

Today is an emotional day for a lot of reasons. We all know the dire circumstances from which she came, and to see her continue fighting means everything. Clementine continues to show encouraging signs of progress. At this time, she is still unable to independently hold her head upright, so she is being kept in a carefully supported, reclined position to ensure proper neck and airway support. Because of her long neck and current weakness, positioning is extremely important to maintain comfort and stability.

She no longer has a nasogastric (NG) tube in place for nutritional and medical support. She is still working through some residual secretions, which is expected in her recovery process, but she continues to clear them gradually. Overall, she is responding well to care and remains stable.

Clementine is scheduled to transition to foster care on Monday, where she will continue receiving attentive, supportive care in a quiet home environment. This next step is an important part of her recovery journey.

We are deeply grateful for the outpouring of support from our community both locally and across the world. Your prayers, donations, and encouragement have directly contributed to her ongoing care and medical treatment.

Every life matters. Clementine’s life matters. 

We remain hopeful that with continued support, she will grow stronger each day. One day, we hope one of our videos is of her fat, happy, and running free playing. We're taking it one step at a time. Thank you for standing with her, and with Delco Dawgs, as we continue fighting for her recovery.

02/19/2026

After 9 days in ICU, Clementine has officially stepped out of intensive care. She is now off heat support and dextrose and is holding her glucose, potassium, temperature, and phosphorus levels on her own. While she remains anemic and her red blood cell count is still low, she is no longer showing the severe clinical symptoms she once had. With internal bleeding appearing to have stopped and nutrition improving, we are hopeful her body will begin rebuilding strength.

The feeding tube and neck catheter are being removed as she transitions from IV medications to oral care under a strict refeeding protocol. Though she is still extremely fragile and unable to walk or lift her head, she needs a home environment to begin healing physically and emotionally.

We are incredibly grateful to the veterinary team who quite literally brought her back from the brink. In the best possible turn of events, Clementine will be long-term fostered by Ash. An experienced rehab nurse who previously helped two of our most severe medical cases, Sharkey and Guppy, not only survive but thrive. Ash has the expertise to provide intensive therapy, follow strict medical protocols, and give Clementine the dedicated care she needs.

She is not out of the woods. The coming months will be critical, and risks remain high. But she will have expert hands, constant monitoring, and our full support behind her.

This is her best chance.

Please continue to keep Clementine in your thoughts as she begins this next phase of her recovery.

2/18/2026

Today we had a beautiful visit with Clementine before our meeting. She greeted us with kisses, is moving her legs more, and has grown very attached to her new emotional support stuffed pig, Jo Jo. Something she can finally enjoy now that she’s out of ICU.

She did well during our visit but still tires easily and has some labored breathing, so she returned to rest. We are awaiting updates on her blood counts and are hopeful she continues holding her RBCs, protein levels, phosphorus, and other labs steady.

We are truly grateful she made it this far, and we are cautiously hopeful as she prepares for the next step in her recovery. Updates, photos, and videos will be shared as her healing journey continues.

 2/17/2026

Clementine continues to inspire everyone involved in her care. Her resilience, gentle spirit, and determination have united supporters across nearly all 50 states and multiple countries. We are deeply grateful for the overwhelming support and compassion shown by our community around the world.

Medically, today marked several important milestones. For the first time in a week, Clementine maintained a normal body temperature without heat support. She is now holding her glucose levels as her dextrose IV has been weaned, and her potassium levels have stabilized without supplementation. 

She also began gentle physical therapy focused on range-of-motion exercises to support limb movement. These are meaningful steps forward.

She remains critically ill. Her red blood cell count and protein levels are still low due to ongoing anemia, and additional transfusions may be necessary if her condition changes. Recovery from severe starvation, hypothermia, and refeeding complications takes time, and while progress is gradual, it is real.

Delco Dawgs has been rescuing and rehabilitating critical medical cases for over a decade. We work alongside a trusted specialty and emergency veterinary team with extensive expertise across multiple disciplines. Every decision regarding Clementine’s care is made collaboratively and with her best interest at heart.

We will continue to advocate for her, fight for her, and do everything possible to give her the best chance at recovery. We are sincerely thankful for your continued support, encouragement, and donations as Clementine’s journey continues.

2/16/2026

For the first time in a week, we are cautiously optimistic, though Clementine remains critical and not yet stable. Today marked an important shift: while her blood counts remain low, they are no longer actively dropping. Given her fragile state, blood draws are being minimized when possible to reduce further loss, provided she shows no concerning clinical signs.

Clementine continues to battle the severe effects of prolonged starvation and emaciation. With virtually no muscle mass or tone, she is unable to sit, stand, or walk. Her neck and limbs lack the strength to support her body. Recovery will require her to relearn basic movement as she rebuilds strength over time.

Her treatment has been extensive and intensive. She has received multiple blood transfusions, plasma, a fecal transplant, IV potassium, dextrose for glucose support, fluids, gastrointestinal protectants, and nutritional support via a nasal feeding tube. She has been managing internal bleeding, persistent anemia, low protein levels, electrolyte imbalances, and complications related to refeeding syndrome. Due to her extreme weakness and lack of muscle mass, she is not currently a candidate for anesthesia or surgical intervention.

Therapy has been introduced in gentle forms, including repositioning and range-of-motion work, to prevent further deterioration from immobility. Today, following a bath, Clementine briefly lifted her head on her own for several seconds. a small but meaningful sign of strength and determination.

She remains in critical condition, and her status could change at any time. However, today’s stability and her continued will to fight give us cautious hope as we move forward.

2/15/2026

Clementine was brought into Delco Dawgs on February 10th after being transferred from ACCT and PASE in Philadelphia, where she was found frozen, hypothermic, and severely emaciated. Her body temperature was below 93°, and she required immediate emergency heat support. She was rushed to VRC in Malvern, where she remains in ICU receiving critical care.

Since admission, Clementine has been fighting for her life. She has received multiple blood transfusions, plasma, IV fluids, dextrose for unstable glucose levels, potassium supplementation, pain management, gastrointestinal protectants, and nutritional support through a nasal feeding tube. A fecal transplant was also performed in an effort to restore healthy gut bacteria and support intestinal healing.

She continues to struggle with internal intestinal bleeding, which has caused her red blood cell count to fluctuate and drop dangerously low at times. While transfusions temporarily improve her levels, maintaining stability has been challenging. Her medical team is carefully balancing her electrolytes, glucose, and protein levels as they work to control the bleeding and support her recovery.

She remains in critical condition on day six in ICU. Though fragile, she continues to show alertness and a strong will to live. She is being kept comfortable, closely monitored, and surrounded with care. We will continue treatment as long as she is fighting and not suffering, giving her every possible chance to stabilize.

2/14/2026

Clementine remains in critical condition, and the past several days have been a difficult and emotional roller coaster. There have been brief moments of hope, followed by setbacks.

Her red blood cell count has continued to drop due to ongoing gastrointestinal bleeding, requiring additional blood transfusions and plasma. Despite these interventions, her anemia remains severe, and her heart and respiratory rates have increased as a result. She remains on continuous dextrose support to maintain her glucose levels.

Earlier today, Clementine showed small signs of brightness and was able to eat a bit on her own, giving us cautious hope that the bleeding may have been slowing. However, her condition has since declined again. As a final effort to support her gastrointestinal recovery, a fecal transplant was performed.

At this stage, her medical team is doing everything possible. The coming hours will be critical as we monitor her lab values and overall response to treatment. Clementine continues to show a strong spirit, but her body is under tremendous strain.

We remain by her side, committed to making decisions in her best interest and guided by her comfort, dignity, and any signs of improvement.