Beth and Dave Weaver have run Smokey Mountain Saint Bernard Rescue in Knoxville for the last decade. Last week, one of their foster dogs, named Neil, died from bloat, an illness where the stomach twists. "I know he's in a better place, but it still don't ease my heart, said Beth Weaver. Neil's veterinary care, surgery, and burial costs have left the Weaver's with a $1,000 bill.
The Weavers say if they don't get help with the costs they might have to close their rescue operation for good. "We have such a great love for this breed and want to help them along," said Beth Weaver.
Smokey Mountain Saints, as The Weavers call the group, has placed more than 300 rehabilitated Saint Bernards in loving homes over the last decade. They have paid for a majority of those costs themselves. However, with Neil's medical bills and the daily costs of caring for the large dogs, The Weavers decided to file for non-profit status. Wendy Jackson of East Tennessee Pit Bull Rescue is helping The Weavers wade through the process. She has included Smokey Mountain Saints under the umbrella of her rescue until they are granted non-profit status.
Dr. Matt Brent, a Knoxville veterinarian did not operate on Neil the Saint Bernard. However he said bloat is common in dogs with deep chest cavities, breeds such as Saint Bernards and German Shepherds. The most obvious warning sign is a disdended stomach, "People first notice salivating vommit and if they have an animal that's pacing and can't get comfortable," said Dr. Brent. Bloat, as in Neil's case, can be treated with surgery, but can also be fatal. Its cause is unknown but Dr. Brent said it can result from a lengthy period of over-eating.
The Weavers said even though Neil's death has strained their rescue efforts, they hope they can keep it going for other dogs who need a second chance.
There are two ways to help Smokey Mountain Saint Bernard Rescue:
Send a check to:
East TN Pit Bull Rescue
105 Edgewood Dr
Harriman, TN 37748
Please be sure to mark it as Donation for SMSBR or Neil
OR
Use you debit or credit card at www.paypal.com
The Paypal account address is donations@etnpitbullrescue.org
Please be sure to add Donation for SMSBR or Neil in the comments section.
East TN Pit Bull Rescue is a TN incorporated non-profit organization with 501c3 status and will be glad to issue you a receipt for your tax purposes.
If you do not need a receipt, you can send a check or money order directly to the group:
Smokey Mountain Saint Bernard Rescue
11217 Snyder Rd
Knoxville, TN 37932
You can verify Nei'ls vet bill by calling:
Midland Pet Emergency Center
235 Calderwood Street
Alcoa, TN 37701
865-982-1007