My name is Naia Malenka and I'm a beautiful Keeshond puppy. I came into the world on April 5, 2002. Unfortunately, I was born with a deformed leg. My front left leg turns inward and is twisted. It sticks out at a funny angle most of the time, but I am able to use it when I need it. Right now I run with my front end close to the ground so that my leg can reach. When I "stand up tall", my paw hangs several inches above the ground. I lived at a puppymill breeder for four months. My breeder refused to have me PTS. She really did care about me, and was determined to find a loving home for me. The breeder did not offer me to just anyone. The breeder had to "approve" of my new "owner" and also be assured my leg would be examined and "fixed" if possible.

A wonderful PA lady named Debbie found out about me and told Pat Cassel. Of course, they had to rescue me!! Working "thru" Debbie, Pat assured the breeder the leg would be treated. Debbie offered to drive 3.5 hours one way to NY to get me. Danielle Bujnak in Philly offered to foster me. That was a wish come true for Pat! Danielle lives near the campus, so I will be treated at the University of Penn Veterinary Hospital (VHUP). Initially, I was scared. I was not socialized except for a few people I met at my breeders house. My friendly Keeshond spirit quickly overcame my lack of socialization. Debbie even gave me a bath!! Then I met Angie (RRer) and finally my FosterMom Danielle. I was meeting lots of people and going lots of places. Wow, it's a big world outside my kennel!

I am learning so much! I attempted to swim in the doggie water bowl (spilling a few gallons on the freshly-washed kitchen floor!), so FosterMom named me Naia after the river goddess in Greek mythology. "Malenka" is a slovak word that means "little one," and I was certainly a little one when I met FosterMom Danielle, but I'm growing by leaps and bounds. FosterMom took me hiking and I found more water.....the Wissahickon Creek. Boy was that fun!!

FosterMom says I'm turning into a little jet-setter, what with all her trips to go hiking, visiting, exploring, partying, etc! I love playing with all the dogs too. I am enjoying life soooo much.

My vet care, including surgery, will probably cost $1500-2500 ($1,125-$1,875 with the 25% discount), but I have a very good chance of getting my leg fixed so I can actually use it, instead of it hanging loosely by my side. My orthopedic appointment is Sept 24th for evaluation and x-rays. Surgery will be scheduled at a later date. It doesn't sound like fun, but FosterMom says it may make my little body as "whole" as my spirit! The evaluation is $61 and x-rays are $225-250. Payment is required the day of examination.