My dog Mac was rescued when he was only 3-4 weeks old and was so covered with ticks and fleas that he almost bled to death. He was a determined little guy and with great medical care and love from people who adored him, he made it. He was diagnosed with severe allergies of unknown origin when he was about two and has coped with the itching, allergy testing, assortment of medications and shots ever since. He has torn his cornea twice, yet he just keeps on being wonderful.

Last Thanksgiving, Dr. Duncan diagnosed an inoperable tumor in his right front leg and amputation was the only option. “Miracle Mac”, as all the wonderful AHNA staff now call him, got through the surgery with flying colors and has adapted remarkably well to getting around on three legs. At 14, his sight and hearing are limited and his mobility is awkward, but on his birthday trip to the beach, (complete with new speedo just for the occasion!), he was a show stopper everywhere we went.  Everyone wanted to pet him, find out about the missing limb and talk about how gentle and sweet he was.

Mac, in his 'speedo', on his birthday.

He is truly a miracle and the center of our world.  More thanks than I can possibly express to all of you there at AHNA for your state of the art medical care given in a remarkably loving, compassionate way.  You are the best!!!

By Mac’s owner, Debbie McDowell

Update: We are saddened to say that Mac has now passed on. Mac will be greatly missed by all.

Mr. Whiskers, beloved class pet.

Meet dear Mr. Whiskers, a beloved classroom pet at Asheville Catholic School. We provide care to him free-of-charge to show our appreciation to him for brightening the days of the students and for the lessons he is teaching them. Mr. Whiskers is all wrapped up to keep him warm while he is recovering from anesthesia during a recent visit to the hospital to be neutered. He is one cute bunny and very sweet!

We received wonderful thank you notes from every child that shares a classroom with Mr. Whiskers. We were so touched by the children’s thoughtfulness and so impressed with their artwork and beautiful handwriting, that we thought we would share one letter with you.

One of the thoughtful thank you letters we received.