Heidi Wilson - Terrier and Mixed Breed Dog for Adoption in Erin, Tennessee

The only thing that my rescuers know about the beginning of my story is that I roamed the neighborhood of Big Rock, TN between the roads Walker Ridge and Highland HIlls Dr. searching for my next meal and drink of water. I wandered upon someone's porch and on March 20, 2026 gave birth to two puppies. A concerned citizen notified a group for animal loving people about my condition and set the ball in motion for my rescuers to come and get me. This group notified this rescue that I am now at and they didn't miss a beat in coming to save me. Upon first sighting of my rescuers I was so afraid, so uncertain of what was going to happen to me and my puppies. The rescuers reassured me that everything was going to be okay. After a brief talk with the property owner, my rescuers found out that I had been sheltering on the porch for over two months, being fed only scraps. In the two months of periodic care, I still appeared in the shape you will see evident in the pictures below.
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The very next day my rescuers had me into the vets office (The Animal Clinic of Stewart County) for a wellness and intake exam. Upon first contact I was given a body score of 1 out of 9, the lowest rating other than death that can be awarded. Dr. Ridgeway did a nose to tail exam. It was determined that I was in extremely poor condition due to weight and muscle loss. I was loaded with internal parasites and it was also determined by some bloodwork that I was extremely anemic. Outward appearances showed that I was riddled with fleas and ticks. The one good news that we received from bloodwork was that I was heartworm negative and three tick borne diseases (Lyme's Disease, Anaplasmosis, Ehrlichiosis) negative, and that I was Parvo Virus negative. I was wormed right away. I was in too poor of condition to receive all of my vaccinations so I received my Distemper/Parvo Virus vaccination first to make sure that I did not contract this deadly disease while waiting for the rest of my vaccinations and treatment to start working. I was given flea/tick/heartworm prevention and a vitamin tinic to help the anemia. I owe a special thanks to Dr. Ridgeway at The Animal Clinic of Stewart County for starting me on the road to recovery. My rescuers are feeding me a diet of dry and canned puppy food in small meals several times a day to help get me the nutrients that I need and get my weight up slowly.
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Tuesday, May 12th, my rescuers are taking me to their second veterinary clinic (Mineral Wells Animal Clinic) to further assess my bloodwork. They have more tests that they can run versus my first veterinary visit. As my story continues I will be sure to update you along the way to recovery, redemption, and a life filled with love.

Update: My veterinary visit went well, but my bloodwork was not good. I am anemic, have hypothyroidism, and my kidney values were elevated. I must return in a month to have it reevaluated.

The mixed breed dogs, often referred to as mutts, are a diverse and unique group with a blend of different characteristics from various purebred dog breeds. These dogs come from a mixture of lineages, resulting in a wide range of sizes, coat types, and temperaments. While each mixed breed dog is distinct in its own right, they are known for their resilience, adaptability, and often have fewer health issues compared to purebred dogs due to their genetic diversity. Mixed breed dogs make wonderful companions for families looking for a loyal and one-of-a-kind pet.

The terrier is a spirited and intelligent dog breed known for its feisty personality and boundless energy. Terriers come in various sizes and coat types, but they all share a common heritage as fearless and determined hunters. These dogs are typically highly trainable, making them versatile companions for active individuals and families alike. With their loyalty and playful demeanor, terriers are beloved for their endless enthusiasm and affectionate nature.