PICCO
Male
DOB: MAY 10, 2014
STATUS: IN THE PUG ABODE
FOSTER UPDATE - OCTOBER 25, 2026
Lots to report on this good little man. First, a comprehensive health summary which has taught his health team a lot and may be educational for other dog guardians. It will explain what brave Picco has been going through during his year in foster care and why he has been deemed unadoptable.
As is often the case with senior pugs, Picco has stifle osteoarthritis and bilateral hip dysplasia. He also has some muscle wasting in his rear right flank. We have successfully reduced his weight at intake of 34 lbs to 22 lbs now through portion control and moderate walking exercise. This has the positive effect of putting less pressure on his joints and respiratory system. He currently gets three walks a day, increasing in length and speed to tone up those muscles.
Early after arriving at Pugalug on November 2 2025, Picco was diagnosed with protein-losing nephropathy/proteinuria where kidney damage causes an abnormal amount of protein to leak from the blood into the urine. If substantial damage has been done, this can be a life-threatening condition. Fortunately for Picco, we caught this condition relatively early and he has been on a regulatory medication called Telmisartan since February 25. Normal protein levels for a dog are 0 to .5 with <.2 being better. Picco’s reading has been decreasing since being on the medication from a high of 6.1 last November. This week’s reading was .06 (!!!) and the lab report stated, “no significant proteinuria”. We are so grateful to Pugalug supporters for your financial donations which have paid for Picco’s testing and medication to enable such progress to be made. The results are so good that his current vet is discussing the possibility of lowering his dosage.
While investigating the PLN, it was discovered that Picco had multifocal nodules on his spleen. Given the possibility that we might be dealing with hemangiosarcoma, the decision was made to remove his spleen on January 15. A splenectomy raises the post-surgery risk of potentially fatal thrombocytosis, where high platelet counts can result in excessive blood clotting. Picco was placed on a blood thinner called Clopidogrel and his platelet counts have been dropping ever since. Normal levels for a dog are 186-545. Before surgery, his reading was 517. After surgery it shot up and was measured at 698 in June. As of last week, it had dropped to a high normal of 546. The medication has been working and his body is adjusting to the lack of a spleen. We will be discussing with the vet if he can eventually be weaned off the medication.
One week after his splenectomy, Picco began having unexplained collapsing episodes. We don’t know if there were any episodes before he came to Pugalug. He had three episodes within two weeks after surgery and a fourth in early February. Then there was a break until an episode in mid-May, two in early June, two in mid-August and two in early September. His last episode was September 12. He never loses consciousness, although he may twitch or let out a whimper beforehand. Most of the incidents have occurred when he has been excited or exerting himself, and some have involved simultaneous defecation. In all cases, the episodes have lasted no longer than about one minute and Picco seems right as rain afterwards. One vet thought they were seizures or vasovagal episodes where the heart races briefly, followed by a sudden drop in blood pressure and heart rate (although this usually involves loss of consciousness). It should be noted that one of the side effects of Telmisartan is low blood pressure (note that the medication was started after four episodes had already occurred so that is not the cause). When tested in a resting state at vet clinics, Picco’s blood pressure has been normal but it is possible that this would change under exertion. Another vet thought they were possibly TIAs/ministrokes. More recently, a third vet suggested the episodes could be caused by temporary lack of airflow caused by his large tongue and elongated soft palate. We just don’t know.
When Picco’s bloodwork was done in mid-March and June, his fasting triglyceride readings were very high. This reading measures the excess of fat circulating in the bloodstream. Normal for a dog is .33 to 3.32. In March, he was above 5.65 (the test didn’t specify how much higher) and in June his reading was an alarming 10.7. Various tests have ruled out diabetes, hypothyroidism and Cushing's disease. In August we changed Picco’s diet to a lower-fat food and have been very careful about potentially fatty treats. Last week’s triglyceride result came in at 3.73, which is still higher than ideal but a huge improvement.
Given his improved blood results, we felt Picco could handle a much-needed dental last week. Unfortunately, it didn’t go well. After 6 of potentially 15 extractions, his jaw fractured and the operation was aborted. Despite this, Picco has rebounded well from surgery and is his normal happy self. He is now on soft food and prohibited from chewing or playing tug. The trick is to keep his jaw as stable as possible so it can heal, a process that will take about 12 weeks. His current vet, the surgeon, is strongly recommending that the remaining dental work be done by a dental specialist out of town at no cost to Pugalug. We have some reservations about putting Picco through this because of his age and underlying medical conditions. However, we will await more information about the pros and cons in our tele-consultation with the dental specialist next week before coming to a decision. If and when Picco transitions back from soft food, we will try to supplement his low-fat food with frozen sardines, a source of Omega-3, to help get his triglycerides down further. If he needs to remain on soft food, there are supplements such as krill oil and Chitosan but we have to be careful with medication interactions with regard to the effects on blood thinning and blood pressure.
Given all he has been through healthwise, Picco is a behavioural miracle. He’s an extremely good boy who loves to sleep in (hallelujah!), is absolutely clean in the house and is content to stay alone and sleep when we go out. He has fit in very well to his new foster home and is gradually adjusting to the routines. He still balks at having his harness or coat put on when it’s time for walkies, but once it’s on, he seems to enjoy the walks and is gradually spending more time walking and less time grazing for something to eat. He loves to meet all the people and dogs we encounter. He has a playful side but unfortunately we’ve had to curtail activities like ball-chasing/chewing and tug-o-war until his jaw heals. He now shadows foster mom and hogs her bed. He’s the cuddliest dog in the morning before he’s fully awake. He rolls over onto his back and loves to have his belly stroked and his ears scritched. Picco does tend to be a bit barky sometimes, usually when we’re on a Zoom call (!). But generally his barking is helpful communication – once to go out back, or repeatedly to warn us about strangers, porch deliveries or the garbage truck.
We’ll update again briefly when a decision has been made about next steps re his dental and medications, but for now enjoy these photos of Picco with his toys pre-surgery, modelling his new stylin’ coat and last, without his trademark front toofer.
FOSTER UPDATE - SEPTEMBER 30, 2026
Now that Picco has been part of his new foster family for a couple of weeks, we have all adjusted to a new routine - Picco’s routine! He makes no bones about knowing what he wants and usually gets it … because he’s such a good boy. One short bark lets us know when he wants to go to bed or go out back; persistent short barks let us know he wants food. Non-stop barking means there’s a stranger nearby and he’s protecting us.
Contrary to initial plans (ours, not his), he now sleeps on Big Bed, allowed because he stays absolutely still once he’s settled in and because we have acquired new doggie steps which he is reluctantly getting used to. He’s a good wee sleeper and usually has to be woken up in the morning … with tummy rubs. He also has no trouble snoozing while we’re out but is very happy to see us when we get home.
Picco loves to wander out back looking for peanut shells dropped by the squirrels and birds. The rabbits haven’t visited as much since the Pug Patrol has been around. Foster dad fenced off the birdfeeders so Picco can get only so close, but he does manage to find the odd shell. To sate his appetite, we’ve started separating out the fibre supplements from his meals so the green beans, frozen pumpkin or bits of cucumber are now in-between meal snacks. He also occasionally enjoys licking frozen fat-free plain yoghurt from a silicone donut mold.
Healthwise, Picco has been well. His back end is a little wonky, we think from arthritis, so we have to be judicious about the lengths of his walks. A nice neighbour who has a doggy massage business has offered to come and give him a freebie and check for any apparent problem. He has his first appointment with his new vet in a couple of weeks, during which they will do repeat blood testing and a urine protein test (UPCR). If he is deemed OK, he will have a much-needed dental later in October. That will allow sufficient time for his immune system to recover before getting his rabies booster in mid-November. Here are a few new photos of passionate Picco - grazing in the backyard, not happy trying on his new stylish coat and being first in Big Bed tonight.
FOSTER UPDATE - SEPTEMBER 18, 2026
Picco has been doing very well this summer, despite having had several more ischemic episodes - two in August and two so far in September. Since being assigned to permanent foster status, he’s been waiting for the right time to transfer to his furever foster family. That time came yesterday. Here’s the early news on what his new family has reported.
We picked up Picco from his previous home yesterday. Oh my, what a good boy he is and what a great personality he has! He was patient on the long drive home and, once into his new house, did a full reconnoitre of indoors and the backyard. He seemed to like what he found. He likes to be with one or other of us at all times. His foster dad took him up the street to get the mail and they had to stop and meet all the neighbours on the way back. Obviously Picco is a people dog. Later, he had his dinner and took his medications no problem - he LOVES green beans, which is great because the fibre is good to supplement his low-fat, low-fibre food (necessary because of his high triglycerides). He has already trained his foster mom to let him outside and back in on command. Since he had such a busy day, he was understandably tired, so after a late night walk, settled right down at bedtime, although he wasn’t thrilled that he wasn’t allowed in Big Bed (too high). When he got restless in the early hours, we went out back where foster mom thinks he did his business - another motion light for the backyard will be a priority. Now he’s curled up at the feet of his foster dad who is an early riser. I’m sure we’ll all adjust to a new routine before long. We look forward to learning more about this sweetheart first-hand and will provide another update before long.
FOSTER UPDATE - JUNE 25, 2026
Picco was a very good boy at the vet this past Monday, where he went in for a full round of tests. 🩺
The results showed some encouraging news: his current medication is working great and is successfully slowing the protein loss that comes with his condition. His triglycerides did come back high, and without further testing his medical team isn't yet sure of the cause, so that's something we'll continue to keep an eye on.
Picco has also had a few episodes this past month where he suddenly falls over onto his right side. His doctor still believes these are ischemic in nature. Interestingly, his foster family has noticed a pattern — the last two times he played his favourite game of being chased around the yard, an episode followed shortly after. So for now, zoomies have been swapped for a gentler favourite: "blanket monster," where foster mom hides her hand under a thick blanket and pretends to attack him. Picco absolutely loves it (though he does have quite the bite, so foster mom has to be careful)! 🐾
In sweeter news, Picco has officially won the battle of the bed. After whining, barking, and clawing at the side of his own bed every night, he finally got his way and now sleeps soundly on the big bed. 🛏️💤
Picco still has a few medical mysteries we haven't fully gotten to the bottom of, but what is clear is how much love and care he needs and deserves. Because of this, we've made the decision to move Picco into the Pugabode, where he'll continue to receive that love and care for the rest of his days. 💙
This gentle, funny, blanket-monster-loving boy has been on quite a journey with us, and we are so grateful for the wonderful foster family who has stood by him every step of the way. Picco, the Pugabode is lucky to have you. ❤️
FOSTER UPDATE - MAY 15, 2026
Sweet little Picco has really come out of his shell ❤️ This month he started giving kisses, his special way of saying thank you after a good scratching session. Neck and ear scratches are definitely his favourite!
Picco continues to be such a good boy. He loves his walks, spending time with people, and of course relaxing on the couch (while generously allowing his foster mom a little space too 😆).
This month Picco also had a little adventure when he stayed at a boarding facility while his foster mom was away. After a bit of confusion at first, he quickly won over the staff with his sweet personality. In fact, he was chosen several times to hang out in the office with the staff while they worked — a special honour reserved for the extra lovable pups! 🥰
Unfortunately, Picco picked up a cough near the end of his stay and is currently on antibiotics and a cough suppressant while he recovers. We’re hoping he’ll be back to feeling his best very soon.
Picco also celebrated his 12th birthday this month with a special treat 🎉 (and enjoyed a little Easter treat too 🐣). Don’t worry, he’s still staying committed to his diet and working hard toward his goal weight!
We absolutely adore this sweet, gentle boy and know his perfect forever home is out there waiting for him ❤️
FOSTER UPDATE - MARCH 26, 2026
Picco continues to make wonderful progress, and we’re so happy to share some encouraging updates. 💙
Since starting his medication, Picco is doing much better. He is no longer losing as much protein through his urine, and even more importantly, the episodes where he would fall over have completely stopped. This is a huge step forward for him, and we are very hopeful that his condition is becoming more stable. 🙏
On a lighter (and very cute!) note, Picco has developed a bit of a quirky habit…he’s taken to chewing on blankets like a teething puppy 🐾 His foster mom plans to have his teeth checked soon, but for now, it’s just one of the many little things that make him so endearing.
As he continues to settle in, Picco’s personality is really starting to shine. He’s coming out of his shell more each day and showing off his funny, clown-like side 🤡 He can be a little vocal when he wants something, but otherwise he’s a quiet, easygoing companion who just enjoys being close to his people.
Most of all, Picco continues to completely capture hearts. ❤️ His foster mom shares that he is an absolute joy to have in her home and that she feels lucky to care for such a special boy…and we couldn’t agree more.
FOSTER UPDATE - FEBRUARY 19, 2026
Picco continues to show us what a resilient little guy he is.
His recent splenectomy surgery went very well and we’re happy to share that his incision healed beautifully and quickly. He handled the procedure like a champ. 💪
Unfortunately, since surgery Picco has experienced a few brief episodes where he suddenly falls over onto his left side and is unable to move for a short period of time. His medical team has been working closely to determine the cause. After consultation with his internist, these episodes are believed to be small seizures or what are called “mini-strokes” (Transient Ischemic Attacks).
Dogs with protein-losing nephropathy (PLN) can be prone to blood clotting issues, and splenectomy patients also carry an increased risk of clot formation. Because of this, Picco has been started on a low-dose blood thinner (Clopidogrel/Plavix) to help prevent clots and improve blood flow. He recently had follow-up bloodwork to monitor how the medication is affecting his blood thickness, and a urine sample was taken to reassess his protein levels. We are cautiously optimistic and will continue to monitor him very closely.
Through it all, Picco has truly settled into his foster home. ❤️ His foster mom shares that he now feels completely comfortable and will come lay right beside her. He loves his rubs and scratches, enjoys chewing on a bone, and has even started playing with toys, something that always feels like such a wonderful milestone.
He is the sweetest boy, and despite everything he’s been through, his gentle spirit shines. We are hopeful that with medication and careful management, his episodes will become controlled and his medical picture will become clearer soon.
Please continue to keep Picco in your thoughts as we navigate this next chapter with him.
FOSTER UPDATE - JANUARY 12, 2026
Picco continues to be his gentle, sweet self in foster care and has truly settled in. He’s clearly feeling comfortable and safe. He is enjoying slow mornings, sleeping in his own cozy bed in his foster mom’s bedroom (with the occasional invitation to the big bed!), and happily asking to go out when he needs a bathroom break. He loves his routine, adores affection, and soaks up all the love he’s given. At Christmas, he was spoiled with a special cookie and didn’t leave a single crumb behind.
Medically, Picco is currently feeling well and is outwardly symptom-free. His initial intake bloodwork did flag proteinuria (protein in the urine), which led to further diagnostics. Additional testing revealed a couple of masses on his spleen. After consultation with an internal medicine specialist, the decision was made to proceed with a splenectomy, which is scheduled for later this week. Once his spleen is removed, we’ll have a much clearer picture of whether the surgery resolves the proteinuria or if any ongoing management will be needed.
Picco does have a collapsing trachea, which explains the coughing episodes he experiences from time to time. This is something we’re managing medically, and like most things with Picco, he handles it with quiet dignity…even if administering liquid medication sometimes ends with more on his foster mom than in his mouth.
Overall, Picco is doing very well, is deeply loved in foster care, and has a solid medical plan in place. For now, we’re focused on getting him through surgery and showering him with all the love he deserves.
INTRODUCTION - NOVEMBER 3, 2025
Introducing Picco!
Please join us in welcoming Picco, an 11-year-old fawn gentleman who recently joined the Pugalug family. This sweet boy came into rescue through no fault of his own when his previous family had to move and could no longer keep him.
Picco is settling into his foster home and slowly finding his footing. His first night was a little restless as he figured out his new surroundings, but he’s already showing what a kind, gentle soul he is. His foster mom describes him as very sweet, a little guarded right now, but curious.
He’ll be heading to the vet soon for a check-up and will also be enjoying a little “spaw day” with a much-needed nail trim. ✂️🛁
We’re looking forward to watching this lovely senior pug settle in and shine as he learns he’s safe and loved. 💕 Welcome, Picco!