PICCO
Male
DOB: MAY 10, 2014
STATUS: IN FOSTER CARE
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!