Puff's Story

Puff, a Maltese-Shih Tzu mix who weighs only 2.5 kg. (about five and a half pounds), suffered from patent ductus arteriosus (PDA), the most common congenital cardiovascular defect of dogs. PDA leaves an opening between the pulmonary artery and the aorta. Without a surgical procedure that can only be performed by board-certified veterinary cardiologists at the University of Minnesota Veterinary Medical Center, the 4-month-old dog would likely die of heart failure within a year. The life-saving procedure is considered curative.

Before the procedure, Puff appeared completely normal, was very athletic, and “could outrun all other dogs at the dog park,” says Shannon from Underdog Rescue, where Puff lives. The surgery was performed by Dr. Chris Stauthammer, a board-certified veterinary cardiologist who says that Puff will be able to resume a normal life much like she had before the surgery.

• Watch Kare 11's news coverage

• For more information about PDA and its diagnosis and treatment, see the cardiology service’s information sheet (link to PDF)

• More information about the PDA procedure, other cardiology-related topics, or schedule an appointment with the cardiology service

• Learn about Gizmo, another dog who underwent the PDA procedure

• Video about PDA

• Learn more about Dr. Chris Stauthammer, the veterinarian who performed surgery on Puff.

• For more information about Puff, or to contact Underdog Rescue and Shannon, call 952-929-0777 or 952-239-9595, or visit Underdog Rescue.