Dear All who responded,

Many thanks for the helpful and supportive responses. I do not have internet or a computer so am limited to when I am able to get to the library. I want so much to attach a pic of Zanzi, but am not having success.

When she was first diagnosed with IBS she was on Purina's canned food, "en." She still was having mild diahrea. Recently I tried Sciene Diet's "id" with much greater success. She eats a can a.m. and p.m. and each can is about $2.20. In addition I supplement with i.d. kibble. She and I run about five miles a day, so even with all that food she is extremely lean.

She also is given pro-pectalin and suflazalazine (spelling?) 2x a day which is another $50 a month.

I am going to try the suggestions given here, to see about short term assistance in her RX food being funded. We've done the homemade food, but it doesn't prevent the runs. There's something about the RX food (someone told me it is "enteric" or prepared in a way that it doesn't start to digest until it's in the colon on something, this is me with my TBI trying to sound "smart").

I will write again when I have news about possible funding success. And if anyone felt comfortable giving their private email I could send a picture of Zanzi and maybe that person knows how to post to all. She is a bisenji, and I think she might have a little African Dingo in her too.

Many many thanks for the supportive responses,
Elle and Zanzibar

Hello Basenji Community,

I was a clinical social worker. In 2008, after spending a year in the war zone of Uganda, I traveled to the tropical island of Zanzibar for a holiday. Imagine my surprise when I followed the distinctive sound of a yodel and found a one pound, four week old Bisenji puppy in the garbage.

Three years later and Zanzi (named after Zanzibar) are companions in the best of ways.

However, upon my return I began to experience some symptoms of dementia (though I am in my thirties) due to sustaining a traumatic brain injury (TBI) from sexual assualt. The injury triggered a seizure disorder that has "addled" my brain. I have recently ceased being able to practice as a psychotherapist. I am living in a special housing program through an an agency for people with severe disabilities. My income is now $1000/month.

A few months ago Zanzi was diagnosed with Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), the result of the many bacteria and parasites she had when I rescued her. Her prescription dog food is over $200/month, all the money I have left for my own groceries after rent and bills. I am currently living off food from the food bank to pay for her dog food.

Does anyone know of a non-profit that might help cover the cost of her food for six months? I am hoping by then, with the help of medications and occupational therapy, that the fall-out from the seizures and TBI will be improved and I will be back on my feet.

Any guidance or assistance would be deeply appreciated.
Our Best,
Elle and Zanzi!