Nora's Battle Against a Rare, Life-Threatening Pneumonia

Sometimes, the smallest patients teach us the biggest lessons about courage, love, and hope.

Nora, a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, came into Janet’s life as a gift from her wife, meant to be a companion after her wife’s passing. Tragically, her wife lost her battle with metastatic cancer just five months after Nora came into their lives.

A couple of months later, following a move from Portland to Seattle to be closer to family, Nora herself began to fall seriously ill. She started coughing, losing weight, and showing little interest in her favorite treats. Despite the local veterinarian’s best efforts—including multiple rounds of antibiotics, X-rays, and careful monitoring—her condition continued to worsen. By December, she had lost four pounds and struggled to breathe, leaving everyone anxious and unsure of what the future held.

Knowing she needed specialized care, Janet drove Nora to DoveLewis, where their previous dog, Joey, had been treated by Internal Medicine Specialist Dr. Barbara Davis. When Nora arrived, her oxygen levels were dangerously low at 40%, and she was immediately admitted to the ICU for oxygen support and intensive monitoring.

Through a series of advanced tests, including a bronchoscopy—a procedure where a tiny camera examines the lungs—Dr. Davis and her team uncovered the cause: Pneumocystis pneumonia, a rare fungal lung infection so uncommon that only a handful of cases have ever been reported worldwide. Nora also had Actinomyces pneumonia, a bacterial lung infection, and a suspected inherited immunodeficiency that made her more vulnerable to infections.

With targeted antibiotics, supportive care, and meticulous daily monitoring, Nora’s health improved steadily. Within a week, she was breathing easily, regaining her strength, and returning to her favorite treats.

Today, Nora is a thriving 15-pound dog full of personality, love, and a little bit of bossiness. Janet shared, “As I drove to Portland that day, I had no idea what Nora's outcome would be, but I KNEW that DoveLewis was her best bet. The care and treatment she received were beyond my hopes and dreams. From the hospital front desk to the Whiskers reception area, and every spot in between, the staff, the doctors, and vet assistants were incredible. Thank you, DoveLewis, for saving my sweet angel's life.”

Nora’s journey reminds us that even the tiniest patients can face enormous challenges, but with expert care, perseverance, and love, miracles are possible.