Show-Me State Times

As a professional dog trainer in southern California, Liz Randall has worked with many dogs for agility events. However, her current border collie, Rhoen, stands out. "Rhoen is special," said Randall. "He is the sweetest, most loving, goofball, teddy bear dog, but he also loves to work."

In November 2020, after competing in agility events, Rhoen showed signs of respiratory distress. Julie Fisher, a veterinary specialist in San Diego, referred Randall to Carol Reinero at the University of Missouri’s College of Veterinary Medicine. "When it comes to my dogs," said Randall, "I want them treated by the best of the best." She was drawn to Dr. Reinero's reputation as one of the leading respiratory specialists.

By fall 2021, Reinero and her team diagnosed Rhoen with a developmental lung disease using advanced imaging techniques and a lung biopsy. "At Mizzou," explained Reinero, "we have state-of-the-art imaging capabilities... that allow us to evaluate patients with respiratory disease to a high level."

Randall praised the care at Mizzou: “Mizzou provided the best veterinary experience I have ever had in my life,” she said.

After months of recovery, Rhoen returned to agility competitions and won an overall championship at a UKI Agility International event in spring 2022. “When dogs have lung disease severe enough to impact their breathing," noted Reinero, "it is not expected for them to return to the status of an elite athlete.”

In summer 2022, Rhoen faced another setback but recovered after surgery in San Diego thanks to continued collaboration with Mizzou veterinarians. “He has made a remarkable recovery ever since,” said Randall.

Now six years old and still competing successfully due to his treatment from Mizzou veterinarians and ongoing support from Randall.

“I have been keeping in touch with Dr. Reinero," added Randall. "I’m just astounded with how well he is doing now."