Bianca’s Story

One Dog’s Journey Back to Health

Two years ago, Miss Bianca’s family wasn’t sure she was going to survive. Today, the 54-pound Samoyed is thriving, competing in dog agility and serving as the official therapy dog at Salem Elementary School, where she helps children build confidence through a reading program.

Bianca’s journey began with a devastating diagnosis. More than two years ago, she developed a severe case of Lyme disease. Despite being on Interceptor, wearing a Seresto collar and receiving her annual Lyme disease booster, Bianca became extremely ill.

The treatment was difficult for her, too. The 30-day medication made Bianca so sick that she stopped eating altogether. She refused her dry and frozen food and wouldn’t even eat her favorite treats. She lost nearly 20 pounds and became so thin that her family described her as being “skin and bones.” Her hair began falling out, and her veterinarian became increasingly concerned about her condition.

At one point, her family feared they might have to feed her through a tube.

“My beautiful girl was possibly not going to survive this terrible disease,” her owner recalls.

Then, an unexpected invitation provided a glimmer of hope.

Bianca’s family friend, Christine, invited her to a dock diving event at her workplace. Knowing how sick Bianca was, Christine suggested she talk with some of the pet food companies at the event to see if she could find something Bianca might be willing to eat.

That’s where she met our Annamaet team.

Christine had recommended the conversation because she knew our team was passionate about canine nutrition and very knowledgeable about what goes into the food we make.

“We talked about the benefits of the food, toppers and supplements,” she says. “I talked to three pet food companies that day, but your knowledge and patience made me realize that we were going to try Annamaet Option.”

The family began feeding Bianca Annamaet Option (now known as Medium & Large Breed Salmon) along with Annamaet Endure supplements. As Bianca slowly began to regain weight and energy, they added Recovery Chews to her routine.

And, little by little, Bianca began to recover.

Today, two years later, it is hard to believe just how far she has come. Bianca is a healthy, energetic 54-pound Samoyed who competes in dog agility and has a remarkably thick, healthy coat. In fact, her veterinarian now jokes that Bianca’s coat is so thick that it can be difficult to find her skin when it’s time to draw blood.

But Bianca’s story doesn’t end with her recovery. In many ways, that was just the beginning.

Today, Bianca is the official therapy dog at Salem Elementary School and participates in a program that allows children to read to dogs. For children who may feel nervous about reading aloud, having a dog as their audience can provide a sense of comfort and confidence.

After all, Bianca doesn’t judge. She simply listens.

Her gentle presence gives children a safe place to practice their reading skills, helping them feel more comfortable and confident as they read aloud. The dog who once struggled just to eat is now helping children find their voices.

For Bianca’s family, the transformation has been nothing short of extraordinary.

“I am beyond thankful for the day I met you and for the wealth of knowledge you gave me regarding healthy nutrition for my dog,” her owner says. “If it had not been for that special day, meeting you, I don’t know if I would still have my baby.”

Looking at Bianca today, it’s clear that she is doing much more than simply surviving. She is living an active, healthy life, and making a difference in the lives of the children she meets.

“Your food changed her life, and because of your help, she has made a difference in so many kids’ lives,” her owner says.

For our Annamaet team, stories like Bianca’s are a meaningful reminder of why pet nutrition matters and why taking the time to listen to pet parents can make such a lasting impact!

We’re so grateful to hear Bianca’s amazing story, and share it with you!