Meet the Miracle Puppy Ione and the Medical Treatment that Saved Her
|
I needed a puppy.
My daughter was off to Panama and the dreaded “empty nest” had taken root in my gut. She was happily playing in rainforests and oceans, and although I was happy to see her off to do great things I knew that without redirecting my affections I would slip into loneliness.
I searched and found, the perfect pup, incredibly docile and affectionate.
Yet when I placed my hand on her chest, her heartbeat seemed inconsistent. Sent from one veterinarian to another, it was clear that my Ione (“eye-own-ee”) had a congenital heart condition that would result in a painful death within a year should she not have a surgery that could cost thousands, if not tens of thousands of dollars.
I called Trupanion to ensure her treatment would be covered, and cried after discovering EVERYTHING was! We would be able to send her to one of the best veterinarian surgeons in the country.
Ione made fast friends with everyone she met, and her surgery resulted in such immediate success that her case will be used to educate future veterinarians for years to come. We gave her the middle name of “Mira” (short for a miracle).
Just twelve weeks ago I took her home weighing under 9 pounds.
Today she weighs in at a healthy 30 pounds! With every call I have made to Trupanion I have asked “is so-and-so nearby? Please let him/her know our babe is well!”
Photos have been exchanged, tears have been shed, hugs traded between staff members, and laughs shared at her newfound antics as a healthy pup.

Trupanion has been an integral champion in a team of many who’ve saved the life of our little miracle puppy. We are fur-ever grateful!
-Jen J.
Ione
- Tulsa, Oklahoma
- Date enrolled: July 2019
- Condition: Heart PDA
- The Trupanion policy paid: $1,823.36
We love informed decisions. See our policy for full coverage details.
Trupanion is a registered trademark owned by Trupanion, Inc. Underwritten in Canada by Omega General Insurance Company and in the United States by American Pet Insurance Company, 6100-4th Ave S, Seattle, WA 98108. Please visit AmericanPetInsurance.com to review all available pet health insurance.
wow what an incredible story. I had something similar happen with my dog. luckily we used buddy custard and it really changed everything. his health is the most important thing so I can understand how much relief you must feel now
Thank you for some other informative blog.
I’m so happy you published our story and also very sorry I’m just now seeing it! Ione is now pushing 40 pounds. She just got to play in her first real snow. Watching her heal and be healthier practically day by day is a thing of wonder. She epitomizes a happy, loving puppers. She’s a MESS, but I wouldn’t want her any other way… It just means she’s healthy and happy. Again, my sincere thanks!
Hello Jen,
We’re so happy to hear that Ione is happy and healthy! I’m sure she looked absolutely adorable enjoying her first snow. Those ‘first moments’ are the best. Thank you for taking the time to share her story and read our content. If you need anything, please don’t hesitate to reach out.