WSU Fund Covers Surgery for Fire Victim's Miniature Horse

Micki and Bill Rozier watched flames race toward their Spokane property with just minutes to escape, knowing their miniature horse Dudley's best friend Bambi would have to fend for herself in the chaos.

The couple had already rushed their other horses to safety when police ordered an immediate evacuation. "Police were yelling at us to leave right now," Micki said. "It was the most heartbreaking thing I've ever had to do."

The Old Trails Fire destroyed their barn, chicken house, and pasture that Saturday in August. But Dudley wasn't even there. He was 75 miles away at Washington State University's Veterinary Teaching Hospital, recovering from emergency surgery to remove an intestinal blockage.

The timing couldn't have been worse. With mounting fire damage and no home to return to, the Roziers faced thousands in unexpected veterinary bills. That's when WSU's Good Samaritan Fund stepped in to cover Dudley's entire surgery and extended hospital stay.

Dr. Zuzanna Pietras, the equine medicine resident overseeing Dudley's care, helped coordinate a longer recovery period at the hospital while the Roziers searched for temporary housing for their animals. "She was so understanding and great at providing us updates," Micki said.

Two days after the fire, community members tracking lost animals on Facebook found Bambi wandering safely. The Roziers reunited the bonded pair at Micki's mother's house in Spokane, where all their animals are staying temporarily.

Sunny's Take

Sometimes the worst timing becomes the best blessing in disguise. While losing their property was devastating, having Dudley safe at the hospital during the fire may have saved his life. The couple didn't have to choose between their animals and their safety.

Now living at a Hampton Inn while they rebuild, the Roziers say the financial relief from WSU came at exactly the right moment. "There is so much that I'm grateful for," Micki said. "I'm grateful that Dudley wasn't there because I would have had to leave him behind."

Dudley is now back with Bambi, healthy and healed, giving this family something precious to hold onto as they start over.