Donations sought to save dogs needing surgery
By Martin van den Hemel - Richmond Review - April 09, 2008 | | | |

Brutus and Bailey require life-saving surgeries.
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Brutus the Bull Mastiff cross, and his sister Bailey, would no doubt yelp for help if they were aware of how perilous their situation was.

Advocates of the Richmond Animal Protection Society are scrambling to collect the money needed to save the inseparable pair of 10-month-old dogs who require surgery.

It will take thousands of dollars to save them.

Brutus's situation is the most dire, as he urgently needs both of his hips replaced, according to Canada West veterinary specialist Dr. Terri Schiller.

"His left hip is entirely out of joint," said society executive director Carol Reichert, who described his condition as extremely severe and urgent. "We are appealing to the public to help pay for their surgeries, because we can't bear the idea of euthanizing these wonderful, young dogs."

Bailey needs surgery for problems related to both of her elbows, Schiller said.

Last February, the two dogs were surrendered to the society, which quickly became aware of the need for expensive veterinary surgery.

Reichert said rescuing and saving animals from euthanasia has been her society's main focus since it formed in 1989.

She called the effort to save the gentle pair as its "greatest challenge".

The public is invited to see the dogs on Saturday, April 19 between 1 and 3 p.m. The shelter is located at 12071 No. 5 Rd.

Donations can be made by calling 604-275-2036.

The animal protection society took over the city's animal shelter in February of last year, and has since taken in more than 1,000 animals.

For more information about the society, check out their website at www.rapsociety.com.

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