By Jennifer Maloney (Rob Newell photo)
Mar 03 2005
Two weeks ago while walking on a reserve near Nanaimo, a Vancouver Island couple came across a disturbing discovery.
A seven-month-old American Eskimo dog thin, matted and hungry, was limping along the soil with a smashed leg. Unfortunately the couple were too familiar with the scenario - this was the fourth battered dog they had found in the same area in five years.
Further examination showed the pup they named Misty was punctured with BB pellets and was filthy to the point that the couple's eyes watered in the car on the way to the vet. After learning Misty needed surgery in the amount of $2,000 the couple called the Animal Advocates Society in North Vancouver, which specializes in rehabilitating dogs others can't cope with. "She's very thin and her coat was wormy and matted," said Judy Stone, president of the society.
Misty's coat had to be shaved and she was losing hair on one of her legs due to malnutrition. "But she's a cheerful and good-natured pup," Stone said. "She's smart and very easy to look after."
X-rays have been sent to Animal Critical Care in Burnaby and a surgery to re-break and set Misty's leg will soon be done, but Stone said the costs have not been budgeted for. On average the society rescues five dogs a month from across the province, most of which come from East Vancouver. The Society relies solely on donations and costs about $5,000 per month. "When something like this comes along we just have to work harder," Stone said.
Anyone wishing to donate can call 604-984-8826 or visit www.animaladvocates.com. Misty will be placed in a new home following her surgery.