Squamish animal welfare advocates this week issued an appeal for donations to help cover the cost of treating two injured animals who recently arrived at the local shelter.
In a statement issued on Wednesday (Feb. 20), B.C. SPCA (Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals) officials appealed for donations to help defray the cost of care for Rudy, a six-year-old German shepherd/Lab cross, and Tempest, an eight-month-old kitten. Both animals recently came to the Squamish animal shelter in need of immediate veterinary care.
Rudy suffered a serious head wound in December when he was attacked by another dog. The animal was away from his home when the incident occurred and several days passed before he found his way back home.
His owners did not seek medical attention immediately and he was surrendered to the SPC with a significant infection from his untreated injury. After two surgeries, Rudy has recovered and is in foster care, officials said.
Marika Donnelly, the SPCA's Squamish Valley branch manager, said Rudy is a sweet, mellow dog who loves car rides. He has healed well but may be prone to ear infection, and will require pain control management from another untreated injury earlier in his life.
Tempest was found living in a cardboard box in a carport and was brought to the Squamish shelter after she had snuck into a home with an open door. She had no mobility in her left hind leg and was dragging it behind her, officials said.
After arriving at the shelter on Jan. 31, Tempest was treated for a possible infection to try to regain movement in her leg, but amputation was necessary. Her leg was amputated to relieve her pain and prevent further injury and is now recovering from the Feb. 13 surgery.
Donations may be made online at spca.bc.ca/support, by calling the local branch at (604) 898-9890 or by dropping off or mailing your donation to the B.C. SPCA Squamish Valley Branch at 39901 Government Rd., P.O. Box 659, Garibaldi Highlands, BC, V0N 1T0.