Before you read on, please be aware that this sad story is not for the faint of heart. It reveals how cruel humans can be. It also shows how a small group of dedicated pet lovers can make a huge difference in the world.
According to Ameena Schelling of thedodo.com, Grace, a less than one-year-old Lab mix, had a rough start in life. It appears that her previous guardian placed a collar around her neck, but never bothered to change it as the puppy grew. As a consequence, the collar slowly started to cut through the skin. It eventually created a circular wound around her neck. If the nasty sore is not enough, Grace was found dehydrated, extremely thin and covered in fleas.
Luckily, Schelling reports that through a network of dedicated rescuers and rescue organizations, including the Miami-based rescue, A Way For A Stray, Grace was given a second chance. Besides providing basic veterinary care, rescuers treated the wound to clear the infection. Once that was accomplished, her veterinarian was able to stitch up the wound closed.
How do surgeons treat a wound this severe?
This kind of mistreatment is a clear form of animal abuse. Sadly, it is not unusual. I see patients with comparable stories and similar wounds regularly. Here is a very similar story about a dog named Henri, with an amazing will to survive his horrific injuries.
From a surgery standpoint, it’s quite a challenge. The wound is classically infected and surrounded by unhealthy skin. With daily cleaning and lots of medical attention, the wound can eventually be closed.
How is Grace now?
After surgery, the cute, fixed up puppy went to a foster home, says Schelling. There, it sounds like Grace is still waiting for a forever home. She is reported to be nice with children and other dogs, as well as the family cat.
Images of Grace’s surgery and recovery are available on thedodo.com, but please note that if you click on this link, you will see graphic pictures that are difficult to look at for even a veterinarian.
If you are interested in giving Grace a second chance, you can find an adoption application here. Please note that I do not know if Grace has found a new family as of this writing, but there is no question that she deserves to soon. We wish her a long and happy life.
Learn about leash and collar dangers here.
If you have any questions or concerns, you should always visit or call your veterinarian -- they are your best resource to ensure the health and well-being of your pets.