It’s a devastating trend BC SPCA teams have been struggling with, and one that will pull at your heartstrings. More emaciated dogs are arriving in urgent need of care, rescued from the brink of starvation. Dogs like sweet Cosmo, whose sunken face and protruding hips tell a painful story of neglect.

It’s hard to see innocent creatures in this condition. But it’s important to share their stories because dogs like Cosmo rely on the compassion of this community to ensure they have the time and care they need to slowly rebuild their fragile bodies.

Cosmo is just a shell of the dog he should be. As you run your hand over his bony frame to give him the loving pets he seeks, you’ll feel every rib and vertebra. And yet, despite everything, the young Great Dane mix quickly bonded with staff at the animal centre, grateful for every kindness.

At the BC SPCA, Cosmo now has what he was denied for so long: a warm jacket to keep him cozy, a plush bed and regular meals delivered on a strict feeding schedule. For a dog this emaciated, it’s important to introduce food slowly and regularly. This ensures his weak body isn’t overwhelmed and that he doesn’t anxiously wait for food, unsure of when his next meal is coming.

But Cosmo is not alone.

Across the province, dogs like him arrive into care in heartbreaking condition. Some, like Cleo, were rescued from a neglectful situation by an Animal Protection Officer. Others, like Arnie, were found wandering the streets in desperate search of food.

A caring jogger spotted Arnie trotting along behind him, too thin to ignore, and rushed him to safety. You would have done the same.

While each dog’s story is unique, their suffering is all too familiar. We can’t say for sure, but we suspect the rise in these cases is linked to the precarious financial times many are now facing. When people struggle to feed themselves, their animals may go hungry or without veterinary care, too.

Each of these dogs has a heart full of love to share with someone special. Will you open yours today to help Cosmo, Cleo and Arnie receive the urgent care they need?

Sweet Cosmo is already making strides. Despite his size, this boy still thinks he’s a lap dog. He flops over for belly rubs and rests his head on your legs in hope of a treat. When he’s fully recovered, he’ll be the perfect couch companion for his own special someone.

But recovery takes time, expertise, and patience. When a dog arrives dangerously underweight, it can have long-term implications for their health and they may be struggling with other ailments that need treatment. Care plans are complex, progress is slow, but thanks to your kindness, there is hope for each of these dogs.

On top of his skinny condition, Cosmo is also being treated for painful sores on his backend and an injury to his tail. Thankfully every meal, every gentle voice, every head scratch reminds him that he is finally safe – and slowly, day by day, he’s learning to trust the world again.

YOU make stories like his possible.

With your kindness today, dogs like Cosmo, Cleo, and Arnie will get the care they need, and the second chance they deserve.

Your kind donation can rewrite their story, one meal, one vet visit, one loving moment at a time.