On December 9, concerned citizens called in reports about a large dog running loose in West Kelowna around Old Okanagan Highway and Grizzly Road. The Regional District of Central Okanagan’s dog control caught the frightened canine and contacted the BC SPCA, concerned about the dog’s condition. Now affectionately named Shaggy due to his matted and overgrown fur, the pooch has been receiving the care he needs. He’s estimated to be a labradoodle around four years old, riddled with infections but desperate for human love.
“He seemingly hasn’t been around people much. He has no idea how to sit and he kept jumping up on me to say hi,” says Shannon Paille, centre manager, BC SPCA Kelowna. “He was so excited to receive attention. Usually when animals come in, they’ve at least had some form of human interaction, but Shaggy acts like he’s seeing people for the first time. With the state that he’s in, I really hope that’s the case. Otherwise, this is one of the more extreme instances of neglect that I’ve seen.”
Shaggy’s condition was so severe that he required to be sedated to fully examine him. His fur was matted and packed with feces and debris, making it difficult for the veterinarian to properly examine him without shaving him. Once shaved, they discovered itchy and inflamed skin, flaking and crawling with fleas. Shaggy’s nails were extremely overgrown to the point of breakage, making it painful for him to walk.
Perhaps the most concerning condition was the number of infections he was battling. It was obvious to the veterinarians that Shaggy has been suffering from chronic skin and ear infections for some time. He also was found to have swollen and inflamed genitals, a yeast infection in his genitals, a possible urinary tract infection, and a possible eye infection due to previous trauma. His prostrate was enlarged, and it was discovered that he has a perineal hernia.
Shaggy has been receiving medicated baths to help soothe his skin, as well as ear drops and antibiotics to clear up any remaining infection. His perineal hernia cannot be fixed so easily, however, and will require surgical treatment. While undergoing surgery, Shaggy will be neutered so he can be made available for adoption.
Animal care through the BC SPCA is exclusively funded by generous donors. If you would like to contribute towards Shaggy’s care, please consider donating. When Petsecure Pet Health Insurance* learned about Shaggy’s story, the company generously offered to match all medical donations up to $3,000 to help with his care and other animals who need urgent medical help.
Support Shaggy’s care and recovery
*Supported by a grant from Definity Financial Corporation, Petline Insurance Company.