On January 10, a compassionate animal lover found an eight-month-old bulldog mix in a ditch on Lake Cowichan Road, in Duncan, unable to move. The puppy was transported by the finder to an emergency veterinary hospital who contacted the BC SPCA Cowichan.
“The poor puppy couldn’t move because her front right leg was broken.” says Colin Owen-Flood, manager, BC SPCA Cowichan. “No one knows how long she had been in the ditch, but she was very thin. She had old puncture wounds inside both her ears, with abrasions and scabbing on her face and body. We have no idea what she’s been through, but we’re so grateful someone found her — and now she finally has a chance to heal and feel safe”
The puppy required surgery to repair the broken leg. “Pins were placed in the bone of her leg,” says Owen-Flood. She is currently on pain medication and recuperating in foster with a BC SPCA staff member. “The recovery for this kind of surgery is between 8 to 12 weeks with lots of kennel rest to make sure the leg heals well.” Owen-Flood adds the veterinarian recommended feeding small meals frequently to help her get to a healthy weight.
“This little bulldog is a total love bug soaking up every bit of affection,” says Owen-Flood. “She loves everyone and is so joyful.” He says the staff member who is caring for the puppy gave her the nickname ‘Spooner’ because she loves to be spooned when she sleeps. “This puppy is very much a bulldog. She doesn’t believe in personal space and can’t get enough human contact.”
Owen-Flood adds that the puppy gets along well with the dog in the home and is a great eater. The puppy will be available for adoption when she has recovered from her surgery.