WARNING: Graphic Images
On November 4, a BC SPCA animal protection officer, responding to a complaint received, discovered a four-year-old golden retriever mix tethered with a heavy chain wrapped around her neck on a remote property west of Prince George. The chain appeared to be embedded in the dog’s neck, but the true extent of her injuries was hidden by her thick fur. The owner surrendered the dog to the officer, who brought her to the BC SPCA Quesnel animal centre.
The dog, now named Birdie, was immediately taken to a veterinary hospital where she received emergency surgery to remove the embedded metal. She was also given medication to manage the pain and the infection in the wound.
“When she was shaved for the surgery, it was discovered that her injuries were even more severe than imagined,” says Jennifer Coghill, animal care specialist at the BC SPCA Quesnel. “The heavy chain including parts of the carabiner which was used to tether Birdie was found to have burrowed deeply into her raw inflamed flesh, which would have severely and painfully restricted this poor dog’s movement.”
“This is a deeply concerning case,” says Alex Schare, regional manager, animal protection services, North region. “The worst part is knowing that the pain this dog endured was completely preventable.”
Birdie required 14 stitches to close the wound and will continue to be on medication to help manage pain and fight off any further infection. She has been healing from her surgery at the BC SPCA Quesnel animal centre, where staff describe her as incredibly affectionate and food motivated.
“Birdie will do anything for a piece of hot dog, which is her favourite high-value treat,” says Coghill. “She is very intelligent. We’ve been doing some basic training with her, and she already knows how to sit. It’s remarkable to think of how far she’s come in such a short while.”
Coghill adds, “All she wants to do is snuggle up in our laps. It’s like she is making up for lost time and trying to soak up all the love that she can get. She’s such a happy-go-lucky girl. Just being with people seems to be her biggest reward.”
Birdie will have her stitches removed in the coming weeks. She is being transferred to the BC SPCA Shuswap animal centre, and will be available for adoption this weekend.
“She’s such a sweet girl. We will be sad to see her go, but we’re excited for our little Birdie to soar free and have a fresh start in life,” says Coghill.
The BC SPCA will be recommending animal cruelty charges to Crown Counsel.