Tessa, a nine-year-old Yorkshire terrier mix, was surrendered in July after a BC SPCA animal protection investigation in the West Kelowna area. She was discovered—alongside several other animals—living in poor conditions.
“Tessa had at least five litters. A vet exam revealed she had broken and missing teeth, skin issues, fecal matter on her coat and luxating patellas,” says Eileen Drever, senior officer protection and stakeholder relations. “She was severely under socialized and visibly fearful.”
Brittney Vazorka, manager of the BC SPCA South Okanagan/ Similkameen community animal centre, says Tessa was shy and reserved when she first arrived. “Years of breeding left her fearful and withdrawn, she didn’t trust people and she did not like physical contact.”
While in the BC SPCA’s care, Tessa underwent spay and dental surgery for her broken and missing teeth. “She was such a trooper and recovered quickly,” says Vazorka. “It didn’t take long for her to start to feel comfortable around staff and volunteers. She soon became the cuddliest lap dog.” They were ready to find her a forever home when Tessa became extremely ill.
Tessa was rushed to an emergency veterinary hospital where she was diagnosed with pancreatitis. “She couldn’t keep food down,” says Vazorka. She underwent several rounds of treatment, including intravenous fluids, antibiotics, and anti-nausea medication. Tessa was so ill her care alternated between the emergency hospital and a local clinic, but when her condition deteriorated, she was kept at the emergency hospital for continuous 48-hour care. “Now she’s finally on the road to recovery with her foster, who she adores,” says Vazorka.