AFTER incurring big veterinary bills in caring for a hobbled miniature poodle-cross, the West Vancouver B.C. SPCA asked for help from the public and they got it.
The cash-strapped organization took in more than $4,000 following its appeal for donations to defray the costs of treating Webster, an abandoned poodle who arrived on their doorstep with matted fur, bad teeth and a broken leg.
Broken in two places, the leg required surgery. Other veterinary costs, including neutering, pushed the bill to nearly $2,000.
"We've been very touched by the way the community has answered our plea," said Dragana Hajdukovic, branch manager at the West Vancouver B.C. SPCA.
With Webster's bills paid off, the remaining $2,000 is earmarked for the care of other animals at the shelter.
"If we have extra money in our medical (account), that just gives us the power to take on more animals that may require medical care," Hajdukovic said. "We were a little bit over-budget. . . . We've evened up now."
Most of that money has been spent on a Chihuahua-cross who needed extensive dental work including the removal of nine teeth, two cats that needed a teeth cleaning and tooth extractions, and a Prince Rupert Chihuahua that will likely require heart surgery.
The dog, which is being fostered by Hajdukovic, has a blood vessel problem resulting in the heart's inability to supply the body with enough oxygen.
The condition, patent ductus arteriosus, can lead to heart failure if untreated.
"For her most of the procedures are going to be donated," Hajdukovic said, discussing the numerous veterinarians who offer free or heavily discounted care for SPCA animals.
While the SPCA is grateful for the donations, there isn't much of a chance to sock any of that cash away, according to Hajdukovic.
"It's always a struggle. It's a never-ending issue," she said.
Approximately two weeks after having surgery to repair his broken leg, Webster had his cast removed April 5.
"He's doing well. The biggest challenge is keeping him quiet because he's a really active little guy," Hajdukovic says.
"He's full of beans. We tried having him with us at reception, but he was just so wound up it didn't work at all."
The branch has received applications from two prospective owners hoping to adopt Webster, but Hajdukovic said they are delaying a decision.
The extent of physiotherapy required, the length of Webster's recuperation, and how much time he'll need to be in a crate or on a leash are all factors Hajdukovic said she needs to know before discussing adoption.
