Ruby arrived at the West Vancouver SPCA branch underweight and in need of extensive medical care.
The Nova Scotia duck tolling retriever mix, who is estimated to be five-anda-half years old, originally came into the SPCA's care in Williams Lake as a stray, but travelled to West Vancouver via the Drive for Lives animal transfer program.
The local branch is now reaching out for donations to help cover Ruby's expensive vet bills.
The dog underwent emergency spay surgery when she arrived in West Vancouver in late February because there were abnormalities with her reproductive system.
"Once she recovered from that, we were able to put her in a foster home," says branch manager Dragana Hajdukovic.
Further to that, Ruby's teeth appear as though they have been sawed down, a procedure that exists with retrieving dogs so they don't crush or injure the birds they're sent to retrieve. But trimmed teeth can cause pain, make the dog susceptible to infection and lead to further complications such as abscesses, Hajdukovic explains.
A dental specialist has recommended Ruby get root canals on all four of her canine teeth. The estimated cost for the dental procedure is $1,500 to $1,800, plus the $500 spay surgery already performed.
Despite her health condition, Hajdukovic says Ruby is a happy dog who immediately won over all the staff at the shelter.
"She was really affectionate with everybody and she looked to people around her for comfort. She's a sweetheart."
Since going into foster care, she has gained a much-needed 10 pounds.
"She loves her walks, she loves her treats, and the foster home is spoiling her, which is really not hard to do with Ruby - she's a lovely little dog," Hajdukovic says.
To help Ruby, donate online at spca.bc.ca/westvancouver or in person at 1020 Marine Dr.
