Huddled next to the railroad tracks, so worn out that you can't hardly move when you see someone. Dragging a leash that is so knotted into your fur that it has to be cut to be removed. Sticks, brambles, and a tire section entangled in your fur. So matted and tangled that when you go potty it stays in chunks in your fur even though you no longer have any fur on your tail. Cold, hungry, thirsty, and all alone.
This is how my husband found this poor little guy yesterday afternoon. We brought him home, cleaned off the worst of the poop, and got him inside the house just before a nasty thunder and lightening storm hit. A wonderful friend came over to clip off his fur for me -- I have no experience with longer haired dogs, so her assistance was invaluable. It was not a pleasant job, but I deeply appreciate her willingness to do it. More needs to be cleaned off, but I thought he was traumatized enough for the time being. A quick bath to get off the worst of the dirt, and tucked into a dog kennel with blankets for the rest of the day and night. In the evening, he finally ate the small portion of food I had given him, and had a quick potty break.
He seems to like the kennel-- nice and snug, and I'm sure it feels a lot safer than those railroad tracks! This morning I took him to the vet for a basic exam. He has a microchip, but the owner never registered their info. He's about 12, needs some major dental work, as well as treatment for his eye. Apparently he has an eye issue that is common for his breed (a Shih Tsu) that can lead to blindness. He'll need life long treatments for it, but it's very manageable. He needs some antibiotics, neutering, and vaccinations, as well as a complete shave and cleaning of the delicate areas that are too difficult to get to without sedation.
Unfortunately, our financial situation is, like many others, quite strained at the moment. And we took in a stray last summer, so we have two dogs already, and can't afford the treatment Oliver needs, or to keep him as a pet. So we are hoping to raise money to get him healthy, and then find a loving home for him. So far, the response has been nothing short of incredible. Two ladies who were at the vets with their pets made donations. Many of my doll friends have donated generously --so far, in just a very short time we've received $324. I am astounded. I have faith in the world again. Thank you so much.
I will be posting updates here, with pics as I take them. Right now Oliver is getting much needed sleep, and good food and water so he can start the healing process. I will creating a donation widget here, for anyone that wants to contribute. If we end up raising more than he needs for his vet bills, we will get him some basics (a collar,etc.) and then donate any remaining funds to a local rescue group that does an amazing job in our community.
For now, any contributions can be sent via Paypal to : ecetera@sbcglobal.net with "for Oliver" in the subject line.
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