In rescue, being prepared is essential. That’s exactly where our emergency medical fund comes in. Kitu’s Fund allows us to respond promptly and get dogs the care they need, whatever the cost. You might remember Rosa, Angus and Esperanza–three abandoned dogs found in the Vistas last June. This week I caught up with them during bath time and was delighted to see their progress. I also met Leif, a 5-month-old puppy who needed surgery for a badly broken leg. All four dogs are slowly healing at the Sanctuary.
Still healing, but worlds of improvement
Rosa, Angus and Esperanza are looking worlds better than they did last time I saw them. Yes, they’re still half bald with bumps and skin tags. But they’re well fed and foxtail free, with soft skin and clear eyes. They greeted me kindly–Esperanza even gave me a butterfly kiss.
The Vista trio have made so much progress that they no longer need baths and foot soaks daily. Thank goodness! Three medicated baths a week is the new routine. Esperanza was between bath days, so caretaker Sydney Palmer took her for a short walk instead. Now that her skin is less inflamed, her houndy ears and dewlaps are more obvious. I especially love the way her droopy lip catches on her teeth. She was eager to explore, completely unfazed by the dogs we passed.
Next we filled the tub with lukewarm water for Rosa and Angus. Rosa went first, standing like a saint while Sydney lathered her with shampoo. Her beautiful eyes are no longer cloudy but luminous. Her patient gaze reminds me of how much suffering she endured before she came to the Ranch.
Angus was a good sport too, though slightly more inclined to make a break for dry earth. He’s struggling with an eye infection, so Sydney and Ricky flushed it with saline and applied ointment. His paws are still pinkish but he’s much perkier. And new wisps of fur are appearing on his back!
The gentleness of these abandoned dogs is almost unbelievable. As Sanctuary operations manager Laura Finley put it: “These three have stolen the hearts of our sanctuary staff. Their joy of life is a blessing to all. Their resilience is inspiring and the love they share back is simply amazing. The families that welcome these pups into their home will be blessed.” Amen!
Kitu’s Fund to the rescue for this abandoned pup
Leif was found near Orr Lake by a couple who quickly realized he needed help. He arrived with a deep laceration and a broken hind leg. We’ll never know his full story, but he was probably dumped there. The vet thinks that he may have been entangled in a barbed-wire fence and injured himself pulling free. Thankfully, surgery was straightforward.
Leif crept submissively out to snuggle with Laura and then gave me puppy kisses. He must have had some good experiences with humans before he was abandoned. Two weeks into his recovery, he’s allowed to hobble around the clinic to exercise his leg. Since he’s still a puppy, meds helps him stay calm while he heals. He’s probably never had proper training and Laura says he’s terrified of being on leash. The kind care he receives at the Sanctuary will be a strong foundation for a brighter future.
Help abandoned dogs get medical care–donate today!
We couldn’t “Do it for the Dogs” without our fund for high-cost and emergency medical care. Donate today to help abandoned dogs like Leif, Rosa, Angus, Esperanza, and so many others who come to us with nowhere else to go.
