Good news for mistreated puppy found in Bentleyville
There is some good news about the terrier-mix puppy found earlier this month in Bentleyville with a metal rod protruding from his head.
The now 12-week-old puppy will have vision in both eyes, says a veterinarian at University Veterinary Specialists in Peters Township, where the young dog was taken after he was found Feb. 3. He was transported by staff members in the UVS Express Transport to the emergency hospital, where he underwent surgery the following day to have the rod removed. There had been concern after the surgery that he might not see out of one of his eyes.
“We confirmed that the puppy had vision in his left eye after surgery,” said Dr. Rory Lubold, chief medical officer. “The right eye sustained significantly more damage, and it was unclear whether he would even be able to keep his eye.
“The doctors and technicians here at UVS have been working diligently to save the eye and preserve vision,” he added. “This is the best possible outcome.”
Doctors at UVS worked with a board-certified ophthalmologist at Ohio State University who did additional testing.
“We wanted to make sure we gave this puppy the best chance possible,” said Dr. Dmitri Brown, chief medical officer. “Thanks to the help of our partners in the ophthalmology department at Ohio State, we now expect him to make a full recovery. He continues to impress us at every turn. He’s a fighter.”
AJ Owen, UVS marketing manager, said while the 12-week-old, still known just as “Puppy,” is doing “phenomenal,” no timetable has been set for his adoption. Owen said the pup still needs medical care as he continues to recuperate from his injury.
A humane officer with Washington Area Humane Society is working with Bentleyville police in the investigation of the abuse.
“The investigation has stalled a bit due to a combination of things,” said Kelly Proudfit, humane society executive director. “But we are doing everything we can. (The officer) is working around the clock.
“Hopefully, we can get a resolution,” she added. “We are taking this very seriously.”
Financial assistance for the puppy’s care is being provided by UVS Cares Foundation. Donations are still being accepted to UVS Cares Foundation online at UVSCares.com or by calling 724-717-2273. Checks also can be sent to the foundation at 2810 Washington Road, McMurray, PA 15317.
The humane society is asking anyone who might have information on the puppy’s abuse to call them at 724-222-7387 and leave a message for the humane officer.