Puppy released from hospital, in foster care
After more than three weeks of medical care, “Puppy” is now free to be a puppy.
The 14-week-old terrier mix, who was found Feb. 3 with a metal rod in his head, has been medically cleared and is living with a foster family.
“He’s doing much, much better,” said AJ Owen, University Veterinary Specialists marketing manager. “He’s seeing well out of both eyes, adjusting to being a puppy with room to run and play.”
He was found in the Bentleyville area. Staff members of Peters Township emergency veterinary hospital retrieved the dog, who, despite his serious injury, was alert and affectionate.
The next day, Puppy had surgery to remove the 5-inch rod, which passed through one eye, the socket of the other and his brain.
Although there was concern the dog who has come to be called “Puppy” would lose vision in one eye, Owen said it is intact and Puppy is expected to make a full recovery.
As of Monday afternoon, nearly 100 people applied to adopt Puppy. Applications are still being accepted. Donations continue to come in. Enough has been collected to cover the expense of Puppy’s medical care, which was $8,000 to $10,000. The Bentworth Leo Club, Benleyville and Ellsworth firefighters and several businesses have raised funds for the UVS Cares Foundation.
Puppy, who left the hospital Friday, will be closely monitored, said Owen. He will undergo further eye and brain exams.
A humane officer for Washington Area Humane Society and law enforcement agencies, including Bentleyville police, determined the possible abuse occurred out of state. All information has been given to investigators in that jurisdiction. The humane officer would not release the agency now investigating because of unfamiliarity with the laws of that state.
The identity of Puppy’s foster family is not being released due to the amount of attention the story has garnered.
The application to adopt Puppy is available at www.universityveterinaryspecialists.com/Adoption/.