Community News
Severely injured dog cries for help on isolated stretch of highway
Honey, a two-year-old pit bull terrier mix, was seriously injured and laying on the side of Highway 16 in Fort St. James, unable to move. Thankfully, her cries for help were heard by a Good Samaritan who stopped their car to investigate and brought her to the BC SPCA’s North Cariboo animal centre in Prince George.
“The Good Samaritan stopped because they thought a wild animal was injured. They couldn’t imagine it was a dog because on this stretch of the highway there are no houses for more than 50 kilometres,” says Kristen Sumner, manager of the BC SPCA’s North Cariboo animal centre. “When they found her, it was obvious she had serious injuries when they realized she could not move. She had wounds all over her legs and head.”
After arriving at the animal centre, Honey was immediately taken to a veterinary hospital for examination and treatment. “It turned out that poor Honey had a dislocated shoulder and her right leg had such severe nerve damage it would require amputation surgery,” says Sumner. The wounds on Honey’s face, neck and torso were also infected. She was given pain medication, and her wounds were cleaned and treated. Honey’s shoulder joint was put back in place and she would have to wear a splint for two weeks and be on strict kennel rest. She was also scheduled for surgery.
“Despite all of her injuries, Honey is one of the friendliest dogs we have ever had in our care,” says Sumner. “She loves people and adores other dogs.” Sumner says that Honey loves to watch her foster family’s pup play around even though she cannot move because of her injuries.
“The pup sits on the floor beside Honey providing her with lots of love and nuzzles.”
Sumner adds that Honey has a long road ahead before she makes a full recovery. “We have to carry her outside for her bathroom breaks because of her injuries.
” But everyone recognizes that Honey is a fighter. “She is trying so hard to be independent, we have to keep a close eye on her to make sure she doesn’t overexert herself while she is healing. Honey is full of love and gratitude.”
Honey is expected to be available for adoption on February 14, Valentine’s Day.
On what would have been Betty White’s 102nd birthday. the BC SPCA is asking people to make a gift to help animals in Betty’s memory. Betty’s love for animals has inspired thousands of people over the years, raising millions for animals in need. Please donate in memory of Betty White to help Honey and other animals in care at the BC SPCA today. To make a donation, please visit medical.spca.bc.ca.