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OAKLAND, Calif.
(USA) — A three-month-old puppy that survived being coated in hot
tar was brought to the Oakland
Animal Shelter (OAS) late last month. The little German
Shepherd / Labrador stray had suffered third-degree burns to all four
paws, knees and back but still managed to wag his tail for rescuers.
"He looked up at me with these big sweet eyes and stole my heart,"
said Lori Barnabe, Animal Control Officer and Veterinary Technician at the
OAS.
Nicknamed "Sparky" by shelter workers, the affectionate puppy
was transferred to Hopalong
Animal Rescue, a non-profit organization in northern California that
specializes in treating hard-luck cases. Earlier this year, Hopalong
was involved in the rescue, rehabilitation and placement of a
three-month-old Staffie who had been set on fire by three Oakland youths
(see "Burned Puppy Makes
Full Recovery").
This time, however, officials believe that Sparky's mysterious injuries
were accidental.
"He probably got into the middle of a work site," says
Hopalong executive director Sarah Cohen. "He's a stray puppy
that got into a lot of trouble."
Last week, the shelter reported that Sparky has made encouraging
progress but will require several months of rehabilitation and follow up
veterinary care while being fostered.
"We have received immense support for Sparky and want to thank all
of you who responded with your caring cards, letters, medical care,
transportation, and donations," they stated. The group has made
an appeal to the public to help raise $4,500 for his veterinary care.
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(Above) This is the cute end
(Below) ...and the rest of him.
(Photo: Nick Lammers / Oakland Tribune)
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Get-well cards
and donations
can be sent to Sparky at: |
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Hopalong Animal Rescue
P.O. Box 27507
Oakland, CA 94602
(510) 530-5154
or
visit www.hopalong.org for
more info. |
"Hopalong Animal Rescue
would also
like to find a very good permanent home for Sparky when he is fully
rehabilitated in a couple of months." Ms. Cohen says. "He's been
through a lot of pain and suffering, as well as emotional trauma. Needless
to say, we would like to find an experienced dog lover who could
give extra care and attention to this very special puppy."
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