It’s been weeks since Fish, an emaciated Labrador retriever mix, was brought to the BC SPCA by a good Samaritan who found him in a remote area near Enderby, and the animal centre says he is recovering well.
When the nine-year-old dog first arrived at the SPCA in the Shuswap, he was bone-thin, covered in sores, and given a body score of one out of nine, with the ideal body condition score being five.
Photo Credit: BC SPCA
“We have watched him transform from a skinny, malnourished and wounded dog into a bright-eyed, energetic and playful dog with the heart of a lion,” said Meranda Dussault, the manager of the BC SPCA’s Shuswap animal centre.
Fish needed IV fluids for dehydration, as well as a specialized diet and feeding schedule to safely get him on track to gain weight, and so far, he has gained 10 lbs.
The resilient pup also required several tests to ensure his internal organs were still functioning after such a lengthy period of starvation, and he continues to make regular trips to the veterinary clinic.
“Fish still has a long way to go before he is totally healthy, but his progress so far has been remarkable,” Dussault added.
Photo Credit: BC SPCA
Once he has gained enough weight to safely undergo anesthetic, he will require dental surgery to remove the infected and broken teeth in his mouth.
Fortunately, his sores and superficial wounds have healed up nicely thanks to having a soft bed to lay on.
Despite his hardships, Fish has a strong trust and bond to humans, and he loves to be with people and curl up in their laps.
“The biggest change in Fish is his energy level,” Dussault explained. “When he first arrived, he could barely find the energy to stand up, though his tail still wagged even when he was unable to get up to greet you.”
“Now it’s like the puppy has come out in him, he could play outside for hours.”
Fish is still a few weeks away from being ready for adoption, but the SPCA is searching for a foster home to help him in the meantime.
Dussault added: “If anyone can give this amazing senior a temporary home until we can find him his forever home, we would be so grateful.”
Anyone who may be able to provide Fish a foster home can contact the BC SPCA Shuswap at (250) 832-7376.
