Warning: This story contains some graphic information and images.
The BC SPCA is recommending animal cruelty charges after a golden retriever mix was found with damage to the neck.
According to the BC SPCA, on Tuesday, November 4th, an animal protection officer responded to a complaint of a four-year-old dog tethered with a heavy chain around her neck on a remote property west of Prince George.
They added that the chain appeared to be embedded in the dog’s neck, with the owner surrendering the dog to the officer, who brought her to the BC SPCA Quesnel animal centre.
“This is a deeply concerning case,” said Alex Schare, regional manager, animal protection services, North region.
“The worst part is knowing that the pain this dog endured was completely preventable.”
The dog, now named Birdie, was taken to a veterinary hospital where she received emergency surgery to remove the embedded metal, requiring 14 stitches to close the wound.
“When she was shaved for the surgery, it was discovered that her injuries were even more severe than imagined,” said Jennifer Coghill, animal care specialist at the BC SPCA in Quesnel.
“The heavy chain, including parts of the carabiner that was used to tether Birdie, was found to have burrowed deeply into her raw, inflamed flesh, which would have severely and painfully restricted this poor dog’s movement.”
She will continue to be on medication to help manage pain and fight off any further infection.
The SPCA reports that she has been healing from her surgery at the BC SPCA Quesnel animal centre, and once the stitches are removed in the coming weeks, she will be transferred to the BC SPCA Shuswap animal centre and will be available for adoption this weekend.
The BC SPCA will be recommending animal cruelty charges to Crown Counsel.
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