A four-year-old golden retriever mix was rescued by the BC SPCA after being found with a chain embedded in her neck on a property west of Prince George.
According to a press release, on Nov. 4, an SPCA animal protection officer responded to a distressing complaint about the dog, later named Birdie, who was found tethered with a heavy chain wrapped around her neck.
The chain appeared to be embedded in her flesh, and the severity of her injuries was initially concealed by her thick fur. After her owner surrendered her, Birdie was immediately transported to the BC SPCA in Quesnel animal centre.
There, she received emergency medical care and was immediately taken to a veterinary hospital for surgery to remove the embedded chain. She was also given medication to manage the pain and infection in the wound.
“When she was shaved for the surgery, it was discovered that her injuries were even more severe than imagined,” Jennifer Coghill, animal care specialist at the BC SPCA Quesnel, said in the release.
“The heavy chain, including parts of the carabiner which 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.”
According to the release, Birdie required 14 stitches to close the wound and will remain on medication to prevent further infection as she heals.
“This is a deeply concerning case,” Alex Schare, regional manager of animal protection services for the BC SPCA North region, said. “The worst part is knowing that the pain this dog endured was completely preventable.”
Despite her traumatic ordeal, Birdie has shown a remarkable recovery, according to SPCA Quesnel staff. They describe her as incredibly affectionate and food-motivated.
“Birdie will do anything for a piece of hot dog, which is her favourite high-value treat,” Coghill said. “She is very intelligent. We’ve been doing some basic training with her, and she already knows how to sit. It’s remarkable to think how far she’s come in such a short while.”
Coghill added that Birdie is incredibly loving and enjoys snuggling with staff.
“It’s like she’s making up for lost time and trying to soak up all the love that she can get,” she added. “She’s such a happy-go-lucky girl. Just being with people seems to be her biggest reward.”
The BC SPCA says she will have her stitches removed in the coming weeks. She is being transferred to the BC SPCA Shuswap animal centre, where she will be available for adoption starting this weekend.
“She’s such a sweet girl. We will be sad to see her go, but we’re excited for our little Birdie to soar free and have a fresh start in life,” Coghill added.
The BC SPCA will be recommending animal cruelty charges to Crown Counsel in connection with this case.