Covered in fleas, riddled with infection, with nails so overgrown that it was painful to walk, a very attention-starved labradoodle is now in the care of the BC SPCA.
The large dog was discovered running loose in West Kelowna around Old Okanagan Highway and Grizzly Road on Dec. 9.
The Regional District of Central Okanagan’s dog control was able to contain the frightened pooch; however, once officers had a look at him, they became concerned about his condition.
After contacting the BC SPCA, Shaggy, as he is now affectionately named was whisked to a local veterinary clinic as his condition was so bad that he had to be sedated to fully examine him.
Shannon Paille the centre manager with the BC SPCA Kelowna, said that Shaggy is estimated about four years old and desperate for human love.
“He seemingly hasn’t been around people much. He has no idea how to sit, and he kept jumping up on me to say hi,” said Paille. “He was so excited to receive attention. Usually, when animals come in, they’ve at least had some form of human interaction, but Shaggy acts like he’s seeing people for the first time. With the state that he’s in, I really hope that’s the case. Otherwise, this is one of the more extreme instances of neglect that I’ve seen.”
Shaggy’s fur was matted and packed with feces and debris, making it difficult for the veterinarian to properly examine him without shaving him. Once shaved, it was discovered that Shaggy’s skin was itchy and inflamed, flaking and crawling with fleas, explained Paille.
“Perhaps the most concerning condition was the number of infections he was battling. It was obvious to the veterinarians that Shaggy had been suffering from chronic skin and ear infections for some time,” she said.
He was also found to have swollen and inflamed genitals, a yeast infection in his genitals, a possible urinary tract infection, and a possible eye infection due to previous trauma. His prostate was enlarged, and it was discovered that he had a perineal hernia.
Paille said Shaggy has been receiving medicated baths to help soothe his skin, as well as ear drops and antibiotics to clear up any remaining infection.
“His perineal hernia cannot be fixed so easily, however, and will require surgical treatment. While undergoing surgery, Shaggy will be neutered so he can be made available for adoption,” she said.
Those interested in helping with Shaggy’s care can donate to the BC SPCA, which will be matched by Petsecure Pet Health Insurance for donations up to $3,000.
Donations for Shaggy’s care can be made online.