‘Horrific shape’: Senior pup found in need of care
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EUCLID, Ohio (WJW) — A neglected senior cocker spaniel Bella Mabel was in “horrific shape” when a good Samaritan found her wandering earlier this week.
After thorough grooming and care at Euclid Animal Shelter, and a good night’s sleep, she was feeling “pretty spry” on Friday morning, animal activists said. But she has a long road ahead, with a “big” surgery to remove a tumor and “suspicious” lumps found on her body.
The nonprofit is now seeking donations for the dog, who’s believed to be 15 years old.
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“The smell that came off her could clear a room — it was immediate and it was horrendous,” reads a Friday Facebook post from a nonprofit that supports the shelter. “Bella Mabel’s ears were infested with hundreds of maggots, which had to be dug out one by one. Her tongue was hanging out, covered in fleas, and she was in such rough shape.”
Activists said her matted fur had fused to her skin and was embedded with sticks. Some of her teeth were rotted. It took three hours and a mild sedative to get her cleaned up.
She’s now with a foster family, on medications and eating a special diet.
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The dog’s surgery is expected to cost about $2,500, not including her continued care, said a veterinary assistant. The nonprofit’s fundraiser has brought in about $1,300 so far.
“We did not have the funds to take on Bella Mabel, but how could we have said no? She gets so excited to see people and immediately tries to kiss their faces,” reads the post. “We couldn’t turn our backs on her, but now we have to ask for your help.
“Despite her age, we know this gal has a chance at a good quality life ahead, for however long she has. After seeing that neglect, she deserves every chance to be given to her.”
Learn how you can donate here.
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