The Port Alberni SPCA is making a rare appeal for donations to help pay for surgery for a dog that has been surrendered to its branch.
Guita, a seven-year-old Lab-Rottweiler cross, has a torn cruciate ligament in a hind leg that needs surgery, says SPCA animal care attendant Kim Francoeur. A veterinary surgeon in Victoria will perform the surgery, which will cost $5,000.
“He’s been here since September. He came in as a medical surrender because (his owner) couldn’t afford treatment for a skin condition,” Francoeur said. “We were able to get the skin under control and he’s healed from that, but we found a knee injury to his left back leg.”
Guita is on pain medication, Francoeur said. If they didn’t operate “we would probably have to euthanize (him). It’s causing quite a bit of discomfort and pain.”
Port Alberni’s SPCA is quite often called upon to pay for surgery for animals that have been surrendered, and normally they are able to absorb the costs. Guita is an exception because the cost is higher, even with an SPCA discount, says Deb Thierstein.
Euthanasia has not been considered in Guita’s case.
“He’s an adoptable dog with a medical problem that with surgery could give him a new lease on life with a new family,” Thierstein said.
Donations can be brought into the Port Alberni SPCA, 4936 Broughton St. (behind Canadian Tire in North Port). Tax receipts will be issued for any donations $10 and more. For more information please call 250-723-5269 or e-mail alberni@spca.bc.ca.
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