A NEW family has been found for a dalmation that was abondoned, only days from death, at Hassendean, although a fresh appeal has now been launched to help pay for his extensive vet bills.
Back in March, the Hawick News revealed how a dalmation was taken in by Arthurshiel Rescue Centre and had to undergo life-saving surgery to remove 30 painful bladder stones. But although a young family have chosen newly named 'Otis' as their beloved
pet, the extent of the neglect he suffered has led to three more painful operations, a period of daily vets appointments, and spiralling costs.
Shona Middlemass, Arthurshiel Rescue Centre manager, commented: "It is almost a happy ending for Otis, but this dog has been through hell.
"If he hadn't been picked up by the police when he was, he would have been lying dead in a ditch 48 hours later."
St Boswells vets Reed, Brown & Cameron have treated 'Otis' for his initial bladder stones, further bladder problems, an enlarged prostrate and have also neutered him, along with a catalogue of appointments. And although their bills have shown the compassion they feel for the dog, the charity-run Arthurshiel says it is struggling to cope.
Shona went on: "The vets have been fantastic, but we would like to ask people to help us, as the bills are going to be horrendous."
She added: "Yet despite everything Otis has been through, his tremendous nature has never changed. And the children of his new owners are devastated that he can only live with them at weekends, due to him having to come back to us for more treatment every week. But hopefully he is on the mend."
Anyone wishing to help with the Otis appeal can send donations to Arthurshiel Rescue Centre at St Boswells, or direct to Reed Brown & Cameron, Braeheads Stables, St Boswells.
Call 07757 217759 for more information.
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