A dog who spent a year in agony with a tightly knotted rope embedded in his neck has been rescued from a life of pain and fear.
Wesley, a 2-year-old Great Pyrenees, was found among a group of roaming dogs with the rope collar stuck in his neck.
When a concerned community member alerted authorities, Austin Animal Center (AAC) stepped in and picked up Wesley before he was transferred to Austin Pets Alive! (APA!) for urgent medical attention.
Upon his arrival at APA!, Wesley was finally freed from the oppressive collar, but the road to recovery was just beginning.
The rope had been wound so tightly around his neck that it left deep wounds and rotting tissue. As well as physical scars, it was clear Wesley had a deep fear of humans.
"He needs lots of medical care, attention, and his favorite snack, cheese, which he prefers to enjoy when no one's watching," says Clare Callison, director of national programs at Austin Pets Alive!
The estimated cost of Wesley's wound care and medication is currently around $750, and thanks to the support of APA! he is slowly showing his personality.
Staff at APA! are confident that Wesley—with his eagerness for love and playtime and plenty of treats—will continue to thrive now he is getting the care he needs.
APA! also thanked the community for their ongoing support: "Our community's love for pets is immense, and generous donations help cover Wesley's medical expenses and ensure he receives the best care possible," said Callison.
Each year, 6.3 million pets enter U.S. shelters, which is an average of 17,260 a day, according to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals.
Around 920,000 surrendered animals are euthanized every year. Shelters are striving to minimize euthanasia rates by promoting adoption campaigns, spaying and neutering programs, and behavior rehabilitation.
Wesley is currently recovering in the care of APA!, but is looking for a medical foster who can help him recover in a quieter and comfortable home environment.
Eventually, once healed, he will be available for adoption through Austin Pets Alive!
Do you have funny and adorable videos or pictures of your pet you want to share? Send them to life@newsweek.com with some details about your best friend, and they could appear in our Pet of the Week lineup.
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Alice Gibbs is a Newsweek Senior Internet Trends & Culture Reporter based in the U.K. For the last two years ... Read more
