An animal sanctuary east of Vancouver that cares for unwanted, sick and special needs animals is hoping that the third time’s a charm for a paralyzed Dachshund in its care.
Bratwurst was surrendered to SAINTS farm in Mission earlier this year because his young owner could not afford the $6,000 to $8,000 required for spinal surgery to fix a ruptured disc in his back that took away his mobility.
Since SAINTS took in the sweet pup, Bratwurst has now had three back surgeries. In the last procedure last month, the neurologist fixed three discs. The dog now faces a long road to recovery and has been fitted for a wheelchair while he goes through rehabilitation, which includes water and physical therapy.
Bratwurst working on his legs during water therapy.
After the first two rounds of surgery, Bratwurst learned to walk again. This time it’s not going as well, and he only has a 4% chance of gaining the full ability to walk again.
However, the rescue is “still hopeful” he will live a full and happy life and maybe even find a forever home once he’s recovered. The non-profit sanctuary has adopted out small dogs that have been paraplegic in the past, but it notes the home needs to meet the dog’s unique needs.
SAINTS founder Carol Hine has dubbed Bratwurst “the $20,000 Doxi” because of the thousands it has already shelled out for his care.
The pint-sized pup’s hefty vet bills couldn’t come at a worse time for the rescue, which is already struggling with $30,000 in bills for medical care for other animals at the farm.
SAINTS is currently home to more than 120 special needs animals that have nowhere else to go, and runs entirely on donations.
The sanctuary is reaching out to animal lovers through crowdfunding to help pay the $7,000 for his latest surgery. A Good Samaritan is also helping the cause: Realtor Matt Kerr and Team Kerr at Remax is matching up to $2,500 to help reach the goal.
Any additional funds raised will be used to pay off other vet bills for farm animals and pets, and contribute to overall care of the menagerie.
Click here to learn more about the PetFundr campaign to help Bratwurst.
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