A small dog who was found injured inside a garbage can in Pacific Spirit Park last week is recovering well and has found a loving forever home.
Oscar the poodle had surgery this week on his front leg and hip, and is going home with animal rescue volunteer Laurie Schildt.
“I’m just in love,” she told Daily Hive. “The way he looks at me since I’ve had him… his eyes and his personality. And his story. Being left in there and being discarded like nothing. To see how resilient he is and trusting. It’s heart-melting.”
Oscar the poodle is recovering from surgery. (Laurie Schildt/Submitted)
The tiny dog had severe injuries on one side of his body consistent with blunt-force trauma. He’s had a tiny plate and six screws inserted in his elbow to keep it stable. He’s also had a hip replacement on the same side.
At first, rescuers wondered if Oscar was dealing with neurological issues since he had so much trouble on one side, but now his vet thinks disc damage in his back is due to age. He’s expected to make a full recovery and be able to run and play in a few months’ time.
Schildt, who volunteers with Squamish Neighbourhood Animal Partnership and Protection Society, began caring for Oscar the day after Terry Sparrow and fiance Krista Brisk found him in Camosun Bog. Sparrow was going to throw out his gum when he noticed something move in the trash can.
“He was in bad shape. He couldn’t stand properly. He was trying to walk a little bit but just [flopped] over,” Sparrow told Daily Hive last week.
Terry Sparrow/Facebook
Oscar has been recovering at Canada West Veterinary Specialists, and donations to help with his care have flowed in after Vancouverites heard about his story. There was plenty of interest from people who wanted to adopt Oscar, but Schildt said keeping him became natural because of the bond they’ve built.
“I recently lost my little dog a year ago. So it’s kind of bittersweet. I rescued [her], and now Oscar came into my life.”
Police are investigating how the dog ended up in the garbage can and ask anyone with information to contact University RCMP at 604-224-1322.
Schildt has started a Facebook page sharing updates on Oscar’s recovery for those who want to follow along.
“In 20 years of dog rescue, I’ve never come across anything like this,” Schildt said. “My main focus right now is getting his health back on track and showing him lots of love.”