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Vets Save Homeless Puppy Whose Eye Ruptured

Dogs Found Living In Deplorable Conditions

POSTED: 5:25 pm EST January 12, 2009
UPDATED: 6:25 pm EST January 12, 2009

Veterinarians saved an 8-week-old homeless Boston terrier puppy whose eye ruptured.

Lefty, whose eye ruptured on Jan. 4, is one of five pure-bred Boston terrier puppies surrendered along with their parents, Gizmo and Sasha, to the MSPCA Noble Family Animal Care and Adoption Center in Methuen. The animals were found living in deplorable conditions and suffering from multiple medical issues, officials said.

Gizmo had been tied to a doorknob with a 2-foot lead to restrict his movement. Lefty arrived at the MSPCA-Methuen with his siblings and parents in early December. The dogs were immediately evaluated and began treatment protocols for various ailments, including severe eye infections, respiratory disease and intestinal parasites.

The puppies and their parents were sent to foster homes to recover. Despite close monitoring by MSPCA-Methuen medical staff, Lefty’s eye failed to respond to treatment, and the foster family rushed him to Angell Animal Medical Center in Boston for emergency surgery.

Angell doctors determined that the eye had ruptured and needed to be removed immediately. Without surgery, Lefty’s prognosis was grim.

Once they have recuperated in foster care, Lefty, the other puppies and their mother have adoptive homes awaiting them, but Gizmo, the 1-year-old father, is still in need of a home. First, the dog must undergo surgery to repair damage resulting from severe parasite infestation, which was left untreated in the previous home. He will recover in foster care before being placed up for adoption.

Both surgeries, as well as the lengthy recovery treatment for the dogs, have depleted resources at the MSPCA-Methuen. Donations can be made by clicking here.

Those interested in adopting Gizmo or other homeless animals are asked to click here for updates, visit the MSPCA-Methuen in the coming weeks or contact the adoption center at 978-687-7453 ext. 6101.

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