Operation Kindness, a Carrollton-based no-kill animal shelter, recently saved the leg of Spanky, a 10-year-old shih tzu/lhasa apso mix.
When Spanky arrived at Operation Kindness, he was so severely matted that his eyes and skin were buried beneath his fur. Maggots had eaten down to the bone on his rear leg and the medical team feared it would need to be amputated.
In order to be treated, he was put under anesthesia to have his coat clipped and the maggots removed from his body. In addition to the condition of his skin, Spanky’s teeth were in such poor shape that he needed to have a few removed so he could eat. Luckily, the medical team was able to avoid amputation, and, with daily therapy, Spanky’s leg was saved.
Spanky is fully recovered and ready to find a forever home.
The shelter wants to help many more animals. So, it will host a Day of Giving Kindness campaign tomorrow to raise money to help the homeless animals and save lives. It’s in preparation for National Day of Kindness, celebrated on Nov. 13.
“This year, we are experiencing an influx of medical care cases for homeless animals coming through our doors,” stated Jim Hanophy, CEO of the shelter, in a press release. “We are 20 percent ahead of where we were this time last year, and we expect the numbers to continue to grow. Our goal is to help as many animals we can with the resources afforded to us.”
The shelter treated 4,887 animals and found forever homes for 4,566 homeless animals in 2016. Additionally, tit performed 2,875 spay/neuter surgeries and 250 other medical-related surgeries. The shelter also administered roughly $100,000 worth of medicine, including ringworm, heartworm, upper respiratory infection, skin condition and ear infection medication.
The shelter does not receive any government funding and relies solely on donations from the community and grant money, the press release stated.
Operation Kindness is asking members of the North Texas community to consider making a donation to the no-kill shelter as a part of a Day of Giving. Throughout the day, beginning at midnight, the nonprofit is inviting the community to join it on Facebook, as it share more stories of animals. Additionally, local celebrities, including Greg Pateryn of the Dallas Stars, will participate in random acts of kindness.
To participate in Operation Kindness’ Day of Giving, please visit www.operationkindness.org.
Photos: Before and after of Spanky
