A BC SPCA animal protection officer has seized a skeletal mastiff mix named Jace by BC SPCA staff, who met the criteria for critical distress from a property in Nanaimo.
“This is a truly heartbreaking case,” says Eileen Drever, senior officer protection and stakeholder relations for the BC SPCA. “This poor emaciated dog was found on a property without any visible food or water. Jace was barely able to walk, limping and shivering in the cold. He was suffering from fur loss and was burdened by a heavy chain. His only shelter was a dilapidated doghouse that was wet inside and lacked any bedding. The animal protection officer was concerned Jace may not survive the night given the subzero temperatures.”
Jace was immediately taken to an animal hospital. It was noted Jace was suffering from muscle loss, limited vision and had a thin irritated coat, as well as pressure sores on his pelvis and crusty ear tips. Jace will undergo a full dental examination when he is under general anesthesia for his neutering.
Drever reports that when Jace came into the animal centre, he was scared and disorientated due to his limited vision but very trusting. “He was looking to the staff for support and encouragement.” Under a veterinarian’s supervision, Jace is being fed two meals a day and is slowly gaining weight with an exercise plan helping him build muscle.
Drever adds staff were unsure if Jace knew any commands, but on the first day, he walked right up to them and sat perfectly. “He has a very handsome ‘sit’ that comes along with big puppy dog eyes,” Drever says. “It’s impossible to not give him a treat.” He also has a ridiculously cute ‘woof’ that he only makes when he is in his kennel and can hear his breakfast and dinner being prepared.
Jace will be available for adoption once the veterinarian determines he has gained enough weight and has recovered from his neuter surgery.
