Last Friday, as usual, APA! had the final hour at TLAC to get dogs and cats off the euthanasia list. This Friday was a little different though. APA! had one of those days that reminds us why we volunteer, and why we dedicate so many hours to homeless pets.
There was one little guy, Teddy, who broke our volunteers hearts. He had been picked up that morning off of Ben White Blvd. with two broken elbows, likely from falling out of a car. He was crying and wouldn't look our volunteers in the eye or move his paw away from his face. We wanted to help, but weren't sure we could.
We had an hour to find transport, a foster, medical care, plus the extra money to pay for the medical care, and we had to wonder if he would even make it through to surgery. We sent a plea for transport and foster out, and within 30 minutes secured that. We posted about Teddy to our facebook and blog, and within another 30 minutes raised $1,500 for surgery, and then $3,000 by the next morning. People from Alaska and Pennsylvania donated. We were shocked and overwhelmed. The APA! community proved to be one of the most active and compassionate groups I've ever witnessed. Even on a Friday, the worst day to get anybody's attention, hundreds of people took a moment out of their evening to care about Teddy.
We want to thank each and every person who donated, e-mailed, or shared Teddy's story. We wouldn't be able to help dogs and cats in Teddy's situation without you. I've never had a moment where I was so happy I almost cried, but this was one.
As for Teddy, he's doing great! He had surgery yesterday and is at his foster mom's home now. Here are a few words from her:
He is enjoying being carried around everywhere & is super calm when being carried. He slept through the night last night with no problems. He is at work with me today since he gets so upset when left alone. I suspect he is upset b/c the last time he was left alone was on the side of the road with two broken legs. He is eating and drinking well, too. He loves everyone he has met - including other dogs and children.
She even elevated his bed so he can see her while sleeping. Sounds like he's in good hands!
Here is a video of Teddy as he's about to leave the vets office:
httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-4P5FbwPFVE
