By Emily-Rose Toohey
Southern Downs ARK started a GoFundMe fundraiser on 1 February to help cover the surgery costs for one of its puppies, Baxter.
Baxter is a 14 week-old staffy/cattle dog, and was surrendered to ARK with a week-old fracture of his left elbow.
Southern Downs ARK administrator Kate Keefe said Baxter was bred locally and was injured during play with another dog.
“Puppies have soft bones – he was limping around for a week so was taken to the vet,” Kate said.
“We’re trying to raise money to pay the initial vet bill, which amounts to $2783.09.”
Kate said the owner was unable to afford treatment, hence the reason he was surrendered to ARK.
“There were three separate options: euthanasia, leg amputation which causes a risk of infection, or to have the procedure,” she said.
She said they chose the latter due to his youth.
“An orthopaedic vet was able to operate,” Kate said.
Baxter is in a temporary foster home with WeCare Country Kennels owner Vicki Fairley, who said she has been looking after him since the operation.
“He’s just had stitches out and started physiotherapy,” Vicki said.
“When he’s all fixed up we can find him a home – he’s in recovery for eight weeks.
“Every dollar counts – the donation doesn’t need to be a lot.”
The Southern Downs community can find out more information and donate to ‘help Baxter walk again’ at gofundme.com/f/can-you-help-baxter-please
