Annette Armitage with the Halifax-based Animal Rescue Coalition (ARC) said the dog, now being called King Edward, was surrendered to animal control last week.
“We originally thought he had (testicular) cancer but no. The vet determined he was probably booted repeatedly in the privates area,” Armitage said Feb. 1.
The dog’s genital area is still very swollen and he occasionally winces when playing, but overall he’s doing well. Armitage said cases like this highlight an issue that has always existed but has been brought to the forefront thanks to social media.
“I don’t know if there’s any more animal abuse than there ever was, but with the engagement of social media and with more public awareness we’re hearing about these more,” she said.
Armitage said whoever surrendered the dog told animal control he was a stray. Although they’d like to find and charge the person who abused King Edward, she said statistics aren’t on their side.
“If it was possible to charge somebody that would be great but we know our province and our court system with animal charges is very rare,” she said. “There have only been two lifetime bans in Nova Scotia for owning an animal.”
Due to the nature of King Edward’s injuries he’s still being fostered with a veterinarian. When he no longer requires regular vet care he’ll go to a foster home before being put up for adoption through ARC.
“This little guy you would think he would be terrified and distrustful of humans but he loves everyone,” she said.
“I want to put a plea. I think the thing is it’s important to tell people if you don’t want your dog and feel you’re going to (abuse it) please contact a rescue, contact a vet.”
(Digby County Courier - Feb 1, 2016)
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