Sugar Snap, a young dog, was on the brink of death when he was discovered emaciated on the side of a road and brought to Chicago Animal Care and Control. One Tail at a Time (OTAT), a dedicated rescue organization, took on the daunting task of saving his life. The dog was in such critical condition that he could barely lift his head or stand. OTAT knew they needed specialized care and immediately brought Sugar Snap to Premier Veterinary Group.
Emaciated Rescue Dog Finds Home with Vet Who Saved Him (Exclusive)
The poor dog and fight for survival
At Premier Veterinary Group, Sugar Snap was met with the grim reality of his condition. “He was literally a skeleton,” recalled Becky Ritchie, an emergency room veterinarian. The road to recovery was long and arduous. Sugar Snap endured a 20-day hospitalization, battling sepsis and requiring multiple blood transfusions, plasma transfusions, and feeding tubes. OTAT launched a fundraising campaign to cover the exorbitant medical costs, which ultimately exceeded $40,000.
The poor dog and fight for survival
A puzzle piece falls into place
A crucial breakthrough came in the form of an Embark Dog DNA test. By understanding Sugar Snap’s breed composition, veterinarians could determine his ideal weight, which was instrumental in his recovery. The test revealed that Sugar Snap was likely around a year old, a significant piece of information that helped guide his treatment plan.
A puzzle piece falls into place
From patient to foster child
As Sugar Snap’s health improved, he was moved to a foster home, and fate intervened. Becky Ritchie, the veterinarian who had tirelessly cared for him, found herself falling deeply in love with the resilient pup. Despite initial reservations about fostering, she decided to take the leap.
From patient to foster child
A happy ending for Sugar Snap
Under Ritchie’s loving care, Sugar Snap thrived. He gained weight, regained his strength, and blossomed into a playful and affectionate companion. The once frail puppy transformed into a happy and healthy dog, bringing joy to everyone around him. Sugar Snap’s remarkable journey from near-death to a loving home is a testament to the power of human compassion and the unwavering dedication of animal rescuers.
A happy ending for Sugar Snap
While Sugar Snap’s future is bright, the mystery surrounding his past remains unsolved. How a dog with a good appetite could become so severely malnourished is a question that lingers. Despite the uncertainty, one thing is clear: Sugar Snap is now safe, loved, and thriving. His story is a heartwarming reminder of the incredible resilience of the human-animal bond.