When an RSPCA NSW Inspector arrived at the scene of a cruelty complaint in the Illawarra region earlier this year, they saw something that’s hard to forget.
A small white Pomeranian dog was seen wandering under the carport of a property. Covered in dirt and fleas, she appeared underweight and had a pus discharge coming from her mouth.
The dog was immediately seized by the Inspector and taken to the RSPCA NSW Sydney Veterinary Hospital for examination where the extent of her health concerns became even more apparent.
It didn’t take long to discover that the pus was the result of the most severe grade of periodontal disease which had resulted in the discharge, mouth ulcers and restricted jaw movement.
A dental procedure involving the removal of 31 teeth was required with her other 11 teeth already found to be missing.
“In all my years as an Inspector, I’ve rarely seen such a bad case of dental disease – it was a truly shocking sight,” said an Inspector involved in the matter.
“The animal clearly would have been suffering as a result for some time, and it is so important pet owners always seek veterinary treatment when required.”
When periodontal disease is this severe, sometimes the only thing to do is remove the teeth.
Renamed Buttercup, the resilient Pomeranian quickly adapted to life without her teeth and was able to put on weight in the care of RSPCA NSW as she recovered from other health issues including eye and knee conditions.
After an extended stay in care, Buttercup was made available for adoption and at the ripe old age of 14 she needed a special kind of forever home.
That’s where Paws for Thought Rescue (PFT) stepped in to adopt Buttercup and give her all the love and care she could wish for.
“Little Miss Buttercup was carefully placed in our care to become a permanent member of our Sanctuary Dog Program,” Mrs PFT said, who adopts senior dogs with high needs as part of the program.
“Due to multiple significant health issues, we have been able to address each one with specialist support – so that her golden years are one of good health and happiness.
“The day she arrived she slotted into our home and life perfectly. Little Miss Buttercup is such a kind, sweet, gentle little dog, that we feel so privileged to have her in our lives.
“She recently enjoyed a 10-day trip around the Sapphire Coast – visiting breweries, lunching at cafes, shopping at local markets and whale watching.
Buttercup is loving her new life with Paws for Thought Rescue!
“Who would have thought this delicate sweet geriatric girl would in fact be a keen bush basher! She is loved immensely, and we are grateful to be working closely with RSPCA NSW – together saving and changing the lives of one little geriatric dog at a time.
“Although Buttercup’s past wasn’t so fortunate, the working relationship between RSPCA NSW and rescue organisations such as Paws for Thought has meant that this little dog has been given the happy ending she always deserved.”
GRAPHIC IMAGES WARNING. Images are available for download here.
