THE community has rallied round and raised hundreds of pounds to help a collie puppy who is in danger of losing his leg.
Merlin, the 13-week-old collie puppy has a deformity with his paw and it was feared he would lose his paw as it would cause him problems as he got older.
Merlin was in the care of the Husky Salvation animal shelter in Irvinestown and staff at the shelter put out a fund-raising appeal to get Merlin an operation costing around £250-£300.
Dozens of people wanted to help Merlin, and the shelter received a massive response to the appeal, and have raised almost £700, and specialists are now working to save Merlin’s leg.
Taking to Facebook to thank the community for their support, a spokeswoman for the Husky Salvation said, “We have received so many messages about saving this wee man’s leg. He will still need a few operations.
“Two of his wee toes will come off as they aren’t doing anything for him and he will need to get another operation to fuse his paw to his wrist. A big huge thank you to everyone that has donated, we have raised £695.95 and this will go on our little Merlin for operations.
“This couldn’t happen with out each and one of you.”
Merlin has since been fostered by Claire Sharkey Paddling Pups who is getting some hydrotherapy treatment in the underwater treadmill.
The spokeswoman continued, “Merlin will also be getting physiotherapy for strengthening the ligament in his wrist. He will also be fitted for a splint to support the joint with the aim of improving the chances of keeping his leg.”
For more information on the Husky Salvation or to rehome one of their dogs, visit Husky Salvation on Facebook.
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