SPCA asking for help caring for dog found with embedded collar

The BC SPCA is asking for help giving Rusty, a dog found with a deeply embedded collar, the care he needs.

Rusty was brought to the BC SPCA’s East Kootenay Branch in Cranbrook on March 10, where he was rushed for surgery to remove the embedded chain, but his recovery will likely take another two months.

The SPCA had asked the public for help identifying the dog's owner so they could proceed with an animal cruelty investigation, which is ongoing. The BC SPCA says that they have found the owner of the dog, but their identity is not being released to the public yet.

“This poor boy has been through so much pain and suffering,” says King. “We want to him to have a bright, healthy future so that he can eventually be adopted into the loving home he deserves.”

Despite this harsh life, the SPCA staff say Rusty is friendly, however, it will take time for him to trust again and he will need lots of love, patience, and support to fully heal.

“The necrotic tissues from his neck has been removed and we are providing him with lots of love and attention but he will continue to need ongoing medical treatment as he heals,” says Christy King, manager of the East Kootenay SPCA.

The cost of Rusty’s care is expected to cost $2,400. An online donation site has been started for Rusty here.