Scott Steepleton
August 10, 2010 11:52 AM
Animal Rescue Team Inc. is seeking a temporary home for a rescued female Belgian Malinois that was brought to the nonprofit group’s facility for critical care and rehabilitation. The dog was found on a large parcel in Woodstock in Santa Ynez, crawling, and dragging its back legs.
“Because she was so weak, wobbly and skinny, the kind couple who found her immediately brought the dog to a vet in Santa Ynez,” said Julia Di Sieno, ART’s executive director. “Blood work and other tests revealed and diagnosed the dog with megaesophagus and extreme starvation. She also needs to be tested for myasthenia gravis.”
A shock collar found on the dog was removed, said Ms. Di Sieno, adding, “It has also been determined that her esophagus has so much scar tissue, from being shocked repeatedly, she lost her ability to bark, as well as swallow.”
“She is very sensitive around her throat, and cannot be touched in the immediate area,” said Ms. Di Sieno. “Ali is so weak she cannot hold her head over her food dish. She requires four-five small feedings daily, with her bowl held for her. It’s one of the saddest neglect cases I have ever seen. And I have seen it all!”
The dog is about two years old, is in heat and responds to the name Ali.
Once the dog is deemed healthy, it will be spayed, vaccinated and placed into a forever loving home, said Ms. Di Sieno.
To help out with Ali, or to make a donation for the care of this dog or other ART animals, contact Ms. Di Sieno at 896-1859.
You can also go to ART’s website, http://animalrescueteam.net.
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