Stellar

18-month-old male German Shepherd was picked up as a stray with suspected abuse resulting in deep lacerations and a hip fracture. With no chip, no one claiming him, and no medical or funding help, the overcrowded shelter would have had to euthanize this severely-wounded young dog.

Rescuers reached out to TAF in a desperate plea to save this young Shepherd’s life, and a whole village of caring people pulled together immediately to save him from sure death.
From Michelle, who lovingly held him until transport could be arranged, to Randy, who stepped up to get him to Dogwood Veterinary Clinic , to the incredible Dogwood staff who worked him in for emergency evaluation so that his journey toward a healthier life could begin—this beautiful animal we named Stellar (of and related to the stars) was surrounded by compassion every step of the way.

Radiographs revealed right hip subluxation and a fracture on the head of his femur that can be treated effectively with a Femoral Head Ostomy (FHO). An FHO is a surgical procedure that aims to restore mobility to a diseased or damaged hip by removing the head and neck of the femur. FHO surgeries performed on young, otherwise healthy dogs provide patients with a chance for pain-free mobility.

The deep lacerations and wounds exposing delicate blood vessels were Dr. Chris’ primary immediate concern, so this morning, Stellar underwent wound debridement and received bilateral positive suction drains to help address his subcutaneous emphysema. Dr. Chris also noted lymphatic edema in his right leg.

We know Stellar’s road to recovery will be long, but we are honored to walk this journey to health and happiness with him.