Carriba the Sheltie
by Southern Ontario Sheltie rescue

Cariba is 8 years old and came into the care of Southern Ontario Sheltie Rescue in early March because she had a “poopy bum” and was so overweight that she couldn’t go up one step. When we received her she had so much feces stuck to her behind that it took 45 minutes of soaking her rear, and clipping, and pulling off chunks with gloves to get most of it off. She weighed in at 42 pounds, when she should be around 20, and could not stand long enough to complete a bowel movement, so sat in it every time.

Upon examination it was discovered that she had a torn cruciate ligament in her left hind leg, causing her pain and hampering her ability to stand and walk, probably due to her excessive weight, and bloodwork showed possible Cushings. She was put on a strict diet, and was submitted to much more bloodwork. Happily the Cushings was ruled out, so Cariba just had surgery today, and is resting comfortably.

We are looking at getting her fitted for a brace, at a potential cost of $400, so she doesn’t injure her other knee during her minimum 12 weeks recovery period. The proceeds from the Rescue Me Wallkthon will be going directly to her vet care, which will amount to over $2500. This dear, dear girl is so sweet and quiet, and in 6 weeks has lost 6 pounds. She looks up at you helplessly with her brown eyes and you just melt. Anyone who meets her would agree that she is worth every cent that is put into her. She will be available for adoption once her recovery is well underway.