Springfield rescue looking for beagle bucks

An 8-year-old beagle was rescued from a garbage dump and the Springfield Humane Society is looking for help in caring for the dog.

http://www.rutlandherald.com/article/20110311/NEWS02/703119877

Published March 11, 2011 in the Rutland Herald

Springfield rescue looking for beagle bucks

By Christian Avard
Staff Writer

SPRINGFIELD — An 8-year-old beagle was rescued from a garbage dump and the Springfield Humane Society is looking for help in caring for the dog.

SHS executive director Tom Browe said staff took in a weary-looking beagle that was found at a Londonderry garbage dump recently. The dog was left abandoned with his dog bed and it was presumed that the dog had been wandering at the garbage dump for a couple of days, according to Browe. SHS staff renamed the dog “Fergus.”

Browe said Fergus had serious dental problems at the time he was rescued. Fergus had six teeth removed and is now on antibiotics to prevent further infection.

“If he was left unattended much longer, it would cause him more than just pain. Dental problems allowed to continue unabated will cause damage to various internal organs from heart to kidneys. Ultimately this can shorten an animal's life,” said Browe.

Fergus's condition has improved vastly since he was rescued but the SHS needs help paying the bills. Beyond the cost of the dental work, Browe said that Fergus is a cryptorchid, meaning one of his testicles had not dropped. The SHS's veterinarian was required to perform necessary surgery to save the dog's health. Fergus is now recuperating at the SHS shelter.

“He's doing wonderful,” Browe said. “He's happy and able to eat fine. He's affectionate, loves attention and is very bright and upbeat now.”

Funds used to pay for Fergus' medical work came from the SHS's Princess Fund, a medical fund established to help pay for unusual medical expenses. Browe said Fergus' bills have almost depleted the fund and the SHS needs donations in order to help more animals in need of immediate medical assistance.

“We need help so that we can be here when another Fergus comes to us in need of extra help to stay alive and well,” Browe said.

Fergus is available for adoption and requires no special care. Amidst all of the animals the Springfield Human Society rescues annually, Fergus's situation was a rare case, according to Browe. If people are interested in adopting a pet, Browe said potential owners must realize the long-term commitment in caring for it.

“The way in which (Fergus) was abandoned by his previous owner is despicable,” Browe said. “The dog gave him 10 years of service. We ask that people don't take on responsibilities unless they know what they're getting into. If you take a pet in, it's for the life of the animal.”

If interested in adopting Fergus call the SHS at 885-3997 or e-mail spfldhumane@vermontel.net. To make a donation to the Princess Fund, send a check or money order to the Springfield Humane Society, 401 Skitchewaug Trail, Springfield, VT 05156.