Each one comes with a story -- their own unique tale of how such a cute critter could be homeless. But when Ben goes up for adoption, he'll have a story to top them all.
Last week, a very kind woman, Maria, called For the Love of Dogs, a non-profit shelter for rescued dogs in Wilson, to report that she had found a severely injured Terrier mixed-breed dog in her back yard.
She told Della and Max Fitz-Gerald, co-founders of For the Love of Dogs, that the dog had crawled into her yard. She picked him up and carried him into her home. She realized his injuries where severe, so she started calling around to see if anyone knew who the dog belonged to.
Getting no answers, she turned to For the Love of Dogs.
Della Fitz-Gerald said she and Max frequently rescue dogs with broken legs. A moving vehicle is no match for any dog. But what Della and Max saw when they met Ben was no ordinary injury. They rushed the little fellow to Wilson Veterinary Hospital. It was actually in the waiting room that Ben got his name. They had to check him in under a name, Della said. Maria decided he looked like a "Ben" to her.
Ben had X-rays done and was examined by the vet. He had multiple breaks on both sides of his pelvis. One of his legs was broken and he suffered several deep cuts, bruises and burns. Della Fitz-Gerald believes the dog was hit by a car and dragged.
Due to the complicated breaks, Ben needed to see a specialist. The Fitz-Geralds took Ben to Dr. Jack Gallagher of Veterinary Surgical Referral Practice in Cary.
Ben underwent a double orthopedic procedure. The first procedure on June 23 and the second on June 27. Ben did well through both surgeries and was able to go home with the Fitz-Geralds on Monday.
One lingering issue is the bill. Ben's surgery was $4,000.
"We are so glad to say that Ben is doing well and is worth every penny spent," Della Fitz-Gerald said.
But it would be awfully nice to have a little help paying for the little survivor's medical care. All donations to Ben are tax deductible and any help is appreciated. The Fitz-Geralds welcome any calls to talk further about Ben. The number to For the Love of Dogs is 243-7450. Ben will not be able to be adopted for at least two or three more months. It will take that long for his injuries to heal.
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