‘Unbreakable spirit’: North Texas dog gets second chance at life after being shot in face
A 2-year-old North Texas dog has been given a second chance at life after being shot in the face.
Twiggy arrived at the Humane Society of North Texas in Fort Worth on Nov. 4 in “heartbreaking” condition, HSNT staff said in a Tuesday, Dec. 17, news release. She was emaciated, battling heartworm and whipworm, and covered with parasites and fleas.
Humane Society spokesperson Cassie Davidson told the Star-Telegram that Twiggy was one of around 10 animals removed from a Cooke County property by the Sheriff’s Office. She was “unbelievably sick,” Davidson said. In addition to the parasites and worms, the dog was battling a severe upper respiratory infection.
Even though the shelter’s medical staff noticed a swelling under Twiggy’s jaw, they had to wait until the infection cleared up to sedate her so they could investigate further. She was placed on antibiotics and by Dec. 11 had recovered enough to undergo sedation.
X-rays showed a bullet and a tooth fragment lodged in Twiggy’s jaw, showing she had been shot in the face. She had been in pain and suffering for weeks, possibly months, according to the release.
The bullet and tooth fragment were surgically removed Dec. 12, and Twiggy is recovering. Davidson said they believe from the bullet’s trajectory that Twiggy was shot from about 5 feet away. What’s still unknown is who shot her and why.
“Throughout her recovery, Twiggy has shown nothing but love and gratitude,” HSNT staff said in the release. “Despite the trauma she’s endured, she remains gentle, sweet, and trusting — a testament to her unbreakable spirit.”
Shelter staff think Twiggy may be ready for adoption by Christmas Eve, Davidson said. They are hoping for “a little Christmas miracle” that will allow her to quickly find a new home.
The shelter’s intervention allowed Twiggy to survive, according to the release, and she’s “waiting to bring love and joy to a family who will cherish her as she deserves.”
Twiggy’s information will be posted on the Humane Society of North Texas website when she becomes available for adoption, Davidson said. Anyone interested in adopting Twiggy or another one of the shelter’s hundreds of animals should check the website.
This story was originally published December 18, 2024 at 11:25 AM.
