Owner wanted ‘gentle soul’ dog put down — but Brutus’ story isn’t over in PA shelter
Australian cattle dogs are usually brimming with energy, seemingly ready to take on all the fun that can be thrown at them without tiring out. But one specific cattle pup in Philadelphia proved to be a different — and more depressing — story.
Pennsylvania SPCA Animal Law Enforcement came upon the soulful-eyed Brutus when he seemed to be ready to cross the rainbow bridge, at least according to his owner, the shelter said on social media.
“When our Animal Law Enforcement officers arrived on the scene, Brutus’ former owner said that he should be put down,” staff said in an Oct. 4 Facebook post.
“He had white gums and was covered in fleas. His frail legs could barely keep him standing. His little body was failing.”
Brutus was taken in by the shelter, and they were determined to do everything they could to save the pup.
“Brutus was immediately transferred to our shelter hospital where his lifesaving treatment began. He was very underweight, dehydrated, and suffering from untreated Lyme disease. He was severely anemic and needed an urgent blood transfusion,” the post continued.
And, amazingly, the treatments appeared to be working.
“Slowly but surely, Brutus’ weary body began to come back to life, and with it, his spirit. With each passing hour, a light began to shine in his eyes again - and so did hope,” the shelter said. “But his journey is not over yet.
“This gentle soul will remain in our hospital and receive ongoing medical care until cleared by our medical team, but with hope lies possibilities. And the possibility of a new life is right in front of him.”
Brutus appears to be on his way to healed, and the shelter posted a picture of Brutus on a leash.
For more information on Brutus or other adoptable pets, visit the shelter’s website.
This story was originally published October 7, 2024 at 11:58 AM with the headline "Owner wanted ‘gentle soul’ dog put down — but Brutus’ story isn’t over in PA shelter."