Chloe, a nine-year-old Shih Tzu, is one of two dogs rescued by the San Diego Humane Law Enforcement officers from an abusive home in Mira Mesa, California. Her previous owners bound her back paws in bandages to prevent her from scratching. However, the bindings were so tight that they cut off the blood flow.
To prevent further complications caused by the bandages, the San Diego Humane Society decided to have Chloe’s injured feet amputated. The organization made sure to be with the pup every step of the way, from changing her bandages to assisting her during physical therapy sessions.
Chloe learned to walk using a sling and a wheelchair and eventually was outfitted with prosthetics. She received orthopedic slippers for her back legs. Veterinarian Susan Garity said she is grateful that the dog has the whole organization’s support and that they are determined to give her another shot at normalcy.
Thanks to a great support system, Chloe mastered the use of her new prosthetics and eventually found her forever home. The pup was adopted by Chappie Hunter, a detective from the San Diego Police Department who is particularly attuned to Chloe’s needs. In 2013, after recovering from a crash, Hunter had to return to work with a prosthetic leg.
Hunter and his family initially fostered Chloe to help her acclimate to her prosthetics. Having grown fond of her during her three-month recovery period, they decided to make the adoption official.
The San Diego Humane Society’s Humane Law Enforcement Team investigated the case involving Chloe’s injuries. Recommendations were also forwarded to the Office of the City Attorney. Representatives of the organization said that anyone looking for help in taking care of their pets should contact them. They are an open-admission rescue, so they will never turn away any pet in need.
Credit: San Diego Humane Society
