When Briton’s owner brought him to the vet, the twelve-year-old dog assumed it was just a regular check-up. Although he faced mobility and skin issues, he could never imagine the real reason behind the visit. To his shock, the owner informed the vet of their intention to euthanize him.
The veterinarian assessed Briton and concluded that there was still hope for the senior dog. They encouraged the owner to reconsider their decision.
Briton Gets A Second Chance
After learning about Briton’s situation, the staff at the Richmond SPCA spoke to the owner, emphasizing that euthanasia was not justifiable given his health condition. Consequently, the owner surrendered Briton to the shelter, granting him a new lease on life. Tabitha Treloar, the Richmond SPCA’s communication director, believed the family sought euthanasia not out of malice but from a lack of awareness of alternatives.
The Richmond SPCA team promptly took Briton under their care, aiming to improve his quality of life. They observed he frequently dragged the tops of his paws along the ground, so they conducted X-rays that revealed he had intervertebral disc disease and arthritis in his joints.
The Pup Gets All The Necessary Care
In addition to his mobility issues, Briton dealt with severe skin problems, including thickened skin, flea infestations, and hair loss. The Richmond SPCA vet team diligently treated his skin condition and removed masses, though they were uncertain if his fur would ever regenerate due to the long-standing nature of his ailments. The caregivers used topical treatments daily, helping him manage his condition while aiming for weight loss to enhance his mobility.
Thanks to the dedication of the team, Briton has shown significant improvement and is now lively and eager to soak up the affection from his human friends. The vet staff believes his previous hair loss was likely linked to an allergic reaction to fleas, which has now been controlled, resulting in healthier skin.
Currently, Briton is in foster care with Renai, a dedicated volunteer at the Richmond SPCA. While he enjoys the attention and cuddles from his foster mom, he dreams of having a permanent home. The shelter staff think a home without stairs would be optimal for him and suggest installing a ramp to help him transition easily in and out of vehicles. Everyone hopes this wonderful dog soon finds a loving owner who will cherish him and bring him happiness.
