A dog who suffered devastating burns in a trailer fire just before Christmas has found a foster home.
The Richmond News reported last month how Isabelle the pit-bull was slowly fighting back to health after sustaining second-degree burns to most of her body in the fire in rural East Richmond on Dec. 20.
Under the care of the Richmond Animal Protection Society (RAPS), and with donations from the public helping to pay her expensive vet bills, seven-year-old Isabelle responded well to intensive care and round-the-clock specialist treatment.
And last week, RAPS managed to find a foster home for the reportedly “loveable” dog to continue her rehabilitation, which still includes a costly, strict medication and dietary regime to deal with ongoing health concerns and anxiety.
“She is getting better and is quite energetic,” said Eyal Lichtmann, RAPS’ CEO.
“She’s got certain skin conditions that require very specific treatment and part of her eyes have been burned away and there are still lots of scarring issues; so she’s still got a way to go.
“She’s still on pain medication and on a special diet for burn victims.”
Isabelle, said Lichtmann, had part of her tail amputated due to ongoing infection and is still very susceptible to more infection.
Lichtmann said the running total to treat and rehabilitate Isabelle is in the “tens of thousands of dollars; I’m not sure exactly right now.”
After the fire, the care of Isabelle was handed over to RAPS by her owner, who was rendered homeless from the blaze; which still appears to be the case, according to RAPS.
“The owner gave us permission to have her as long as she needs medical care,” said Lichtmann.
“She still very much needs a controlled environment for her continued care, which includes regular doses of medication, various ointments and a strict food regimen. She is a very high-maintenance dog right now.”
A detailed update on RAPS’ website described how Isabelle may not regain normal sensations to the affected areas of her body.
“(This) could contribute to trauma and injury from cold and heat in an uncontrolled external environment or may have long-term issues with itch or pain. She therefore must not be exposed to the elements and requires indoor accommodation,” the update stated.
“Isabelle’s eyes will need ongoing treatment for ulcers and edema. These factors have negatively impacted Isabelle’s vision but she is still can still see and we are hoping for the best.
“Isabelle has been vaccinated and boosted by RAPS to help prevent her body from contracting contagious diseases. This is important as her body is stressed and so more susceptible to contagious illness.
“Isabelle is a trooper. She is a very loving and good-natured dog. She has the potential to live a long and healthy life once she recovers from her injuries.”
If you can help RAPS and Isabelle, go online to RapsBC.Com, call 604-275-2036 or email [email protected].
