Surgery will Give Stray Border Collie a Second Chance

On May 6, 2005, Shep, a 4-year-old border collie mix, arrived at the Greater West Metro Humane Society (GWMHS) in Buffalo, Minn., with a dirty, matted coat, a heavy infestation of ticks, and buckshot in his head and body. He also had a cleft palate, a condition that allows food to enter his sinus cavity, resulting in chronic upper respiratory infections and bronchitis.

Staff at the GWMHS contacted the University of Minnesota Veterinary Medical Center, where Shep was evaluated by Dr. Roberto Novo, head of the Small Animal Surgery Division. Surgery to correct Shep’s cleft palate was scheduled, after which Shep will be available for adoption through the GWMHS Web site.

The GWMHS has established a program to raise funds to help cover the cost of Shep’s surgery and contribute to Companion Animal Special Needs Fund at the University of Minnesota College of Veterinary Medicine. Donations can be made online at www.gwmhs.org or mailed to Greater West Metro Humane Society, 4375 Highway 55 SE, Buffalo, MN 55313. Inquiries should be directed to Sandy Mack, GWMHS board member, at 763-390-3647.

See the Greater West Metro Humane Society news release about Shep.