Seamus’s journey to recovery is far from over, but thanks to the unwavering care of his foster mom, Deana—who was one of the first to meet him when he arrived at our Pet Health Centers—he’s making incredible strides. As a skilled veterinary technician, Deana knew he would need round-the-clock care to regain his strength, and she made the heartfelt decision to foster him, ensuring he had the best chance at healing in a loving home.
With the support of our Help Me Heal Program, this resilient young pup has started to regain the weight and muscle he lost to severe neglect. Though he still has a long road ahead, Seamus is thriving in his foster home, where he enjoys snuggles with Deana and being part of the pack alongside her other dogs. With each meal, each step, and each wag of his tail, Seamus moves closer to the happy, healthy life he deserves.
You can also read more about Seamus’ inspiring story this month on People.com.
Left to Die, Fighting to Live: Help Seamus Heal
Seamus was on the brink of death when he was discovered in a Manhattan apartment building; abandoned without access to food or water. Our shelter partner, Animal Care Centers of NYC, contacted us and we quickly transported the young black Lab mix to our Pet Health Centers at North Shore Animal League America. His body tells a heartbreaking story of suffering and neglect. Every rib and bone visible, Seamus had wasted away to nothing, and was too weak to stand, though his tail still wagged in response to his rescuers.
Dr. Gerard Laheney, Animal League America Senior Veterinarian, described the dire state Seamus was in upon arrival: “I’ve been here 21 years, and this is the worst case of starvation I’ve seen. We thought his condition might have been caused by an underlying illness, but no — it’s entirely from human neglect. He was simply left to die.”
Seamus’s examination revealed the devastating impact on his body — severe anemia, dangerously low electrolytes, and muscle atrophy. His teeth are in terrible shape from prolonged dehydration. His body is riddled with sores on one side, from lying in one position, too weak to move. Yet, despite it all, Seamus greets every visitor with curiosity and gentle licks. His spirit remains unbroken.
Seamus still has a long road ahead, but there is hope. In just a few days with us, he’s already gaining weight and regaining his strength. His eyes are brighter. His tail wags excitedly. And when we offer him toys, he tries to play — though he often collapses from exhaustion. We will be giving Seamus careful, round-the-clock monitoring, a specialized diet to rebuild his strength, and treatment for his sores and anemia. We know he can make a full recovery — with your help.
Your gift to our Help Me Heal Program will provide the lifesaving care Seamus needs to continue his journey from a skeleton of neglect to a healthy, happy dog. He was left to die, but thanks to compassionate supporters like you, he now has a second chance for the loving home he deserves.
Please help Seamus heal. Donate today.