Another of the 16 rescued puppies found in an abandoned horsebox in Ballydavid, Athenry has died, according to dog rescue charity MADRA.
The puppy, named Bruce, passed away this morning.
There are still seven puppies fighting for survival after the co-ordinated rescue by Galway County Council’s dog control and veterinary services and Gardaí on Tuesday last, July 17th.
Five of the remaining seven – Batman, Kara, Loki, Clark and Diana – are in isolation at the Camus-based kennels, while two are under veterinary care – Ivy in ARK Veterinary Clinic, and Logan in Moycullen Veterinary Clinic.
“Bruce was really strong in the beginning and we were very hopeful that he would survive,” explained MADRA’s Animal Welfare Officer, Stephanie Costello.
“The remaining puppies are not out of the woods. Our fear is that they have all come into contact with the Parvo virus before they arrived at the shelter. Those that are not with a veterinary clinic are in isolation at the kennels. We are very grateful to ARK and Moycullen vets for the advice and support they have given to us at this very difficult time.”
The mix of harrier hounds, boxers and spaniel cross puppies, aged between eight and 12 weeks, were found suffering from severe dehydration and malnutrition.
In the aftermath, MADRA are appealing to anyone considering buying a puppy to adopt from a local rescue shelter in the first instance, and to visit the Irish Pet Advertising Advisory Group website – IPAAGie – for information.
“We are fighting to save the surviving puppies who are in a serious condition,” explains MADRA General Manager, Jonathan Kent.
“It is not possible to switch off the emotional impact of a rescue situation like this, but it is incredible what they have achieved so far, and we will continue to work tirelessly until the remaining seven puppies are healthy.
“I don’t know how our kennel crew were able to get through it all over the last number of days. They stayed up late into the night to assess and care for the puppies when they first arrived.
“It is heart-breaking that 16 puppies were left without food and water and locked in a horse trailer. They were covered in fleas and lice, were not vaccinated, and had roundworm.
“I want to thank the outreach of support we have received so far from the public and from other rescue centres around the country.”
Anyone with information is asked to contact Loughrea Garda Station.
