Warning: Graphic content
GEORGE NEWS - Discarded like trash in an open field in the scorching Oudtshoorn heat. That's where Tyson the pit bull terrier was found by Oudtshoorn Dogs in Need (Odin) on a Saturday in late September.
Odin is an animal welfare organisation with kennels in George and Oudtshoorn.
Like all rescues, Tyson has had a miserable life and it's safe to assume that this beautiful boy was used in the atrocious act of dog fighting where he would have had to fight for his life.
According to Odin's Colleen Smith, they suspect that Tyson was viciously torn apart by another pit bull during a fight. Having lost the fight that his owner probably bet money on, Tyson was rendered useless and thrown away to die an excruciating death.
For owners like these, veterinary care is not an option as firstly it will be expensive, and secondly, there will be too many questions asked.
"He must've been lying there for days, because by the time we found him, maggots had started eating at him where his leg was mauled and a 20cm piece of broken bone pierced through his skin," says Smith.
Tyson was rushed to the Cango Animal Clinic where he was stabilised and his back leg amputated.
A couple of days later he was brought to Eden Small Animal Hospital in George where he received a blood transfusion. For the first time, he could open his eyes and eat a small helping of raw mince. His temperature dropped and he started looking better.
But, Tyson is not out of the woods yet. Dr Emelia Crause diagnosed tick bite fever and to add insult to injury, he had to undergo another operation to have the necrotic flesh and the remainder of the bone in his leg removed.
"It has been a nerve-wracking rollercoaster ride and we can't believe how everyone is fighting for this boy's life," says Smith. "Our hearts go out to Dr Emelia who had to counter each dip in Tyson's path to recovery with another master plan. She has been amazing. The practice has been amazing."
Tyson had another blood transfusion on Tuesday 15 October, but he is on the mend. Odin is looking for a foster home where he can recuperate in a peaceful environment. Donations towards his veterinary bill and high-protein food like raw mince, organ meat and chicken will also be greatly appreciated.
To donate towards Tyson, please contact Odin on 072 084 1374.
One of Tyson's back legs had to be amputated. Photo: Jeff Ayliffe
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