Oscar on the ‘road to recovery’ after ordeal

Oscar was discovered near Gilford, severely traumatised, anaemic and weak, with thousands of maggots coming from his ears and body, and suffering from up to 50 puncture wounds, last month.

However, having been treated at Iveagh Veterinary Practice, Oscar is now being cared for by staff at The Doghouse Sanctuary in Banbridge.

Gillian McFadden of The Doghouse Sanctuary says that just over three weeks later, Oscar is “on the mend.”

Gillian stated: “He’s eating much better, although he’s still underweight.

“He’s still on medication, he’s on antibiotics for his wounds and has his wounds dressed up to six times a day, because he has to have a cream applied to his wounds.

“He’s sleeping in the house and has been absolutely fantastic. Despite his injuries and the psychological trauma he’s suffered, he’s been wonderful. He’s mixing with the house dogs and there have been no problems.

“He has a decent temperament, although he can be very fearful of some adults. That’s understandable, given what he has been through.

“Oscar’s weight gain is slow, but steady. He is on a special diet due to the gastro problems he has because of the injuries to the lining of his stomach.”

Despite his good recovery, Oscar had to stay at the vets over the weekend of October 3 and 4, due to dehydration.

However, he’s now back at the Sanctuary and continuing his recovery.

“His rehabilitation is working really well,” said Gillian. “He doesn’t seem to have any fear of kids and other dogs aren’t an issue. Everything is on the right road for his recovery.”

Since the news of Oscar’s ordeal broke, the public have taken Oscar to their hearts, donating food, as well as money through the Sanctuary’s Just Giving page, which has seen almost £7,500 raised.

“The response has been phenomenal,” Gillian commented.

“People have been sending us gifts through our Amazon wishlist and we’ve had people dropping off bags of dog food and gifts.

“We’d just like to say a massive ‘thank you’ for the outpouring of support for the sanctuary.

“We are grateful for all the donations, we are just overwhelmed. We never thought we’d get support to this extent.

“Oscar’s plight has been highlighted at Stormont. We’ve had donations from America, Australia, the response has been global.

“We’d also like to thank Gap. They have come on board to sponsor the Sanctuary. Pets At Home are our sponsor for the year and now Gap have joined them in sponsoring us.

“Their store at the Outlet is taking in donations for Oscar and Friends at the Sanctuary, and then Gap Global USA will match whatever is raised.

“People have been fantastic,” Gillian concluded.

You can help with Oscar’s care via www.justgiving.com/Save-Oscar/