From Broken Bones to Brighter Days

Just days ago, Stewie was on the euthanasia list at California's overcrowded Devore County Animal Shelter. At only two years old, this tiny pup was facing euthanasia while suffering in silence with a devastating broken leg and hip pain.

When Bichon Rescue Brigade learned about Stewie, they knew they couldn't let his story end behind shelter walls. His life had been spared but his battle was only beginning.

Veterinarians discovered Stewie had a severely displaced fracture of his left femur. During surgery, they made another heartbreaking discovery: the injury was older than anyone realized. Scar tissue and granulation had already formed around the broken bone, meaning Stewie had likely been living in excruciating pain for much longer than anyone knew. The rescue was given a choice - pay less for a complete leg amputation or pay more to save the leg.

To give him the best chance at a pain-free future, BRB opted to save his leg and surgeons performed an extensive orthopedic procedure. They cleaned away damaged tissue, repaired the fracture with a specialized locking bone plate, and performed a femoral head ostectomy (FHO) to restore his mobility. Thanks to his veterinary team, the surgery was a success and Stewie is now on the long road to recovery.

For the next two months, Stewie must remain on strict crate rest with no running, jumping, long walks, or rough play while his body heals. He will need ongoing pain medication, follow-up appointments, X-rays, and careful rehabilitation to ensure his leg heals properly.

Bichon Rescue Brigade gave Stewie the chance to leave the euthanasia list behind and begin a new life filled with hope instead of pain. Now they need our help to give him every opportunity to fully recover.

The rescue fought to save his leg even though that meant a much larger bill. Your donation will go directly toward Stewie's surgeries, ongoing treatment, rehabilitation, and recovery. Every gift, no matter the size, helps ensure this sweet little survivor can heal, find a loving home, and finally experience the carefree life every dog deserves.