2022-07-27

Saving Roadrunner

SHAID Tree Animal Shelter

Sunday, July 17, we had a concerned citizen call one of our staff to alert them of a small kitten sitting on the side of the road by itself.

They had seen it the day before, but figured its mother would return for it. Unfortunately, the mother never returned and the tiny kitten was still sitting in the exact same place. We asked the rescuer to bring in the kitten as soon as possible and she brought it in within the hour.

Volunteer shelter veterinarian Dr. Black came in to meet us and it was quickly determined the solid grey, six-week-old kitten was suffering from a broken leg, had a badly infected gash in her back and road rash on her chin. She was severely dehydrated and starving.

We got her stabilized, administered fluids and pain medication, and a small meal (which she devoured!) and started calling local vet clinics, as she needed X-rays and surgery.

Chester Basin Animal Hospital was able to take her in the next morning and start working on her right away. They expect her to remain in their care under observation for a few more days before she's out of the woods, but they, and we, are hoping for a full recovery for this little trooper.

We named her Roadrunner due to her solid grey colouring, where she was found sitting by the road and that Dr. Black had been on her way to buy an antique anvil from an estate sale when we called her in.

If you would like to donate directly to Roadrunner's surgery and rehabilitation, you can send an e-transfer to info@shaidanimalshelter.com, drop into the shelter Tuesday-Saturday between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m., or donate over the phone by calling 902-543-4849.

It is through our amazing community's ongoing support that we are able to help the little ones who can't help themselves. Thank you. And a special thank you to Dr. Lisa Welland and the wonderful staff at Chester Basin Animal Hospital, who have really helped our shelter navigate through several intricate and life-saving surgeries so far in 2022.

We are fundraising at the Big Ex this week, raffling off tickets for a baby barn donated by Buck's Home Building Centre with Country 100.7 fm broadcasting live daily – stop in and say hello! Tickets are only $2 each, or three for $5. We hope to see you there.