The German Shepherd puppy shown being thrown in a video that circulated on social media is showing signs of improvement and is not paralyzed, as once suspected.
The Manitoba Underdogs Rescue said Asha has improved since arriving at the Pembina Veterinary Hospital early Thursday morning.
The group initially said Wednesday, after Asha was found and taken to the group, the pup could be paralyzed as she was unable to walk. However, MUR is now hopeful Asha’s spine wasn’t severely damaged.
“Even though her back legs weren't moving, she could wiggle her tail. She decided to surprise and delight us all by standing, which means that the damage to her spine is probably minimal,” the group’s media relations lead Lindsay Gillanders said in an email.
The group does suspect Asha has a pelvic fracture, and said she isn’t able to put weight on her right front paw. The group said a full diagnosis will be done Thursday after Asha is X-rayed.
She is now being treated at the Dakota Veterinary Hospital, where her veterinarian Dr. Corey Bartley said that her X-rays did not reveal any fractures, or broken bones.
She said Asha can walk, but is in a lot of pain and prefers to lie down. Her front right leg and left hind leg are bothering her the most.
According to Bartley, she suffered soft tissue damage and bruising from the over extension of her body when she was thrown and from the impact when she hit the ground.
She is receiving pain medication to make her comfortable and will get regular check-ups, Bartley explained.
The hosipital said Asha's care will cost around $2,000.
Despite the pain, staff said Asha’s spirits are good, as she enjoys lots of yummy treats and warm snuggles.
Asha will be going to her foster home on Thursday.
Police began investigating Tuesday after a video was posted online showing a man throwing a German Shepherd puppy in the air and letting it hit the ground.
An 18-year-old man has been arrested by RCMP in connection with an animal cruelty investigation after a video of a puppy being thrown circulated on social media.
According to RCMP, officers arrested the man on Wednesday in Easterville, where the incident took place.
No charges have been laid.
Gillanders said donations are rolling in as news of Asha’s condition spread.
After Asha fully recovers, the Rescue group says she can be adopted.
“We are already stretched thin with vet bills left from a few sick puppies in the spring, and Asha is going to be a huge drain on our finances,” Gillanders said.
Information on how to donate to MUR can be found here.
Requests have also come in to adopt Asha, but Gillanders said she won’t be healthy enough for a few months.
With files from Jon Hendricks.
