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The job of an RSPCA inspector cannot be an easy one. The
things that they must see and then have to conduct themselves
in a professional manner in order to achieve a successful
outcome must be difficult to say the least.
In my limited experience with patients brought to us by
the RSPCA the majority of cases are due to ignorance and
neglect.
"Jess" was such a patient. Barely recognisable
as a Cavalier King Charles Spaniel her coat was the worst
I have ever seen.
Heavy matts hung from her ears pulling her skin back from
her face. Underweight, undernourished and badly neglected
she still managed to wag her tail. It is hard not to be
moved by a breed of dog that retains such an optimistic
outlook despite its dire circumstances..........a lesson
indeed!
The inspector in charge was in fact so taken by Jess's
attitude that she decided to keep her for herself. I cautioned
her that some of Jess's problems may not ever be fully resolved.
Despite these reservations Jess's new owner set about the
task of improving Jess's lot. Coat and claw clipping, shampooing,
medication for her skin and her eyes were all started.
Several weeks into her recuperation it was discovered that
Jess was also suffering from a muscle disease, masticatory
myositis. This painful condition affects the muscles for
eating and can restrict the jaws from opening.
The pathologist who looked at Jess's muscle biopsy said
that it was the worst case she had ever seen. Again I had
to counsel Jess's new owner that her outlook could be poor.
Undaunted by this new hurdle Jess responded marvellously
to treatment and has become transformed. Six months after
her rescue Jess is leading the life she deserves largely
down to the efforts of her new owner who in turn was inspired
by Jess's wagging tail!
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