A puppy has made a remarkable recovery after a playtime accident with a larger dog left him with devastating facial and shoulder injuries.
The young pup named Maverick was taken to SPCA after his family realised they couldn’t afford the emergency surgery needed to save his life. His face had been torn open and he suffered a deep bite wound on his shoulder which threatened his survival.
SPCA chief executive Todd Westwood said the family made the "heart-breaking decision" to surrender Maverick so he could get urgent care.
"Maverick’s family loved him, but they couldn’t afford the urgent vet care he needed."
Veterinarians at SPCA operated immediately, stitching his wounds and stabilising his condition.
Maverick spent a month recovering at the SPCA Centre, where staff and volunteers took turns giving him cuddles and enrichment, including rides in a puppy pram so he could enjoy fresh air and sunshine.
The accident left Maverick with what staff affectionately called a "snaggle lip", but he was otherwise thriving. He had been adopted into a new home, the SPCA said.
Westwood said the SPCA were "so grateful" for the generous support from New Zealanders.
"Making a donation this Christmas, no matter how big or small, will help more animals like Maverick receive life-saving care and find safe, loving homes."
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