A crowdfunding campaign has been set up to help pay for three dogs' vet bills after they had a nasty run-in with a porcupine.
The three dogs – Mahola, Nestah and Soljah – all suffered from injuries after the encounter with a porcupine in the city of Saskatoon in central Saskatchewan, Canada. Mahola suffered the worst injuries, requiring extensive surgery to remove spikes from her heart and lungs.
The dog’s owner, Dennis, is a youth worker and owner of an organic farm. Heartbroken at the thought of losing his dogs, his friend Mike Gerrand set up a crowdfunding page to help foot the vet bills that totalled $8,000 (£4,000).
Within nine days, over $15,000 (£7,500) was raised – surpassing the initial $10,000 (£5,000) target.
Image credit: Mike Gerrand/GoFundMe
Image credit: Mike Gerrand/GoFundMe
The quills are believed to be from a North American porcupine, the second largest rodent in North America after the beaver. These spiny creatures are equipped with 30,000 sharp quills to defend themselves. However, unlike other spiked animals such as hedgehogs or even African porcupines, this species' spikes are covered in backward-facing barbs that make them much tougher to remove.
According to a recent update message by Gerrand on the site, the dogs are doing well and are recovering quickly, although further operations will be needed. He also wanted to thank everyone for their support and financial aid.
He said, “I struggle to find the right words so I'll start with a most sincere thank you. When I started this campaign I had hung up the phone with Dennis who was beyond lost in Saskatoon. He was in tears over the thought of losing his dog. I really wanted to help so I started this campaign. We never expected the support we have received.
“Again on behalf of Mahalo, Nestah, Soljah, Kari, Dennis and myself I sincerely and humbly thank you for your overwhelming kindness.”
Image credit: Mike Gerrand/GoFundMe
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