Animals

Helping Chance

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The Viejas Band of Kumeyaay Indians announced Wednesday they are donating $2,500 to help cover emergency veterinary care for the dog found shot on their reservation last week.

An unknown person shot the retriever mix, believed to be about 18-months-old, and he was found bloodied, critically injured but conscious on Viejas Grade Road.

County Animal Services rushed him to the VCA emergency animal hospital in Mission Valley where it was discovered a bullet had torn through his torso and lungs. Animal Services tapped the all-donation “Spirit Fund” for his life-saving care. After four days on oxygen and an IV, he was released to Animal Services where medical staff members are monitoring his recovery.

The dog was named “Chance” by Animal Services in the hopes he would have a second chance at life.

“We thank Viejas for the generous donation towards Chance’s medical care. It will certainly help us get closer to paying his $8,000 veterinary bill,” said Animal Services Director Dawn Danielson. 

Anyone who wishes to donate to the Spirit fund can visit the Animal Services website.

Chance’s story prompted an outpouring of public interest and questions on when he’d be well enough for adoption. It will be another month to 60days before he’s ready for a ‘forever home’ but applications are being accepted now and can be downloaded here.

The search is still under way for the person who shot the dog. Crime Stoppers is offering a reward of up to $1,000 for information leading to an arrest. The organization, San Diego Animal Advocates, is offering an additional reward of up to $2,000 for information leading to the arrest and conviction of whoever is responsible.

If you have information on this crime, call San Diego County Animal Services at (619) 236-2341 or the Crime Stoppers anonymous tip line at 888-580-8477. Send anonymous email and text messages to www.sdcrimestoppers.com.