Dog Days are really the pits

   Heat. Humidity. Bugs. And that’s how it is for us humans. Dog Days are even worse if you’re actually a dog.

   “This is our busiest time of year,” said Dr. West Hamryka, DVM, owner of the Sugar Hill Animal Hospital. “We’re just overwhelmed with dogs suffering with fleas, heartworm and allergies.” 

   To add to the overload of sick puppies, Dog Days brought a really sad challenge to the Sugar Hill facility.

   After several reports about an abused dog, Gwinnett Animal Control finally rescued the poor creature and brought him to SHAH.

   “The people from Animal Control were real heroes for stepping up for this dog and saving him. It’s nice seeing our Gwinnett tax dollars at work helping those who can’t help themselves,” said Dr. Hamryka.

   “It was the worst case of abuse we’ve ever seen,” said Rita Kuhn, Head Veterinary Technician. “He suffered from flea allergies, malnutrition and heartworm. His whole body was covered in scabs and he had chewed his skin raw. He hardly had any hair.”

   The dog, now named Kody, is also missing his front teeth.

   “We don’t know for sure how that happened, but when dogs are chained and penned, they will chew and pull their teeth out trying to get away,” said Dr. Hamryka.

   Even with success in getting Kody back into physical shape, this could have continued to be a sad story if he wasn’t mentally fit to be adopted.

   “Most dogs in his situation are not social, but the remarkable thing about Kody is that from the very beginning he held no grudges against humans. He just loves everybody.” said Kuhn.

   Because of Kody’s spunk and spirit, a SHAH client, known as one of SHAH’s angels, paid most of his medical bills, which were quite a burden to the practice.

   “He’s just so lovable. There’s a reason everyone said, ‘Let’s save this dog.’” said Dr. Hamryka.

   Kody’s hair is growing back, he’s gained 10 pounds and I know from experience he gives nice big kisses. 

   “He’s ready for a new family, “said Dr. Hamryka. “He still needs heart worm treatment, which would be an expense for the new owner, but at his age, full recovery is expected. He would do well with children or a single adult. He’d work anywhere where people loved him.”

   If you’d like to create a happy ending to this story, call 770-271-7777. And just think, while others may complain about this time of year, you’ll always have a wonderful memory of Dog Days.

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