Press Releases

January 2, 2007
For Immediate Release
Contact:  Angela Speed
Phone:  (414) 431-6104
E-mail:  aspeed@wihumane.org

Injured Puppy Awaits Orthopedic Surgery

MILWAUKEE – Brett Favre isn’t the only patient with an upcoming orthopedic surgery. Bella, an Italian Greyhound puppy at the Wisconsin Humane Society, is slated to have extensive surgery this week for a serious leg fracture. The specialized operation will include the insertion of a metal plate to secure her fragile bones.

In the commotion of opening presents on her very first Christmas morning, Bella broke her right front leg. Unfortunately, her guardians felt they could no longer care for Bella and surrendered her to the Wisconsin Humane Society where they knew she would receive the care she needed. WHS staff gave Bella medication to relieve her pain and veterinarians splinted her fractured leg. Despite the pain of her leg break, the polite girl was affectionate with staff and welcomed the attention.

Due to their delicate bone structure, Italian Greyhound puppies are especially vulnerable to leg fractures and must be handled carefully as they develop into adults. At 8 months of age, Bella is not fully grown but because of her youth, Bella will likely regain full mobility after successful veterinary treatment.

The total cost of Bella’s veterinary care is expected to be near $4,500. Because WHS relies solely on private donations to provide medical and adoption services for animals, a special fundraising effort in Bella’s honor has been posted on their website at www.wihumane.org.

WHS anticipates that after Bella’s surgery, she will rapidly return to chasing balls and sprinting across grassy fields. Hopefully Brett will, too.

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INTERVIEW/PHOTO OPPORTUNITY: Dr. Randy Zeman with the Wisconsin Humane Society will be available for interviews with Bella on Wednesday, January 3 from 9:00am to 1:00pm. To schedule an interview, please call Angela Speed at 414.431.6104 or email her at aspeed@wihumane.org.