Supporting Aloy in a journey of Healing and Recovery

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Helping Paws grooming is dedicated to prioritizing empathy and compassion for the animals under our care, above the vanity or pride of pet owners. On Sunday a client reached out for an emergency grooming appointment for their collie named Aloy. Despite having only one available slot, we accepted the appointment understanding that the pet was in a concerning state. However, the level of neglect we encountered was beyond our expectations. What was anticipated to be a standard four-hour grooming session extended into a nearly seven-hour ordeal, which had to be split into two separate grooming sessions for efficiency and thoroughness.

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When Aloy first arrived at the facility, it was evident that she was in dire need of help. Her health and coat condition were in shambles, making it difficult for her to even walk. The moment she went to relieve herself, she began yelping and whining in pain, indicating that something was seriously wrong. Upon closer inspection, it became clear that Aloy was suffering from open wounds, infections, and matting all over her body. The base of her tail was particularly gruesome, with bloody discharge and fecal matter embedded in the wounds. It was a heartbreaking sight. 

 

The grooming process began with a gentle bath using a deshed shampoo to loosen up the matted fur and remove the smell of feces. Despite multiple washes, the stench of urine still lingered, prompting the use of clarifying and soothing shampoos to cleanse Aloy's skin thoroughly. After the bathing ordeal, Aloy's coat was dried and carefully brushed to remove the shedding undercoat while checking for any underlying skin issues. Areas such as her neck, stomach, and hind end had to be shaved to address the severe matting and pelting that had caused her so much discomfort. 

 

The most critical part of the grooming process was tending to Aloy's open wounds with utmost care and precision. Shaving down her hind end revealed more sores and infections, especially around her vulva and hind hips. However, every matt removed provided a sense of relief as Aloy's skin could finally breathe and start the healing process. 

 

Aloy underwent a thorough examination at the veterinarian's office, where it was observed that she is suffering from extensive skin damage, burns, infections, and a severe urinary tract infection (UTI). As a result, Aloy has been scheduled to consult with a specialist to undergo surgery to address her UTI and to alleviate the impacts of abuse on her colon. Presently, Aloy is under a treatment plan that includes antibiotics, anti-inflammatory medications, and pain management strategies.

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Given the severity of her injuries, the optimal approach would typically involve a complete shave and reset. However, her current condition necessitates a different course of action. Preserving the remaining fur is crucial to shield her from external factors that could compound her existing health challenges by triggering infections or further harm.

After all wounds are healed and Aloy is feeling better, she will require grooming once again. In the meantime, we are diligently maintaining her coat, documenting her healing progress, and ensuring her comfort. Aloy's journey to recovery is a lengthy one, but we remain optimistic that she will overcome this obstacle with the assistance of everyone's support.

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Prioritizing the well-being of animals and demonstrating compassion should be the primary focus for all professionals working in the field. At Helping Paws, our core value revolves around placing the overall welfare of pets above all else. We adhere to a strict code of ethics that reinforces this commitment to our furry companions.