MSPCA-Angell Press Release

Jonah Loses Heroic Battle for Life

February 9, 2010

Blind Puppy’s Story United Pet Lovers and Helped Animals in Need

Jonah, the blind Chihuahua puppy suffering from “water on the brain” who was brought to the MSPCA for care after being abandoned at a local supermarket, lost his heroic battle for life this week after months of positive recovery with his adoptive family. The small canine’s strong will to survive aided his recuperation following two life-saving surgeries at Angell Animal Medical Center in the fall of 2009. Jonah’s story united animal lovers throughout the world who provided prayers and offers of adoption once he recuperated.

Jonah’s passing is felt deeply by those of us who cared for him and provided him with months of love. A severe case of hydrocephalus always meant that Jonah’s life would be cut short. However, because he responded so well to surgery and improved interaction with both humans and animals following surgery, he showed signs of having years to live. Months into his recovery, the unthinkable happened, and Jonah had a sudden seizure in the night which led to his passing.

Jonah’s strong will to survive touched the hearts of many MSPCA supporters who donated to the care that he and animals like him receive. The funds that surpassed Jonah’s care have been used to aid pet owners in need of financial assistance as well as homeless animals that required care at Angell Animal Medical Center.

“Jonah was one of our smallest patients. However his heart was immense,” said Carter Luke, MSPCA-Angell president. “Through surgery and the love of his adoptive owner, he regained a quality of life that had long been lost to him through his crippling condition. His willingness to trust those around him and overcome tremendous odds united animal lovers worldwide and helped many animals receive care that may have otherwise lost their own battles.”