Since affiliating with Northeast Animal Shelter (NEAS), the MSPCA-Angell has worked to expand its animal relocation program to assist in national rescue efforts as well as provide immediate assistance to animals exploited in institutional settings. When National Mill Dog Rescue contacted NEAS about 33 dogs living in a midwestern breeding facility, they knew they needed to help those dogs.
Commercial breeding facilities, such as puppy mills, often overcrowd dogs without proper medical care and socialization. As a result of having too many dogs, commercial breeders surrender them because they are less desirable (and less profitable) as they age.
One of them was Tebow, a 5-year-old French bulldog. As soon as Tebow arrived at the MSPCA-Angell: Cape Cod, he needed surgery. Tebow had blood in his urine, a problem the veterinarians who examined him before he came to Massachusetts estimated had been bothering him for at least two months. He underwent surgery, and the veterinarians removed a stone larger than a penny that occupied 70% of his empty bladder. While that procedure was successful, the veterinarians determined he also had brachycephalic airway syndrome, a disorder in which the elongated soft palate interferes with breathing. He was soon scheduled for additional surgery at Angell Animal Medical Center in Boston.
Additionally, Tebow had to deal with the consequences of living in a breeding facility. As with most dogs in these situations, Tebow was shy and hadn't had the chance to socialize. His future adopters would need patience and understanding during his transition.
When Frederick and his wife arrived at the MSPCA-Angell: Cape Cod Adoption Center to meet Tebow, it seemed like fate. Frederick sat calmly on the floor, and Tebow was lying next to him within minutes, pressing against his leg. Then Frederick talked to Tebow and petted him for 30 minutes. The rest, they say, is history.
Tebow (now named Jacques) greets schoolchildren and their parents at the neighborhood bus stop. The couch is his favorite spot in the house, and he loves attention. Despite the challenges of transitioning from a commercial breeding facility to a loving home, dogs like Tebow show us that with patience and support, second chances can change lives.
For more information on adoption, please visit neas.org/adopt.
