“Willie” Receiving Around-the-Clock Care at Angell Animal Medical Center
BOSTON, May 21, 2025 – MSPCA Law Enforcement is seeking the public’s help finding information about Willie, a young Poodle-mix who was brought to Nevins Farm in Methuen May 19 after being found on Route 495 in Lawrence.
“Willie was matted and emaciated when he was brought into the adoption center,” explained MSPCA Law Enforcement Director, Chris Schindler. “He was initially examined by a clinic veterinarian in Methuen, and it was immediately clear that he needed advanced treatment, so a staff member drove him to Angell [Animal Medical Center in Boston], where he’s been receiving around-the-clock care since.”
Staff in Angell’s Critical Care Unit say that Willie’s prognosis is not yet clear.
“Angell veterinarians found him to be emaciated and extremely dehydrated. He also appeared to have neurological problems, which we’re hoping is related to those other issues,” Schindler expounded. “Only time will tell if he’ll respond to treatment.”
“Right now, we’re focused on trying to help this poor dog recover and also learn how he came to be in the condition he’s in.”
An Unclear Past
According to Schindler, MSPCA Law Enforcement officers are investigating to see if they can learn anything about Willie’s history.
“These cases are challenging because we’re starting from scratch,” he said. “That’s why we really need the community’s help here to learn how this poor pup got into the condition he was in when he came to us.”
Anyone who may have information on Willie’s owner or history is asked to contact the MSPCA Law Enforcement Department at (617) 522-6008 or (800) 628-5808, where information may be left anonymously. Tips may also be submitted online at mspca.org/tip.
A Guarded Prognosis
Since Willie was brought to Angell, veterinarians discovered that he also likely has pneumonia, and there are still questions about his neurological state.
“His care team says Willie sometimes responds like a sick dog would in normal circumstances, but he’s often very quiet and dull, which isn’t normal,” elaborated Schindler. “It’s still early days, though, so we’re in wait and see mode.”
“What we do know is that Willie is getting the best care possible at Angell, and we’re fortunate to have access to those resources,” he added. “We’re also fortunate we have access to the Pet Care Assistance fund to cover the costs, thanks to our incredible donors.”
“But, obviously, cases like this—with days of intensive care needed—are extremely expensive, so we need support now more than ever.”
For updates on Willie’s condition and to donate to help the MSPCA-Angell care for him, please visit mspca.org/willie.
