September 6, 2007
MHS Gives 'Hope' to Black Lab Abondoned by Dumpster
A case of extreme neglect and unthinkable abuse

A case of extreme neglect and unthinkable abuse is the best way to describe what a beautiful six-month-old Labrador retriever mix has endured over her short lifetime. Hope was left in a crate, much too small for her size, next to a garbage dumpster in Livonia, Michigan the weekend of June 16, 2007. Thankfully, she was taken in by Livonia Police to the Michigan Humane Society (MHS) Berman Center for Animal Care in Westland to receive the medical attention she desperately needed.  

Hope today.

The first priority was making sure Hope receives medical attention and the best possible care. She was immediately given antibiotics for her needs, beginning the long road of recovery. As the medication began healing Hope’s wounds, MHS veterinarians discovered marks on her head and abdomen consistent with dog fighting. After examination and further evaluation, and because of the calm nature of the breed, MHS believes Hope may have been used as a bait dog in dog fighting.

Hope continued taking her medication, and found herself in foster care for 6-8 weeks, recovering from her horrific experiences. Throughout the recovery time, Hope’s story touched the lives of people throughout Metro Detroit. Over 40 people called in, offering gifts to help assist in paying for the care Hope needed, with another 20 people calling, opening their hearts and home, wanting to adopt Hope.

One couple on the list was special, calling each week to see how Hope was progressing. Kathy and Dennis Flowers, Walled Lake, Michigan residents, were captivated by Hope’s story, and after the heartache they endured, were ready for a new companion in their lives.

Dennis and Kathy have always had dogs…from their first pup, living a long life of 17 years to their most recent companion, Kuma. However, Kuma’s passing was unexpected and heartbreaking for the Flowers…as Kuma fell victim to kidney failure from the massive Pet Food Recall. Needless to say, the Flowers were heartbroken, and they saw Hope as the perfect companion to fill their void.

The Flowers met Hope the weekend of August 18, and she became part of the family a few days later. Hope is doing exceptionally well and both the Flowers and Hope are enjoying every day together!

Hope today.

June 28, 2007
MICHIGAN HUMANE SOCIETY GIVES ‘HOPE’
TO BLACK LAB ABANDONED BY DUMPSTER

Westland, Mich. - A case of extreme neglect and unthinkable abuse is the best way to describe what a beautiful six-month-old Labrador retriever mix has endured over her short lifetime. Hope was left in a crate, much too small for her size, next to a garbage dumpster in Livonia, the weekend of June 16. Thankfully, she was taken into the Michigan Humane Society (MHS) Berman Center for Animal Care in Westland to receive the medical attention she desperately needed.  

Our first priority is making sure Hope receives medical attention and the best possible care. Since her arrival at MHS, she has progressed well and MHS is “hopefully optimistic” that her condition will continue to improve. Simultaneously, the focus on finding the party/parties responsible for committing this terrible act of neglect and abuse continues.

As her wounds began healing, MHS veterinarians discovered marks on her head and abdomen consistent with dog fighting. After examination and further evaluation, the Michigan Humane Society believes Hope may have been used as a bait dog in dog fighting.

Hope will receive continual veterinary treatment, including the possibility of a partial ear amputation. Hope’s full rehabilitation in a foster home may take months, and when the time is right, she’ll be interviewing for a new loving, forever family.

The reality is, there are many cases like Hope’s across communities throughout metro Detroit - abused and neglected animals in need of extensive medical care. The community outreach for Hope has been tremendous, and MHS is incredibly appreciative of the kindness and compassion of the community!

For more information about Hope or to make a donation toward her care, please call 1-866-MHUMANE, Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., or click here to donate.

In the event that the funds raised exceed the cost of Hope’s surgery, ongoing medical treatment and post-operative care, any additional donations will help MHS provide life-saving medical services to other animals.  Thank you for opening your heart to the most needy of animals.