Written by The TEARS team
Professional photography by Nat Gold ZA
Rescued from a neighbouring low-income community, Emma’s journey to recovery began when her owners surrendered her to the TEARS Mobile Clinic. Neglected, emaciated, suffering from severe dermatitis and secondary infections caused by an infestation of ticks and fleas, Emma arrived at TEARS Animal Rescue in Cape Town, South Africa, crushed both in body and spirit. Compounding her malnutrition and the discomfort caused by her inflamed and itchy skin was the presence of Ehrlichia, a life-threatening tick-borne disease, often a death sentence for dogs with already compromised immunity.
Despite initially displaying signs of resignation and hopelessness, Emma’s spirit began to rekindle with the help of tender loving care and veterinary support from the TEARS Veterinary Hospital and Kennel team.
Her parasite infection was swiftly overcome by expert treatment, enabling her to experience much-needed relief from the constant skin irritation and inflammation. In addition, Emma was treated with antibiotics to combat her Ehrlichia infection, leading to notable improvements in her overall health, as well as medicated baths to soothe and repair her damaged skin. To aid in skin healing and strengthen her skin barrier, Emma’s diet became an essential part of her overall recovery. Thanks to Hill's Prescription Diet Derm Complete, Emma’s body had the nutritional supplementation that she needed to fight back and recover. She grew stronger and healthier, and the staff and volunteers are finally seeing her true personality starting to emerge. Now, a gentle wag of her tail accompanies her subtle nudges for more attention, revealing glimpses of her endearing nature.
Any animal’s journey from physical and emotional devastation takes time and is aided by the holistic intervention delivered by the TEARS Veterinary and Kennel staff. Still, Emma’s affirming licks and tail-wags confirm that she’s turned the corner and is well on her way to a full recovery. Thanks to the support TEARS receives from donors, Emma will experience her deserved “second chance” and go on to be rehomed with a TEARS adoption family who can offer her the “happily ever after” every pet deserves.
Should you be able to offer Emma a loving forever home, please email adoptions@tears.org.za.
Read more about TEARS Animal Rescue here https://www.happytailsmagazine.co.za/news-articles/a-dream-come-true/.
