Abigail came to us severely injured.  She was taken to a high kill shelter after Animal Control officers received a call informing them that a dog had been hit by a car and was on the side of a road.  ECGRR was alerted to Abigail's situation by a shelter worker and we made immediate plans to rescue her.

At our request, the shelter was able to stabilize her until we could get there.  All they could really see was that her right rear leg had an open fracture and that her left rear leg was possibly injured as well; however, without an x-ray, the full extent of Abigail's injuries were  unknown.

An ECGRR volunteer transported Abigail to Friendship Animal Hospital in Fort Walton Beach, Florida.  X-rays revealed that both of Abigail's rear legs were broken and she was immediately taken into surgery to repair the open fracture.  Her condition was considered guarded upon completion of the surgery.

Unfortunately, Abigail had to have an additional surgery a few days later to have pins inserted into her leg.  She can only walk with assistance, and we are still not sure that Abigail's leg can be saved - at this point, we're not even certain that she'll be able to survive her ordeal. 

Despite Abigail's pain and trauma, she is one of the sweetest and gentlest dogs that we have had the pleasure of knowing.  Her spirit and will to live remain strong.

Abigail and ECGRR are in this for the long haul, but we realize that Abigail's recovery will be both difficult and expensive.  If you can find it in your heart to help, please CLICK HERE to be taken to our donation page.  Any financial assistance you can provide will be greatly appreciated. 

12/26/07 UPDATE:  As of this date Abigail has had four surgeries to attempt to stabilize her leg.  She remains sweet and loving and the staff of Friendship Animal Hospital are absolutely wonderful to her.  She's a very special girl. 

1/15/08 UPDATE:  Abigail will be having her fifth surgery on 1/17/08 to provide additional stabilization to the bones and tendons of her leg.  The hospital reports that despite the need for the surgery, she is healing well and they are hopeful that she'll eventually be able to use both of her legs.  Unfortunately, they won't know that for certain for several months.  One of her legs is splinted which provides her with some support - she is able to stand for a bit when she's carried outside to "potty".  The staff reports that she LOVES attention and will scoot across the floor for a head rub.  She's definitely a hospital favorite - she hang's out in the Doctor's office during the day and is taken home by one of the staff members at night.  Despite everything she's been through, she remains sweet and loving and special to everyone that meets her. 

1/30/08 UPDATE:  Abigail continues to do well and came through her last surgery beautifully.  She loves to have visitors and treats, and does her very best to make everyone she meets feel special - she squeezes her eyes closed and leans into her visitors as if she's in a total state of bliss.  We have never met a sweeter or more loving dog.  Her courage and grace is amazing and a true lesson for all of us.

Additional updates: posted in our DISCUSSION FORUM and at www.911canine.com 

We've started a video diary to keep everyone updated on Abigail's condition.  Please view her progress below:

Day 1:

 Day 2: