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Kyle, South Dakota – A severely ill puppy found abandoned on the side of a road is now receiving care thanks to the quick actions of two strangers and the dedication of the Oglala Pet Project (OPP), a volunteer-run animal rescue organization serving the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation. The puppy, now named Gatsby, was discovered suffering from mange, intestinal worms and has since tested positive for the Parvo virus, a highly contagious and potentially fatal disease in dogs.
The Oglala Pet Project, a 501(c)3 non-profit, shared the heartbreaking story on its Facebook page, highlighting the critical role played by two individuals who stepped up to aid. The organization emphasizes the importance of responsible pet ownership and the availability of resources for those struggling to care for their animals. This incident underscores the challenges faced by animals on the Pine Ridge Reservation and the vital work of OPP in providing support and finding homes for abandoned pets.
According to a Facebook post from the Oglala Pet Project, staff members were alerted to the puppy’s condition and immediately took him into their care. “Most people will turn their head. Most people would drive by. But it just took 2 employees to care. One to reach out to us and one to overnight him until we could meet them,” the post reads. The OPP team quickly named the puppy Gatsby and began providing emergency medical attention.
The quick response of the two women who initially found Gatsby proved crucial to his survival. The mild winter in South Dakota has also been a contributing factor, providing a slightly more favorable environment for the vulnerable puppy. Community members are praising the women as heroes for their compassion and willingness to intervene.
The Oglala Pet Project, founded to improve the quality of life for pets on the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation, operates entirely on volunteer support. The organization provides education, spay/neuter services, pet health resources, and re-homing assistance to community members. According to their website, OPP can be reached at 605-455-1518 or [email protected]. You can also find more information about their work at https://www.oglalapetproject.org/.
Battling Parvo is a significant challenge, but Gatsby is receiving intensive care. The Oglala Pet Project is providing updates on his condition through its Facebook page, where supporters can learn how to contribute to his medical expenses and the organization’s ongoing efforts. The cost of treating Parvo can be substantial, and donations are critical to ensuring Gatsby and other animals receive the care they require.
The incident has sparked a conversation about responsible pet ownership and the importance of seeking help when facing difficulties. The Oglala Pet Project emphasizes that there are options available for pet owners who are struggling, and abandoning an animal should never be the answer.
As Gatsby continues his fight against Parvo, the Oglala Pet Project is appealing for continued support from the community. The organization’s dedication to the animals of the Pine Ridge Reservation remains unwavering, and they rely on the generosity of donors and volunteers to carry out their mission. The next steps in Gatsby’s recovery will involve continued monitoring and treatment, with the hope of eventually finding him a loving forever home.
Share this story to help raise awareness about the Oglala Pet Project and the importance of animal welfare. Leave a comment below with your thoughts and support for Gatsby’s recovery.
