Chewy’s Emergency Vet Surgery after dog attack

Thursday night (03/28/2019) while walking both of our dogs, an unleashed dog from the apartment building next to us ran up and immediately began to attack our youngest dog, Chewbacca. While pinned to the ground, and because he is more submissive, he tried to roll onto his back and exposed his stomach. During the attack, the other dog managed to inflict serious damage to Chewy's abdomen. 

After getting the other owner's information, we immediately took him to an emergency vet. During the attack, the other dog managed to tear his abdomen open, resulting in extensive shredding of the underlying muscles, skin, and other tissues. During surgery, two ribs on his right side had to be partially removed because of the extent of damage. The vet had done the best they could at attempting to stitch up what was left of his abdomen, and made a note that it looked more like he had been attacked by a bear than a dog. 

We have a lot of hurdles to overcome right now. We have paid off the original balance of $1,700 but still owe $1,900 more between his surgery, rib removal, medications, and a longer stay. That additional $1,900 is as of now, not accounting for any other medication or care he may need. They will be monitoring him over the next 24-48hours to see if he's improved. And despite all of this, he greeted the vets with tail wags. He's a spunky dog, and our baby. 

Animal Control was called and has helped us deal with the situation and case against the owner of the unleashed dog, but unfortunately, that could take months to resolve and a financial solution reached - and this cannot wait. 

Anyone who knows me knows that these dogs are like our kids, and to hold back our other dog while listening to Chewbacca scream is devastating. Thank you. Updates will be made as his healing process moves along. He is currently staying at Bay Beach Veterinary Hospital off of Virginia Beach Blvd. In Virginia Beach, VA.