****UPDATE**** 8/24/24
***Graphic Photos***
Hey everyone,
We wanted to give you all an update, and we sincerely apologize for the delay. It’s been an incredibly overwhelming week for us. That said, we have some tremendous news about our baby Nell that we’re finally able to share. Sam and I are so grateful for all the love, support, prayers, and donations we’ve received. Your kindness has meant the world to us, and we can’t thank you enough.
Nell was supposed to have surgery on Tuesday, but unfortunately, her wounds weren’t in a good enough condition. She was admitted to the hospital on Monday because she needed treatments that Sam and I couldn’t provide at home. Her wounds required multiple debridements and daily tie-over bandages before the surgery could be safely performed on Friday. With the severity of her injuries, we have to understand if she doesn’t recover, amputation might be necessary. The surgeon was confident, but the news that Nell has a heart murmur only added to our anxiety about her undergoing anesthesia again.
When Friday afternoon came and Nell went into surgery, we were on edge. But then the surgeon called with the wonderful news that Nell’s leg was saved! We were overjoyed to hear that we could pick her up this morning. It’s almost hard to believe that even the veterinary specialists were surprised by how hard Nell fought. She has some serious battle scars, but she’s been resting peacefully, snuggled in her blanket since we brought her home.
Her recovery is crucial and there’s still a high risk of infection due to the size of the incision and suture site. But despite everything, Nell’s spirit remains unbroken. She’s a gentle soul who has now been given the chance to live another day.
On a more distressing note, as I mentioned in my last update, we found out that the dog responsible for Nell’s injuries was returned to its owner with minimal consequences. After reaching out to the district and state attorney, I was advised to file a report with the judge, city attorney, and defendant to reopen Nell’s case. I provided all the evidence, including images of Nell’s injuries, the police report, and veterinary bills. The initial report from animal control was vague and didn’t convey the seriousness of Nell’s injuries. We feel the case wasn’t handled properly, and we’re desperately hoping for justice for Nell.
Thank you all for your continued support. It truly means everything to us during this difficult time <3
****UPDATE**** 8/19/2024:
**First and foremost, we want to extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone who has supported us during this incredibly challenging time. Your kindness and support have been a tremendous source of comfort, and we are truly grateful. Unfortunately, Nell had to return to the ER this morning as her injuries have worsened. She is still scheduled for her second surgery tomorrow, although this may change if intervention becomes necessary today. The surgeon is trying to save her leg, but this may not be possible if infection spreads or if she develops sepsis. Please continue to keep her in your thoughts and prayers. Nell is incredibly brave, resilient, and a true fighter.
**We have been anxiously awaiting an update from Animal Control about the incident. This morning, we received the finalized report, and the information is deeply troubling. Approximately 8 weeks ago, the dog bit a child who was visiting the home. A report was filed, and a citation was issued for that incident. The courts decided to consolidate both cases due to the involvement of the same offender. The outcome was that the owner was fined a few hundred dollars, and the dog was returned, deemed not dangerous. This result is disheartening and raises serious concerns for us. We will not stop fighting for justice for our Nellers.
Dear Friends and Fellow Animal Lovers,
On August 6th, 2024, our lives were irrevocably changed by a traumatic event involving our beloved Chihuahua/Mini Dachshund mix, Nell. During our routine leashed walk on a public street, an aggressive large breed dog escaped from its yard and attacked Nell. Despite my desperate attempts to protect her, Nell was seized by the aggressive dog and endured a brutal assault. With the help of kind-hearted neighbors, I managed to fight off the attacker and rush Nell to emergency care.
Nell underwent urgent laparotomy surgery less than two hours after the attack. Her injuries were severe: a fractured nose, jaw, a crushed vertebra, over 15 puncture wounds, a tear in her abdominal wall, three abdominal hernias, and a massive necrotic wound on her inner left thigh. She required extensive surgery and has accumulated significant medical expenses, totaling around $9300. While Nell is a brave fighter, she now needs a second surgery to address the necrotic tissue. The extent of her abdominal injuries have caused complications with her recovery. This surgery is estimated around $6100.
Nell is the epitome of gentleness and sweetness, a quiet and loving soul who has brought so much joy to our lives. Using our savings to move out here we never thought we'd be in this situation with medical bills we were not prepared for. This is something you watch on the news, never expecting it to happen to your family. Sam and I have never done this before, we feel very vulnerable asking anyone outside our family for help. We are deeply grateful for any support you can offer to help cover her medical costs and ensure her full recovery. Our primary hope is to see her healthy and back home where she belongs. Please keep her in your prayers <3
Thank you for your kindness and support during this difficult time. Your generosity means the world to us and to Nell.
With heartfelt gratitude,
Sam & Leanne Lewis