Injured German shepherd receives hospice care through Broward County Animal Care partnership
Key Points(5)
- Broward County Animal Care has partnered with Healy Pack Senior GSD Sanctuary to provide specialized hospice care for an injured German shepherd named Nico after the dog was dropped from a vehicle and found seriously injured on a roadway in Pembroke Pines.
- After taking custody of Nico, Broward County Animal Care's veterinary team determined that the male German shepherd was suffering from traumatic injuries, tumors, and difficulty walking.
- While officials said Nico's prognosis remains guarded, the agency worked to secure placement with Healy Pack Senior GSD Sanctuary, a rescue organization experienced in providing hospice care focused on comfort, dignity, and quality of life.
- "This was a unique opportunity because a trusted partner had the capacity to provide specialized hospice care," said Doug Brightwell, director of Broward County Animal Care.
- "We are grateful we could provide Nico with a compassionate outcome." According to Animal Care officials, the agency cares for hundreds of animals each day, many of which have complex medical and behavioral needs.
Broward County Animal Care has partnered with Healy Pack Senior GSD Sanctuary to provide specialized hospice care for an injured German shepherd named Nico after the dog was dropped from a vehicle and found seriously injured on a roadway in Pembroke Pines.
After taking custody of Nico, Broward County Animal Care's veterinary team determined that the male German shepherd was suffering from traumatic injuries, tumors, and difficulty walking. While officials said Nico's prognosis remains guarded, the agency worked to secure placement with Healy Pack Senior GSD Sanctuary, a rescue organization experienced in providing hospice care focused on comfort, dignity, and quality of life.
"This was a unique opportunity because a trusted partner had the capacity to provide specialized hospice care," said Doug Brightwell, director of Broward County Animal Care. "We are grateful we could provide Nico with a compassionate outcome."
According to Animal Care officials, the agency cares for hundreds of animals each day, many of which have complex medical and behavioral needs.
"We do not know what the future holds, but we do know this: Nico will never again be alone or without people fighting for him," said Sandy Vogel, board president of Healy Pack Senior GSD Sanctuary. "While Nico faces significant medical challenges, our veterinary team and foster family will provide the evaluation, care and support needed to determine the best path forward for him. Today is not just about one dog. It is a reminder that every animal deserves compassion, dignity and the chance to be heard."
Although specialized placements such as Nico's are uncommon, Broward County Animal Care said it remains committed to pursuing options that prioritize an animal's welfare and quality of life through partnerships with rescue organizations and the community.
Officials also encouraged residents to help improve outcomes for animals by adopting, fostering, volunteering, ensuring pets are spayed or neutered, and keeping pets properly identified to reduce overcrowding and strengthen the safety net for vulnerable animals in Broward County.
More information about adopting, fostering, volunteering, or donating is available at Broward County Animal Care's website.
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