Humane Society trying to raise $8.5K for dog who came to them with heartworm, Lyme disease and broken teeth

(Left) Audrey and one of her puppies were photographed in this undated image. (Courtesy: Humane Society of Kitchener Waterloo & Stratford Perth)/ (Right) Clothing designed with Nala&Co Apparel were photographed in this undated image. (Courtesy: Nala&Co Apparel)

The plight of a rescue dog has inspired a new campaign at The Humane Society of Kitchener Waterloo & Stratford Perth.

An animal welfare organization asked the Humane Society to help them with three-year-old Audrey. In June, she arrived at the Stratford shelter. She came with six puppies, and, unbeknownst to staff at the Humane Society or the animal welfare organization, complex medical needs.

Audrey was diagnosed with heartworm, Lyme disease and multiple fractured teeth.

She underwent surgery, dental procedures and needed extensive medical treatment, all while still nursing her puppies.

“Every day, Audrey chose to care for her puppies despite the challenges she was facing herself,” Nicole Swartzentruber, manager of animal care for Stratford Perth Animal Centre, said. “She embodies the resilience we see in so many animals that come through our shelter doors.”

All six puppies were adopted by the end of August.

But now, the Humane Society wants Audrey to have the same chance.

They expect her medical costs will reach $8,500 as she goes through her final treatments.

To help with the expenses, the Humane Society teamed up with Guelph-based designer, Nala&Co. Apparel to create a limited-edition clothing line inspired by her story. The design features a moment between Audrey and one of her puppies.

A portion of the proceeds will go toward Audrey’s medical care.

“Audrey’s story highlights both the growing expense and the importance of veterinary care, especially services that help control pet overpopulation, or prevention of diseases like heartworm and Lyme,” Swarzentruber explained. “Her recovery has taken a village. She spent months putting her puppies first while facing her own health challenges, and we know our community rill rally behind her to support her second chance.”