Two dogs recently surrendered to the Animal Welfare League of Alexandria due to a house fire have received emergency care, but that has put a strain on the organization’s emergency veterinary fund.
Senior dogs Dunya and Jasnah had been surrendered due to a displacement from a house fire. The animal shelter operator confirmed to ALXnow that the dogs were from the house fire Monday (July 13) in the 600 block of N. Ripley Street.
Although the dogs appeared stable, AWLA decided to take them to an emergency veterinary hospital for evaluation. AWLA says smoke inhalation can cause serious, life-threatening conditions for animals.
That decision may have saved the dogs’ lives. Hours after getting to the veterinary hospital, Dunya crashed and needed oxygen support. She has responded well to the treatment, and both are expected to make a full recovery, according to AWLA. Because they are senior dogs, they will undergo additional testing.
“They have both been discharged from the emergency vet and are with us at the shelter,” AWLA spokesperson Erin Shackelford told ALXnow. “They are on movement restrictions and are being closely monitored by our medical team.”
Once the dogs recover, AWLA expects they will be available for adoption.
“We are looking for a foster for both of them, because they do better together,” Shackleford said.
AWLA estimated the senior dogs’ care could total $8,000 to $10,000, causing the organization’s emergency fund to take a hit.
“Emergency veterinary care, especially an overnight stay, is quite expensive,” Shackelford said. “In addition to their care, we have two other dogs in our custody requiring limb amputations due to severe injuries.”
Emergency vet care for AWLA animals is supported by Sarah’s Fund, which is 100% funded by community donations. AWLA encouraged the community to make a donation to help Dunya and Jasnah or sign up to foster at [email protected].
This story has been updated with additional details from AWLA about the dogs and house fire.
