Sunday, June 7, 2009

Gentle Tiger wins Animal Courage Award



Tiger is an exceptional example of a pit bull’s resiliency and capacity for love, and we were proud to see him win the BC SPCA Animal Courage Award on May 29.

Last summer in the community of Trail, Tiger was doused with gasoline and set on fire, suffering severe burns on 30% of his body including his face, nose, legs and ear. The local SPCA rushed to the scene and provided emergency treatment to a dog in unthinkable pain. He was then transferred to Vancouver for months of recovery, including the amputation of his badly damaged right ear and treatment for open wounds.

Throughout a difficult recovery, everyone who met Tiger was won over by his sweet and gentle nature. By September the SPCA determined he was ready for a forever home, but they knew it had to be the right one. They turned to HugABull, whose screening processes and support could ensure that Tiger was matched with a family that would care for his physical and emotional scars.

That family was Monica and Tom Bodie of Victoria. At the time, they were mourning the death of their 12-year-old pit bull, Pluto, whom they’d also rescued from an abusive former guardian. Monica and Tom thought that taking care of Tiger would be a wonderful way to fill their house with love once again, and honour Pluto’s memory.

Tiger’s injuries have healed and with his new loving parents, he has a new lease on life. “We are so impressed with his gentle and sweet disposition,” says Tom, “especially given how abused he was. We think he is absolutely stunning, scars and all.” Monica, Tom, and HugABull director Kristen attended the SPCA ceremony where Tiger shared dinner at the table, received his award on stage, and made friends with everyone in attendance. Congratulations Tiger, Tom and Monica!


Tiger poses with Monica, Tom and Danielle from the Trail SPCA, one of the first officers on scene for Tiger's rescue.

1 comment:

Anonymous said...

That`s absolutely wonderful.
Great to see Tiger and his new family.