A golden retriever was left abandoned at an off-leash dog park in Okotoks, Canada, in freezing temperatures, with only a jacket, boots, and her seizure medication to accompany her. The dog, named Raiya, was found with a note from her owners stating that they were moving country and would not be returning for her.
In November, temperatures in Okotoks range between -8C and 7C, making the abandonment particularly cruel. A passer-by discovered the dog and took her to SAVE - Southern Alberta Veterinary Emergency, where her wellbeing was assessed.
Raiya was then transferred to Pauseforchange, a non-profit animal rescue service, which is now caring for her. A spokesperson for the organisation said: 'Her name is Raiya. Thankfully, a Good Samaritan found her and brought her to SAVE - Southern Alberta Veterinary Emergency in order to ensure her safety and wellbeing moving forward.'
The rescue service has revealed that Raiya is currently not medically clear and appears to have hip dysplasia. They are working to raise funds towards her medical costs, which are upwards of $2,000 to start. The spokesperson added: 'We will NOT be taking any adoption applications for her at this time until she is medically cleared and decompressed from her world being completely flipped upside down.'
Pauseforchange is appealing for donations to help Raiya recover and find a forever family. 'If you would like to donate towards Raiya’s medical costs, we would be so appreciative as we are doing everything we possibly can to ensure Raiya lives a long, happy, pain free life,' the spokesperson said.
