Chihuahua-cross Allan had a multitude of health issues when Port Willunga resident Georgia found him.
"I found him on the road and then called the council, and that's how he ended up in the care of the RSPCA," Georgia said.
Poor Allan was underweight, covered in fleas and had a hernia and rotten teeth. As if that wasn't enough, this two-year-old dog also had an unusual walk.
RSPCA vet team to the rescue
RSPCA SA's vet team gave Allan a thorough check-up and found him to be a wiggly, affectionate little dog who loved food, company and burying himself in his blanket.
With immediate flea treatment and careful feeding, Allan's first two issues were soon resolved. His hernia was surgically repaired, and his teeth received a much-needed scale and polish.
In addition, the RSPCA veterinary team found grass seeds embedded in the delicate skin of this little dog's underbelly, causing an infection.
After removing the seeds, the team flushed the puncture wounds clean and treated the infection with antibiotics. Allan was starting to feel much better than when he first arrived at RSPCA's Lonsdale shelter. However, his odd gait was still a major concern, with the poor little dog occasionally falling over. Xrays revealed a ruptured cruciate ligament in one of his hind legs.
Two operations were needed to repair the torn ligament, and Allan spent most of his recovery time living with Georgia as his foster carer.
Georgia and Allan ended up staying together for almost a year to the day.
Georgia connects the little dog she found to a new home
During the day Allan would go to Georgia's grandparents' house, which is where Allan met Georgia's grandfather, Trevor.
"When I went to work Allan would go around there, they would curl up on the couch together," Georgia said.
"My grandfather has another dog that gets along well with everyone, including other dogs."
Ruby, an eight-year-old Bichon Frise crossed with a Jack Russell, soon became best friends with Allan.
Ruby found a new best friend in Allan
"They fret for each other if you try and separate them now. When we would take Allan out he would fret for Ruby and look everywhere," she said.
Allan has also become very close with Georgia's grandma.
"My nanna has a walking frame and Allan follows her everywhere like a little guardian."
The companionship was meant to be, as less than a month later her grandparents decided they would be adopting Allan once he became available.
Fixed up and loved!
From a dog found wandering the streets in pain, Allan is now happy, pain-free and dearly loved.
"You wouldn't even think of him as a dog that was abused, he just wants love and attention."
If you're considering opening your heart and home to a rescued animal, head over here to see all our animals currently available for adoption.
