OGDEN, Utah (ABC 4 News) – A Chihuahua named Hope is recovering from burns all over her body, after she was found burning in a campsite in Weber County.
The incident happened two weeks ago near the South Fork canyon area.
Nicole Hellstrom, with “True Hearts Rescue,” is one of two fosters mothers for the small dog.
“I’ve seen a lot of horrible things, but this is by the worst,” Hellstrom said.
Hope’s fragile body is slowly healing under numerous bandages. The Chihuahua was found burning in a campfire with her owners allegedly standing and watching.
A Good Samaritan pulled the dog from the flames and brought her to the Brookside Animal Shelter in Ogden.
Hope needs round the clock care. She gets her bandages changed daily. She is force fed liquids or is hooked up to an IV to stay hydrated.
Veterinarian Kathryn Penrod puts honey on the burns to help fight bacteria and swelling.
“She has to be on strong medications,” Penrod said. “I would say 25 percent of her body is burned.”
The accident left Hope’s right eye burned and some of her teeth fell out. She has also lost a toe.
“There is a possibility she’ll lose more toes,” Penrod added.
Penrod said the dog is a fighter with a big heart inside a small body.
Hope will be up for adoption after a month long recovery.
“She has been through it all,” Hellstrom added. “She will appreciate a family who will love her more.”
The Good Samaritan who pulled Hope from the flames has paid for the dog’s medical bills, but they keep adding up. So far, the total is near $2,000.
If you are interested in helping Hope, click
here.
For inquiries about adoption, contact True Hearts Rescue 801-643-9622
If you have any information on the incident that left Hope burned, contact the Weber County Sheriff’s Department.
