We’re worried about Jack Spratt

Jack Spratt says ‘where are you taking me?”   This little Jack Russell has been with us for the past ten years.  He’s a disabled dog with only three legs and weakness in his remaining legs.   He came in as a puppy, he was found tied to a tree in an emaciated state and with one of his front legs a bleeding stump and breaks in his pelvis and one of his back legs.   He was on a drip at the vet’s when we first saw him.   Just as we were told ‘ I don’t think you’ll save this one…” he licked my hand.  Jack Spratt knew whaat he was doing, he wanted to live.  Excellent care from top vet Ian Taylor at Spire Vets saved Spratt’s life and as soon as he was well enough we took him home.  It was a long recovery but Spratt was a fighter (he still is if he sees a big dog!) and he has enjoyed life together with his partner, Miss Nolene, another disabled Jack Russell whom he adores.  Jack Spratt is a great character and an inspiration to us all.  He’s always cheerful and brave and uncomplaianing, although he is opiniated and politically incorrect – going after a different species -birds, cats, rabbits, is what he yearns (but isn’t allowed) to do.

Spratt leads a sheltered life, he has to be careful of the stump and his back legs are showing the strain.  He only goes out on soft ground and on the flat – he can’t do steps although he’ll give it a try.   Just lately we’ve noticed that the callus on the end of his injured leg was wearing away.  It’s been fine all these years but suddenly the skin is shrinking.   It needs to be checked  out.   Also, he has developed a swelling on his testicles – so an appointment has been made and he’s off to the vet.   We’re worried about him although he seems well in himself and is eating as normal and is just as lively and fussy as usual.

Geoff, who is one of our volunteers, has offered to take him to the surgery and Jo, our Sanctuary Supervisor is going along as well.  It’s the first time Spratt has been to the vet’s since he was a puppy and the first time he’s been separated from Miss Nolene.  All sorts of thoughts are running through my mind – will there be a good outcome?  Will his leg be alright?   Will the swellings go down?   Most of all – will he behave?

Where’s Jack Spratt?