CLARKSVILLE, Tenn. – (CLARKSVILLENOW) There were some emotional moments Sunday as Franky, a dog who was recently the victim of dog fighting and abuse, was introduced to the public at Sango Veterinary Hospital.
Around 70 people came out to meet Franky and many helped with donations to the Montgomery County Angel Fund for his care and recovery. Franky walked through the crowd with his tail wagging, stopping at just about everyone who wanted to pet him or accept a lick on the hand or in the face.
Veterinarian Dr. Jennifer Whitbeck said she thinks Franky’s future is very bright. “He primarily has wounds that will heal and will go on to lead a fairly normal life and his long-term prognosis is good,” said Whitbeck.
Whitbeck added that he is one of the most amazing, friendly and calm dogs you could ever expect to come out of a situation like this. When it comes to his breed, Franky is described as primarily being a Pit Bull with a mix of American Bulldog.
At the event, Montgomery County Sheriff’s Deputy Kelley Potter, with the sheriff’s canine unit, talked to the crowd about the seriousness of the crime of dog fighting and keeping an eye out for the signs and symptoms of dog fighting.
Director of Montgomery County Animal Care and Control, David Kaske said that in the near future his office will be taking applications for his adoption. “We’re really looking for a good home for Franky. We want somebody who understands he’s going to require a lot of long-term care,” said Kaske.
Kaske added that Franky will need regular veterinary care and check-ups for his heart worm disease and since he doesn’t have ear flaps for protection anymore his ears will have to be kept clean.
The Angel Fund in Montgomery County was one of the major contributors to Franky’s care. Co-Founder Tracie Morgan said the organization was established to help animals who were injured or had a medical condition at Animal Care and Control adding that there is not always money in the budget to help all of the animals.
Hogan added that The Angel Fund is one of the reasons the euthanasia rate at the shelter has gone down. “When these animals come in that are sick we know we have the money and we take them to the vet and we’ve had lots of different treatments done to save these animals,” Hogan said.
If you are interested in helping Franky or other pets that need serious vet care, please visit the Montgomery County Angel Fund page or the Facebook page.