The story of Pebbles the puppy with a tummy teeming with rocks has touched hearts across British Columbia.
Close to $6,000 has been raised for her care after the BC SPCA featured the plight of the sick 4-month-old pup this week.
“When Pebbles arrived at the vet, cold and motionless, her medical team feared the worst,” the animal welfare group explained Tuesday. “They quickly administered fluids and warmed her wee body, the tiny pup began to lift her head, her tail wagging faintly.”
X-rays revealed a stomach full of rocks. Yes, rocks.
It turned out, Pebbles was the runt of her litter and kept losing the battle for food, which the SPCA lead to malnourishment.
“Desperate for sustenance, Pebbles must have resorted to eating anything she could find, including rocks,” the group said.
Over several days, vets kept an eye on the dog and it turned out, she was pooping out the rocks. So, no surgery was required.
She’s now in a foster home where small, frequent meals are helping her digestion and put on weight.
“Despite her illness, Pebbles is full of confidence,” the SPCA added. “The hungry girl barks with joyful excitement at mealtime, wagging her tail furiously.”
She’s also had puppy vaccines and other treatments. She’ll be spayed when all the stones have passed and she’s healthy enough.
Officials estimated about $1,650 in vet bills. So the extra funds raised will go to care for other animals.
