Honey, a two-year-old pit bull terrier mix, was found badly injured and unable to move by the side of Highway 16 near Fort St. James. She had been lying there alone, in pain, until a kind stranger driving by heard her cries and stopped to investigate. That Good Samaritan brought her to the BC SPCA’s North Cariboo animal centre in Prince George, potentially saving her life.
“At first, the passerby thought they had spotted a wild animal in distress—there are no homes for over 50 kilometres along that stretch of road,” said Kristen Sumner, manager of the BC SPCA North Cariboo centre. “But when they saw Honey up close, they realized she was a dog, and that she was seriously hurt. She couldn’t move and had wounds covering her legs and head.”
Upon arrival at the animal centre, Honey was quickly transported to a veterinary hospital for emergency care. Veterinarians discovered she had a dislocated shoulder and severe nerve damage in her right front leg, which would require amputation. On top of that, the injuries on her face, neck, and torso were infected. She was immediately given pain relief, and her wounds were cleaned and treated. Her shoulder was realigned, and she was fitted with a splint and placed on strict kennel rest. Surgery was scheduled to address the damage to her leg.
Despite all that she’s been through, Honey is one of the sweetest and most affectionate dogs we’ve ever had in our care,” says Kristen Sumner, manager at the BC SPCA’s North Cariboo animal centre. “She adores people and gets along wonderfully with other dogs.”
Though Honey is currently unable to move much due to her injuries, she finds joy in simply watching her foster family’s dog play nearby. “That little pup often sits right beside her,” Sumner adds, “showering her with gentle snuggles and love.”
Honey still has a long journey ahead before she can fully recover. “We have to carry her outside for bathroom breaks,” Sumner explains. “But she’s determined. She really wants to be independent, so we keep a close eye on her to make sure she doesn’t push herself too hard during recovery.” Despite her physical limitations, Honey is full of love, strength, and gratitude.
She’s expected to be ready for adoption on February 14 – Valentine’s Day – a fitting date for a dog with such a loving heart.
In honor of what would have been Betty White’s 102nd birthday, the BC SPCA is inviting supporters to make a donation in her memory. Betty’s deep compassion for animals has inspired countless people and helped raise millions to support animals in need. Please consider donating today to help Honey and many others still waiting for their second chance.