My name is Fiammetta, I was rescued by AARCS in Calgary, Alberta. This is what my profile says about me on their web site:

On May 10 th, 2008 rescuers packed up to go help some very needy pups. When we arrived we found Shyla, Fiammetta & Foxy Lady tied up. They were very shy and scared, but willingly allowed us to take the ropes off their necks and put on pretty new collars. The girls were loaded into the vehicle, where they relaxed and feel asleep for the rest of the trip. All three are very skinny and covered in burs. Poor Fiammetta had to be shaved down when she arrived at her foster home because the burs and mats were too much to comb out.

Fiametta has been spayed and the injury to her leg has been examined by a couple of vets. X-rays show she has a previous fracture to her ankle and elbow area which is causing her walk with a limp. Her foot is somewhat turned out and we are guessing she was probably hit by a car. Because the injury was not treated at the time, the bones have healed on their own and there is likely no benefit from surgery at this point. Fiametta does not seem to be in pain and is living the life of a normal, healthy, happy dog. We are having a final consultation with Big Hill Vet in Cochrane to ensure there is nothing further we can do for Fiametta.

Fiametta is one lucky puppy because her foster mom works at Sit Happens (dog training) and she gets to go and learn obedience! Her best friends are her foster brothers, a big Boxer and a small Shitzu. Fiametta is a small dog, weighing in around 20 lbs.

Update 7 July 08: Fiametta came to us with an injury to her front leg, x-rays confirmed she had a previous fracture to her ankle and knee area. This injury at such a young age without medical attention caused the growth plates to close in her long bones. As a result her leg is much shorter than her other leg and not only does she walk with a terrible limp, but also is in pain. After consultation with 3 different vets, we have made the decision to have this leg amputated. Fiametta will go for surgery on July 9th, 2008.

Yesterday my foster mum dropped me off at the vet in Cochrane for the surgery, and the nice ladies there said that the surgery went fantastic, and I get to go home this evening! I can't wait to see my foster Mum and Boxer brother Dante. I'm sure that Mum will take some pics tom post later.

- Fia.

If you would like to sponsor Fiametta and donate towards her surgery costs you can donate through CanadaHelps.org or send a cheque to AARCS, 336 Rainbow Falls Way, Chestermere, AB T1X 1W5.

AARCS runs solely on the generosity of the public and our minimal adoption fees. We do not get any government funding.