THUNDER BAY – A severely abused northern rescue dog will be the face of a new animal rescue calendar.
Gem, a one-year-old shepherd cross was badly abused in a remote northern community, she has limited use of her hind legs, and her injuries left her crippled and unable to walk without assistance.
She was taken out of the reserve by Paws for Love Dog Rescue after being alerted by the residents.
About five months ago Gem was adopted and welcomed into her new permanent home by animal lover Erin Manahan.
“We made a calendar for Gem and for the people who have supported her throughout the year,” Manahan said Saturday afternoon at Chaltrek Geological Supplies.
“It will help raise some more money for her medical cost, and it will also help raise awareness for the rescues in town, and the wonderful work they do.”
Manahan said she hopes the calendar will raise awareness for special needs dogs and how they can live a fulfilling life.
It’s essential to remember these dogs don’t need to be euthanized, they can live as happily as any other dog and Gem is living proof.
“It’s important for these dogs to be loved like every other dog, they shouldn’t be in a shelter or overlooked just because there is something wrong with them,” Manahan said.
“They give just as much love if not more. You have a better connection with them because they depend on you so much more than a normal animal, it’s just incredible.”
Funds raised will go toward more medical care for Gem and the rest will go toward rescues, and special needs dogs.
“Right now, there’s a few dogs in rescues that have major injuries and money is a huge issue,” Manahan said.
The calendars can be purchased for $20 at Chaltrek Geological Supplies and Bliss Café.
