Manatee County residents respond to pet owner's plight after her chihuahua is mauled

Sue Kolze, vice president of the Animal Network, Inc., was overwhelmed by the kindness and responsiveness of residents who helped pay the vet bills for a chihuahua that had been attacked by another dog. 

Kolze was also impressed with the caring actions of Steve Bell, the animal control officer who responded when Scooter, the chihuahua, was attacked, saying "he went above and beyond the call of duty" to help Polly Davis and her pet.

Bell helped Davis get Scooter to the emergency vet. When the vet bill for Scooter was nearing $1,000, Davis wasn't sure what she would do. She didn't have the money to pay to save Scooter. 

Several animal advocates got publicity out about the attack and asked people to contribute to the vet bill if they could. 

"As a result of the publicity, and the donations from our generous community, more money was received than was needed for Scooter's bills, and the balance will be put toward other animals in need," Kolze said.

Scooter is at the specialty vet for surgery this morning. He is expected to be back home with Davis in the next couple of days.

The Animal Network Inc, is a non-profit agency, and has set up a separate banks account as a "pet emergency fund" which will be used to assist people who otherwise can not afford to get their sick or injured animals to a vet. Tax-deductible donations can be sent to: 

 

"Pet Emergency Fund" 

Animal Network, Inc, 

c/o Sue Kolze, 

610 Ixora Ave.

Ellenton, Fl 34222.