9-Week-Old Puppy Found At Boston High School Needs Complex Surgery

The small puppy is "not just an ordinary stray," the animal rescue said.

Smudge was frightened when animal control officers found her at a Boston high school.
Photo Credit: *MSPCA-Angell*

Smudge will stay in foster care until she is old enough to undergo surgery that will likely take place in early summer.
Photo Credit: *MSPCA-Angell*

Smudge's cleft palate causes respiratory problems and will require a complex surgery to correct.
Photo Credit: *MSPCA-Angell*

05/11/2023 10:47 a.m.

Smudge, a 9-week-old bully breed puppy, was found at Charlestown High School on the evening of Monday, May 1, according to MSPCA-Angell.

Boston Animal officers brought Smudge to the MSPCA because of a special condition.

“Smudge has a cleft palate,” said MSPCA-Angell Director of Adoption Centers and Programs, Mike Keiley. “So officers knew immediately that she needed to be brought to us.”

The surgery required to help correct the cleft palate, which causes respiratory problems, is expensive, complex, and risky - and totally necessary.

"[It's] one that Smudge needs for her to be able to live the full, happy life that she deserves," Keiley said.

The bright-eyed puppy will need to be a little older before she can safely undergo surgery, which will likely take place early this summer.

Smudge's surgery is expected to cost $10,000, and will be performed by a veterinary specialist Dr. Michael Pavletic at Angell Animal Medical Center in Boston.

Those wishing to donate to offset that cost of Smudge's surgery can do so here.

To learn more about the MSPCA’s annual Raise the Woof Gala, click here.

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