This dog was left to die after it was shot, causing it to lose its leg

Big Ben was found hiding under a bridge. He was severely injured and suffering excruciating pain. It took six people to move him around. Thankfully, a shelter was able to nurse him back to health. But his former owners’ heinous animal cruelty crime cost ‘good boy’ Big Ben a leg.

Found under a bridge

Stray Rescue of St. Louis received the call about a poorly dog under a bridge and headed out to the location. There they found terrified Big Ben lying on a piece of foam. He lunged at the team when they tried to feed him.

The rescuers believe that Big Ben was dumped as they found a prong collar laying next to him. But there was no way of knowing how the pup got where he was discovered.

Natalie Thompson from the rescue centre said:

When we arrived, we saw how scared he was. He didn't want us to come too close either and curled up his lip and growled.

Losing a leg

Aware the dog was in pain, the team worked hard to gain his trust. Using a humane trap and food, they managed to get Big Ben into the rescue Jeep—with six people required to lift him.

Ben's front leg was so swollen, and the vet suspected it was broken. But when they looked at it closer, they made a shocking discovery. He was shot in the shoulder.

Sadly, the bone was shattered, and the wound was infected and had festered, requiring antibiotics and surgery. So, the amputation was ‘all that could be done’.

Looking for a forever home

As soon as Big Ben’s leg was removed and he was pain-free, he started to relax a little. And thanks to the rescue’s love and care, he eventually let his guard down.

He runs, plays, and even jumps to catch a tennis ball, just like a dog with hour legs.

Thompson said:

He became a big puppy and loves to give affection. With a dog this large, it is unfortunate he lost a front leg, but he is getting around great.

This resilient dog is now available for rehoming. After such a rough start, Stray Rescue of St. Louis's staff don't want to see Ben go through abandonment again. They are looking for an owner ‘familiar with large breeds and some characteristics they can have, such as stubbornness’.

Thompson added:

He is such a good, happy boy and will have an amazing life with a caring, responsible human.

Sources used:

- Newsweek: 'Dog With Leg Amputated After Being Shot Now a 'Happy Boy' Looking for Home'