Tiny Tim, the rescue puppy at the SPCA who was found in a garbage dumpster on Christmas Eve and who managed to recover some since then, has passed away from causes related to his health and medical condition. Tiny Tim was named the most in need resident at the Fort MacMurray SPCA after the 12 week old puppy with Golden Retriever ancestry was rescued on Christmas Eve. When first found the small animal was grossly underweight, he had pulmonary edema which was non genetic, and he was struggling with pneumonia as well. The puppy weighed a mere 5.5 kg when he first arrived at the facility, and by January 27 he had gained almost 3 kg. Tiny Tim seemed to be recovering well, and then two weeks ago the animal needed a joint tap procedure for pressure and pain.

Those at the SPCA who worked with Tiny Tim soon grew to love the puppy. According to a release by the SPCA executive director Tara Clarke “It’s heartbreaking. We were so hopeful of a full recovery from his injuries. He had been receiving emergency and around-the-clock medical care and attention from the doctors and staff at a local veterinary clinic as well as our staff and foster families.” Tiny Tim’s condition worsened because of complications from the pneumonia that he had when he was rescued. Clarke continued by stating “Animal neglect is a concern in our province and our region. We’re not always lucky enough to reach every animal in time to save them, but Tiny Tim was recovering very well until he started struggling again last week from secondary conditions caused by the pneumonia. After returning him from an emergency vet appointment, he simply didn’t have the strength to recover from his extensive injuries.” wish I could say Tiny Tim’s story was an isolated incident in our community, but it’s simply not the case. We rely entirely on donations from the public and local businesses in order to continue our programs and services and offer animals in need the second chance they deserve.”