Emergency Surgery For Gemma

A longtime friend of mine, Ryan Morelli, has a miniature pinscher named Gemma, who was attacked by another dog Saturday Nov 5th at Barker Field dog park in Richmond, VA.

Gemma and Ryan frequent the dog park, and I joined them on Saturday excited to play with Gemma, one of the sweetest dogs I've ever met.  Ryan and I were standing near Gemma while she was playing with two other dogs, whose owners were also with us. Out of nowhere another dog of medium size, sprinted at Gemma and bit into her body with his mouth and shook her aggressively back and forth like she was a chew toy. I've never seen a dog act so violent in person. Ryan and I are still in shock something like this happened.

After getting Gemma away from the attacking dog we saw the gaping holes in her side. We immediately rushed Gemma to the emergency vet on Cary St. where she had to undergo a 4 hour long surgery to save her from life-threatening injuries. The attack had caused severe penetrating abdominal trauma, a herniated spleen, a broken rib, minor fracturing near the spine, underlying muscle laceration, and two additional puncture wounds. Local muscle tissue, two drains, and surgical mesh wiring were used in the surgery. She also had to stay overnight after the surgery. All of this, along with the prescribed medications, is a heavy expense for Ryan, a working college student at VCU. 

The owner of the attacking dog was not nearby during the incident and has chosen not to contribute anything towards the medical bill. Ryan has been taking care of injured Gemma, working to help pay for her surgery, and still attending classes at VCU. On behalf of one of the most caring dog owners I've ever known, I am asking for your help to fund Gemma's emergency surgery caused by such an unfortunate event. 

While Ryan is incredibly thankful her baby Gemma is alive and in the process of recovery, it was still an unexpected horrifying experience that no dog owner should ever have to go through. Any contributions to help get through this unplanned financial burden would be wholeheartedly appreciated.

Gemma at Barker Field before the attack. 


Gemma in her sweater bandage, the day she got back home.