posted
on Monday, May 10, 2021
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UPDATE (5/7/2021 8:01 p.m.)
Damion Sparks, 24, of Des Moines was arrested and charged today with 1 count of Animal Neglect in connection with the alleged neglect of the dog Harold. Sparks was booked into the Polk County Jail on a $300 bond.
ORIGINAL POST 5/7/2021 1:27 p.m.)
It never gets easier. No matter how many times we see unimaginable suffering, the horror is still the same.
That’s how it was when Harold arrived at the Animal Rescue League.
The senior dog was in considerable pain, with a severe skin infection across 75% of his body. His inflamed skin was hot to the touch and severely itchy. He had lost nearly all his fur, and everywhere on his body he had crusted or open sores.
And that wasn’t all. He was also suffering from painful ear and eye infections, and he was so underweight that his hip bones and spine jutted from his skin. It hurt for him to walk.
We can only imagine how hopeless and alone he felt.
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Our Emergency Care Team immediately started him on medications for pain and to treat his multiple infections. We gave him a medicated bath to help begin his healing.
Through it all, he was the sweetest dog. He stood patiently and just wanted to be near us. After suffering for so many months, he welcomed our kind touch. He knew he was finally safe.
He did not deserve this. And his life wasn’t always like this. From puppyhood he had lived with someone who loved and cared for him. Sadly, when his owner passed away, the person entrusted with caring for him failed him.
With your help today we will ensure that never happens again. Your donation to our Miracle Medical Fund provides hope for Harold and other pets like him who arrive at the ARL in desperate need of help. Your gift today will help right now, and Your monthly gift will ensure we will always be there when pets arrive neglected and in pain.
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Harold didn’t get this way overnight, but you can help him heal and give him hope for better days ahead.
P.S., Damion Sparks of Des Moines has been arrested and charged with 1 count of Animal Neglect in Harold's case. When you give today or join our Loyal Friends Club with a monthly gift, you’ll be automatically enrolled to receive more updates.