Dog Lovers' Alert: Penny Doing Well After Surgery

COVENTRY, RI—Coventry police have posted pictures and updates about Penny, the dog in need of a home. On April 7, hopes were high she was just around the corner from finding a new family. Only about 4, she's a mastiff and Akita mix. She's also described as good with older children, other pets and house trained.

"Great big sweet girl. Give her a chance and the pampered life she deserves. Penny is full of energy but also likes to just lay around. Come to Coventry Animal Control to meet her and see if she will adopt you. 401-822-9106," the animal control officer wrote.

But Wednesday, Penny had a setback, and it's a serious one.

"Late yesterday Penny was rushed to a veterinary hospital and was diagnosed with bloat. She needed surgery immediately for any chance of survival. We contacted one emergency animal hospital and they quoted us a price between $3000.00 and $4000.00 dollars. We reached out to Coventry Animal Hospital and they agreed to perform the surgery for hopefully half."

Penny came through surgery with flying colors. So far so good, said Carolyn Lacombe, the animal control officer.

"Penny is doing well," she said. "Dr. Lester from Coventry Animal Hospital called me late last night after the surgery to let me know the surgery went well. She is not out of the woods yet but did go home to her foster home late this afternoon."

The police are asking for donations to pay for the hospital. If anyone would like to help financially they can donate to Coventry Animal Control Donation Fund, 1075 Main St. Coventry R.I. 02816."

The police are asking for snail mail donations to their own account and not a GoFundMe page, so donors can be assured their money will go to Penny and not to fees.