Burned puppy gets second chance with Lee County rescue

ESTERO, Fla.- When Victoria Frazier decided to rename the 4-month-old Boxer she rescued Friday, she already had the perfect name in mind.

“Gabriella is ‘God is my strength,'” Frazier said.

Frazier said that’s what has kept Gabriella, or Gabbie, alive. The pup was found as stray in Miami-Dade County, with third degree burns on her back.

“It’s a pure tragedy. Whether this is from a chemical burn, a heat burn, a fire,” said Dr. Thomas Jackson, a veterinarian treating Gabbie at Pets First Wellness Center in Estero.

Jackson says he’s unsure what caused Gabbie’s severe burns, but it’s his job to get her back to normal.

“It’s 30 percent of the dog’s body surface area, so that’s significant,” Jackson explained.

Frazier arranged for Gabbie to be transported to Lee County on Friday, the same day she was scheduled to be euthanized. Giving the young pup, a second chance for a better life.

“It’s amazing that dogs can take the pain and the suffering,” said Frazier. “And yet, they have so much life to offer and their compassion, it’s just unconditional.”

Frazier founded the Love is Fur Ever (LIFE) Dog Rescue, a nonprofit group that rescues abandoned and neglected dogs. Frazier says she’s helped save more than 100 dogs to date.

“There are ‘Gabbies’ every day and without the help of our vets, and sponsors, it’s not possible.”

Third degree burns are considered a felony in the state of Florida. However, since Gabbie was found as a stray, it’s possible no one will face charges.

“Accidents happen but this far beyond an accident,” Jackson said.

Gabbie’s wounds could take months to heal, but he and Frazier remain hopeful Gabbie will be happier than ever before.

“The news was good yes, she’s got a great prognosis,” said Frazier. “So, it’s gonna be a long road but it’s gonna be a positive one.”

To learn more about the Love is Fur Ever Dog Rescue or to donate visit the website.