Abused Boise rescue dog gets wheels, thanks to BSU engineering students
A sick dog that was rescued from the streets of Caldwell in December has paralysis in his hind legs, possibly from some sort of trauma. Volunteers at Boise Bully Breed Rescue believe he may have been trapped in a small space for long periods of time, causing sores and permanent spinal injury.
The 2-year-old male bully breed dog, named Leroy, has been cleaned up, fattened up received medical care from the staff at All Valley Medical Care Center in Meridian. He’s also now using a wheelchair, built by a group of engineering students at Boise State University.
Brittany Smith, a resident director at Boise State who is also assistant foster / adoption coordinator for Boise Bully Breed, rallied the students to help. The group included: Madisyn Benge, Zach Taylor, Steven Saldivar, Sarah Knue and Kane Venecia.
Venecia, a sophomore from Meridian, is animal lover. He’s studying mechanical engineering, so this project was in his wheelhouse. The students didn’t get any extra credit in school for participating.
“We’re just in it to make a difference in the dog’s life,” Venecia said.
Venecia said they fashioned the wheelchair out of two donated baby strollers and other parts. They later replaced the axle because it wasn’t strong enough.
“It’s not the most beautiful chair, but it is functional,” Smith said.
She said engineers at her uncle’s company in New Hampshire — DMR Industries — are making and donating five dog wheelchairs for other Idaho dogs who may need them.
Leroy, who is brown-and-white, weighs 43 pounds.
He still getting used to his new wheels. Now that he can get around a little better, he is chasing balls and playing more. He has a sweet demeanor and loves to cuddle.
“He’s affectionate, and he is an attention hog,” Smith said.
If you or anyone you know is interested in adopting Leroy, contact Alicia with Boise Bully Breed at 407-782-2999. Brittany Smith can be reached via e-mail at brittanysundell@gmail.com.
Katy Moeller: 208-377-6413, @KatyMoeller
This story was originally published March 16, 2016 at 1:02 PM with the headline "Abused Boise rescue dog gets wheels, thanks to BSU engineering students."