Police dog hurt by bad guys is rescued by good guys

Summary

A retired police dog that faced certain death without spinal surgery just got a huge break from concerned community members who pitched in to help pay for the operation.

Story Published: Aug 8, 2008 at 4:41 PM PST

Story Updated: Nov 20, 2008 at 11:22 PM PST

Police dog hurt by bad guys is rescued by good guys
KENT - A retired police dog that faced certain death without spinal surgery just got a huge break from concerned community members who pitched in to help pay for the operation.

The dog, named Barkley, was recently retired after he became to weak to work. After a lifetime of abuse from criminals who punched, kicked, and choked the Seattle police dog, he developed a herniated disc and needed spinal surgery to stay alive.


 Eric Dupleich strokes Barkley, who was losing his ability walk due to a herniated disc.
The dog's handler couldn't afford the surgery needed to keep him alive, and the cost wasn't covered by the police department.

"He just gives it 110 percent every single time I ask," said his handler, Eric Dupleich.

"Now to see him in this stage is heartbreaking."

The veterinarian, Dr. Sean Sanders, agreed to waive his $3,000 surgery fee. But Dupleich still couldn't afford the operation.

And the longer Barkley was in his disabled condition, the smaller his chances that even surgery could help him.

But KOMO News viewers who heard about his problem chipped in enough in donations to cover the expenses of tests and related costs, which are expected to total $6,500.

Dupleich said he is overwhelmed by the generosity of the people who came forward with their hard-earned money.

"I'm so grateful that Barkley gets to have the surgery and enjoy his retirement," he says.

An MRI is scheduled and the surgery should follow within four weeks.

So the dog that took a beating from bad guys is now getting medical help from the good guys.