Now in a foster home, Courage the starved and neglected German Shepherd rescued earlier this month, continues to improve rapidly. He's put on 10 pounds and makes progress daily toward a healthy recovery.
According to the rescue group caring for the dog, Courage's liver is healing itself, and his kidneys and immune system continue the struggle toward recovery.
"We are still monitoring closely to see if his organs will all resume normal functions," said Maria Dales, founder and lead volunteer with German Shepherd Rescue of Orange County. "The experts tell us it takes time to recover from such a shock to the body, so we're trying to be patient. He's come so far so fast that we are optimistic that he'll continue to improve at this pace."
Everyone involved with the case helped get Courage to where he is today: safe and loved, said Dales. It's been an overwhelming journey, but a rewarding one.
"Our emotions have run the full spectrum, from shock and sadness to anger and outrage, to relief and joy," she said. "So many people were pulling and praying for Courage's safe recovery, and I'm convinced that he felt that healing energy and warmth. His true angels are those who initially brought him to our attention and got him the urgent care that he needed. They should be commended as heroes in every sense of the word."
Cards, letters and gifts have poured in to GSROC from all over the country. People expressed their anger and sadness, as well as their happiness at Courage's rescue. The public outcry and support in this case have overwhelmed GSROC, but in a good way.
"Each and every gift is so special to us," said Dales. "We read and keep every card. It has restored my faith in the goodness of people. Some of the most touching gifts are from children who are equally horrified that such cruelty could occur, or from seniors who give despite their limited incomes. The outpouring of support reminds of why we do what we do day in and day out, despite no pay and long hours. I feel re-energized and recharged to know that there are so many wonderful people who care so deeply."
Courage's story began on April 7 when 3-year-old Courage, just 37 pounds and hours away from death, was rescued by a good Samaritan. Last week, his owner, 26-year-old veterinary hospital employee Kimberly Nizato, was arrested and released on $50,000 bail. The charges are felony animal abuse and carry a potential five-year sentence. She is due to be arraigned May 10 at Bellflower Superior Court.
According to Capt. Aaron Reyes of the Southeast Area Animal Control Authority, Courage was found in an airline-type dog carrier in the garage. But Dales adds that the dog was originally kept in the backyard, only being placed in the garage on April 6 before his rescuer picked him up.
"A relative of the family confirmed that he was confined in the yard because the parents didn't want him knocking things over in the yard," said Dales. "He was eating dirt, so he had to have been out of the cage."
The dirt in the intestines is well documented by vet records.
Tune in later this week to see an Examiner exclusive: the first pictures of Courage since his rescue and an interview with his foster mom.
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