Buttercup might be all out of teeth, but she’s still full of life. Photo: RSPCA NSW.
No teeth? No problem for 14-year-old pomeranian Buttercup.
This sweet, sassy pup wasn’t born toothless, however.
Earlier this year RSPCA NSW received a cruelty report about a dog in the Illawarra.
When the inspector arrived at the home they found a small white dog covered in dirt and fleas wandering under the carport.
She was underweight and had pus oozing from her mouth.
She was immediately seized and taken to the RSPCA NSW Sydney Vet Hospital, where she was found to have peridontal disease so severe it resulted in infection, mouth ulcers and restricted jaw movement.
She was also suffering from untreated knee and eye conditions.
The dog had already lost 11 of her teeth, and the remaining 31 had to be removed in a single operation.
“In all my years as an inspector, I’ve rarely seen such a bad case of dental disease – it was a truly shocking sight,” said a representative from the RSPCA.
“The animal clearly would have been suffering for some time. It is so important pet owners always seek veterinary treatment when required.”
Renamed Buttercup, the resilient Pomeranian quickly adapted to life without her teeth and was able to put on weight in the care of RSPCA NSW as she recovered.
Finding a home for her at the ripe old age of 14 after an extended stay in care looked like it was going to be a challenge.
Fortunately Paws for Thought Rescue stepped in to adopt Buttercup and give her the retirement she deserves.
The rescue team adopt senior dogs with high needs as part of their sanctuary dog program.
“We have been able to address each of her significant health issues with specialist support so her golden years are one of good health and happiness,” one of Buttercups new owners said.
“The day she arrived she slotted into our home and life perfectly.
“Little Miss Buttercup is such a kind, sweet, gentle little dog, that we feel so privileged to have her in our lives.”
She might technically be a senior, but Buttercup still has plenty of energy.
She recently enjoyed a 10-day trip around the Sapphire Coast, visiting breweries, lunching at cafes, shopping at local markets and whale watching.
“Who would have thought this delicate sweet geriatric girl would in fact be a keen bush basher,” her Paws for Thought carers said.
“She is loved immensely, and we are grateful to be working closely with RSPCA NSW to change the life of one little geriatric dog at a time.
“Although Buttercup’s past wasn’t so fortunate, our working relationship between RSPCA NSW means this little dog has been given the happy ending she always deserved.”
