Bentley is on the mend.
Two months after surgery to remove the bullet from his back, the spry little dog gets around just fine, with the specially fitted cart that does the work for his paralyzed back legs.
"He's just done great," said Gail Boggs, who adopted the year-old beagle after her daughter found him hobbling along Crows Landing Rd.
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Bentley uses a cart to accommodate his paralyzed back legs after being shot.
Bentley's story captured faraway attention. An appeal for help to pay for the dog's treatment brought in donations from places as unexpected as Ala., and Portugal. The best donation came from an anonymous dog lover who donated the tab for Bentley's bullet-removal surgery at the University of California at Davis.
Boggs, collected money for Bentley,"I don't even know how much the surgery cost, because I never saw a bill, it could have been up to $10,000."
Bentley's care fund is still necessary, because he'll need specialized care for the rest of his life.
If a recent afternoon at a Modesto park is any indication, that could be a long time. Bentley tooled about with his cart, enjoying the attention he attracted and chasing birds with about the same success as any other dog.
He gets around the house easily without the cart, socks covering his back paws and legs to keep them from wear and tear.
Some people wondered whether it was prudent to try to save a dog so seriously wounded. Bentley provides his own answer. "Look at him, "It's obvious he has a good quality of life."
"His story means so much to so many, especially these days. It gives many people a reason to feel hopeful."
Donations may be sent to the Bentley Fund, Bank of the West, 945 Fresno St., Newman, 95360.
CROWS LANDING, CA
