A dog in Nixon, Texas, that was severely burned has spent a weekend at home with her foster parent amidst ongoing treatments, as reported by local news outlets. The dog, named Phoenix by her carers, was brought to public attention last month when she was found with life-threatening injuries caused by being set on fire.
According to KENS5, Phoenix has lost about 90% of her fur, and her ears were amputated due to the damage from the attack. Despite the trauma, Phoenix's condition is improving, "She's actually doing amazingly well. Her pain is controlled, which is why they let her come home," Medical Director Ashley Book told KENS5. The dog's weekend at home aimed to provide a quiet environment to aid her recuperation.
The course of Phoenix's recovery includes multiple surgeries where burned skin was removed and skin grafts were applied. Still, further treatments are necessary, "Several more graft procedures. She will need an eye surgery because she has a contracture that's pulling her eyelid up. They'll have to release that so it can fold back down," Book detailed in a statement obtained by KENS5.
Alongside her surgical treatment, Phoenix is also undergoing physical therapy to restore her mobility and rebuild muscle. The dog was monitored closely over the weekend to assess how she adapts to the home setting, "See how she does in the home environment, but she will go back depending on what they find on Monday will determine whether or not she's going to have to stay again in the hospital for a little bit longer," explained Book, in a quote reported by Charlotte News.
Phoenix's plight has garnered significant community support, with a GoFundMe campaign raising over $43,000 for her medical bills. "It's amazing, and it keeps coming in and it's she's going to need continued care," said Book, acknowledging the ongoing generosity of donors. The dog's ultimate fate seems secure, with her current foster mom expressing a desire to adopt Phoenix permanently, "I pretty much think I'm going to be her future mom. She's captured everybody's hearts, and, least of not was mine," Book told Charlotte News.
