A Cane Corso mix found severely emaciated in Dorchester is getting a second shot at life after Boston Animal Control picked him up on April 22 and brought him to MSPCA-Angell. Staff nicknamed the dog Balboa, and veterinarians say he arrived hypothermic and dramatically underweight, with his ribs and bones starkly visible. He is now on a careful refeeding plan and is expected to move into foster care once he is strong enough.
MSPCA says Balboa is stabilizing
In a statement to NBC Boston, MSPCA-Angell Vice President of Animal Protection Mike Keiley said, “Thankfully, Balboa came to us when he did,” adding that staff “were able to begin stabilizing him by providing heat and offering supportive care.” After several days of inpatient treatment, the organization reported that Balboa is now on a controlled refeeding plan as he slowly regains strength.
How to help and report tips
MSPCA-Angell is asking anyone who might know where Balboa came from or how he wound up in such dire condition to call 617-522-6008 or 800-628-5808, or to submit tips online through the MSPCA. The shelter is also accepting donations specifically to support Balboa’s care at the MSPCA, the organization said.
What’s next for Balboa
MSPCA-Angell said Balboa will head into foster care so he can continue recovering in a home environment and give staff a better sense of his personality. He will be neutered before being made available for adoption, according to NBC Boston. While investigators from the shelter and Boston Animal Control work to determine where Balboa came from, medical staff will keep their focus on getting him fully stabilized.
