Apatchi, the female bull Arab cross starved of love and of food, has gone to a home where she is loved – and very well fed.
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Previously without food for nearly four months, infested with worms and in terror, Apatchi’s new home is a “doggy heaven” where she is adored by her new owner, Vivienne Read, of Woodville.
Last week the Mercury reported of Apatchi’s horrific circumstances, emaciated and starved almost to death.
Today she is delighting in her new friendship, a comfortable home – and lots to eat.
A Woodberry couple were each fined a total of about $7000 in Maitland Local Court last week after they pleaded guilty to starving the dog for up to four months and failing to provide veterinary treatment.
“This poor dog is a beautiful animal who has been through hell,” Ms Read told the Mercury yesterday.
“She is still a very frightened dog, but she is learning how to play.
“And she is learning how to trust another human being.
“In spite of all she has been through, Apatchi is a very gentle soul.”
Ms Read knew nothing of her new dog’s history when Hunter Animal Rescue outlined her plight.
It was only after Ms Read said she would take ownership of Apatchi that she learned what her dog had endured.
“She is still very apprehensive of strangers and investigates everyone who calls here,” Ms Read said.
“She is a lovely dog who is only now experiencing love from a human that she has never known before.”
A highlight of Apatchi’s life is being able to splash in the dam.
“Of course food is very important to her and she also loves liver crisps and, of course, bones,” Ms Read said.
“But most of all, she is slowly learning that she need not be frightened of everyone. The Hunter Animal Rescue foster carers did a fabulous job.”
Animal Rescue foster carer Tylee Wallace looked after Apatcchi for four months before it Ms read gave her a permanent home.
“It was hard to keep Apatchi alive when she arrived at the RSPCA and a call went out to all animal foster carers,” Ms Wallace said .
“Apatchi was cared for by several people and together we were able were able to put some love into her life.
“She is one of the sweetest dogs I have ever cared for.
“For four months she was at the RSPCA animal shelter in Rutherford and they brought her back to health.
“But what nobody could do immediately was to give her back the confidence in people that she once had.
“This poor dog had a severe case of separation anxiety and when I first began caring for her she was very scared.
“She feels a desperate need to always be with someone who loves her.”
