About Us

Last Updated:

Jan 22, 2009

Thank You To Everyone That Expressed Concern
About The Two Dogs That Were Burned By A Blow Torch

     On November 27, 2005 two pit bull dogs from the same family presented for wounds that were at that time unexplained. The skin was missing from the ears and most of the muzzle for both dogs. The sides of the body had singed hair with the edges black and curled. It was later learned that someone had entered the house with a blow torch and vandalized the home, melting parts of the doorway. It was presumed that the dogs were burned as they tried to protect their home. They were still wagging their tails and the female was giving kisses in spite of their pain. They were treated for pain, protection for the corneas of the eyes and antibiotics were started.

     Channel 13 did a story about the dogs and their story was followed until we were told they were doing fine. It is always amazing how dogs can survive things that many people would just give up and not survive. Read below for some of the details and responses at the time. Thank you.

     We have decided to give updates on their condition as we receive more information.

December 15, 2005

      We have talked to both the dogs' owner and Dr. Knepper and are pleased to report that their healing is continuing very nicely. They both are comfortable and, although still a little scabby on the face, the skin is returning to normal color and function. The injured foot also is healing well. The ears may still need some reconstruction, however, and this needs to wait until the tissue is healed. Labwork done recently also was normal. Dr. Knepper and the owner are very happy with how both dogs are doing.

December 2, 2005

Dear fellow animal lover:

      Thank you! Thank you! Thank you! You have reaffirmed for us, our clinic, and our patients the amazing amount of love and caring that human beings possess in a crisis. As of today, the two dogs burnt by a blow torch are doing very well. Their pain is under control and most importantly their eyes have not suffered any significant injuries. Their ears may require some surgery but Dr. Knepper has assured us that he will take care of any minor surgeries at no cost to the owner. They are both healing and making progress.

     The family was able to pay for the emergency services that first terrible night, and Dr. Knepper graciously donated all of the day care treatments and follow up services. Luckily, no complications arose and no major surgeries were needed. Your gracious help gave us and Dr. Knepper peace of mind, knowing that if needed, they would have been taken care of with minimal financial stress to the owner.

Channel 13 is such an animal friendly station. They are constantly on the look out for animal/human interest stories. It is a blessing to have such humane minded journalists in our area. Through Channel 13, many animals have a voice that they didn't know they had.

     Through luck or providence, both of these dogs are doing well. In this situation, the need for extra money turned out to be unnecessary so we are returning all of the checks to their donors with our heartfelt thanks and admiration. As suggested, we are looking into establishing a fund in order to help in situations like this. There are many legal ramifications and decisions to be made in order for this to happen, so we'll keep you posted. The $20 cash that was given by an anonymous humanitarian is being held for that fund.

     To everyone who donated, please accept our thanks. You made our night, our week actually, much brighter.

Dr. Kittsen McCumber
Animal Emergency and Critical Care Center of Toledo

November 29, 2005

     The money that has been donated is still being held and the checks have not been cashed yet. The dogs were taken to Bancroft Animal Hospital and Dr. Knepper has graciously offered to donate his services to the family. The charges for Animal Emergency Critical Care were paid for by the family so we have not used any of the money donated. The people who have donated are being contacted to update them on the situation. Money may be needed if the dogs’ condition worsens and IF they need more care beyond what Dr. Knepper is donating. So right now, no money is needed and the checks will be voided and returned later this week if they are not needed. For those of you who suggested a fund be started, we are contacting our attorney to make sure it is handled correctly.

     The dogs are Billie Jean and Buddy Lee. They are still doing as well as can be expected and both are on pain medication. The report for today is that the dogs do not seem to be in pain, they are not crying. Their temperatures are still normal. Each day that goes by without an infection is great. The first 3-5 days are the most questionable. The burn was Sunday 11-27-05. Dr. Knepper is giving us daily updates as everyone is concerned.

     Thank you again for all the calls and concern shown for these dogs.

Dr. Kittsen Mccumber