Saving Sean Bean
What kind of monster wants to shoot a dog because they chewed a slipper
The first time I saw Sean was when we were helping Mustang Sally, a street-born pup with hip dysplasia and an ankle break that had fused. I was told that Sean, a young dog not yet two years old, was going to be shot by his owner for chewing a slipper. Can you imagine anything more callous than that? He was safe with a truly wonderful community carer, but he kept getting out of the yard he was staying in, and there were concerns that his nasty owner would catch up with him. We offered to help and were delighted when Sean's carer agreed.
The plan was in place for Sean to be transferred to our vet in Ankara, where he could undergo neutering and begin the process of obtaining the necessary papers required by the government.
Transporting dogs in Turkey is a challenge; unlike the UK, which benefits from numerous volunteers dedicated to ensuring the safe delivery of dogs to their destinations, Turkey lacks enough of these kind-hearted individuals. Fortunately, our coordinator managed to find someone who could help, but it would take a few days before they could pick Sean up.
This waiting period was filled with anxiety, as every moment felt critical. The thought of Sean escaping during this time was a constant worry. Adding to the stress, Harry came down with parvovirus, so it seemed prudent to send Sean to the local vet for a thorough examination as a precaution. From there, he could continue his journey to Ankara a little later.
Sean was wary of new experiences, but his carer was patient and understanding, knowing how to guide him through his fears. Once Sean managed to overcome his initial apprehension about the lead, he slowly started to trust the gentle guidance it provided. Each step was a small victory, a testament to his growing courage and the unwavering support of his carer.
The car, however, posed a greater challenge. Its shiny exterior and the mysterious sounds it made were intimidating to Sean, who had only ever observed them from a safe distance. But his carer's reassuring presence and soothing voice gradually helped him to associate the car with safety rather than danger.
With each attempt, his resistance waned, and he began to allow himself to be lifted into the vehicle. It was a strange new world inside, but with his carer by his side, it became an adventure rather than a threat.
Once at the clinic in Ankara, Sean settled into his new environment. We were expecting him to find the experience stressful as he had never been in a home before; his owner had kept him outside in a yard. Sean had no idea what ceilings and walls were, and he was surrounded by people and the hustle and bustle of a busy clinic. We needn't have worried, though; he took to it like a duck to water.
As Sean prepared to leave the clinic, he naturally felt a bit anxious. Yet, by keeping in mind that neither the car nor the lead posed any threat, his departure went smoothly. On arrival he was intrigued by his new surroundings and pleased to interact with the dogs at the boarding facility.
Sean has adapted wonderfully and has formed some new friendships. It brings us immense joy to know that he is out of danger. The mere thought of him losing his life over a chewed slipper is terrifying. He is a lovely dog who deserves the opportunity for a full life, which we are thrilled to provide him.
Thank you for reading about Sean, we are so grateful to you for being interested in the poor dogs of Turkey. Would you do Sean & I a favour & subscribe please? There are two versions of our subscription, free & paid. Both help the dogs so much
Michelle x