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Meet Polly.

The eight-month-old Labrador retriever mix should be running and playing like other puppies, but this sweet pup has endured severe neglect which has resulted in a swollen head.

The puppy arrived at Bayou Buddies in Louisiana with an enlarged head due to a deeply embedded collar. She was rushed to the veterinary clinic where the collar was removed, and the deep laceration was cleaned and treated.

Photo: Bayou Buddies

She was sent to a foster home to recover and at first her swelling started to subside, and she was on the road to recovery.

Sadly, a month later her head started to swell again. She was rushed back to the vet who told the shelter, "her swelling is due to strangulation from the scar tissue from the embedded collar."

Her best chance at living a normal life is to have multiple surgeries to release the tension on her neck. The surgeries do pose a risk and are costly, but Polly deserves a chance to live a full and happy life.

Photo: Bayou Buddies

The shelter reached out to Greater Good Charities' Emergency Animal Medical fund for help. The fund provides grants to animal shelters and rescues to cover medical costs and ongoing care. This fund saves the lives of countless animals, but we couldn't do it without your support.

Despite all the pain, Polly remains a sweet pup who enjoys being around other dogs and cats. Her foster family shared, "Polly loves to cuddle on the couch and gives the gentlest kisses. Once she has healed, she would make anyone the most amazing pet."

Pets receiving critical care facilitated by an Emergency Animal Medical grant may not be eligible for adoption until they have completed their course of treatment. If you would like to inquire about adoption of a specific animal, we strongly encourage you to visit the shelter’s specific website first as that is often the most up to date place to learn about available pets and review the adoption policies and process. Check out Bayou Buddies on Facebook to see all adoptable pets.

Photo: Bayou Buddies

Bayou Buddies focuses on rescuing animals in need of medical care or those very young mostly from Iberville Parish Animal Shelter and helps them get the care they need. They are then transported to a partner shelter or fostered until they find a forever home. Learn more about the rescue and how you can help here.

Help us meet our goal of $6,000 to treat Polly's injuries. Your support will not only give her the hope to keep fighting, but your donations will help cover her ongoing care.