Community Partnership Spotlight: Liberty Animal Clinic
In 2021 alone, BARCS treated nearly 800 animals through the Franky Fund. This would not have been possible without the growing number of veterinary hospitals we have the privilege of being partnered with. Liberty Animal Clinic is one of these big-hearted hospitals that cares for emergency and specialized medical cases that come through BARCS’ doors.
In late December 2021, tiny one-year-old Fennec was found wandering around the city. Our partners at Baltimore City Animal Control saw that she was emaciated and had wounds on her head and hips. It was clear she had not received medical care in quite some time. When officers canvassed the neighborhood, a resident told them that Fennec had reportedly been outside all night.
When Fennec arrived at BARCS, our medical team began with a thorough evaluation. Poor sweet Fennec had wounds that covered over 30 percent of her body—some were older than others, but all were uncomfortable and in need of cleaning and care. She was extremely emaciated and dehydrated, too; she was able to stand on her own, but not for very long.
Due to the severity of her condition, our team sent her to Liberty Animal Clinic. Fennec was treated right away with intensive, critical care, including IV fluids, bandage changes and so much more. Her road to recovery would be long, but everyone was determined to help see her through it.
About a week after she arrived at Liberty, Fennec’s injuries seemed to worsen. Her condition was touch-and-go for several weeks, and she needed continuous medical attention. As her days in the emergency room continued to grow, caring for sweet Fennec was becoming very expensive. And then, the biggest, best surprise of all happened.
Despite how serious her condition was, Fennec was a trusting, loving, happy girl. Shawn Koelemeyer, the owner of Liberty, told us, “Her remarkable spirit and gentle nature endeared her to myself and everyone here at Liberty.”
That’s right—Dr. Koelemeyer and his team had fallen in love. He knew in his heart that Fennec belonged with him—so he formally adopted her and chose not to charge BARCS for her ongoing care.
Her recovery and subsequent transformation is nothing short of remarkable. Today, Fennec is the hospital dog at Liberty Animal Clinic. When she’s not working hard, she spends her time at home with Dr. Koelemeyer and his family
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