Pup survives ‘evil, disgusting’ cruelty before adopted by Guelph vet
Posted Jul 10, 2025 04:05:46 AM.
Last Updated Jul 10, 2025 11:17:26 AM.
A new life and a new hope for a young pup, now adopted by a Guelph vet who was critical in the canine’s care.
Gabriel’s story didn’t start as a good one.
In fact, when he was found abandoned in Saint Lucia by charity rescue group HelpAWS, there was worry he wouldn’t even make it through the night.
Gabriel was found on a beach, with his face slashed open by a machete.
“Half of his bottom jaw is gone. His mouth filled with sand and maggots. It’s disgusting. It is EVIL. And it’s the kind of cruelty that keeps us up at night,” reads a post from HelpAWS.
Fast forward to today, and Gabriel is happily living in Guelph with his new mom, Dr. Renee Fleming, who was a key player in puppy’s recovery, connecting the team with medical experts to help in the case.
That care included seeing a specialist for his jaw in Ottawa, getting a CT scan, and even undergoing a toe amputation due to an infection.
A GoFundMe page was set up to help raise funds for the complex case.
Over $26,000 was raised for his care. However not all that cash will be needed, with Dr. Fleming footing some of the bill.
“Even more, Renee has kindly offered to take over all responsibility for Gabriel’s ongoing medical care Because of that, the remaining funds raised for Gabriel (thanks to your support!!) will now help other animals in urgent need, including a dog with hind-end paralysis and a cat with similar injuries who both require long-term treatment.”
The support for Gabriel came in from around the world, and even caught the eye of local dignitaries.
Guelph Mayor Cam Guthrie shared his story on his social media channels.
“This little guy is named Gabriel! He’s got one heck of a journey: From being attacked by a machete in Saint Lucia (basically has no lower jaw now), saved by @helpaws but needed critical care, so @thedoctorofbulldogs swooped in and brought this little guy to #Guelph!”
HelpAWS posted numerous updates on Gabriel’s care throughout his journey and says the case is nothing short of a miracle.
“We want to give a big thank you to everyone who donated, shared, and followed Gabriel’s journey — and an even bigger thanks to the team at Guelph Animal Hospital, Capacity Vet, Dr. Fleming, and Dr. Thatcher for the amazing care they gave him along the way.”
They wrap up what could be the last post on Gabriel’s care saying this is “proof of what’s possible when we all come together.”
