Video: PPDR board members Robin Arnaud and Catherine Helgesen and Brock, a shepherd mix who was rescued after Hurricane Florence. (Videography by Lauren Schultz)
BRUNSWICK COUNTY — A Hurricane Florence survivor, Brock is a shepherd mix who has endured more than his fair share of hairy trials and tribulations.
One of the dogs that had to be evacuated from Paw’s Place Dog Rescue (PPDR) during Florence, he was rescued by the combined efforts of dedicated shelter staff that had remained on site and emergency response personnel.
“We lost everything, all of the furniture, washers and dryers,” PPDR Board President Catherine Helgesen said. “We had just been here a year in June. We had 4 volunteers, 23 dogs, and then the flooding came. We got the dogs out with the help of Winnabow Fire Department and the National Guard.”
Initially suffering from allergies that had caused his fur to fall out, Brock was originally turned over to PPDR from a local animal shelter.
“I got a call from one of the counties. He needed more care than they could provide,” PPDR Board Member Robin Arnaud said. “We took him. He is allergic to cats, highly allergic. We are giving him allergy shots.”
Due to his allergies, despite regular visits to the doggie ophthalmologist, Brock has been diagnosed with Cherry Eye, which is the exposure and inflammation of an animal’s third eyelid and tear gland.
“They keep coming back due to his allergies,” Arnaud explained.
With no potential adopters in sight, Arnaud has often taken Brock home so that he can enjoy extra cuddles and play time.
“He’s spent time at my house, he is house trained,” Arnaud said. “He’s just a great dog.”
With boundless affection and enthusiasm, Brock has spent more than one year at Paw’s Place and is hoping for an Easter miracle. He is especially fond of people, hypo-allergenic treats, and walks.
Potential adopters can meet Brock in person at the PPDR shelter, located at 242 George II Highway in Winnabow. Applications and additional information is available online, at www.pawsplace.org.
Samira Davis is a contributing writer for Port City Daily, focusing on animal issues.
