Saving Pacman

KELLOGG — Fewer things turn the stomach more universally than animal cruelty — however, out of tragedy a story of kindness and love has risen.

A young pit bull named Pacman was found alone, injured, severely malnourished and dehydrated in an abandoned camper in Kellogg by Kellogg Police Officer David Bishop, who took him for emergency care.

The injuries were severe, and he had to be transported to an emergency vet clinic over the hill for the weekend. Pacman is currently back in the Silver Valley and is being cared for by Shoshone Pet Rescue. Many locals have gathered together to provide support, funding and medical care for the abandoned animal, including Aline Yergler and Laurel Yergler, who have created a GoFundMe.

“The rescue is still looking for a great foster or adoptive home that will be able to help him with what is expected to be high maintenance care until he recovers,” said Laurel Yergler. “In the meantime, your support has been greatly appreciated.”

Pacman will need a safe, stable foster home where he can recover. At this time, it’s understood that he has a broken and infected leg, and it was discovered that his leg had prior injuries that have had lasting effects. Yergler posted an update on the GoFundMe page explaining, “The current evaluation of his leg, including most recent injuries, has determined that the best course of action is to amputate the leg. We are hopeful that this will provide Pacman his best chance at a great future.”

The GoFundMe has raised more than $3,000 in just one day, and Pacman is scheduled for surgery at Kellogg Pet Medical Center next week.

“He’s getting better and stronger by the day,” said Marcia Biotti with the Shoshone Pet Rescue. “But he’s still in a lot of pain.”

The Kellogg Police Department is currently investigating the situation.

To donate to Pacman’s healing journey, visit the GoFundMe page https://gofund.me/cfc5e3c6.

If you are interested in fostering, you can visit https://www.shoshone-pet-rescue.org/ or call 208-512-3401.