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VANCOUVER, B.C. —

Kiki, do you love me? Because we love you.

Animal cruelty charges will be recommended after Kiki, a Pomeranian puppy, was rescued following a tip and found to have suffered several fractured ribs and a skin infection that caused rotting flesh.

The B.C. SPCA is now seeking donations to help cover the cost of Kiki’s treatment and long road to recovery.

About two weeks ago, SPCA investigators were tipped off to Kiki’s condition by a member of the public who called to report the injured pup was being taken to a local animal hospital by its owner.

Animal protection officers arrived at the hospital and met with one of Kiki’s co-owners, who then surrendered the animal to the SPCA.

A veterinarian who treated the eight-month-old Pomeranian found that the dog had a bandage tied tightly around one of her hind legs, causing an open skin infection. That infection had spread to Kiki’s back and legs and required her fur being shaved to allow for healing.

An X-ray also revealed a number of older fractures to Kiki’s ribs.

Warning: Graphic images of Kiki’s injuries available at the end of the story.

Kiki is now being fostered by a veterinarian and receiving 24-hour care. Her bandages must be changed every three days and she remains fearful of human interaction.

Eileen Drever, spokeswoman with the B.C. SPCA, said it is among the more extreme cases she has seen in her 39 years of working with the animal rescue organization.

“I can’t imagine what she’s gone through,” said Drever. “Even her skin – is it shocking? Absolutely. I seem to say that every time.”

It’s estimated the Pomeranian’s medical treatment will total $6,000, with at least two months of physical recovery ahead of her.

“Obviously, psychologically she’s got a long way to go to fully trust people again but we are working with her with positive reinforcement even with any treatment she receives,” said Drever. “She’s coming around.”

Drever said it will be a long time before an adoption can even be considered for Kiki.

Animal protection officers are expected to recommend charges to Crown counsel.

Anyone interested in donating to the Vancouver SPCA to help cover the cost of Kiki’s treatment and care for other animals like Kiki can do so at spca.bc.ca/medicalemergency.

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Warning: Graphic images below.

Kiki, an eight-month-old Pomeranian, was rescued by B.C. SPCA in early April. She is pictured here shortly after being rescued. - Contributed/Postmedia

Much of Kiki’s fur needed to be removed in order to allow the skin infection to heal. - Contributed/Postmedia

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