Additional Coverage:
A seven-week-old puppy scheduled for euthanasia has been given a new lease on life, thanks to the compassionate intervention of the veterinarian tasked with ending it. Dr.
Oliver Reeve, of New Zealand, was presented with the tiny Golden Retriever-Poodle mix, far too young to be separated from its mother. Instead of administering the fatal injection, Dr.
Reeve offered the owners an alternative: surrender. They agreed, and the puppy, now named Toby, became the newest member of Dr.
Reeve’s family.
Dr. Reeve declined to elaborate on the family’s circumstances, acknowledging the complexities often hidden beneath the surface of such decisions.
He did share a charming photo of Toby, who weighed in at a mere 5kg, and lightheartedly mentioned the ongoing family debate about the puppy’s name, ultimately chosen by his daughter. He expressed some concern about ensuring Toby receives proper socialization and care, admitting that puppy-rearing practices have changed significantly since he last raised one.
Toby has already undergone the first of two surgeries to correct birth defects and is recovering well. Dr. Reeve’s act of kindness has sparked an outpouring of gratitude online, with many praising his compassion and wishing Toby a long and happy life.