The incident occurred in Alberta, Canada, where Brutus, recently abandoned, was scavenging for food when he stumbled upon a porcupine den.
Severely injured
In his attempt to catch the rodent, the Staffordshire Bull Terrier sustained severe injuries, with quills lodged in his snout, mouth, and eyes. A concerned citizen discovered the injured dog and contacted the Paws Up Program (PUP), a local animal rescue organisation.
Brutus was immediately taken to an emergency veterinarian, who painstakingly removed over 1,500 quills, including seven deeply embedded in his left eye, which ultimately had to be removed.
Despite the common misconception, porcupines do not shoot their quills; the quills detach easily when touched.
Recovering well
Brutus is currently recovering under the care of PUP, which is also looking after another dog injured in a similar incident.
The rescue organisation describes Brutus as a "resilient and charming boy" who, despite his ordeal, remains affectionate and good-natured. He is reportedly good with children and other dogs but requires separate feeding. PUP is now searching for a new home where Brutus can thrive and share his loving nature with a family.
What a brave boy! We hope he finds a forever home very soon.
