JAMES LAMPKIN

Bruce, a German shepherd placed through The Animal Welfare League, came to me after years of severe neglect and abuse. Charlotte County Animal Control intervened to remove him from the home; his former owner was prosecuted for animal cruelty. When Bruce entered care he was critically underweight, had extensive hair loss, and his ears were badly damaged. With support from Charlotte County Animal Control, The Animal Welfare League, and Dr. Ally's Animal Clinic in Punta Gorda, Bruce underwent total ear canal ablation (TECA) surgery—his ears could not be saved. He is nearly deaf but responds to very loud sounds; he stays closely attuned to his people and we communicate with hand signals every day. Despite everything he endured, Bruce is an exceptionally kind, gentle dog. He loves quiet companionship and will rest beside you for hours, happy simply to be close.