Sammy Toland, the mixed terrier dog who was badly burned during a February 2006 Oklahoma wildfire, is doing well according to reports from the dog’s owners.

David and Krystal Toland are forever grateful to the veterinarians, students and staff at OSU’s Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital where Sammy was treated for five weeks as he recovered from massive burns to 30 percent of his body. Treatment involved skin grafts and 11 different surgeries.

“Sammy plays with our other animals like he did before,” says Krystal. “His hair progression is slow and it’s even starting to grow back on his skin graft.”

According to Dr. Jim Giles, Small Animal Surgery Resident, Sammy’s graft has done very well and it looks like he has had a very good recovery.

In addition to his medical progress, Krystal says that before the fire, Sammy was intimidated by men and would often growl at them. Since spending time at the Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital, where both men and women tended to the dog’s needs, he seems to like people more in general.

“Sammy’s progress is wonderful,” smiles Krystal. “We are so thankful for everyone who donated money to help pay for his care and for the services provided at the Veterinary Center. We are so happy to have Sammy home and doing well.”

Money from the Veterinary Center’s Brittany Fund was used to cover some of Sammy’s medical expenses. The Brittany Fund was established to help seriously ill or traumatized pets from low income families receive appropriate veterinary care when otherwise they would not. Donations are always welcome and are acutely needed since the funds are low at this time. Donations payable to OSU Foundation with Brittany Fund noted in the memo section and mailed to Oklahoma State University, 308 McElroy Hall, Stillwater, OK 74078 are truly appreciated. If you would like more information on the Brittany Fund, call (405) 744-6728.

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