Manchester Dogs' Home fire survivor Sandy is in the running to land a top national pet prize – the annual Pet Survivor competition organised by veterinary charity PDSA.
The tragic blaze began in the sanctuary’s ‘adoption row’ area and brave Sandy was one of only two plucky pooches who were being kept there to survive.
Now Sandy has made the shortlist of a contest to find the nation’s most remarkable pet survivor.
Sandy, a stray crossbreed who was days away from being sent to a new family when the fierce blaze ripped through the kennels of the sanctuary in Harpurhey, was rescued from the flames with black lurcher Finn, but 28 other dogs in the corridor were killed.
Up to 60 dogs lost their lives in total and 150 were rescued. The fire however led to an unprecedented £2m-plus fundraising drive, championed by the Manchester Evening News.
Sandy was fighting for her life as she was rushed to Cheshire Dogs’ Home and was in and out of intensive care after inhaling smoke for up to a month.
Claire Hayes, head nurse at Beech House Veterinary Centre in Warrington, said: “She really was in a mess.
"She stayed with us for almost a month and, despite feeling very sorry for herself, she always had a lovely nature and never snapped at anyone.
"She stole our hearts and we wish her all the best following her terrible ordeal.”
Veterinary charity PDSA runs its annual Pet Survivor competition to celebrate amazing feats of survival by pets, along with the dedication of their owners and the expertise of their vets and nurses.
Sandy is now recovering at home with Anna Stansfield, manager at Cheshire Dogs’ Home. She said: “Sandy did not enjoy a happy start in life. She was bred excessively, we think, for bait or fighting dogs, so she was very tired and low when we met her.
“The fire has really hampered Sandy’s progress and, although her physical wounds have healed, she has been withdrawn and depressed, hanging her head and looking very sorry for herself.
"We see improvement each day but Sandy is on a long road to full recovery. I am really rooting for Sandy – she is such a deserving finalist.”
To vote for Sandy, text ‘Sandy’ to 70099. Each text received will donate £2 to PDSA. A standard network charge will also apply.
Voting closes at midnight on Sunday and winners will be revealed on December 21.
