NST - April 1st, 2009 : Celebrating The Birthday Of A Very Special Canine

KAJANG: Residents of Murni Charity Home attended a rather unusual birthday party at their residence recently.

The birthday party was held in honour of Jewel, a rescued stray dog, which had touched the hearts of many with her resilience.

Before she was rescued, Jewel had struck up a friendship with a road sweeper in Taman Wahyu, Jalan Ipoh.

Although she was in pain after injuring her right hind leg in two accidents, Jewel did not complain and was content to tag along with her friend, the sweeper.

The man had built a little shelter for her in the corner of a children's playground.

One day, Jewel was almost nabbed by dog catchers from the municipal council.

She was rescued by a family who contacted an animal shelter called the Furry Friends Farm for help.

Her rescuers and the sweeper paid for her treatment at a private veterinary clinic.

Jewel had an operation recently to amputate her injured hind leg.

She continues to be an inspiration to people around her.

Besides celebrating her second birthday on March 23, Jewel was also appointed the Furry Friends Farm's third ambassador.

Furry Friends Farm principal Sabrina Yeap said the celebration was a beacon of hope to all strays and carried a special message under the organisation's Love and Care for Every Stray programme which was introduced last October in conjunction with World Animal Day.

"There has to be greater awareness on the part of individuals and the government in the treatment of animals.

"Our organisation stands for more humane treatment of strays, while helping to brighten up the lives of people with disabilities," said Yeap.