At a Glance
- Aimee the pup was found in a bridge crate on Jan. 19.
- She suffered frostbite on all paws, a body temperature of 94 °F, and a heart rate of 46 bpm.
- Since rescue, she has shown major signs of recovery, walking on her own by Jan. 21.
A dramatic rescue unfolded in Erie, Pennsylvania, when police discovered a frostbitten Siberian husky puppy named Aimee abandoned under a bridge on Jan. 19. The pup was in a state that could have been fatal, but a swift response from local authorities and a dedicated animal shelter turned a potential tragedy into a story of hope.
The Harrowing Discovery
On Monday, Jan. 19, Erie police found a crate beneath a bridge in the city’s freezing temperatures. The crate contained an approximately 6-month-old Siberian husky puppy, who was later named Aimee after the dispatcher who first received the call. The shelter’s initial assessment described her as “frostbitten on all four paws, covered in feces, and reeked of urine.”
| Temperature Range | Weather Channel Data |
|---|---|
| 4 °F – 23 °F | Below freezing |
At the time of discovery, Aimee‘s body temperature was 94 °F and her heart rate was 46 bpm-both well below the normal ranges for a puppy under one year old, which are 99.5 °F – 102.5 °F for body temperature and 120-160 bpm for heart rate.
Rescue and Immediate Care
Police quickly contacted ANNA Shelter around 7 p.m., and staff transported the pup to the facility that same evening. Upon arrival, the shelter’s veterinary team began an intensive rescue protocol:
- Warm blankets and a blow dryer
- Gentle petting and soothing touch
- Medication to address organ damage and shock
- Continuous monitoring of vital signs
Within three and a half hours, staff reported that Aimee was “stretching her legs and trying to lift her head.” Despite the dire condition, the shelter’s staff expressed cautious optimism.
> “We are feeling hopeful for this girl, but she is far from out of the woods,” the shelter said on Jan. 19. “Praying tomorrow brings great news for us all.”
Recovery Progress
The following day, Jan. 20, ANNA Shelter shared encouraging updates. In her first 24 hours of care, Aimee managed to “roll over and stand up on her own.” She also had two bowel movements and urinated, a significant milestone for a pup who had been left to freeze overnight.
> “Those are BIG BIG things for a dog who was left to die and nearly froze to death the night before!” the shelter noted.
The shelter acknowledged that Aimee had suffered “major” organ damage but maintained hope for recovery. A comprehensive treatment plan was put in place, and staff pledged to continue monitoring her closely.
By Jan. 21, a video posted by the shelter showed Aimee walking independently, though she remained “very weak and wobbly.” The shelter’s narrative highlighted the pup’s resilience and the team’s unwavering commitment.
> “Aimee isn’t giving up, and neither are we!” the shelter declared.
Moving Forward
ANNA Shelter has announced plans to work with Erie police to “get justice” for the puppy, ensuring that those responsible for the abandonment face accountability. The police department has yet to comment on the investigation.
The story of Aimee serves as a stark reminder of the harsh conditions animals can face during winter and the critical importance of community vigilance and rapid response.
Key Takeaways
- Aimee was found in a bridge crate on Jan. 19 and survived a severe cold ordeal.
- Immediate medical intervention included warming, medication, and constant monitoring.
- Recovery milestones: standing, walking, and normal bodily functions by Jan. 21.
- The shelter and police are collaborating to pursue legal action against those responsible for the abandonment.
The journey of Aimee continues, with hopeful eyes on her future and a community rallying behind her recovery.
