© MySuncoastBandit.
On Christmas night, Bandit, a poodle mix, was hit by a car on Tamiami Trail in Bradenton. The driver fled the scene and left Bandit in the middle of the road to die. Moments later, another driver stopped her car, put Bandit inside and rushed to the Veterinary Emergency Center in Bradenton.
"He was essentially comatose when he came in. Initially we thought he wasn't going to make it," said Dr. Ilonka Ambros, with the Veterinary Emergency Center.
Bandit is suffering from internal injuries, severe road rash and various cuts and bruises.
Had it not been for the anonymous Good Samaritan, Bandit would have certainly died.
© MySuncoast
Bandit does have a microchip, but to make matters even sadder, his previous owner wants nothing to do with the animal.
Bandit's vet bills will cost hundreds of dollars each day. A fund has been set up to help. If you'd like to contribute, visit this website.
Or, you can contact the Veterinary Emergency Center at (941) 896-9420
In a few days, Bandit will likely need a medical foster parent who can provide medication and watch over him. Following that, he will have a regular foster parent and then, hopefully a forever family.
behavior--showing kindness and empathy and helping others of any kind who are in distress should be the "default mode," if you will, of human-humane behavior. That this small act of empathy is considered exceptional is sad and frightening. Everyone who is helping this dog, and everyone who publishes it (SOTT et. al.) and shares this article with others is an example of what it means to be human, is helping to fight the good fight against evil and entropy. It is a daily battle in which all our small decisions are reflected upon us and weighed by cosmic justice in the end.
Good luck to all this new year who choose to serve others over self.