[The Gentle Barn] – Staff from the Gentle Barn, a nonprofit animal sanctuary in Saugus, recently traveled to Tennessee to rescue Dudley, a 1-year-old cow suffering from a severe leg injury after getting his foot tangled in a piece of rope.

After ten months, Dudley lost blood supply and use of his foot, requiring it to be amputated. Instead of destroying him, Dudley’s owner spared him in a rare case of compassion.

Because of their expertise in helping animals like Dudley, The Gentle Barn was immediately contacted to find and treat him with the correct medical approach. Founders Ellie Laks and Jay Weiner flew to Tennessee this week to transport Dudley to The University of Tennessee’s Large Animal Hospital in Knoxville, where Dudley was evaluated by Dr. David Anderson, a specialist in farm animal surgery and head of the Department of Large Animal Clinical Sciences.

Once healed, Dudley will become a new member of The Gentle Barn family and join their Peace Enhancement Program working with children and adults in need. The 15-year-old nonprofit is providing Dudley and other animals with 24/7 extensive, progressive care and medical attention. It specializes in massage therapy, water therapy, chiropractics, acupuncture, veterinary care, Reiki, homeopathy, plenty of fresh nutritious food and, of course, lots of love.

“Dudley’s condition is actually what saved his life,” says Laks. “Because of what we do, he will now be able to live as an inspiring example of triumphing over life’s challenges, and help people find comfort and healing.” Laks explains that as soon as Dudley is ready, he will be interacting with the many children and adults who visit The Gentle Barn with similar ailments, including children with special needs and war veterans.

Saving Dudley and other animals in need of medical help is a costly endeavor. The Gentle Barn needs help in raising funds to cover surgery, the prosthetic limb and postoperative care.

To show support in saving Dudley, please visit http://www.gentlebarn.org/donate and in the drop down menu choose Veterinary Care.