Douglas shire unites as calls for donations to repay clinic passes $2000

PRETTY BEACH DOG

Jamie Jansen

Journalist

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Ocean has touched the hearts of many people. Picture: Jessie Goetze

The rescue of Ocean, the lost and wandering Pretty Beach dog located by Jessie Goetze over two weeks ago, has been a shining example of community spirit and kindness.

As it stands more than $2500 has been raised via Ms Goetze's Gofundme page - and in turn, it's those funds that will now go directly back to Mossman Vetinerary Clinic - the facility, that, out of their own pocket provided Ocean just days ago with much needed medical care including a heart-worm test, desexing, vaccinations, and microchip.

Despite no one coming forward as his owner, Ocean is in good hands with Ms Goetze, who is currently looking for the perfect foster family for him.

“The kindness and love shown towards Ocean have been truly overwhelming, with local and interstate donors generously contributing towards his medical and training expenses,” Ms Goetze said.

“People have also donated food, treats, harnesses, leads, toys, and even a dog ramp to help him get into the car, as he is too heavy to lift.

"Visitors have come to see him, and others have sent messages of support, with healers and psychics offering their help. Additionally, companies SavourLife and SuperLockULeads have generously sent him gifts.

“Ocean's story has touched the hearts of so many, and people are invested in seeing a happy ending for him.”

Bonding with Ocean

According to Ms Goetze, Ocean has a naturally friendly and happy personality. However, due to his traumatic experience, he is currently not friendly towards other dogs.

At just 18 months old, Ms Goetze is confident that with the right guidance, Ocean can learn to be friendly with other dogs, which is essential for his future.

Despite being scared and timid when she first found him on the beach, after spending two weeks with him, she discovered that Ocean is a loving and playful dog who is eager to learn tricks like crawl, rollover, and shake.

"He's like an old friend now," Ms Goetze said, beaming with pride at how far Ocean has come. She stays with him until he falls asleep at night, and he sleeps soundly until he hears the family wake up in the morning.

“I feel extremely lucky that he chose to trust me. I felt a connection with Ocean the first day I saw him. I’d like to say we share a close bond.”

Ocean’s future

Despite Ms Goetze’s love for Ocean it was never her intention to keep him forever.

“I would love the opportunity to care for him and keep in contact with him, above all I want what is best for him.

“I feel that he would be best as a single dog child as I already have three fur and two human children, so he can receive the undivided attention he deserves.

“Paws and Claws have been amazing offering to house him until the end of the month but then he will have had to find his foster or furever home.

"If you happen to know of someone or a family who could provide a loving home for Ocean, I wholeheartedly believe he would make an incredibly loyal and affectionate companion.

“When he goes to his new home, he will come with all of his belongings and training credits so that his new family can continue his progress. I will always be available to support you both. Not only is he a stunning dog, but he is also a gentle and special boy with so much love and happiness to offer his lucky new owner."

Many people have generously sent Ocean gifts. Picture: Jessie Goetze

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