Gravitt Rescue Fund Exceeds $8K

The Marietta woman hit by a tractor-trailer on Interstate 75 asked for public donations to help pay for his recovery. 

Patch in April about her fundraising efforts for Gravitt, a likely stray who was named after the Marietta Police officer who rushed the animal to emergency veterinary care. 

Several operations, including surgery to reattach the dog's pelvis to its spine, came to an estimated $7,500. Wachsmann contacted Patch this week to report that more than $8,000 in donations has been received for Gravitt's medical care.

She also said that Marietta resident Deann Seckinger and her family, which took in the dog on a temporary basis, will be giving Gravitt a permanent home and assuming further financial responsibility. 

Here's the full message Wachsmann transmitted to Patch: 

"With a huge sigh of relief I say THANK YOU! AMEN - IT IS FINISHED! 

"The most incredible thanks to every one of you for your generous spirits in helping with the Gravitt Rescue Fund.  All his surgery bills have been paid off…all $8,000!!!

"It is even more meaningful in light of how many worthy needy rescue groups there are everywhere, that you chose to help us.  We are also particularly blessed in light of how each of us rescuing "moms" have been faced with a new crisis with one of our own precious 'permanent' rescue pets…and also the 'excuse' for the delay in this update. 

"In light of facing these new financial responsibilites and the sad fact that Gravitt's owner has never been found, the help each of you gave is HUGE regardless of amount.

"Gravitt continues to do well…is walking and managing small steps.  While his initial followup xrays still showed that healing was slower than the doctors hoped, you couldn't tell it by this little boy's attitude. He is energetic and happy and working through rehab and expect this bionic boy to live a long, fulfilling life. He would gladly give you kisses, as he has everyone involved in his rescue and care, for helping get him better! 

"Oh, and it looks like his foster parents have gotten so attached while taking care of him during rehab, that they are taking over his ongoing medical bills and giving him a permanent home!!! 

"So again, THANK YOU! THANK YOU! THANK YOU!!!!!!!"