Pet of the Week

Peering out from a tar-covered body was a bright-eyed creature that was a mystery to identify by color or breed. Onlookers seemed consumed by the same thought: Who would do something like this to a dog?

Seeing caring eyes looking back at him, the dog consented to having the black goo removed from his fur. Dr. Lethicia Lepera entered the exam room after his grooming and saw a large, 3-month-old white German Shepherd puppy.

Lepera, a veterinarian with Mesa West Pet Hospital in Costa Mesa, led the mostly clean dog down the hall to prepare him for neutering.

For information about how to meet JR — as he is now known — call (949) 759-3646 or email contact@animalnetwork.org. To see other available animals for adoption, to to https://www.animalnetwork.org.

Rescuing animals is costly. The shelter needs help to purchase needed veterinary supplies and provide payment for veterinary visits. To donate to help local animals, contact Community Animal Network, P.O. Box 8662, Newport Beach, CA 92658, memo, “Help Local Animals,” Tax ID 33-0971560.