From dumpster to foster home: Fern the dog begins a new chapter

A dog found abandoned and clinging to life in a dumpster earlier this month is now getting a second chance in a new foster home.

News On 6 has an update on Fern’s recovery, and the woman giving her a fresh start.

A miraculous recovery

It’s a story that triggered an outpouring of community support. After days of intensive care, Fern’s not only walking again, she’s heading to a new home… with the woman who helped save her life.

You could hardly believe Fern is the same dog found clinging to life inside a Tulsa dumpster near 71st and Riverside.

"She's standing up on her own and walking on her own, and I think she's gained a few pounds. So she gets to come home today," said Ashley Dwyer with Oklahoma Alliance for Animals.

Fern’s rapid recovery has shocked even her caregivers after arriving at the emergency vet completely lifeless.

"I think she was just a total miracle," she said.

A new home

That miracle is now being met with love. Dwyer, the rescuer who rushed to Fern’s side that day, will also be her new foster mom.

"As soon as I got her up here and, you know, started petting her and everything. I just, I knew I had to take her home," she said.

Ashley couldn’t be more thankful for the care Fern received at Oklahoma Veterinary Specialists.

"The staff is here 24/7, so there's somebody to take care of her all day and all night. They even have an iPad set up for her to watch cartoons," she said.

She says the support from complete strangers has been overwhelming.

"People call the office all day and check on her. And I just, we were all just so overwhelmed by how nice everybody is and how concerned everybody is, and it's been wonderful," she said.

Looking for answers

But while Fern heals, investigators are still working to find out who abandoned her.

"We do have a couple of people of interest that we would like to speak to. They are not considered suspects at this time, but we're trying to gather as much information as we can," said Sherri Carrier with Tulsa Animal Services.

For now, Ashley is focused on making sure Fern feels nothing but kindness from now on.

"She'll just be the happiest thing ever," said Dwyer.

Tulsa Animal Services says its investigation is ongoing and they’re asking anyone with information to come forward. You can also leave an anonymous tip through Crime Stoppers. That number is 918-596-COPS.

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