In January, Hôpital vétérinaire LaSalle (LaSalle, QC) offered a second chance to Sister, a dog rescued from Hurricane Melissa in Jamaica. Thanks to the compassion and dedication of the practice team and the financial support of Groupe vétérinaire Daubigny, she received surgery to help her regain mobility.

From left to right: Jasmine Gallienne, Sister’s foster dad, Dr. Raymond Plasse, and Sister

The story begins with Jasmine Gallienne, a Registered Veterinary Technician (RVT) at Hôpital vétérinaire LaSalle and a senior manager at the Humane World for Animals Canada’s Care and Rehabilitation Centre in Vaudreuil-Dorion, QC. In late November 2025, Jasmine travelled to New York to coordinate the transfer of 15 dogs from the Negril Pup Rescue, a shelter in Jamaica that had been severely affected by Hurricane Melissa.

After a long journey, the dogs arrived at the Care and Rehabilitation Centre in Vaudreuil-Dorion. “Physically, the dogs were doing well, but their emotional state reflected the stress they had experienced during the hurricane, and throughout their journey to Canada,” explains Jasmine.

A decisive orthopedic intervention

A few days after their arrival, one of the dogs in the group, Sister, began to show a noticeable limp. The four-year-old mixed-breed dog was experiencing increasing discomfort. A veterinary examination quickly led to a diagnosis of a ruptured anterior cruciate ligament (ACL), a painful injury that can severely compromise mobility and long-term quality of life.

After being informed of Sister’s condition by Jasmine, Isabelle Juneau, the Practice Manager at Hôpital vétérinaire LaSalle, expressed her team’s willingness to explore any possible form of support should an animal require care. Dr. Raymond Plasse, Medical Director of the hospital and a veterinarian with 35 years of experience, agreed to take on Sister’s case. “Without intervention, this dog would likely have lived with significant pain and long-term complications. Her chances to be adopted would also have been compromised,” explains Dr. Plasse.

On January 6, Sister underwent an orthopedic procedure known as lateral suture surgery. This technique involves creating a synthetic internal brace to stabilize the knee. The procedure was performed by Dr. Plasse with the support of RVT Michelle Goupille.

“The main challenge wasn’t medical, but rather related to the animal’s stress level,” notes Dr. Plasse. “Given her background, we needed to take extra time and be especially gentle and attentive during her recovery from anesthesia to avoid any panic,” he explains.

The surgery was successful. Although Sister is still in her recovery period, her prognosis is good.

A collaboration in support of a rescue animal

For the team at Hôpital vétérinaire LaSalle, this intervention represents far more than a medical procedure. “It gives us a real sense that we made a difference. Supporting animal shelters is particularly close to our hearts, and we are very proud to have been able to rely on Dr. Plasse’s expertise,” says Practice Manager Isabelle Juneau.

For Jasmine, this collaboration aligns naturally with her professional path. “From the moment I began my studies to become an RVT, I knew I also wanted to be involved with shelters and help dogs who have lived through difficult experiences,” she explains. The financial support provided by Groupe vétérinaire Daubigny allowed care to be provided quickly and reducing the financial burden on Humane World for Animals Canada, allowing it to continue to focus its efforts on rescuing animals in need.

For Dr. Plasse, practicing medicine that aligns with his values is a source of pride.

“Being able to give back to animals makes me appreciate and respect Groupe vétérinaire Daubigny even more. We were able to help save an animal that likely would not have access to this level of care otherwise. That is something very close to my heart. Moreover, orthopedic surgery is what I enjoy most, so I was truly in my element.”

Sonia Di Staulo, Director of Operations at Groupe vétérinaire Daubigny, highlights the importance of this commitment:

“We were truly delighted to support a cause that means so much to our employees. At Groupe vétérinaire Daubigny, Sister’s story perfectly reflects our values grounded in our belief of compassion, commitment, and a genuine desire to make a tangible difference for animals and our community. We are immensely proud of the team at Hôpital vétérinaire LaSalle.”

What’s next for Sister

Following her surgery, Sister was taken in by Rescue All Dogs, an animal protection organization ensuring she finds a foster family during her recovery before her permanent adoption. Several other dogs from the same group that arrived from New York are also undergoing rehabilitation or awaiting foster placement.

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