Dog with half a face expected to 'bounce back' after surgery (PHOTOS)

ROBBINSVILLE -- With a purple and pink e-collar around her neck to protect an IV catheter, Teresa sat quietly in the end run at NorthStar VETS hospital.

Just before 12:30 p.m. Olguita Baum, a certified veterinary technician, scooped up the 2-year-old dog and carried her down a hall to the CT room, in the first major step for the dog's life she was destined to have.

Teresa escaped as she was attacked in December on the streets of Thailand by a man who wanted to eat her. The attack left portions of her face mutilated and missing.

She was caught by a rescue and soon was brought to New Jersey by Michelle Weirich and Karen Quigley, who started a GoFundMe to raise the funds to get her here.

After an examination three weeks ago, Teresa returned to NorthStar VETS on Tuesday for her first -- and hopefully last -- surgery. During Tuesday's procedure Dr. John Lewis extracted five teeth and repaired her damaged tongue.

"The first couple days after oral surgery are the most difficult," said Lewis. "But after that they bounce back quickly."

Teresa now has only 30 of her 42 teeth. Seven were missing when she arrived in the United States.

"I think she has a very good chance to do well long term," said Lewis.

After an overnight stay at the facility, Teresa will return to her forever home with Quigley in Washington Township, Gloucester County.

"At home, Teresa is a normal dog," said Quigley, who believes the dog is adjusting well to her new American life.

She loves to run in the yard and roll on her back, and curls up next to Quigley on the couch while watching television at night.

"I believe she loves her life, she is truly a happy dog and wags her tail all the time."

Tim Hawk may be reached at thawk@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @photogthawk. Find NJ.com on Facebook.

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