Pets aren’t just pets; they’re family. When they hurt, we hurt.
Toledo Walleye forward Tyler Spezia’s dog, Jersey, was struck by a car earlier this week on a walk with Spezia’s girlfriend Josie. He suffered major injuries including a broken pelvis, and will need surgery. His tail will also need to be amputated.
The incident occurred when a driver impeded the cross walk and struck the dog.
A GoFundMe page has been set up to accept donations for Jersey’s surgery. The goal is to raise $12,000, with $2,730 raised at the time of this writing.
Through 13 games, Spezia has 16 points (6-10-16). Before joining the Walleye in September, Spezia spent the past five seasons with the AHL’s Grand Rapids Griffins. The Clinton Township, Mich. Native skated in 45 games last season, posting 16 points (6-10-16) and 18 penalty minutes.
Before this season, Spezia last suited up for the Walleye in the pandemic-shortened 2019-20 campaign, splitting time between Toledo (10-10-20 in 21 games) and Grand Rapids (6-3-9 in 22 games).
Spezia has played parts of six AHL seasons with Grand Rapids, totaling 85 points (33-52-85) and 103 penalty minutes in 240 AHL games. He’s also played parts of two seasons in Toledo, adding 59 points (21-38-59) and 62 penalty minutes in 79 ECHL games.
Prior to turning pro, , Spezia skated four seasons at BGSU, scoring 72 points (34-38-72) and 103 penalty minutes in 147 games as a Falcon.
Thoughts and prayers are with Spezia during this difficult time. Here’s hoping Jersey can get the treatment he needs and make a speedy recovery. If you’d like to donate, click here.
