We hear stories like this all the time. A family gets a dog only to keep him tied outside in every weather condition imaginable: cold, rain, and blistering heat. It’s violent and ruthless, but it’s Hank’s only way of life. When rescuers received a call from a concerned neighbor, they knew they had to act.
When they arrived at Hank’s house, they were taken aback. He sat on a chain in the freezing rain. The ground was strewn with mud. He didn’t even have a drinking or eating dish. What kind of family abandons their dog in such a way? The authorities stepped in, and the rescue group was able to transport Hank that day!
When the rescuers got to the vet institution, they were given some bad news. Hank wasn’t feeling well. He had distemper, a disease with a 50% probability of survival. The poor puppy was malnourished and anemic.
His immune system had been compromised. This meant Hank needed a lot of one-on-one time. The rescue organization asked for help on social media.
Two women approached, ready to take Hank home. They volunteered to care for him around the clock, seven days a week. Hank was not only given medication, appropriate housing, and food but he was also lavished with love. His adoptive mothers made sure he went to all of his doctor’s visits, ate properly, and slept comfortably (on the sofa or in their bed, not on a chain outside!).
Hank felt at peace and at home for the first time. He spent his days unwinding. He was weak and sick, but he waggled his tail and perched on his mothers’ laps.
And, despite the fact that Hank was young enough to have a long life, his old owner ruined everything for him. Hank continued to deteriorate despite receiving good care since puppyhood, including vaccines and proper nutrition.
While Hank’s death is tragic, knowing that he spent his final days feeling loved is a feat in and of itself. EVERY DOG HAS THE RIGHT TO LIVE A HAPPY LIFE. This is how Hank’s happiness came to be. “We love you, Hank,” he said as he crossed the rainbow bridge in his mother’s arms. Rest peacefully, little boy…
