When a man named Calvin was driving home from work, he felt compelled to leave at a specific location. He had never traveled that way before, but he instantly grasped why he was there. An injured dog stood alone off to the side of the highway on the shoulder. Calvin pulled over, and just as he was ready to exit his vehicle, the cops arrived.
Calvin sensed something wasn’t right. He wanted to help the dog himself, but there were rules to follow once Animal Control was involved. As the soldiers in uniform approached him, the poor puppy was terrified. Despite his injuries, he attempted to flee.
After that, the poor puppy was taken in and placed on a seven-day hold. Animal Control had to wait to see whether the dog’s owner came forward. Calvin appeared to be upset. The dog didn’t belong in a freezing kennel, he realized. Especially considering his serious injuries and intense terror. He merely stood there staring at the wall, expecting to vanish.
Calvin contacted a friend named Kendahl, who had previous rescue experience, and she informed Calvin that taking this dog in would be difficult. The dog was severely damaged, and it would be quite costly to treat him.
The dog would have been euthanized at this point, but Calvin wouldn’t have it! Calvin needed his leg amputated and opted to fundraise for the procedure himself! Kendahl was also delighted to assist. They chose the name Ike for the dog.
Calvin and Kendahl were both apprehensive when Ike emerged from surgery. Ike required additional attention. His terror was crippling in and of itself. Kendahl thought that Ike would be the perfect foster for her. She had the opportunity to visit him in his hospital bed. And that was just what Ike required.
Kendahl didn’t just spend time with Ike; she worked hard to demonstrate that she would never harm him. It took some time, but Ike began to change his mind. Kendahl was finally ready to meet Ike and introduce her cat, Uno. She was expecting some sniffs and possibly tail wags. What she didn’t expect was the formation of a life-changing friendship!
Ike miraculously improved both physically and mentally. Kendahl recognizes that he will have to leave her shortly and relocate to a permanent residence. It crushes her heart, but she explains that if she doesn’t foster animals and assist them in adjusting to their new life, she won’t be able to continue.
While she wants to keep Ike, she recognizes her calling, which is to accomplish what so few others can. Check out the video below to learn more about Ike and his incredible transformation!
