Overweight, Snappy Dog Set to Be Put Down, Intern Rescues Him
From Growls to Gratitude: How a Shelter Intern Found Her Forever Friend in a Dog Marked for Euthanasia
Have you ever been changed by a rescue animal? Get ready to be inspired! This heartwarming story, originally shared on [The Animal Rescue Site](link to Animal Rescue Site – insert actual link here), reminds us that sometimes, the ones we rescue end up rescuing us right back. Do you have a rescue story of your own? Submit it here [link to submit rescue story – insert actual link here] for a chance to be featured!
Sunny, from Champaign, Illinois, shares her incredible journey with Harley, a dog she met during her internship at the Champaign County Humane Society.
This past summer, Sunny’s internship took an unexpected turn when Harley arrived at the shelter. He was in rough shape. Severely overweight, suffering from painful skin dermatitis that left his skin crusty and bloody, and with matted, mangled fur, Harley was far from a picture-perfect pup. Hidden skin folds, a result of his weight, created sweaty, smelly pockets of irritation.
But Harley’s physical condition wasn’t the only challenge. His behavior was equally concerning. He growled, acted territorially, and generally resisted any attempts to approach him. Strangely, Sunny was the exception to the rule, but with a demanding internship workload, dedicating extra time to Harley was simply impossible.
As Sunny’s internship drew to a close, she bid farewell to Harley. The news that followed was devastating. Harley, due to his aggressive outbursts, was scheduled to be euthanized. Sunny was given a difficult choice: rescue him herself.
Despite being a full-time student athlete with a job, taking on the responsibility of a dog seemed impossible. Yet, something tugged at her heart, and Sunny made a leap of faith. She decided to take Harley in.
“This decision was the greatest decision I have ever made,” Sunny shares.
Today, Harley is a transformed dog. He’s lost a significant amount of weight, his fur has grown in beautifully, and he’s rediscovered his playful puppy spirit. He’s full of love for his “mommy” and still enjoys his meals (moderately, of course!).
“I may have saved his life, but he has given me more life than I ever thought possible,” Sunny explains.
Harley’s transformation is a testament to the power of love, patience, and a second chance. He’s a reminder that even the most challenging animals deserve compassion and understanding.
Harley is, in Sunny’s words, “the true rescuer in my life,” and she will forever be grateful for their connection.
(Photo: Sunny from Champaign, IL)
Has a rescue animal changed your life? Share your heartwarming tale with us! Submit your own rescue story here [link to submit rescue story – insert actual link here]!
Image credit: Photo by Anoir Chafik on Unsplash | Source: Original Article
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