Loving on Nick

Rescuing dogs from cruel situations never gets easier. Seeing these dogs emaciated, sick, fur matted, and sores covering their bodies makes our blood boil. No dog should have to face those situations. We shouldn’t be able to count their ribs. We shouldn’t see them cower in fear as we approach, worried they will be hit. Too many dogs suffer like this, and it’s not okay. There is a constant worry that we’ll get a dog we can’t save, which weighs heavily on our hearts.

We met Nick, and the situation was horrific. Chained up in a yard in the blistering heat with sores covering his body, being attacked by fleas with no food in sight, a neighbor finally called animal control. The rage we felt bubbled up into our throats, closing it off, but anger wouldn’t help Nick. He needed kindness, love, and loyalty. He needed to know that the humans who failed him were a thing of the past. Our goal for Nick was simple: teach him that he is worthy of unconditional love.

As expected, Nick was initially extremely tentative about everything. It was horrible to witness such hopelessness and despair. We noticed he wanted to crawl into the toys and lie among them. The soft toys were a haven after living in such horrific conditions. When we realized how comfortable lying amongst the toys made him, one of our outstanding staff members decided a more significant toy bin was in order. He brought a massive bin where Nick could crawl in and lie comfortably. Nick desperately needed rest to heal, and this was the perfect way to get him to do that.

With love and support, Nick has gained five pounds already! He is a volunteer favorite, and we’re starting to see a bit of sparkle back in his eyes. He’ll survive life’s awful and come out shining for a family to love. Nick, you got this, sweet boy.