A local rescue group heard about a dog that was being mistreated. While they knew it could be a severe case of neglect, nothing could have prepared them for what they would witness. They drove over to the house in question and a dog was lying nearby, motionless.
She had a rope tied around her neck that was so tight, she couldn’t breathe. She was skin and bones. Because she lay there motionless, the rescuers weren’t sure if they were too late. But as they came closer, they realized that the poor dog was, in fact, breathing. Barely. Still, they had no idea how she survived this long.
They cut the rope from her neck and carried her into their vehicle. They had no time to waste. She needed a vet to examine her immediately. They put her on the table and the vet admitted he was in awe. How she survived this long was a miracle. The rescuers gave her a name, Esmeralda.
Esmeralda received IV medication and fluids as the vet staff ran tests. The tests confirmed that she was near death. She was severely malnourished and dehydrated. She also suffered from anemia. Her blood count was so low that she needed blood transfusions.
While the chance of Esmeralda’s survival was low, the vet gave the rescue group the option of letting her go or proceeding with treatment. The rescuers cried. They didn’t know what to do but then Esmeralda looked up at them, as if she was telling them: “Even if I don’t make it, please love me anyway.” So that is exactly what they did.
The rescuers and vet staff made Esmeralda as comfortable as possible. They continued with treatment so she wouldn’t be in pain but decided they wouldn’t treat her aggressively. The poor dog had already been through enough.
In the next few days, it was apparent that the sweet dog really did need love. While her body continued to give out, her spirit improved. For the first time, she was shown respect and affection. She lit up anytime a volunteer came near her, especially when she got to meet other sick doggy patients.
Esmeralda developed a strong bond with one of the rescuers who stayed with her around the clock near the end. Esmeralda would have died alone with a rope tied tightly around her neck, in the dirt, never knowing what love felt like. Thankfully, she spent her final days feeling accepted and cared for.
While this story’s ending isn’t what we had hoped for, we are grateful for rescuers who continue to advocate for animals in need. They continue to show them love and comfort even if they are running out of time. RIP sweet Esmeralda and thank you to the beautiful rescuers and vet staff who never gave up on her.
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