Animal control officers and sheriff deputies responded to a call about three 5-week-old puppies that were found inside a public restroom. There was no trace as to where the puppies came from but the officers were convinced that it was an apparent case of animal abandonment. They didn’t know why at first, but the reason soon became apparent.
Two out of the three puppies, both female. looked perfectly fine. But their brother, now named Hugo, was physically challenged. He couldn’t walk and he dragged his hind legs when he moved around. He also looked so sickly and he was smaller compared to his sisters.
The furry siblings were immediately transferred to the care of Suncoast Animal League, a nonprofit animal rescue center in town. Hugo’s sisters went straight to their foster families and soon, they joined their forever homes. Meanwhile, Hugo stayed at the rescue center a little longer until a medical foster parent became available, and that’s when he met Karey, his foster mom.
Karey welcomed Hugo into her home and introduced him to her dog. She provided him with everything he needed and she took him to his weekly vet appointments. She also made sure that he did not miss his meds or any of his therapy sessions.
Hugo’s recovery was long, but it was beautiful. He needed extra care because he was so fragile, but he never stopped feeling better. Despite his challenges, he improved a lot, and in the end, he got to live a normal life.
In no time, Karey decided to let Hugo stay for good. She knew he was meant to do great things in this world and she wasn’t wrong. Within a few months after starting his rehabilitation, he was able to gain full use of his legs.
Now two years of age, Hugo spends his time visiting schools, airports, and rehab facilities. He brings hope and joy to everyone he meets. As a certified therapy dog, he takes his job pretty seriously and he sure makes a difference in people’s lives.
Hugo’s life expectancy is shorter than most dogs, but it doesn’t stop him from living a full life. What other dogs can do, he is capable, too, probably even more.
Credits: Instagram@Denali Rescue & Therapy Dog and GeoBeats Animals
