Some animals arrive at shelters in heartbreaking condition, but with a little love their lives can totally turn around.
That was the case for one neglected dog, who was found nearly starving to death, but in the weeks since has been making incredible strides.
In September, the South Suburban Humane Society, in Illinois, took in a severely emaciated dog named Pumpkin. He was first found by a local resident who thought he was dying and brought him to the police.
Emily Klehm, CEO of the South Suburban Humane Society, told Newsweek that while they rescue many dogs, Pumpkin’s was an “extreme case” that left them speechless. “He was severely emaciated and unable to walk,” she said.
Photos show how unbelievably thin the dog was — it’s a miracle he survived at all.
Vets administered fluids and shaved his matted fur. Despite the rough start, he started to perk up and went into foster care with one of the shelter employees.
“Thankfully, we got him into foster care, where he is starting to improve and stand on his own again,” the shelter wrote on Facebook. “His journey is still long, but we are incredibly proud of him so far.”
Updates from the shelter show the remarkable improvement Pumpkin has made in just a short time. While he was unable to stand when they first found him, he can now walk around the yard on his own, wagging his tail
“This little man is so strong and getting better every single day,” the shelter wrote.
Though he’s still visibly thin, he has been slowly regaining weight. “This little man is progressing, and we cannot wait to see how much more he continues to improve!” South Suburban Humane Society wrote.
Pumpkin’s backstory is still unclear, but the shelter says he will be placed up for adoption once he gets medical clearance.
“Pumpkin will need a home that understands that he was severely neglected,” Klehm told Newsweek. “He doesn’t know how to be a dog, so everything from leash walking to toys are all new experiences for him. An experienced dog family would be best.”
In the meantime, he’s doing well and loves his foster home.
It’s heartbreaking that Pumpkin was neglected for so long, but we’re so glad he’s doing well and regaining weight — we hope he finds a forever home soon when he’s ready!
Please share this story if you love dogs!
3 Inspiring Stories of Kindness Repaid in Full
These stories are incredibly touching and powerful examples of how even small acts of kindness can lead to extraordinary outcomes. Felix’s willingness to help an elderly neighbor, Carly’s selflessness in aiding a stranger, and Mark’s empathy for someone in need all show that kindness often ripples out in ways we might never anticipate.
What stands out is the unexpected connection between their generosity and the lasting impact on their lives. Each story captures the spirit of selflessness, with moments where individuals put others above their immediate desires or comfort. Felix’s arrest and the subsequent fight to clear his name highlight resilience and the strength of familial bonds. Carly’s prom story reflects how a seemingly small gesture can become a defining moment of joy and gratitude. And Mark’s gesture, which brought life-saving support to his grandmother, is a reminder that empathy and compassion are sometimes rewarded in ways beyond our wildest dreams.
These stories reinforce the notion that kindness, even when it seems unnoticed, often finds its way back to us, sometimes in ways that change lives forever. Thank you for sharing this heartwarming collection!
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