Stories like Tessa’s restore our belief in humanity.
A dedicated community of selfless rescuers came together for a common goal, demonstrating the incredible strength people possess when they unite.
This gentle soul endured a tremendous ordeal when she was trapped beneath a boulder, isolated from everything she knew. Days went by as she struggled to connect with the world around her, but all her efforts were in vain.
Then, something extraordinary unfolded!
Rescuing Tessa
The Sidewalk Specials team first encountered Tessa during their outreach work, which typically involves checking on outdoor dogs and assessing their living situations.
Tessa resided on a farm with a family and several other dogs. However, due to her inadequate living conditions, the team included her in their feeding program, providing regular meals for her and her siblings.
She was a wonderfully sweet girl who always welcomed her rescuers with delightful tail wags and cheerful expressions.
Tessa thrived on the farm, especially enjoying the company of her siblings. However, one day, she mysteriously vanished, leaving her family distraught. After three exhausting days and nights, she was finally found trapped beneath a boulder.
A comprehensive examination revealed that Tessa had become stuck and was unable to escape. The SS team was notified and rushed to the scene.
They managed to reach Tessa with food, as she had gone days without nourishment or water. Unfortunately, the boulders were too heavy for them to move alone, prompting the need for professional help.
Tessa’s rescuers found a professional mountaineer willing to assist with the necessary equipment.
“We were fortunate to find a professional mountaineer. He has the tools to help move the rocks and will be heading out early tomorrow morning,” remarked Rachael Sylvester, the founder of SP.
By the following morning, the mountaineer arrived on-site and began what turned into one of the most challenging rescue missions the team had ever faced. The extraction of Tessa took around five hours, but she was ultimately rescued and brought back to safety.
Upon her release, Tessa was overjoyed to reunite with her siblings. She immediately drank a considerable amount of water, a clear sign of her dehydration. According to the team, it was the longest drink they had ever witnessed.
Path to Recovery
Due to her unsuccessful attempts to escape the rocks, Tessa sustained numerous scrapes across her body. The SS team ensured she received all necessary medical attention, and once she started to recover, they returned her to her family.
However, only a few days after returning to the farm, her rescuers discovered that Tessa’s owners had abandoned her. During one outreach, they found her curled up in an old, rusty drum outside.
Additionally, she had developed another wound on her head, with a significant portion of her skin missing, indicating her dire condition.
“No dog should endure abandonment, especially not a gentle soul like Tessa, who has already faced so much,” stated Sidewalk Specials on Facebook.
Once again, the team stepped in to assist this lovable girl. They relocated Tessa from the now unsafe farm back to their facility.
Remarkably, just a few days later, she found a wonderful foster family willing to care for her until she secures a permanent home. She was welcomed into a large family filled with canine siblings who accepted her instantly.
Despite her past of abandonment, Tessa quickly blossomed into one of the happiest dogs. She thrives in her new environment and fosters wonderful relationships with her newfound siblings.
The SS team hopes that Tessa’s forever family will come forward soon, as she truly deserves a loving home after all she’s been through.
