In today’s world, numerous dogs endure conditions we can scarcely imagine, yet it isn’t until we witness their suffering firsthand that we can truly grasp their pain.
Fortunately, there are compassionate rescuers who are fully aware of the struggles faced by these animals, as they encounter needy dogs in distress on a near-daily basis.
This was the case when rescuers from a Philadelphia, Pennsylvania-based rescue organization came to the aid of a dog that had suffered so much it was hard for them to believe.
Yet, his loving spirit kept him alive, providing him with the strength to strive for a new beginning with the support of these amazing individuals.
A Special Dog
Despite the difficult situations they have encountered throughout their careers, the employees and volunteers at the Pennsylvania SPCA (PSPCA), located in Philadelphia, were absolutely devastated by the condition of this distressed dog.
“Collins came to us from a place of unimaginable cruelty,” wrote the Pennsylvania SPCA in their Facebook post. “Rescued from a cruel situation by our Animal Law Enforcement team, he arrived in very rough shape – underweight, vomiting, and broken in spirit.”
His spirit was so broken that he collapsed into one of his rescuer’s arms as soon as he saw her.
For the shelter staff, that was an incredibly moving moment.
“It’s not standard to lay on the floor with dogs, but this guy was craving human attention,” Lindsey King, PSPCA volunteer programs manager, shared with The Dodo. “Despite what he went through, he remained the sweetest, most lovable dog.”
As soon as he experienced human affection, Collins appeared to transform, almost immediately becoming a completely different dog.
During his time at the shelter, he enjoyed playing with toys and cuddling with the staff, displaying a playfulness, energy, and affection that was infectious.
It became apparent that Collins was indeed a remarkable dog.
Instant Connection
According to the PSPCA, Collins spent several months in their Protective Custody as “his case worked its way through the legal system, patiently awaiting justice.”
“He exhibited a resilience that words can’t capture, and with each day, he grew healthier, stronger, and more hopeful,” they described in their post.
Eventually, they recognized that Collins was prepared to embark on a new journey. He was ready to begin a new chapter in his life.
Although they anticipated a lengthy and challenging process, it wasn’t long before a loving family fell in love with him right away.
“It was no surprise that his family saw what we saw right away!” Lindsey noted. “His family was searching for a big, [lovable] pittie, and their connection was almost instantaneous.”
Just as he melted into the arms of his rescuer when he was saved from immense suffering, Collins swiftly embraced his new Mom and Dad, showering them with kisses that marked the start of his new life.
