Life isn’t just about numbers; it’s about quality and making every moment count—something Beans would agree with if he could speak. When his breeder surrendered him to a Florida shelter, he wasn’t given much hope. Caregivers were informed that this little Bulldog wouldn’t live to see his first birthday due to numerous genetic and physical issues. What they didn’t know was that Beans was a fighter! Upon meeting his new mom, he surprised everyone with his resilience.
He Wasn’t Expected To Make It To His First Birthday
Beans’ situation was dire; after being surrendered, he was labeled a hospice patient by his neurologist. At ten weeks old, he weighed only one-third of what he should have and faced multiple health challenges. However, Karey, a medical foster for Suncoast Animal League, Florida, decided to give him a chance.
“Beans was determined to be surviving with scoliosis, spina bifida, shortened spinal cord syndrome, hydrocephalus, shallow hip sockets & rotary nystagmus. He is about 1/3 of the size he should be at just 27lbs,” Karey wrote on Instagram.
Given just a few months to live, Karey quickly devised a plan. “We were told he probably wouldn’t make it to his first birthday, so I took him home,” she shared with GeoBeats Animals.
She introduced him to her other two rescue dogs, Denali and Hugo, with the intention of making Beans’ life as fulfilling as possible—not knowing he would thrive in this loving environment. Despite numerous challenges, Beans reveled in having a home, played with his siblings, and showed incredible determination, ultimately celebrating his first birthday, a true miracle!
That’s when Karey realized Beans was an indomitable spirit; he refused to let his health conditions hinder his joy, and thankfully, he experienced no pain. Beans learned to embrace life fully, unaware of his unique circumstances.
Even when faced with an emergency in his second year, when his body stopped functioning, he triumphed through surgery and emerged stronger than ever.
Beans, A Certified Therapy Dog, A Lover, And A Miracle
Beyond his health struggles, Beans has everything he ever wanted—a loving family, a warm home, and amazing siblings. Karey created a nurturing environment, brimming with love.
“Knowing that Beans’ life would be limited by time, we aimed to ensure the time he has is filled with love & adventures,” Karey remarked.
Additionally, Beans is a certified therapy dog who visits hospitals and schools, showing people that being different is not a limitation. His life gained purpose beyond anyone’s expectations. He’s a hospice survivor, a loving companion, a therapist, a miracle, and the best friend anyone could wish for!
