If there’s one thing that always breaks my heart, it’s seeing a stray dog suffering from a medical condition.
The thought of them struggling to survive alongside their health issues is truly heartbreaking, and I wish I could help every single one of them.
Though that may not be possible, there are amazing people out there who dedicate themselves to rescuing and adopting dogs with various medical problems.
In the case of Winslow, his mom, Gabby, managed to save him from a terrible ending when she reached him just in time.
Winslow’s Journey Through Hardships
When rescuers from California initially discovered Winslow, they noted that he was a lonely stray without anyone to care for him.
Though it was uncertain if this was truly the case, they recognized the need to help, so they took him back to the shelter.
They later learned that he had breathing issues, which led them to believe he wouldn’t be around for long.
The assumption was that due to these problems, he likely wouldn’t be adopted, leading them to consider euthanization.
Poor Winslow had been through so much hardship, and he certainly didn’t deserve it. However, his luck was about to turn when he met his new mom, Gabby.
On the day he was set to be euthanized, a volunteer decided to bring him home. Gabby, having heard his story, rushed to save him.
Gabby shared with GeoBeats Animals: “What really caught my attention about Winslow was seeing this tiny little dog in distress. He appeared to have a terminal genetic disorder known as Mucopolysaccharidosis type VI, and something about him just tugged at my heart.”
Their Initial Encounter
Upon their first meeting, Winslow was incredibly small, barely tipping the scales at over two pounds.
This was partly due to his condition, which also resulted in a swollen nose, an underbite, and leg deformities.
These deformities led to severe internal complications, affecting organs such as his heart and lungs, causing numerous issues.
Gabby recalls, “When I first met Winslow, he was enjoying some pollo loco chicken. And there I was, taking him away in a car. He didn’t like being transported; he was quite upset!”
Once he stepped into his new home in California, he quickly settled in and took control. Gabby observed that he acted fiercely, almost as if he owned the place.
Despite his fierce demeanor, he adored playing with the other dogs and the resident cat, who were exceptionally patient with him.
Winslow also loved snuggling with Gabby, who would often have to put him on the bed since he was so tiny.
Gabby also enjoyed dressing him in small outfits to keep him warm and cozy throughout the day.
Winslow’s Incredible Life
Gabby acknowledged that caring for Winslow was a challenge because she was aware that there was no cure for his illness. Nevertheless, she was determined to give him the best life possible.
She expressed: “Based on my prior experience with another dog who suffered from the same genetic disorder, I was able to embrace every day’s adventure with Winslow, sharing memorable experiences on every trip we took together.”
He stood by her through numerous challenges, and she returned the love tenfold. Their bond was a sight to behold.
Sadly, despite her loving care, Winslow passed away shortly after his third birthday.
Gabby mourns his loss deeply but holds dear the remarkable memories they shared. He was an extraordinary dog, and it’s heartwarming to see he experienced a joyful life in his final days.
