Imagine a 15-pound dog being wheeled into a shelter on a stretcher due to the abuse and neglect she faced from her previous owners. Sadly, this is a grim reality for many dogs across the United States. Due to such cruel treatment, dogs like Meleys often find themselves with little chance of recovery, spending their short lives trying to heal, with many failing to do so.
Yet, Meleys is a remarkable exception. A true fighter, she refused to give up even when her situation seemed utterly hopeless. Her life story was initially filled with despair, but that was about to change.
She Survived Against All Odds
Meleys was found in deplorable condition at a Newark shelter, where caregivers discovered her lying in the cold amid her own feces. She was so weak she had to be carried on a stretcher into the shelter. At that time, she struggled even to lift her head, let alone stand or walk.
Due to her critical state, Meleys was later transferred to Twenty Paws Rescue in New York, as her caregivers in Newark lacked the resources to provide her with the care she desperately needed.
“Cruel, heartless, and disgusting. Left in such bad shape she had to be brought in on a stretcher,” the New York City rescue posted on Facebook, revealing the shocking truth about Meleys. The greatest surprise was that Meleys was only eleven months old, raising questions about how she survived for so long under such abuse. “She is 11 months, helpless, but somehow was able to survive,” the rescue reflected. One undeniable fact remains: this dog is a fighter. That’s why Rachel, the co-founder of the New York rescue, named the organization after Meleys, the dragon from “House of the Dragon.” Much like her fierce namesake, Meleys embodies strength and resilience.
After receiving crucial treatment from TPR, it was time for Meleys to find a nurturing foster home. Rachel reached out to experienced professionals she had worked with and found the perfect match for Meleys in Massachusetts—foster mom Donna. Leaving the rescue, both Rachel and Donna knew that Meleys’ journey to recovery would be challenging. They started with a careful feeding regimen, providing small meals while focusing on building their bond with her. Fortunately, Meleys quickly began to show her true personality!
Meleys proved to have a gentle heart, displaying no resentment toward her former owners, and instead revealing herself as an incredibly affectionate cuddle bug. Best of all, she began to gain weight! Once a mere fifteen pounds, she has now doubled her weight and transformed into a vibrant dog.
“She was brought to the shelter emaciated, but you’d never know that looking at her now. She is sweet, playful, and cute as they come,” TPR celebrated.
Meleys is well on her way to recovery, and soon she will be ready for her next adventure—finding a forever home filled with love. Currently, she shows no underlying health issues and is great with everyone she meets. “She’s up to date, dog-friendly. The perfect girl,” the NYC rescue affirmed.
