An incredibly brave Basset Hound named ‘Hero’ from North Carolina deserves recognition for her extraordinary actions.
This lovely pup’s life was marred by hardship. Tragically, she, along with nearly forty other animals, endured appalling living conditions confined within a house in North Carolina.
Thanks to Hero’s escape and her efforts to lead rescuers back to the dreadful location, all the animals were freed.
Mission To Rescue All
Hero and her fellow animals endured extremely harsh conditions. It’s devastating to think this senior dog faced ten years of torment.
In an interview with Lady Freethinker, Judy Sims, director of the Humane Society of Concord & Greater Cabarrus County, stated, “some were in small cages, some sleeping on feces in beds, some had injuries, several were emaciated. They were filthy. Most had medical issues.”
One fateful day, Hero succeeded in escaping her grim surroundings and was discovered wandering along a North Carolina road.
An animal control officer spotted Hero and, noticing her distressing state, promptly took her in.
As the officer drove to the address listed on Hero’s ID tag, they found the property’s door ajar, with many animals “pouring out” of the house.
Upon closer examination, officials were able to rescue an additional 36 dogs, a chicken, and a cat, all thanks to this valiant senior Basset Hound.
According to Sims, the Humane Society of Concord & Greater Cabarrus County took in 15 dogs, including Hero.
Other local animal rescues assisted by taking in the remaining animals, with some even finding loving homes for a few of them.
The Cabarrus County community rallied together to help cover the rising medical and care costs.
Hero Finds a Forever Home
The Humane Society chose a name for the senior Basset Hound that honored her remarkable contributions.
“We named her Hero and gave her the last name Salvare, which translates to save and protect,” the Humane Society shared in their Facebook post.
Estimates suggest that Hero is at least 10 years old, potentially even older.
“Hero’s initial condition was alarming: we could see her bones beneath her grimy fur, her overgrown nails made walking painful, and she suffered from a severe bladder infection. Additionally, she tested positive for heartworms, a treatable illness that had gone unmanaged,” the shelter further noted.
Despite her profoundly sad and painful history, Hero remained a kind and gentle soul who loves companionship and snuggling on her cozy blankets.
The shelter discovered that she adores short walks and enjoys fresh air and exploring… experiences she hadn’t had in years.
They aimed to find her a tranquil home, ideally with a furry companion and a caring owner who could provide plenty of affection and attention.
Fortunately, their hopes were realized when Hero found her forever family shortly after the Facebook announcement.
Many other animals from the “Salvare” family found homes as well, while others were fostered or received necessary medical treatment.
“It’s hard to articulate how much these dogs impacted us. Their presence deeply touched our hearts,” Judy Sims shared with Lady Freethinker.
