During one of her outreach activities, a volunteer from the dog rescue group Sidewalk Specials spotted some kids searching for dog food and couldn’t resist inquiring about their mission.
The children guided her to a neglected dog, lying in distress along the roadside.
The heartbreaking image of the suffering dog struck her deeply.
Rescuing Eddie
The dog, subsequently named Eddie, was severely malnourished and terrified of human contact. His life had been filled with suffering.
“He lost a leg, making it incredibly hard for him to walk. He was extremely frail. Upon his arrival [at the rescue], his eyes reflected fear and emptiness,” Janice, Eddie’s foster mother, shared with The Dodo.
The veterinarian’s examination revealed that Eddie was grappling with malnutrition, kidney problems, mange, and tick-borne illness, indicating a long road to recovery.
His front teeth were worn down, likely from prolonged gravel consumption.
Given his condition, it was evident that he had been alone for quite a while, but fortunately, he was granted the opportunity for a better life.
Eddie was welcomed into a loving foster home, where Janice and her husband Rolf provided him with immense care.
Just two weeks after arriving, Eddie wagged his tail for the very first time and his demeanor began to soften.
This was a monumental step for a dog as frightened as Eddie.
As days passed, Eddie’s health began to improve, and he gradually started to regain trust in people.
However, one remarkable change surprised even his foster parents.
Eddie’s Color Changed
Three months after being rescued, Eddie blossomed into a much more cheerful dog.
His playful spirit emerged as he began to run, and remarkably, his coat color transformed into a rich chocolate brown!
“His favorite spot is definitely the bed he never had before. His second favorite is the creek at the park, and his ball is like a security blanket for him. He had never experienced having a toy!” Janice remarked.
It was heartwarming to witness him discover the joy of play. Despite his past and the betrayals he faced from humans, Eddie was beginning to heal.
With just a dose of kindness, lives can transform remarkably.
The rescue team intended to find Eddie a forever home and even created a touching video to share his journey. He was incredibly well-mannered, low maintenance, and brimming with happiness.
Unfortunately, Eddie did not have enough time to find his forever home.
Sadly, shortly thereafter, he experienced organ failure and was euthanized.
“It’s clear that Eddie’s last three months, spent in the warmth of his foster family, were the happiest of his life 💖. We salute his foster family for giving Eddie the opportunity for joy and extend our heartfelt prayers to them during this difficult time,” Sidewalk Specials expressed in their post.
Though Eddie’s time was brief post-rescue, he experienced genuine love and care.
Beloved by his foster parents, Eddie will always hold a special place in their hearts.
