After living with a family in New Jersey for thirteen years, Jake, a senior dog, faced the terrifying prospect of homelessness as his family was preparing to move and couldn’t take him along.
To make matters worse, the devastating option of euthanasia was on the table if no one could help him.
Thankfully, Uncle Neil’s Home, a farm sanctuary in New Jersey, stepped in to offer Jake a place of safety.
When they met him in person, their hearts ached further as they observed the neglect and hard life this gentle soul had endured.
Jake’s Journey of Heartbreak and Healing
In December 2023, Uncle Neil’s Home was alerted by a woman who would have to euthanize her 13-year-old dog if she could not find a rescue or home for him within a week.
Upon receiving this news, the sanctuary quickly shared a heartfelt request across all their social media channels, aiming to find a foster home as soon as possible.
Rian Feldman, the founder of Uncle Neil’s Home, shared with Newsweek:
“That evening, a woman reached out to me about needing a rescue for her 13-year-old dog because she was moving and would have to euthanize him if no one could help. I was horrified by this and immediately issued an urgent call on our social media to our community to help save Jake’s life.”
Fortunately, a kind couple from Maryland, Valerie and Chris, stepped up to foster this lovely dog.
The sanctuary quickly arranged the transfer, and it was at that time they truly realized the extent of Jake’s neglect over the years, which was heartbreaking.
“They hardly said goodbye. They shouted ‘bye Jake’ from the car and drove off… after 13 years,” Feldman recounted. “It was apparent that he had suffered severe neglect. He struggled to walk, and we had to assist him out of the vehicle.”
Sadly, this 13-year-old dog was merely enduring life.
“Jake shows signs of serious arthritis without any supportive care, his nails haven’t been trimmed in over a year, and he struggles to breathe heavily at times. His former family told us he’s never had a bed,” noted Uncle Neil’s Home in a Facebook post.
While it was heart-wrenching to witness him being given up at such an age, it could turn out to be a much-needed chance for him, given the visible difficulties he had faced.
In less than 24 hours after his surrender, Jake received more affection and care than throughout his entire 13 years. “He is incredibly sweet and while seeing him breaks our hearts, from here on out it’s nothing but love and a good life for him,” shared the sanctuary.
The Path to Recovery
The following day, Jake attended his first veterinary appointment, revealing that his condition was indeed worrisome.
The list of ailments was unfortunately extensive.
Reports indicated severe osteoarthritis affecting all four of Jake’s limbs, enlarged elbows, muscle loss, cracked teeth, dental diseases, hearing impairment, conjunctivitis, and various skin masses.
Additionally, he might be suffering from laryngeal paralysis, bladder stones, a mass on his testicle, and neurological issues.
Jake had not even undergone neutering.
Immediate initiation of treatment was essential, and that became the priority.
After just a few days in the loving care of his foster family, the sparkle in Jake’s eyes returned. He started receiving pain relief, and his numerous health issues were being addressed.
He was finally experiencing love and proper care.
“Jake requires surgery for the mass on his right testicle and for bladder stones. We will neuter him, send the mass for biopsy, and the doctor will remove the bladder stones during this surgery. He will eventually need dental work for two cracked teeth,” noted Uncle Neil’s Home on Instagram.
Following his first surgery, Jake is on the mend, feeling joyful, and thriving in his foster environment. “He is doing exceptionally well with his foster family. We’re hoping for a foster fail,” Feldman remarked.
You can track Jake’s continue healing journey on his Instagram account, @jakeypals.
