Rescuing animals in need is a hallmark of the Saving Hope Rescue (SHR) team, based in Fort Worth, Texas. They tirelessly scour their beautiful city, searching for furry companions in dire need of help and kindness. While they typically remain within Fort Worth for their rescue operations, the team couldn’t ignore a poignant photo of a dog living in a cardboard box, prompting them to gather their gear and head out immediately.
Help Is On The Way
After an exhausting 8-hour drive, the dedicated team was determined to see this adorable pup snuggled up in a warm bed by nightfall. “We had this sweet girl transported to the DFW area, having just seen a picture of her in a cardboard box,” Saving Hope Rescue shared on Facebook.
Upon reaching the location, the volunteers gently placed the puppy, later named Ridley, into their car and took her to the SHR clinic, where she was showered with love, tasty treats, and plenty of affection.
Unfortunate News
Ridley was just a tiny three-month-old puppy when rescued. Despite being a cheerful, intelligent, and playful pup, a thorough medical examination revealed a significant heart defect that could only be corrected through a balloon valvuloplasty procedure at Texas A&M.
“We discovered she had a serious heart defect. It could only be fixed with a balloon valvuloplasty procedure at Texas A&M,” SHR wrote.
Fortunately, while awaiting approval for her procedure, Ridley was welcomed into a caring foster family, allowing her to relax and experience what being a true puppy is all about. Her foster parents and siblings reassured her that everything would be alright!
“Ridley is a tiny, playful 3-month-old puppy who loves big dogs and all humans. She’s very smart and quick to learn … She’s a spunky little girl with lots of love to give!” her foster parents wrote to SHR, which was shared later on Facebook.
The Fort Worth shelter tirelessly worked to secure funding for Ridley’s heart surgery, while she enjoyed her time at the foster home, learning commands, socializing with other dogs, and discovering her love for toys. Although her heart condition remained a concern, her happy and playful demeanor reassured her caretakers that she was a fighter.
One Happy Life
After months of waiting, the day of Ridley’s life-saving surgery finally arrived! It was no surprise when this courageous pup sailed through the surgery without complications and began her recovery. “[With] this surgery, it will be a complete fix, and she gets to live a FULL life,” SHR shared on Facebook.
Ridley is expected to make a full recovery, and in the meantime, she is back at her foster family, sharing tales of her bravery with her doggy friends. I have no doubt that once she’s fully healed, she will quickly find a loving forever home that matches her incredible spirit. “She’s the perfect little pittie girl …” Erin O’Brien, her foster mom, wrote in a Facebook comment.
Final Word
There’s nothing more heartwarming than witnessing a once-stray puppy leading her best life, and all of this was made possible by the amazing people involved. The Texas shelter and the foster family have given Ridley a second chance, ensuring her life is filled with love, joy, and adventures. Let this serve as your reminder to visit your local shelter and give another furry friend a chance at a life worth living!
