Jumping on her two hind legs, this happy poodle moves more like a kangaroo than a dog after losing her front legs in a car crash.
The pup named Cora Rose was destined for euthanasia after her legs and pelvis were shattered in the accident in Stockton, California last year.
But Zach Skow, 39, and his wife Heather, 32, rescued her from an animal shelter and paid $10,000 for life-saving medical treatment.
The determined pooch at first used a cart to get around but now spends most of her time bouncing around on her hind legs.
Mr Skow, who has four other dogs and cares for 115 through his charity Marley’s Mutts, said: ‘Of all our dogs, Cora Rose is the happiest.
‘Dogs can bounce back so quickly – she jumps, hops, all day long – she’s very strong.
‘She’s so resilient. Her quality of life is through the roof – losing her two front legs hasn’t starved her of anything.’
The couple first came across Cora Rose at the City of Stockton Animal Shelter in California, where staff were considering euthanasia after the December 2017 crash.
When they rescued Cora Rose, she had one leg in a cast and was suffering an osteo infection in the other, caused by bone protruding through the skin turning septic.
Mr Skow, who has four other dogs and cares for 115 through his charity Marley’s Mutts, said: ‘Of all our dogs, Cora Rose is the happiest’
After the operation, it took two months for the poodle to heal and then she could finally use her cart to get around
Mr Skow, who has a six-month-old daughter, said: ‘That kind of infection is like cancer for dogs.
‘The leg needed to be amputated immediately. One leg at a time had to be amputated, because she would have been under anaesthesia for too long if we had done both.
‘After surgery, she had a hard time because she still had a shattered hip and still couldn’t move properly.
‘It took two months to heal, and then she could finally use her cart to get around.’
Now, seven months after the surgery in March this year, sprightly Cora Rose is hopping around like nothing happened.
Mr Skow says Cora Rose and the other pups rescued him from alcoholism.
Now, several months after the surgery in March this year, sprightly Cora Rose is hopping around like nothing happened
He founded Marley’s Mutts in 2009 and says the animals are what helped him get sober.
Mr Skow, who also has a pig, horse and cat, said: ‘I had cirrhosis of the liver and needed a transplant.
‘My weight dropped from 183 lbs to 140 lbs, my skin was yellow and I had to use a catheter.
‘I had fantasized about ways of taking my own life. I didn’t recognize myself in the mirror. I looked like an old man.
‘One day I was weeping and crying when I looked back to see my dogs looking at me.
‘It made me realize that I was still the leader of their pack. They could still see the man inside.
‘The next day I started walking with them. Everywhere I went I had dogs with me.
‘Walking with the dogs meant I became healthy enough to undergo a liver transplant, but six months later doctors told me I didn’t even need one any more.
‘I never set out to be a dog rescuer, but they saved me.
‘Now we rescue hundreds of dogs a year. It’s the most heartwarming thing you can do.’
Mr Skow, who also has a pig, horse and cat, took in Cara Rose (pictured after the operation)Continue Reading
“Homeless but Not Alone: Dog’s Devotion to Owner Warms Hearts Amidst Difficult Circumstances”
In the bustling heart of the city, where the rhythm of life beats loudly and the struggles of the less fortunate are often drowned out by the urban cacophony, there exists an extraordinary bond between a homeless man and his faithful canine companion, a bond that has touched the hearts of millions.
Meet Jack, a man who fell through the cracks of society, finding himself without a home, without comfort, and without hope. His days were filled with uncertainty, and his nights were spent seeking refuge wherever he could find it. But amidst the harsh realities of life on the streets, there was one constant source of solace and unwavering love – his loyal dog, Buddy.
Buddy, a scrappy yet endearing mixed breed, became Jack’s lifeline in the sea of despair. Their story was not just one of a man and his pet; it was a testament to the transformative power of companionship and unconditional love. Despite the dire circumstances they faced, Buddy remained by Jack’s side, offering him warmth on cold nights and companionship in moments of solitude.
As the seasons changed and years passed, Jack and Buddy’s story began to spread. News of their unwavering bond traveled through the city, resonating with the hearts of compassionate individuals who were moved by their plight. Communities came together, offering support in various forms – warm meals, blankets, and, most importantly, a glimmer of hope. Their tale became a symbol of resilience, teaching people that love knows no bounds, transcending social status, and reminding us all of the simple, yet profound, joy that a loyal companion can bring.
One winter, as the city was blanketed in snow, a local shelter took notice of Jack and Buddy’s story. Touched by their unwavering companionship, they offered Jack a place to stay, a warm bed, and a fresh start. Jack was hesitant at first, reluctant to leave the only life he knew, but he realized that this opportunity could provide a better future not just for him but also for Buddy.
The transition from the streets to a shelter was not without its challenges. Jack, unused to the structured environment, struggled to adapt. Yet, through it all, Buddy remained his steadfast anchor, his furry confidant who provided comfort in the face of change. With the support of the shelter’s dedicated staff and volunteers, Jack began to rebuild his life. He attended counseling sessions, acquired new skills, and slowly regained his confidence.
Buddy, too, flourished in this new environment. He became a beloved presence within the shelter, bringing smiles to the faces of residents and staff alike. His wagging tail and playful antics served as a reminder of the transformative power of love, inspiring others to adopt pets and foster the same bond that he shared with Jack.
The tale of Jack and Buddy reached far beyond the confines of the shelter and the city. News outlets picked up their story, and soon, they became a symbol of hope for the homeless community worldwide. Donations poured in to support shelters and organizations dedicated to helping both people and their pets, reinforcing the idea that no one should ever be without a home, human or otherwise.
Their journey was not without its challenges, but it was a testament to the enduring power of love, friendship, and second chances. Jack and Buddy’s story became a beacon of hope, illuminating the darkest corners of society and reminding us all that compassion and empathy can transform lives.
As the years passed, Jack found stable employment and eventually secured a modest home. Buddy, now a senior dog, continued to be his faithful companion, reminding him daily of the resilience they shared and the unwavering bond that had stood the test of time. Together, they visited schools and shelters, sharing their story and inspiring others to never lose hope, no matter how dire their circumstances might seem.
In the end, the tale of Jack and Buddy became more than just a story; it became a legacy, a reminder etched into the hearts of millions, urging them to see the humanity in every individual, regardless of their situation. Their journey served as a powerful testament to the enduring strength of the human spirit and the extraordinary capacity of animals to bring comfort, joy, and love into our lives.
And so, in the quiet moments of reflection, as Jack looked into Buddy’s loyal eyes, he knew that their story was not just their own – it was a beacon of light that had shone brightly, guiding others out of the darkness and into the embrace of compassion, understanding, and love. Together, they had taught the world that even in the face of adversity, the bond between a man and his dog could ignite a spark of hope, illuminating the path toward a brighter, more compassionate future for all.
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