By Kevin Smith
When an outreach volunteer from a dog rescue organization, Sidewalk Specials, noticed children searching for kibble, she inquired about whom they were trying to feed.
Following the children, she discovered an abandoned dog in severely bad condition lying by the roadside. Her heart shattered at the sight of the poor dog.
Rescuing Eddie
The dog, later named Eddie, was found completely emaciated and deeply fearful of human touch. His life had been marked by immense suffering.
“He’d lost a leg, so it was extremely difficult for him to walk. He was extremely weak. When he arrived [at the rescue], his eyes were just fear and emptiness,” shared Janice, Eddie’s foster mom, with The Dodo.
The vet’s examination revealed Eddie was suffering from malnutrition, kidney issues, mange, and tick bite fever, indicating a long road to recovery. His front teeth were worn down, likely from eating gravel to survive.
Despite his ordeal, Eddie found solace in a loving foster home with Janice and her husband, Rolf, who cherished him dearly.
Two weeks into his foster care, Eddie wagged his tail for the first time, and his demeanor began to soften—a significant breakthrough for the once terrified dog.
Day by day, Eddie’s condition improved, and he slowly regained trust in humans. However, something extraordinary happened that even surprised his foster parents.
Eddie’s Color Changed
Three months after his rescue, Eddie transformed into a much happier dog. He began running and his coat color underwent a remarkable change, turning into a rich chocolate brown as his health improved.
“His happy place is definitely the bed, I think he never had before. His second happy place is the creek in the park. His ball is his security blanket. He’d never had a toy!” shared Janice.
It was heartwarming to witness Eddie learning how to play again. Despite his traumatic past and betrayal by humans, Eddie was slowly starting to heal and forget his hardships.
A little love truly goes a long way.
The rescue hoped to find Eddie a forever home and created a touching video to promote his story. He was described as incredibly well-behaved, low maintenance, and a cheerful companion.
However, Eddie’s journey sadly ended too soon. Shortly after, he experienced organ failure and had to be euthanized.
“I think we can all agree that Eddie’s last three months, spent with his foster family, were the best thing that ever happened to him 💖 Respect to his foster family for giving Eddie the chance at happiness and prayers for your broken hearts,” wrote Sidewalk Specials in their post.
Though Eddie’s time after rescue was short, he experienced true love and care, forever etched in the hearts of his foster family.
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