Sadly, some dogs endure tremendous adversity as a result of being disregarded by humans. Nevertheless, there are still people out there who recognize the importance of giving these animals another chance and showing them unconditional love.
This is the story of a brave pup who, despite all that she endured, never lost her smile – and now finally has something to rightfully be joyful about.
Last month, No Dog Left Behind – a Minnesota-based canine rescue organization, revealed the heartwarming story of “Smile,” aptly named for her beaming grin.
Although Smile appears happy, she has been through a lot of adversity. Rescued from an animal hoarding situation in Tijuana, Mexico – where 23 dogs and 21 cats were found living in deplorable conditions – Smile’s story demonstrates the resilience of animals everywhere.
With the best of intentions, the homeowner lost control of her pet population as they began breeding and spreading sickness. Many were pregnant and most showed severe signs of sarcoptic mange, a highly transmissible yet painful skin illness. As No Dog Left Behind stated it: “It was heartbreaking.”
Poor Smile’s condition wasn’t too serious, yet she had to endure mange that caused discomfort and a few tick-borne diseases. Additionally, it was determined during her rescue mission that the poor pup was expecting puppies; however, due to neglect and severe distress, they were lost. The rescue expressed their sadness for what happened: “It breaks our heart for her.”
No Dog Left Behind looked at Smile’s medical issues and knew that she was deserving of a second chance. As soon as they saw the glimmering hope in her eyes, it became apparent that she had to be part of their rescue family. To express this sentiment, they shared on Facebook: “We fell in love with the hope we saw in her eyes. Smile was destined to join our rescue.”
Despite the challenging trials, Smile bravely trudged onward to a brighter future. Even when she was in pain and discomfort, her optimistic spirit resounded – never wavering from that heartwarming smile of hers. Those accompanying her noted: “Smile is so grateful for this new beginning; it’s as if she already knows life will be better.”
Smile truly touched the hearts of those at the rescue center, including NDLB’s operations manager Stephanie Easley. She said that Smile stole her heart with his sweet personality and bright spirit!
After her skin condition was fully treated, Stephanie eagerly took in Smile as a foster. She reports that fostering the pup has been an incredible journey and now Smile is brimming with even more joy!
“Every morning, I wake up to find her already looking at me and wearing the biggest smile,” Stephanie proudly shared with The Dodo. “The powerful love that radiates from her eyes is what makes her so unique – they are unbelievably expressive; you immediately know what she’s thinking or feeling just by staring into them!”
Stephanie is a foster, so her home isn’t meant to be Smile’s “forever home.” However, she knows that there is an ideal family out there waiting for this lovely pup.
I’m wishing for her to have a family that adores her just as much if not more than my own, one who puts a beaming smile on her face and fills it with immeasurable love,” she expressed joyfully to The Dodo.
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