“What did he do to merit this?” is a query I often ponder each time I glimpse a dog in dire circumstances.
The response, naturally, is – nothing! No dog should endure a life filled with misery. More often than not, the only one at fault is a negligent owner who permits such situations to unfold.
Such was precisely the case with Gourd.
He was cruelly “released” forever, yet rather than bringing him to a shelter, his owner opted to abandon this unfortunate, emaciated puppy at a refuse site.
He Weighed Just Six Pounds
!["Emergency Rescue: Heartwarming Story of a Struggling Pup Who Found Hope" 2 motionless dog in trash](https://thehomeofash-media.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/01034651/motionless-dog-in-trash.jpg)
In the video shared by Animal Love Shelter, Gourd, the five-month-old canine, was observed lying still beside a massive heap of refuse.
Prior to a compassionate rescuer discovering him, he endured days battling to stay alive. Regrettably, he was merely moments away from the worst outcome. Fleas swarmed him, and his eyes were sticky and filled with pus.
!["Emergency Rescue: Heartwarming Story of a Struggling Pup Who Found Hope" 4 dog being examined](https://thehomeofash-media.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/01034652/dog-being-examined.jpg)
He lacked the power to raise his head or shift his body, as Gourd was profoundly undernourished. He was no heavier than six pounds at the time of his rescue.
The rescuer promptly took him to a veterinary clinic, where his filthy and tangled fur was clipped away. His tiny body exhibited clear signs of extreme neglect, with Gourd’s bones and ribs prominently visible.
Fortunately, he was free of any contagious disease that could exacerbate his condition. However, he required close observation for the following weeks due to malnutrition and potential complications.
It required this courageous pup a few days of intensive care, but eventually, he managed to lift his head.
!["Emergency Rescue: Heartwarming Story of a Struggling Pup Who Found Hope" 6 dog covered with yellow blanket](https://thehomeofash-media.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/01034652/dog-covered-with-yellow-blanket.jpg)
It was a touching moment for everyone involved. Just witnessing Gourd reaching for his nourishment and devouring everything in his bowl was genuinely fulfilling.
He was bursting with life as he gradually began his journey towards full recovery.
Gourd Amazed Everyone
!["Emergency Rescue: Heartwarming Story of a Struggling Pup Who Found Hope" 8 nurse and a puppy sitting](https://thehomeofash-media.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/01034653/nurse-and-a-puppy-sitting.jpg)
Merely a week later, Gourd astonished everyone. Confined in a small, solitary kennel, one day, he stood up upon hearing the voices of his caregivers. It was as if he had been anticipating their arrival, knowing a delightful meal awaited him.
He fared much better than during his initial days. His eyes lit up with happiness as he was finally prepared to take his first steps.
Gourd certainly had affection for everyone at the clinic. He gently extended a paw every time they sat beside him and caressed his head.
!["Emergency Rescue: Heartwarming Story of a Struggling Pup Who Found Hope" 10 puppy standing on back legs](https://thehomeofash-media.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/01034653/puppy-standing-on-back-legs.jpg)
During his second week of treatment, he even reached the stage of standing on just two legs, which was remarkable! He made significant progress and impressed everyone with his recuperation.
The medical staff couldn’t contain their joy either. They were thrilled to see Gourd unveiling his true self. It turned out that beneath all those injuries was a cheerful pup who embraced his renewed opportunity at life with open paws!
Amazing Transformation
!["Emergency Rescue: Heartwarming Story of a Struggling Pup Who Found Hope" 12 close-up photo of the dog getting a bath](https://thehomeofash-media.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/01034654/close-up-photo-of-the-dog-getting-a-bath.jpg)
At last, the moment had come!
After two weeks of round-the-clock care at the clinic, Gourd was finally discharged. He commenced another thrilling journey and felt utterly delighted to go home with his rescuer. For the first time in ages, he experienced a lovely, warm bath in his new residence, and he absolutely relished it!
The aftercare following hospitalization significantly benefited Gourd’s recovery. However, most importantly – it was evident in his remarkable physical transformation!
!["Emergency Rescue: Heartwarming Story of a Struggling Pup Who Found Hope" 14 beautiful dog](https://thehomeofash-media.storage.googleapis.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/01034654/beautiful-dog-1.jpg)
He developed a new, fluffy coat of fur, highlighting his true beauty and style in full splendor. Comparing his former appearance to his current state is nearly inconceivable. It is certainly safe to affirm that Gourd is an entirely changed dog!
From this point forward, he will enjoy the life he rightfully deserves.
He has quickly adapted to his new home and just adores participating in various activities. He enjoys daily strolls, has numerous furry companions, and embarks on thrilling city excursions whenever feasible. Yet, swimming seems to be his favorite activity!
Gourd, the resilient puppy, finally possesses everything a dog should have, and he couldn’t be more content!