When an outreach volunteer from a canine rescue group named Sidewalk Specials observed a few children searching for kibble, she felt compelled to inquire whom they were attempting to feed.
The youngsters subsequently guided her to an abandoned dog in very dire circumstances, lying on the roadside.
The sight of the unfortunate dog shattered her heart.
Rescue of Eddie
The dog – later named Eddie – was entirely emaciated and exceedingly afraid of human contact. He had endured a difficult life and had been through so much suffering.
“He’d lost a leg, making it incredibly challenging for him to walk. He was profoundly weak. Upon his arrival [at the rescue], his eyes reflected just fear and desolation,” shared Janice, Eddie’s foster mom, with The Dodo.
The veterinary examination revealed that Eddie was experiencing malnutrition, kidney complications, mange, and tick-borne illness, suggesting a lengthy recovery process ahead.
Eddie’s front teeth were entirely worn down, likely due to prolonged gravel consumption.
Based on his condition, he had likely been on his own for an extended period, but fortunately, he was granted an opportunity for a brighter future.
Eddie was promptly taken to a delightful foster home with Janice and her partner, Rolf, who adored him immensely.
Just two weeks after he settled in at the foster home, Eddie wagged his tail for the first time, his eyes beginning to soften.
This was a significant milestone for a small, frightened dog like Eddie.
Slowly but surely, day by day, Eddie’s health began to enhance, and he gradually started to trust humans again.
However, one particular event changed everything, shocking even his foster parents.
Transformation of Eddie’s Color
Three months post-rescue, Eddie was a significantly happier canine.
He began running, and as he regained his health, his coat color transformed completely – it became a rich chocolate brown!
“His favorite spot is in the bed, which I think he’s never had before. His other favorite place is undoubtedly the creek in the park. His ball serves as his security blanket, and he had never experienced having a toy!” Janice remarked.
It was adorable to witness him learn to play. After all the hardships he faced and the disappointments from humans, Eddie was beginning to forget his past.
A little kindness can make an enormous difference.
The rescue organization aimed to find Eddie a forever family and even released a lovely video showcasing his journey. He was remarkably well-behaved, low-maintenance, and a cheerful little guy.
Unfortunately, Eddie did not have enough time to find his forever home.
Regrettably, shortly thereafter, Eddie experienced organ failure and had to be euthanized.
“I think we can all agree that Eddie’s last three months with his foster family were the happiest moments of his life 💖 Kudos to his foster family for providing Eddie with a chance at joy, and our thoughts are with your aching hearts,” Sidewalk Specials expressed in their post.
Though Eddie’s time after his rescue was brief, he at least got to experience what it feels like to truly be cherished by someone.
His foster parents loved him deeply, and he will always be one of those dogs whose memory is held a little closer in their hearts.