Picture spending your entire existence in confinement, unable to step outside a diminutive enclosure.
That was the reality for Atlas for more than ten years. This 16-year-old canine had scarcely set paw on the ground or roamed freely throughout his whole life, primarily due to careless humans who initially placed him there.
Atlas was oblivious to what it meant to be a dog. He had never experienced affection. He had never known companionship. Moreover, he was never granted the opportunity to display his delightful character to anyone.
All he truly understood was to hope for a bit of compassion during mealtime, and that was the extent of it.
Thus unfolds the narrative of Atlas…
From a Small Box to a Spacious Yard
A resident in the neighborhood observed this little pup enduring a terrible life and felt compelled to take action.
They alerted Hitchcock Road Animal Services in Salinas, California, regarding the dog’s predicament, and the animal control unit promptly responded and seized him from the owners.
The dog was subsequently handed over to Peace of Mind Dog Rescue in Pacific Grove, California, who made certain to provide him with the transformation he urgently needed.
It required the team roughly five hours to remove all the mats from him. To add to his troubles, he was unable to walk due to his nails, and his back was arched from the position he had been in for the past decade. Regrettably, his tail had to be amputated.
“He was in dreadful condition. It took a total of 5 1/2 hours and 6 people to clip all the mats from his fur. He was so extensively matted that his tail turned necrotic and needed amputation,” the POMDR team shared on their Facebook.
Eventually, the dog, initially named Dapper (later re-named Atlas), was transformed into a brand-new canine.
Even though he was already deaf and partially blind, it was clear that he felt an immense relief to finally have the mats removed, and at that moment – he was prepared for a new life!
Learning to Be a Dog for The First Time Ever
Dage Baker learned about Atlas’ tale from a friend and instantly realized that she needed to foster him, even if temporarily.
This kind-hearted woman, who has fostered numerous dogs over the years, welcomed Atlas into her affectionate home with open arms. Initially, he was timid and reserved, which was completely understandable given his distressing background.
However, soon enough, his true nature began to emerge!
Even though he was already in the decline of his life, Atlas gradually began to adjust to his new family. He shivered whenever he ventured outside into the large yard, and despite his diminished senses – he refused to let that hinder his enjoyment!
“It’s delightful to observe his character blossom… I believe this is a fresh start for him; he’s a puppy again, or perhaps he’s just realizing: -Oh, this is what life truly is!,” Dage shared with The Dodo.
He was absolutely enamored with the ear scratches from his mom, and he truly relished taking naps in cozy spots!
Dage and Atlas enjoyed six beautiful months together, making every moment count!
You Will Be Remembered, Sweet Atlas
Sadly, after merely 180 days of affection and freedom, dear Atlas departed for the rainbow bridge.
His mom was heartbroken to say goodbye to her little lovebug, yet she was grateful that he had the opportunity to live his final months surrounded by those who cherished him.
“We are grief-stricken, yet honored to have had the opportunity to demonstrate to him what genuine love feels like… I appreciate everyone who followed his journey and supported him. I know he departed with his heart overflowing with love,” his mom expressed.
After all the suffering he endured, Atlas was granted the blessing of love and embraced it wholeheartedly. And, if one thing is certain, it is that he will always be cherished by his loving family!