In a heartbreaking situation on city streets, a young Great Dane named Angelo was found in a deeply troubling state. Grievously malnourished and unable to even stand, his condition was perilous. Angelo had been pushed to the brink, forced to consume stones in a desperate bid for survival, which only compounded his dire situation. These inedible objects filled his stomach, blocking any possibility of normal digestion and excretion, and posing an immediate threat to his life. Angelo’s desperate eyes and fragile body cried out for a miracle.
Despite the grim circumstances, Angelo’s story took a hopeful turn thanks to the compassion of a dedicated volunteer. Hanan, associated with the Furever Rescue Foster organization, encountered Angelo and was moved by his desperate need for help. Understanding the severity of his condition, she knew that Angelo required more than just basic care; he needed urgent medical intervention to save his life and a chance at a better future.
The challenge was daunting. Angelo’s medical needs included a high-risk surgery to remove the stones that had accumulated in his stomach. This procedure was not only intricate but also accompanied by a hefty price tag that was beyond the usual scope of the rescue’s funds. To tackle this, Hanan launched a heartfelt appeal on social media, hoping to draw the attention and generosity of animal lovers worldwide.
Her call for help resonated with many, particularly touching the hearts of Justin Finning and his wife, Deborah. With over three decades of experience in rescuing and nurturing Great Danes, especially those with special needs, the couple was well-equipped to provide the necessary support. Although Angelo was located in a different country, which presented logistical challenges, this did not deter them. The couple was deeply moved by Angelo’s suffering and resolved to assist in his recovery.
Together with Hanan, Justin and Deborah organized a fundraising campaign to gather the financial resources required for Angelo’s surgery and subsequent rehabilitation. This included extensive treatments such as physiotherapy and hydrotherapy, alongside a specialized nutrition plan to address his severe malnutrition.
The response from the community was overwhelming and heartwarming. Donations poured in, reflecting a collective effort to give Angelo a second chance at life. The surgery was a success, setting the stage for a long but promising recovery process. Under the careful supervision of Justin and Deborah, Angelo began to regain his strength. Each therapy session brought him closer to recovery, rebuilding the muscles that had atrophied during his ordeal.
Months of perseverance paid off. Angelo transformed from a frail, timid dog into a lively and exuberant Great Dane. He now revels in the joys of his new life, including the freedom of sprawling in his spacious backyard, the thrill of playful outings to the beach, and the love of his new family. He also found companionship and joy in his housemates—three other dogs who have become his constant companions and playmates.
Learn More About the Great Dane Dog Breed: Information, Facts & Pictures
Angelo’s journey from a critical state on the streets to a beloved member of a caring home is not just a story of recovery, but a profound example of what compassion, teamwork, and community support can achieve. Today, Angelo lives every day to the fullest, embraced by a family that helped rewrite his fate from one of despair to one of endless possibilities. His life, now full of affection and adventure, is a beacon of hope and a testament to the enduring spirit of rescue animals everywhere.
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Toledo, United States.
