Nowadays, countless dogs endure unimaginable conditions, but it’s hard to grasp their suffering until we see it for ourselves.
Some people, however, know exactly what this means; the big-hearted rescuers who, nearly every day, encounter a dog in desperate need after enduring a life of hardship.
That was exactly the case when a rescue team in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, saved a dog who had suffered so deeply that even they were stunned.
Yet, it was his loving heart that kept him going, giving him the strength to fight for a second chance with the help of these dedicated people.
A Special Dog
Though they’d seen many heartbreaking situations in their work, the staff and volunteers at the Pennsylvania SPCA (PSPCA) in Philadelphia were especially shaken when they met this dog.
“Collins came to us from a place of unimaginable cruelty,” Pennsylvania SPCA wrote in their Facebook post. “Rescued from a cruel situation by our Animal Law Enforcement team, he arrived in very rough shape – underweight, vomiting, and broken in spirit.”
The moment he spotted one of his rescuers, he collapsed into her arms, as though relieved to finally feel safe.
For everyone at the shelter, that was an unforgettable moment.
“It’s not standard to lay on the floor with dogs, but this guy was craving human attention,” Lindsey King, PSPCA volunteer programs manager, told The Dodo. “Despite what he went through, he remained the sweetest, most lovable dog.”
The instant Collins felt a caring touch, it was as if he regained his spark. From then on, he was a different dog, one who loved playing with toys, soaking up cuddles, and showing off his spunky, affectionate side.
The team knew they had someone truly special in their care.
Instant Connection
According to the PSPCA, Collins remained in their care for several months in Protective Custody “as his case worked its way through the legal system, patiently waiting for justice.”
“He showed us a strength we can’t fully put into words, and with each passing day, he became healthier, stronger, and more hopeful,” they shared.
Eventually, they knew Collins was ready to take the next step toward a brighter future.
While they anticipated it might take time to find him the right match, that moment came much sooner than expected. A loving family visited, and the connection was immediate.
“It was no surprise that his family saw what we saw right away!” Lindsey said. “His family was looking for a big, [lovable] pittie, and their connection was almost instant.”
Just like the day he melted into his rescuer’s arms, Collins leaned into his new mom and dad, showering them with kisses, a perfect beginning to his new life.