Meet Jackson — a tiny, irresistibly adorable puppy with a heartwarming story of survival.
He was discovered inside an abandoned box left on a curb in San Jose, California. Far too young to fend for himself, Jackson’s journey began with uncertainty and fear.
But with the help of kindhearted rescuers, this little fighter blossomed into a symbol of resilience, healing, and hope. Without the quick action of those who found him, Jackson’s story could have ended very differently.
Small But Mighty
“He could fit in the palm of your hand. He was less than a pound,” said Ashley Kotkin, Jackson’s devoted foster mom.
Ashley was contacted by friends who had come across the tiny pup in distress. As a passionate rescuer, she didn’t hesitate to step in and help.
Jackson was in rough shape — covered in flea dirt, his skin irritated from urine, and extremely pale.
He was believed to be around three weeks old, and feeding him proved to be a delicate task. “I spent a lot of time with him making sure that he was eating enough,” Ashley told The Dodo.
But Ashley soon sensed that something was wrong and brought him to a vet for further examination.
Thankfully, the Santa Clara-based rescue group Every Pet’s Dream stepped in to be Jackson’s sponsor.
Veterinarians discovered that Jackson was dangerously anemic and had alarmingly low blood counts. He required not one, but two blood transfusions to stabilize his condition.
The medical team also learned that Jackson had severe visual impairment and possible hearing issues.
After a few days of intensive care, medication, and love, Jackson began to bounce back.
He started gaining weight, slowly finding the energy he’d lacked. Despite his rough start, Jackson’s will to live never faded.
Meet Jackson Growlaxy
As Jackson’s health improved, so did his confidence. His personality began to shine through, showing the world what a special pup he truly was.
“We’re helping him adapt to his surroundings. Because of the challenges he has, his other senses are definitely heightened,” Ashley shared.
One of his cutest quirks? A tiny growl that earned him the nickname Jackson Growlaxy.
“He’s not just loved, but given everything that he needs possible to grow up big and strong and lead the happiest life,” Ashley added.
Thanks to Ashley’s dedicated care, Jackson flourished into a happy, healthy pup full of character and love.
Though the odds were stacked against him from the very beginning, Jackson — now affectionately known as Bou — has defied them all.
He is now thriving in his forever home, surrounded by love and warmth — just as every pup deserves.
Take a look at his incredible transformation and emotional journey from abandonment to adoration: