Some animals are overlooked when they do not fit the picture of a perfect, healthy pet.
Everyone wants to see a happy ending where a cute puppy survives hardship and finds love. But how many people are truly willing to open their hearts to a dog born with visible disabilities?
It is often explained away by finances, as special-needs pets sometimes require more care. Yet the reality is that many could help but choose not to. Every dog deserves a chance, and the happiness they bring in return can be remarkable.
This story is about two tiny pups born with cleft palates who, despite the odds, discovered comfort, joy, and a chance to flourish.
They Found Their Lifeline Just In Time
When veterinary workers in California first met the French Bulldog siblings, they quickly noticed something unusual. Both were born with cleft palates.
They knew immediately how hard it would be to find the pair permanent homes. But they also knew a woman who had helped in similar cases before.
They called Kelly Sayer, a devoted volunteer, who agreed to foster them. She named the puppies Violet and Dash.
The moment she laid eyes on them, she saw how delicate and undersized they were. The road ahead would be anything but simple.
A closer examination revealed Violet had a cleft lip with a partial cleft palate, while Dash suffered from a cleft lip and a complete cleft palate.
Fortunately, Sayer had the exact experience they required. She specializes in raising puppies with cleft palates, so Violet and Dash were in the right hands.
For her, it was also personal. Her own son, Landon, was born with a cleft palate. Together, they gave the puppies the same compassion they would give family.
Caring Day And Night With Endless Devotion
The first weeks demanded constant attention. Still, neither Kelly nor Landon was daunted.
Feeding was a struggle at first. But with gentle teaching and patience, both puppies learned how to eat.
Sayer understood it would take time to secure adoptive homes. Many cleft palate dogs are abandoned or given up, as their extra needs discourage people.
That never stopped her. She is determined to find the perfect match for each one.
She also speaks out against unethical breeding practices. In an interview with The Dodo, she explained, “We’ve changed the breed so much over the years and made it so that they can’t breathe, they have spinal issues, they have all these problems that … it’s hard to see that being ethical in any way, shape or form.”
Despite the difficulties, Violet and Dash have grown stronger. In just three months, their progress has been extraordinary.
Sayer hopes they will soon be ready for families of their own. Until then, she continues to guide them every step of the way. Watching their transformation has been nothing short of inspiring.