For dogs, shelter life isn’t just about being confined to a tiny space. Sadly, it’s much worse than that.
In overcrowded shelters, dogs typically experience stress from loud noises, lack of socialization, and anxious, or even aggressive kennelmates.
This was exactly the situation Ivy, an 11-month-old pup, was in. She suffered in a California shelter with a kennelmate that wouldn’t let her touch her food. On top of that, Ivy’s health was deteriorating, being down to 37 pounds.
Behind those kennel bars, Ivy had only one wish: to get a new chance. Fortunately, her pleas were timely answered.
Ivy Begging For Help
Thanks to Kelsey, founder of The McDonough Rescue in California, Ivy’s shelter life came to an end.
Despite being labeled as “the sickest dog at the shelter” due to pneumonia, throwing up blood and dry-heaving, Kelsey had no doubts about helping this lovely girl. Within 24 hours, Ivy was already on the way to a foster home.
“Pneumonia and overall stress was taking a toll on all 37 pounds of her,” Kelsey shared on Instagram.
Over the next few weeks, Ivy’s condition improved significantly.
Her health was normalizing, and with regular meds and meals, Ivy slowly started to come out of her shell.
“We’re taking it really slowly, so these are just the beginning days for Ivy girl. But her cough is subsiding, energy is coming back and so is her appetite,” Kelsey wrote on Instagram.
At the same time, Ivy was building back her confidence. She was now surrounded by people who showered her with affection and love, far from what she was used to.
Within days, she blossomed into a wonderful dog, eager to reciprocate. She was no longer a scared dog peeking from the back of her kennel. Ivy’s appearance was now characterized by a wagging tail and the biggest smile!
The only thing left for this adorable doggo girl was to find a forever home. And, just when it seemed that it would be a long road to happiness, a couple from North Carolina sent out an application!
Heartwarming Update
Matt and Ash fell in love with Ivy the moment they read her story.
Living in North Carolina, Matt decided to fly all the way to California for a meet and greet, and, as it turned out, it was the best decision possible! The minute they saw each other, Matt and Ivy were head over heels in love.
Right then, it was decided: Ivy would be adopted!
“He flew home to come up with a plan with Ash, and then less than 2 weeks later (today), they flew in to bring their girl home. Fate is such a beautiful thing,” Kelsey shared in the post.
Two weeks later, the couple decided to take a road trip with Ivy from California all the way to her new home. They spent the time bonding, visiting cool places, and just genuinely enjoying each other’s company.
Ivy, the girl who finally felt freedom, couldn’t be happier! She was finally with her mom and dad, far from the shelter stress, soaking in the beauty of her new life.
From now on, her days will be filled with nothing but love, joy, adventures, and endless playtime with her family, including her new doggo sibling, Wolfie.
“To think this girl went from deteriorating in the overcrowded Riverside Shelter to HOME, loved and welcomed wholeheartedly by her new mom & dad (and brother 🐶 Wizard, 🐱 BB, and 🐱Wolfie too!!!!),” Kelsey concluded in another post.
Happy life, Ivy! You deserve it.