Some dogs find their second chance right away, while others have to wait years for one. Sadly, even after that, some still don’t get the break they deserve.
Kobe, a sweet Pit Bull, was one of the unlucky ones. Originally adopted from a shelter in Illinois, he was later abandoned by the very family that was supposed to care for him.
Left to roam the streets, Kobe faced hardship, hunger, and endless days of searching for a glimmer of hope. What followed was a heartbreaking decline in his health.
From Adopted Dog To Desperate Stray
When the Chicago-based rescue team at One Tail At A Time (OTAAT) received a tip about a hairless dog seen wandering the city streets, their hearts sank.
It was Kobe, a dog they had adopted out seven years earlier.
Back then, it seemed like he had found his forever home. Somewhere along the way, however, everything fell apart. His adopters abandoned him, and he developed a severe case of mange.
At the time of his rescue, Kobe weighed about 25 pounds less than he should have.
“When Kobe was found, he was about 25 pounds underweight, and he had horrible mange,” Erin from OTAAT shared with Cuddle Buddies.
Without hesitation, the rescue team took him back into their care, knowing he wouldn’t survive much longer on the streets. But then something wonderful happened.
The Road To Recovery
OTAAT put out a heartfelt request for a foster home to help Kobe recover.
Erin, a volunteer, answered that call. She welcomed him into her home, and soon the exhausted pup began to act like a new dog.
With Erin’s steady care, Kobe’s fur began to grow back, though he still looked rough around the edges.
“He still looks a little rough even though it’s been five years,” Erin said, reflecting on his progress.
Over the years, the transformation was remarkable. Kobe went from a sick, hairless dog to a vibrant, confident, and curious companion, eager to enjoy life.
A Senior Dog Full Of Joy
Now 12 years old, Kobe is the embodiment of loyalty and love. Despite the negative stereotypes that often surround his breed, he is nothing but gentle and affectionate.
“When people see him, they will cross the street, but the ones that can look past his rough exterior know that he is an amazing dog,” Erin explained.
Kobe has a soft spot for children and has become a beloved figure in his neighborhood. He eagerly greets every child he meets, often acting like one himself, even at his age of twelve.
At home, his puppy spirit remains alive. He still plays with Erin endlessly, filled with energy and goofy charm. Describing him as “young at heart” doesn’t do him justice. He’s a puppy in spirit, through and through.
“Kobe is still this derpy little puppy in a 12-year-old dog’s body. It is adorable to watch the way that he bounces and bounds around,” Erin said.
Kobe has gone from hiding behind curtains to playing games of hide and seek and performing “cute fly movements” with his ears. He embraces each moment of his new life with enthusiasm.
Once abandoned with no hope, Kobe now thrives in love and security. His second chance turned his life around, and he shows no signs of slowing down.