When rescuer Brenda heard about a lonely dog sleeping on an old mattress deep in the woods, she knew she had to step in.
The poor pup looked anxious and frightened, so Brenda spoke softly and playfully, hoping he would stay.
It was as if the dog, later named Hondo, sensed her good intentions. To her relief, he followed her and climbed right into her truck.
Urgent Help
Hondo’s condition was heartbreaking. Brenda rushed him to a shelter in Oregon without hesitation.
“He definitely looked like he was in a lot of pain. His skin was obviously painful. He was completely bald,” said Brenda.
At the shelter, Hondo began to relax. Brenda’s gentle words and constant reassurance helped him realize that help had finally arrived.
Diagnosed with a severe case of mange, Hondo was given urgent medical care.
With treatment underway, his personality quickly started to shine. Beneath the pain was a playful, affectionate dog eager to show everyone his true self.
Adjusting To Love
For over a month, Hondo waited at the shelter, but no one showed interest in adopting him.
Knowing he deserved better, the shelter reached out to the South Coast Humane Society (SCHS) in Oregon. They immediately stepped up, arranging a foster home for him the very next day.
His foster mom, Sarah, and her son were thrilled to welcome him.
“I felt horrible when I saw Hondo and the condition he was in because you don’t look like that overnight. That’s years of neglect,” said Sarah.
Sarah’s son, Seth, bonded with Hondo right away.
Between soapy baths twice a week to treat his mange and endless playdates and cuddles, Hondo thrived. Despite his years of isolation, he quickly warmed up to every person he met.
Finally Home
Sarah shared that Hondo would do best in a home with no other dogs or only very submissive ones.
He didn’t need much exercise, just someone who enjoyed spending quiet time outdoors with him, helping him stay active at his own pace.
Luckily, the perfect family came along. They saw his gentle spirit and knew instantly that Hondo belonged with them.
Now, the dog who once curled up on a dirty mattress in the woods spends his days in warmth and love, surrounded by people who cherish him.
