That warm summer afternoon, two hikers exploring a remote trail never expected the heartbreaking discovery waiting for them.
As they made their way down the steep embankment in Malibu Creek Canyon, California, they noticed a pair of sorrowful eyes peeking out from behind a rock.
When they approached, the truth became clear: an abandoned dog had been cruelly left there with zip ties around his mouth and neck.
Roughly 250 feet down from the road, the frightened pup looked up at them with sheer desperation in his eyes.
The hikers’ hearts sank. They could hardly believe someone could be so cruel as to leave an innocent animal to suffer in silence.
Gaining The Trust Of A Hurt Pup
The dog was visibly traumatized and wary of humans. After everything he had endured, it was clear he needed reassurance that these strangers weren’t going to hurt him too.
The hikers immediately dialed 9-1-1 while trying to soothe him. One of them even lay down on the ground, speaking gently to calm the terrified pup and convince him to inch closer.
At first, he hesitated, but eventually, he sensed their sincerity.
“I was laying down on the floor as he got closer and that was when I was able to yank the zip tie off his mouth. And I got to see the relief off the dog’s face.” one rescuer told KTLA 5 News.
The dog, later named Argon, finally realized he was safe. He accepted food and water, his fear slowly giving way to relief.
Police officers and animal control soon arrived and transported Argon to Palmdale Animal Care Center.
At the clinic, the seven-year-old pup was found to have inflammation and warts on his stomach and groin.
Argon Receives A Lot Of Love
After receiving medical treatment, Argon was transferred to Agoura Animal Care Center. His rescuers made a promise: they would help him heal and ensure he never suffered again.
Determined to hold those responsible accountable, animal advocates pressed for justice.
“We are grateful for the quick actions of these hikers and law enforcement, but our efforts must continue,” Fleur Dawes, communications director of In Defense of Animals, an international animal protection organization said in a press release.
Despite everything he had gone through, Argon’s sweet and gentle nature began to shine through, touching the hearts of his caregivers.
Sadly, soon after entering the shelter, Argon was diagnosed with lymphoma. His caregivers showered him with love, giving him comfort and strength as he began treatment.
“While we are awaiting a definitive diagnosis through test results, we know one way or another, Argon has a long road of healing and recovery ahead of him,” County of Los Angeles – Agoura Animal Care Center wrote in an Instagram post.
Thankfully, German Shepherd Rescue of Orange County stepped in to provide Argon with specialized care and the extensive treatment he needed.
Welcomed with open arms, Argon received endless affection and support. Surrounded by love, his spirits lifted, and he began to feel hopeful about his future.
No matter how hard his road to recovery may be, everyone involved believes Argon deserves his chance at the happiness and security he was once denied.