Giving hope to a broken dog can feel like giving them an entirely new world. Even the most wounded canines can become loving companions when met with patience and compassion.
Oakley, a ten-month-old puppy, is living proof of this truth.
She was discovered in a Missouri yard, hiding among the bushes, coping with severe neglect. Improper care in her early life left her with a serious injury: a gaping neck wound that only worsened over time.
For days, Oakley endured her pain in silence, far from proper care, until fate intervened and everything changed for her.
Suffering Alone
Donna Lochmann, the rescuer at Stray Rescue of St. Louis, Missouri, hhappened to be in the right place at the right time.
During one of her outings, Donna noticed unusual movement in some bushes within a yard. As she approached, she saw a tiny head peeking out. It was Oakley, clearly struggling with a severe neck wound.
“This adorable 10 month old female puppy was all by herself hiding in some bush. Upon closer inspection, we saw she suffered from a gaping neck wound,” SRSL stated in a Facebook post.
Oakley’s injury had been caused by a collar that was far too tight, leaving her unable to heal on her own.
Despite her suffering, Oakley greeted Donna with a wagging tail and sparkling eyes.
It was clear she was overjoyed to finally have someone there to help her.
Finally Safe, Oakley Begins Her Recovery
The journey to Oakley’s new life was filled with relief and comfort. She enjoyed every moment being close to her rescuer, her gratitude visible in every movement.
Donna brought Oakley to SRSL headquarters, where she received expert care. A few stitches healed her open neck wound, leaving only a small scar as a reminder of her past struggles.
“She was rescued, stayed in our clinic where we healed her gaping neck wound. Now she’s in foster, her stitches are out, she’s fully healed, and ready for her forever home,” the rescue wrote in an update post.
Oakley is now a healthy, happy-go-lucky puppy ready to bring joy to her future family.
“She’s dog friendly, and happy as can be. Her foster mom is teaching her all about love and manners with lots of patience – we couldn’t ask for more,” they added.
Her forever family is likely just around the corner, waiting to welcome this resilient little girl into their home.