Let’s face it. A lot of people hesitate to help animals unless certain boxes are checked.
We all want the happy ending where a cute, healthy pup finds love after some hard times. But how many people are willing to care for a dog born with visible challenges or disabilities?
That answer becomes pretty clear when you stop and think. Of course, some people simply can’t afford the kind of care special-needs animals require.
But plenty could help and choose not to. And honestly, I think every dog deserves a shot. The happiness they bring in return can be incredible.
Take the story you’re about to read. These two puppies were born with birth defects, yet they still found joy, comfort, and the chance to grow.
They Found The Right Person At The Right Time
When veterinary staff in California first met these two French Bulldog puppies, they quickly realized something was wrong. Both had cleft palates.
They also knew right away that finding them a forever home would be tough. But they had someone in mind who had stepped up before.
They contacted Kelly Sayer, a dedicated volunteer, who agreed to foster the pups. She named them Violet and Dash.
As soon as she saw them, she noticed how small and fragile they were. It was clear the journey wouldn’t be easy.
After checking them more closely, she found that Violet had a cleft lip and a partial cleft palate. Dash had a cleft lip and a complete cleft palate.
Thankfully, Sayer had experience in this area. She specializes in caring for puppies with cleft palates, so these two were in the best possible hands.
There was also a deeper connection. Her son Landon was born with a cleft palate, and together, they gave these pups the same level of care and compassion they would give their own family.
Around-The-Clock Care With Love And Patience
Those first few weeks required nonstop attention. But neither Kelly nor Landon was discouraged.
Teaching the puppies how to eat took some time. With patience and care, both learned what to do.
Sayer also knew that finding an adoptive home would take time. Many dogs with cleft palates are abandoned or surrendered. The extra care they need often scares people away.
That didn’t stop her. She is committed to finding the right family for each of them.
She also advocates for ethical breeding and isn’t afraid to speak out about the risks many dogs face. In an interview with The Dodo, she explained, “We’ve changed the breed so much over the years and made it so that they can’t breathe, they have spinal issues, they have all these problems that … it’s hard to see that being ethical in any way, shape or form.”
Despite the odds, Violet and Dash have come a long way. In just three months, their growth and progress have been incredible.
Sayer hopes that soon, they’ll be independent enough to be adopted. Until then, she’s doing everything she can to help them thrive. And seeing their transformation is nothing short of inspiring.