When a 4-month-old puppy arrived at the Cuyahoga County Animal Shelter in Ohio, USA, in April 2016, he was in a dire state. This little pup, named Squish, was so sick that he couldn’t even open his mouth to eat. But despite his condition, his spirit remained high. His tail wagged with enthusiasm, and he showered everyone with affectionate kisses.
The veterinarians examined Squish and determined that he had contracted a severe infection from a dog bite. Unfortunately, the infection had caused deformities in his face, and the antibiotics they administered didn’t improve his health as expected.
As Squish’s condition worsened, he became weaker each day due to his inability to eat properly. Eventually, the veterinarians made the heart-wrenching decision to euthanize him to prevent further suffering.
However, there were those who refused to give up on this puppy, who radiated love and affection despite his hardships. Determined not to abandon him, they decided to send Squish for X-rays before proceeding with euthanasia. And it was during these scans that an unexpected revelation came to light.
Initially, it was believed that Squish’s facial deformities were a result of the infection caused by a dog bite. But the X-rays showed something entirely different. Squish had suffered significant fractures to his skull and upper right jaw. The scar tissue from these injuries had hindered the growth of his jaw, making it almost impossible for him to open his mouth properly.
The only viable solution for Squish was extensive surgery. Unfortunately, there was no one willing to cover the cost, and no one willing to adopt him due to his fragile state.
Finding hope in an unexpected place, veterinarian Danielle Boyd took Squish home for one night after finishing her internship at the Cuyahoga County Animal Shelter. Little did she know that this act of kindness would change everything. Spending that night with Danielle transformed Squish into a different dog altogether. Despite the pain he had endured, he still trusted humans.
Squish fell asleep in Danielle’s arms, and when they woke up the next morning, Danielle realized she couldn’t allow him to be euthanized. Eileen Heldmann, the veterinarian who had initially assessed Squish, also wanted to save him. So, the very next day, she performed the surgery.
The operation was a resounding success, enabling Squish to eat again. Although he lost a tooth, an eye, and part of his jaw during the procedure, Squish emerged as a happy and content dog.
“I cried seeing his excitement as he picked up a tennis ball for the first time, and that was only the beginning of his little victories,” Danielle shared with The Dodo.
As fate would have it, Danielle had tragically lost her own dog just two days prior to meeting Squish. It seemed like destiny had brought them together when they needed each other the most.
Squish adores playing, collecting balls, and cuddling with Danielle. Their bond is unbreakable.
This heartwarming tale of resilience and second chances reminds us that every kind soul deserves an opportunity for a new beginning. It brings immense joy to know that Squish has found a safe and loving home.
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