We always desire the fate of every stray dog to be absolutely different. We cannot become blind to a harsh reality that is staring us in the face, and in which very few people intervene to give them the chance they deserve.
But in Taiwan, there is an organization called Animal Shelters, made up of independent volunteers who receive no government support. However, their commitment and love for the most vulnerable is so strong that they achieve true miracles thanks to their compassion.
They were alerted to a small dog lying on the side of the road. Besides they were warned that what they would find would be shocking, nothing could prepare them for such a scene.
That day was one of the rainiest, and the poor dog was laying almost motionless. The dog was covered with an umbrella that probably one of the villagers had left him to protect him, so that at least he would not get wet. They also had left him some food.
Although it would have been better if the ones who noticed the pup in that depressing state had done something greater for the little animal, the rescuer saw with good eyes that at least some good people, within their few possibilities, had that gesture of love for the little creature.
When the rescuer approached, what he saw broke his heart completely…
Both of his paws were cut off; one of them was completely rotten and swollen, and infested with maggots.
The rescuer wanted to pet him to show that he could trust in people, but he soon realized that it would be much harder than it looked.
How can we react so cruel towards these innocent little angels? How could the poor dog endure so much pain? It is something that outrages us and we will always disown the human race for committing such deplorable acts against animals that only know how to give love.
He was so scared and nervous, he only showed aggression. It was his way of defending himself after so much suffering and mistreatment inflicted by humans. Noticeably, the poor lonely dog had lost all faith in humanity.
The volunteer had to use a muzzle to prevent the dog from biting him. Although he tried to show him that he was very different from all the others, the little dog was still very sullen, fearing that he would be hurt again.
With much effort, he managed to snuggle the distressed pup in his arms and lay him lovingly and carefully in the back of the van.
But still, the little furry one was reluctant to trust. He remained in an attack position, not only because of the great physical pain he felt, but surely the very presence of the human reminded him of his stormy past.
He was taken to the organization’s veterinarians successfully, who in order to save his life, sadly had to amputate his legs. He was begging with his eyes and his crying to be soothed from so much pain.
There, the staff named him Shanxin. Days after the delicate surgery, Shanxin began to thrive.
They kept him in his cage, and with infinite patience, his rescuers spent hours and days, trying to slowly approach him to try to regain his confidence.
They were touched that Shanxin never gave up. He fought so hard to save her life that it was worth every effort to win her heart.
Soon, they got him a wheelchair, which was like the big anchor he needed to start a life full of love and self-improvement, together with the other rescued dogs at the shelter.
Finally, Shanxin gave them the best of smiles. And it did not take him long to show them that she finally trusted her rescuers.
Now, he lives to the fullest. Shanxin does not mind having only two paws, because he is as happy as can be in his condition. He is loved for the way he is and his rescuers could not be prouder that their efforts paid off.
The great transformation of this lovable dog is a reminder that with a little commitment, every creature can heal all of a sad past, no matter how raw it may be. We send our blessings to these heroes without capes. The world needs more like them.