by 
It is truly unbelievable how cruel some people can be to animals. We’ve seen stories of pets being rescued from terrible home situations in shocking conditions.
But thankfully, there are also kind people willing to step up and give these animals a much-needed second chance, giving them love and care they deserve after experiencing so much cruelty.
Like one dog, who had all his teeth pulled out by his former owner, but is now recovering in safe hands.
On February 23, Royal Animal Refuge, in Tyrone, Georgia, shared a particularly heartbreaking story about a pet who had come into their care: a 9-month-old miniature pit bull mix whose teeth had been pulled out by a previous owner.
It isn’t known who did such a heartless thing do the poor dog, but according to FOX 5, the rescue suspects the pup’s teeth were removed so he could be used as a “bait dog” in a dog fighting operation.
“The vet told us it was not a professional job,” Mariel Weigand, Director of Royal Animal Refuge, told FOX 5.
The animal refuge took him in, and despite everything he had suffered he proved to be a sweet pup: “We could not say no to taking him in and he quickly stole all of our hearts,” Royal animal Refuge wrote on Facebook.
They named the dog “Toothless,” and while that might seem a bit insensitive, he’s named after one of the heroic dragons from the How to Train Your Dragon franchise: “In the movie, Toothless overcomes many struggles and obstacles, so that’s why it is so fitting for our boy!” they explained.
But Toothless wasn’t out of the woods yet: after arriving at the refuge, the puppy was diagnosed with parvo, a highly infectious virus that can cause severe illness in puppies.
“He was immediately rushed to a vet and is now receiving medical care,” Royal Animal Refuge wrote. “Toothless is asking for positive thoughts to be sent his way.”
“Please keep Toothless in your thoughts, we know he’s a little fighter and we are confident that he will continue to fight!”
Thankfully, the refuge received donations from followers to help fund Toothless’ medical treatments, and the pup pulled through: according to FOX 5, Toothless is “improving every day.”
Between losing his teeth and battling parvo, Toothless has certainly been through a lot — but now, things are looking up for this beautiful dog.
According to an update from Royal Animal Refuge, Toothless is now “living his best life” in the care of an “amazing foster family.”
They shared photos of Toothless in his new home, showing that even though he lost his teeth, he hasn’t lost his beautiful smile.
In their post, the shelter thanked the foster family and everyone else who helped support Toothless.
“We want to thank everyone for donating, sharing, and spreading awareness for sweet dogs like Toothless,” Royal Animal Refuge wrote.
“As always, there is no way we would be able to do this without all of you, and for that we are forever grateful.”
It’s heartbreaking to think of what Toothless went through, but we’re so glad he’s in good hands now, getting the best care and living in a loving foster home.
Share this inspiring story!
