Rescuing a dog in distress is never an easy task, especially when the animal is both injured and frightened. This was precisely the situation we faced when we received a call about a paralyzed dog roaming the streets. The caller, concerned for the dog’s welfare, captured a video that showed the extent of the dog’s injuries. It was clear the animal had a broken leg and a damaged spine, making survival on the streets nearly impossible.
The caller had tried multiple times to catch the dog, but the scared animal kept escaping. Despite its injuries, the dog managed to evade capture, possibly due to fear and instinct for self-preservation. Realizing they needed professional help, the caller reached out to us, and we quickly mobilized to rescue the dog and bring it to safety.
When we arrived at the scene, the dog was nowhere to be seen. It was the monsoon season, and he had found a hiding spot to shield himself from the heavy rains. His small, wet frame was tucked away in a corner, making him difficult to locate at first. From the movement of his tail, we could tell he was not a feral animal but a sweet and friendly dog who had likely been through a lot. Despite his wagging tail, the trauma he had endured made him wary of humans.
Approaching him was a challenge. He showed no interest in the food we offered, a clear sign of stress and discomfort. Moreover, he refused to come out of his hiding place. It was heartbreaking to see him in such a state—defensive and scared—which made the rescue operation more complicated. Every time we tried to get closer, he tried to defend himself, further emphasizing the difficulty of gaining his trust.
After some time and with careful maneuvering, we finally managed to secure him. We decided it was best to transfer him immediately to our shelter, where he would no longer have to struggle to find food or roam the streets in search of safety. The shelter, however, presented its own set of challenges. As our facility is still under construction, we currently only accommodate permanently disabled dogs. Nevertheless, this dog’s condition—a broken leg and spine injury—made him a candidate for long-term care.
At the shelter, the dog began to settle into his new environment. He was introduced to other dogs who, like him, had found a permanent home due to their disabilities. It was heartwarming to see him in the company of others who understood his pain and struggles. Nighttime at the shelter brought a sense of peace, with the dogs resting in a safe and secure space—a stark contrast to the dangers of the streets they once roamed.
