Israel

Late one night back in April of 2023, we received a call from a former foster of ours and longtime animal advocate, who'd learned of a broken-down dog. A dog who had been living an imprisoned, tortured life; under the so-called "care" of a senselessly cruel individual. Long story short, the owner is now in jail. FINALLY, Israel's opportunity for safety had come. He just needed a little help, first. However, the woman who alerted us to Israel's situation is elderly and physically handicapped, so she was unable to provide the hands-on care that Israel's recovery required. 

Instead, this dedicated woman threw herself into finding individuals who would be able to help. She called around to various rescues, but not a single one she reached out to was taking on new cases. Despite our funds being extremely limited, we just couldn’t stand the idea of our “no” being the reason this precious boy being denied his chance to live. All we knew about Israel’s condition was that he needed treatment for wounds around his neck. We would soon learn just ‘what’ this baby was dealing with, or how emergent his condition really was.  

We were struck with horror at the first sight of Israel. The metal chain still wrapped around his neck, embedded and lodged SO deeply into his skin, had been there for so long that it could only be removed with bolt cutters...and the horror didn't stop there. Doctors were able to confirm the nature of Israel’s wounds and the darkness behind them – someone did this to Israel on purpose. His body bore permanent reminders of the torture he had endured. At the time of Israel's rescue, this sweet boy was only a year old and had already lived through some of the worst humanity had to offer. 

Israel was immediately hospitalized and treated for his deep and severely infected wound. He had developed a high fever and we were concerned the infection might spread to other parts of his body without close monitoring. After a few days, Israel was able to head home with a foster family, who soon learned what an angel he is! Israel was overjoyed to be in a loving home, with his bowls always full of food and clean water, and a soft place to rest his weary head. Here is where Israel began his healing journey, both in body and spirit. 

Just a few weeks after his arrival in our care, Israel's stitches were removed and he was able to have a much-needed bath. Washing the dirt and grime from Israel's body was like washing away the months of torture this poor boy had endured. We were watching this terrified and broken boy transform into a playful and confident dog before our very eyes. By May, we had all completely fallen in love with Israel, and so had all of our CUDDLY family! We were completely blown away by the incredible show of support and generosity our boy received.

It took several months, but we could not be happier to say that Israel has found a home with a loving forever family! We are incredibly grateful to the animal advocates, fosters, and CUDDLY donors who helped Israel along the way. Without you, none of this would have been possible. A life was saved and a family was completed thanks to the kind actions of so many people who took a chance on a dog they didn't know and were able to give him a brand new life.