Woody Harris’ story is nothing short of miraculous. After enduring a life filled with unimaginable neglect and suffering, this sweet senior Cocker Spaniel was given a second chance. Today, he stands as a testament to the power of love, care, and community.
A little over a year ago, Woody was rescued from a home where he had been subjected to nearly a decade of neglect. The state he was found in was truly heartbreaking—Woody was skin and bones, blind from untreated eye infections, and suffering from severe dental decay. His coat, matted and filthy, covered him like a heavy burden, and his body was so malnourished that his legs had swollen from the lack of circulation. But from the very moment he was saved, Woody’s remarkable transformation began.
Once Woody arrived in his foster home, it was clear he had a long journey ahead of him. His matted fur had to be shaved, his skin cleaned, and he was started on small, frequent meals to slowly help him gain weight without overwhelming his fragile system. But despite his past, Woody’s spirit never wavered. Even in his weakened state, he began to show small glimmers of trust and hope.
Just a few weeks after his rescue, Woody's true personality began to emerge. In barely even a month, he was playfully climbing onto his foster family, craving affection and companionship. For the first time in years, Woody knew what it meant to be loved and cared for. He had already undergone two rounds of deworming, and his body was responding to the nourishment and care he so desperately needed.
A couple of weeks after getting settled in, Woody underwent his first major surgery to remove 17 of his rotting teeth. The procedure was a crucial step in relieving the constant pain that had haunted him for years. Despite the challenges, Woody’s spirit remained strong, and his resilience shone through every obstacle he faced.
Later that same month, Woody had his second dental surgery and was preparing for a life-changing procedure—his double enucleation. His chronically infected eyes had left him in constant discomfort, but this surgery would finally bring him the relief he deserved. The operation was performed on October 10th, 2023, and Woody came through it with flying colors. Though he would remain blind, the painful infections were gone, and for the first time in years, he was truly free of suffering.
Woody’s transformation over the next few months was nothing short of remarkable. His once-emaciated body began to fill out with healthy weight, his coat grew back soft and shiny, and his heart, once filled with fear, overflowed with love for everyone he met. Woody had gone from a dog on death’s door to a confident, joyful companion.
The pinnacle of Woody’s journey came a year later, on September 3rd, 2024—a day we will never forget. It was the day this sweet boy got the good news. After spending a year in rescue, Woody found his forever home. His new family in Florida couldn’t wait to welcome their precious boy, and the moment was bittersweet for all of us. Watching Woody leave was emotional, but knowing he was finally going to live the rest of his life in comfort and happiness made it all worthwhile.
Woody’s journey touched the hearts of thousands of people around the world, raising over $10,000 in donations and an additional $10,000 worth of supplies for our rescue. Thanks to the kindness and generosity of supporters like you, Woody was able to receive the life-saving care he needed and is now living the life he has always deserved.
We are forever grateful to everyone who played a part in Woody’s journey—from his incredible foster family to the compassionate veterinarians and, of course, the wonderful donors who made his care possible. Woody Harris is proof that love and dedication can truly change a life.
As Woody begins this new chapter in sunny Florida, we can’t wait to hear all about his adventures with his new family. His story is one of hope, healing, and the incredible difference that a community can make.
Thank you for being a part of Woody’s story. Because of you, this sweet boy now has the happy ending he so desperately deserved.