“It was truly heartbreaking to witness a dog in such a state,” expressed Baxter.
She had been placed in an enclosure that seldom received visitors, sometimes with months passing before anyone checked on her. The dog managed to free herself from the blanket that covered her head and the rope that bound her neck and feet. Then, she independently ate her ham and turkey sandwich before contacting animal control.
Initially, she was fearful of Baxter and hesitant to approach. However, with time and treats offered from a bucket above her head, along with gentle touches, she began to build trust. Soon after, she contacted animal control again.
Animal control reached out to Zach Skow, the founder of Marley’s Mutts rescue group, and shared her story about the Malinois-headed dog. This particular type of case is precisely what the group specializes in – they focus on rescuing abandoned and abused dogs, as well as those facing euthanasia at local shelters.
“She was not an uncommon rescue for us. We encounter various heart-wrenching rescue situations involving abandoned dogs,” Skow shared with Huffington Post.
Baxter also expressed her happiness in seeing the dog’s remarkable transformation. “She looked fantastic,” she told Huffington Post. “It was truly heartening to witness her progress and know she will be fine.”
The AT&T newsletter featured Dora’s story, catching the attention of Kevin P. Smith, a senior technology project manager in the Bay area. He promptly filled out an adoption application for Dora.
The very next day, Kevin’s wife Karen, accompanied by their other rescued dog Dante, went to pick up Dora and ensure she received the necessary care. Due to her severe neglect, fostering was not an option, so she remained with Skow.
In just a short amount of time, the change in Dora was astounding. Dora, the Malinois-headed Dog, was now a new, healthier dog.
Her journey from mistreatment and neglect to a life filled with love and happiness exemplifies the transformative power of compassion and the remarkable difference a caring home can make for a rescued animal. Her story continues to touch the hearts of many, serving as a poignant reminder of the boundless joy that comes from giving a dog the opportunity for a fresh start.