Duncan’s story starts when he was 12 years old, having been rescued by a wonderful organization known as Hope For Paws, located in California. Little is known about his life before the rescue, but it’s clear it was a challenging one. In such poor health that even seasoned rescuers were taken aback, Duncan’s plight became known when he was spotted in an auto junkyard. It’s unclear whether he wandered there on his own or was left there, but his presence there was fortunate as it led to his rescue.
An employee at the junkyard noticed Duncan and quickly provided him with food and water, then called Hope For Paws, hoping they would get to him before animal control. When the rescue team arrived, they were shocked by Duncan’s condition. He appeared confused, blind, in pain, and had a rope tied tightly around his neck—a sad hint that he once had someone who looked after him, someone who had grievously failed him.
The Rescue Operation
The words of the rescuers, filled with sorrow and empathy, resonated at the site, “Sweet boy, I’m sorry whoever did this to you. I’m so sorry,” as they rushed him to get urgent medical care. The vet’s examination revealed Duncan’s dire state: he was blind, covered in motor oil, dehydrated, suffering from periodontal disease, skin infections, corneal ulcers, and had two mass cell tumors. Despite the grim diagnosis and suggestion for euthanasia, Lisa Arturo, a rescuer, advocated for giving Duncan a chance to feel loved and happy, even if just for a short while.
Following a thorough bath, Duncan, transformed by the removal of the grime, revealed a beautiful coat, showing a glimpse of the stunning dog beneath the neglect. Hope For Paws documented the entire rescue, capturing the heart-wrenching condition Duncan was in and his journey to a new life.
New Beginnings at Frosted Faces Foundation
After his initial treatment, Duncan was transferred to the Frosted Faces Foundation in Ramona, California, an organization dedicated to caring for senior dogs in jeopardy. Here, he found a loving foster home with Andy and Kelly Smíšek, the founders of the foundation.
The foundation shared on Facebook, “Now that I have met him, I cannot believe that he has had no one to tuck him in at night. We do think he can see a tiny bit because he knows not to step on his friends when he is wandering, or else his nose is excellent. We are going to manage his tumors palliatively and have started some supplements to balance his days. This is what we do, let seniors be seniors, and Duncan has lots of good meals and naps ahead of him. Oh, and bones! He loves bones.”
Duncan embraced his new life, spending his days greeting people as the lobby ambassador of the foundation, enjoying cuddles, and lounging in laundry baskets. He experienced the love and care that had been absent for most of his life.
The Golden Days and Challenges Ahead
For almost a year, Duncan thrived in this environment, his demeanor indicating that despite his past, he found happiness and comfort. However, as is often the case with older dogs, Duncan began showing signs of dementia.
This condition, akin to human dementia, made it increasingly difficult to ensure his continuous happiness and peace. But according to his foster mom, Duncan managed well, “He knew his way around, loved being held, and loved snuggling with other dogs. It was very clear that he was happy, and happy most of the day, most days. This is not usually the case with dementia dogs. Being able to see his transition was beautiful and rewarding.”
A Peaceful Farewell
Sadly, just three weeks shy of his rescue anniversary, Duncan suffered a seizure, from which he never fully recovered. Compounding his difficulties, his kidneys began to fail. On October 7, 2018, Duncan passed away. In their heartfelt goodbye, his foster parents expressed both sorrow and solace, “We didn’t have a choice, so at the very least I get the satisfaction of knowing we gave him every last good day. Duncan, our sweet boy. Mommy and Daddy love you, and we will miss you always.”
Duncan’s story, though filled with late-life hardships, is a poignant reminder of the transformative power of love and care. His final days, spent in a loving environment, highlight the impact that rescue organizations and foster families can have on animals in need. Duncan’s story is a testament to the resilience of the canine spirit and the capacity for humans to provide sanctuary and affection to those that need it most.
