For many dog rescuers, saving these furry friends is more than a task—it’s a life mission filled with immense satisfaction. Sadly, for some, it’s merely a business opportunity.
When the dedicated team at The Animal Pad in San Diego, California, heard about over 300 dogs suffering in inhumane conditions at a supposed rescue operation, they knew they had to act fast.
A Shocking Discovery
Upon arriving at the site, the rescuers were horrified by what they saw. Hundreds of dogs were crammed into small spaces, lacking adequate food and care. Among these neglected animals was a dog they would come to know as My Girl, found helpless inside the drum of an old washing machine.
Saved From Inhumane Conditions
When the rescuers first encountered My Girl, she was in a dire state. She was extremely sick, weak, and refused to eat or drink. Erica, the director of The Animal Pad and an editor and producer at The Dodo, along with her dedicated team, worked tirelessly to rescue My Girl and the other 397 dogs from the deplorable conditions.
Community Rallies for the Rescue
Fortunately, the local community responded immediately, with numerous applications pouring in to help these dogs. Erica recalled, “I was three hours away at the rescue while other directors were sending me videos of taking care of all these dogs. I was really watching people save these dogs’ lives in real-time.”
My Girl’s Battle with Distemper
Source: The Animal Pad
One of the rescued dogs, My Girl, tested positive for the dreaded distemper, a serious disease that required immediate medical attention. The team at The Animal Pad sprang into action, and My Girl’s treatment began right away. They named her My Girl because they sang The Temptations’ “My Girl” to her every day during her recovery. With tender loving care and proper medical attention, she slowly started to heal.
A Remarkable Transformation
After just 41 days, My Girl underwent a stunning transformation. The once sickly dog became energetic and full of life, much to the amazement of the rescue team. Her unbreakable spirit and sweet personality helped her overcome the odds, and she began to show her true, vibrant self.
Source: The Dodo
Finding Her Forever Home
Following her treatment, My Girl moved to The Animal Pad facility to start a new chapter in her life. She attended adoption events, hoping to find her forever home. One day, a volunteer fell in love with her and decided to foster her. The true magic happened when My Girl met the volunteer’s parents. They instantly fell in love with her, and it was clear she had found her forever home.
A New Life Full of Joy
Now, My Girl lives a joyful life with her new family. She has a spacious home where she can run around and do zoomies all day long. Erica shared, “She can run around on their huge property. She gets zoomies all day long. And most importantly, she’s taken care of and she’s incredibly healthy.”
Living Her Best Life
Together with her new pawrents and a dog sibling, My Girl is living her best life. After enduring such hardship, she now enjoys the love and care she deserves. Her story is a testament to the incredible impact that dedicated rescuers and a supportive community can have on the lives of these animals.
A Happy Ending for My Girl
My Girl’s journey from a neglected dog in a fake rescue to a beloved family member highlights the importance of animal rescue efforts. It showcases the power of compassion, community support, and the unbreakable spirit of a dog who just needed a chance to thrive. Now, My Girl is not only healthy and happy but also an inspiration to all those who work tirelessly to save animals in need.
Through the efforts of The Animal Pad and the caring individuals who stepped up to help, My Girl’s story has a happy ending. She is a reminder that every dog deserves a chance at a loving home and a life full of joy.
