A stray dog covered in tumors got just one day full of love and treats after being put in a shelter.
Earlier this month, a dog found wandering the streets of Colorado was taken to the Adams County Animal Shelter. The shelter’s veterinarians examined him and found him to be in “obviously failing health,” with numerous tumors.
The Shar-Pei was affectionately named Hippo due to his appearance.
State law required Hippo to be held for 5 days at the shelter. And on his last day, he received an angel.
19-year old Sophiane Nacer founded Cayleb's Kindred Senior Dog Rescue, a nonprofit whose mission is to help old and ailing dogs.
As soon as Hippo’s 5-day hold was up, Nacer went to get him.
She wasn’t sure he even wanted to be touched due to the apparent pain his tumors caused his skin. She thought maybe he was too sick and fragile to go for an adventure.
But to her surprise, Hippo began wagging his tail as soon as she approached, and they set out with happiness.
Nacer took Hippo on car rides and on a trip to Starbucks, where he got a specially made “puppuccino.”
They then went to the park. There, Hippo made a friend, ate some great food, and even drank from the lake.
Normally Nacer wouldn’t allow a dog to do this (likely due to worry about parasites), but given Hippo’s condition, he was permitted to do just what he wanted that day.
After about 5 hours, Hippo showed signs of being very tired.
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Nacer said that by the look on his face, it was time, and Hippo knew it.
Nacer brought Hippo to her home. A veterinarian came over, who specializes in at-home euthanasia.
They fed Hippo some roasted chicken, which he happily gobbled right up, and he fell asleep. He passed peacefully just after that.
The Adams County Animal Shelter reports that they are very thankful to work with community partners like Cayleb’s.
As difficult as it was to see Hippo pass, everyone was just happy that he got to feel loved and free during his last day on this Earth.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NsH3Nqy94Sc
Nacer hopes that Hippo’s story will inspire others to help shelter dogs who desperately need love – dogs like Hippo, who probably hadn’t had a good day in a very long time.
You might consider being a Fospice parent – opening your home to a dog who is on its last days.
If you’re interested in helping old or sick homeless dogs such as Hippo, contact your local shelters and rescues to discover the options in your community.
Nacer has shown us that even giving a dog just one day of love can make the world an indescribably better place.
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