Maru’s story is one of resilience and hope. Despite his sad circumstances, the dog maintained his enduring spirit. If Maru could express his thoughts, he would gladly exchange his newfound recognition for a chance at a different past. Confined by a leash in a secluded spot near a perilous cliff, Maru endured a decade of neglect. Despite this, he clung to the belief that brighter days lay ahead. His journey began fourteen years ago as a young puppy, purchased for a significant sum and initially part of a family for four years. Then, a change in ownership marked the beginning of Maru’s hardships. His new caretaker decided to keep him chained outdoors– an unimaginable fate for such a gentle soul.
Maru’s confinement was to a tiny shelter precariously close to the edge of a cliff, posing a constant threat to his safety.
“Of all the rescue missions we’ve undertaken, Maru’s situation was among the direst due to the shelter’s dangerous location,” shared his rescuers from WEACT on Instagram.
The harsh reality for Maru was spending his days under a metal sheet, seeking shelter from the elements and having no choice but to relieve himself in the same confined space. Upon learning of Maru’s plight, the compassionate team at WEACT immediately embarked on a rescue mission, dismayed to discover that Maru had been left to fend for himself for so long. They regretted not finding him sooner, especially since Maru was already advanced in years without ever experiencing the warmth of a home.
To their astonishment, Maru welcomed them with a warm smile and wagging tail, displaying no signs of aggression, only a yearning for companionship and relief from his solitude. The rescuers carefully transported him to their facility, where Maru, though anxious during the journey, quickly warmed up to his new surroundings and eagerly consumed a hearty meal.
Despite appearing robust due to his thick fur, grooming revealed Maru’s true condition: severely malnourished and bearing the physical scars of his ordeal, including missing teeth and a diagnosis of stage-2 heartworms. Yet, Maru’s affectionate nature shone through. He was eternally grateful to be free from the inhumane place he was forced to live in. The road to recovery will be long, but his caregivers are committed to providing him with all necessary support to ensure his comfort.
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Cherishing the opportunity to make Maru’s remaining years as joyful as possible, the WEACT team is dedicated to becoming his new family, promising a future filled with love and security.
Toledo, United States.
