Every day brings a new challenge for animal rescuers, and today’s story is another tragic example. But thankfully the dog we meet in this tale is rescued in time. A non-profit group, Ajuda a Alimentar Cães, doesn’t give up on any animal they encounter. Despite the animal’s condition and the way they are abandoned, these everyday heroes continue on their quest. For them, it seems like the whole process will never end. In Portugal, the laws aren’t reliable and police doesn’t often intervene. As they put it in their Instagram post, authorities can’t help, laws fail, and justice isn’t fair.
The rescuers lack resources and ask for support through donations, but even with help, they are still in debt. Vet bills are expensive but they do everything they can for animals, even if they do it on their own. The volunteers found a dog named Apollo alone in a man-made cave. He was living in darkness, chained up, and surrounded by filth. He’s missing part of his ears because of fly bites. His food and water situation was heartbreaking to describe. The water was dirty and the food was rotten. Dogs like Apollo live without dignity, deprived of freedom, hygiene, fresh food, water, and love.
The rescuers are unsure who left him there or why. Their hearts ached as they unchained him from the cave. Apollo was elated that someone had finally given him a new chance at life. The pup is now in the hospital under the care of veterinarians and staff. Apollo’s next step will be to recover and locate a foster home for him. From there, he will hopefully find the perfect forever family who won’t give up on him—ever!
We are beyond grateful for Apollo’s rescue. Thank you to the kind folks with Ajuda a Alimentar Cães who stop at nothing to help animals in need.
Toledo, United States.
