When Thunder was found by animal control officers from Thomas J. O’Connor Animal Control and Adoption Center (TJO), it was obvious the Toy Poodle was suffering from serious owner neglect. The shelter received a call from a concerned citizen who was worried about Thunder and two other dogs being kept at a Springfield, MA property. That phone call saved Thunder’s life.
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The injured and neglected dog was transported to the shelter’s veterinary center where Dr. Lauren Atkins fought to save his life. A major injury left him partially paralyzed, and no one knew how long he would survive. Dr. Atkins told Western Mass News back in May,
“We struggled with what to do with Thunder. We worried about his quality of life going forward so we had a really hard decision to make.”
Both of Thunder’s back legs were injured to the point he could no longer walk. The infection was threatening his life, but the choice to amputate wasn’t easy. Not every dog can adjust to losing a limb, and losing both back legs would seriously alter Thunder’s life.
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After considering what was in Thunder’s best interest, Dr. Atkins and her team chose to move forward with the surgery. They amputated Thunder’s two legs and removed his tail. He was still weak coming out of surgery, but Thunder’s attitude let them know they made the right decision. Without his rear legs holding him back, Thunder’s mobility ironically improved. He was no longer in pain after his recovery, and his bright, determined personality started to take over. TJO said on Facebook,
“He is full of love, determination, spunk, and a spirit that will melt your heart.”
The happy-go-lucky pup was grateful to be alive, and he quickly won over the TJO staff. His life was already improving, but TJO knew they could do better. Thunder had a lot of life left to live, and they wanted him to experience everything a young, energetic dog should. It took months for Thunder to fully recover, but generous donations and help from Eddie’s Wheels for Pets soon lead to a brand new hope.
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Eddie’s Wheels designed and created a custom wheelchair. Thunder loved his new ride almost instantly, and according to TJO, “there was not a dry eye as he zoomed around the shelter.” Thunder was finally able to experience life in the best way possible, but he was still a homeless shelter dog.
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After another month in the shelter, that problem was solved, too. Christopher and David Grant came to the shelter last week looking for the perfect family member. Despite his disabilities, Thunder stood out the most. The trio is now together at home where Thunder will finally feel loved by a family that cares about his health and happiness.
Thunder’s friends at TJO know Christopher and David will be dedicated to giving Thunder the best life possible. The little dog will always be confined to his wheelchair and regular vet visits will be a necessity, but Thunder is more than ready to leave his past life behind. From suffering through severe owner neglect to losing his legs and living as a shelter dog, Thunder has earned his second chance.
Featured Image Source: Facebook/ Thomas J. O’Connor Animal Control and Adoption Center
