Rescuers Find Emaciated Dog Who Ate Rocks and Wires to Stay Alive

2 days ago 5

Dojo’s story is one of survival against overwhelming odds. For an unknown period, he wandered the unforgiving streets of Colton, California, his body wasting away as he scavenged for anything remotely edible. Malnourished, exhausted, and covered in wounds, he had no choice but to consume whatever he could find—rocks, wires, and anything that might stave off his unbearable hunger. His days were spent dodging dangers, from speeding cars to harsh weather, with no one to provide him with comfort or care. His fight for survival seemed hopeless until, by sheer luck, he found himself outside a workplace where compassionate employees took notice of his dire condition and stepped in to offer him the first kindness he had known in a long time.

Shocked by the frail and neglected pup, the employees couldn’t turn a blind eye. They immediately began feeding him, offering him the first glimmer of hope he had experienced in a long time. Every day, they provided him with food and water, watching as he slowly regained some strength. Despite their care, they knew that Dojo needed much more than they could provide. He required medical attention, a safe place to sleep, and, most importantly, a family that would love him unconditionally.

Dojo, sensing their kindness, continued returning to their workplace. Determined to help him find safety, these big-hearted individuals snapped a photo and shared his story on Facebook, pleading with rescue organizations to step in. They described his dire condition and implored anyone with the resources to come forward and help.

Their call for help reached the right person—Tera, a devoted animal lover. The moment she saw Dojo’s photo, she knew she had to act. Without hesitation, she jumped into her car and rushed to the location to rescue him. Her heart raced as she navigated the streets, hoping she would find him in time before he suffered even more.

Upon arriving, Tera’s heart sank. Dojo was curled up beneath a large sign for Pepe’s Towing Service, his head resting on his paws, trying to stay warm. The sight was devastating. He was so thin that every bone in his fragile body was visible beneath his skin. His fur was patchy, and his eyes, once bright and full of life, were now dull and weary.

Seeing his sorrowful eyes, she gently spoke to him, and as soon as he heard her voice, he lifted his head, meeting her gaze with tearful eyes full of hope. It was as if he understood that someone had finally come to save him. Slowly and cautiously, he stood up, his legs shaky from weakness. Despite his obvious exhaustion, he took a few tentative steps toward her.

His condition was alarming—his body covered in ticks, his ribs protruding, and a pressure sore marking his back. He had likely spent weeks, if not months, battling the harsh elements, trying to find scraps of food to keep himself alive. Despite his weakness, Dojo mustered the strength to stand, recognizing that someone had finally come to help him.

Tera carefully placed a leash around his neck and led him to her van. When she scanned him for a microchip, she found none. But the moment he stepped inside her vehicle, something incredible happened—his tail wagged for the first time. It was as if he finally understood he was safe. Tera felt a surge of hope, knowing she had made the right decision to rescue him.

Overjoyed, Tera fed him a warm meal of chicken and rice. Dojo devoured his food, savoring every bite. It had likely been a long time since he had a proper meal, and his body craved nourishment. That same night, she took him to the vet for a full examination.

The X-ray results were gut-wrenching—Dojo had been surviving on rocks and wires, consuming whatever he could to stay alive. If he couldn’t pass the foreign objects naturally, he would need surgery. The veterinarian explained that this was a common survival tactic for starving dogs, but it often led to serious health complications.

Thankfully, his bloodwork came back normal, and after removing the ticks covering his frail body, he began to feel more comfortable. With proper nutrition, medical attention, and a safe place to recover, Dojo finally had a chance at survival.

Following his vet visit, Tera brought him home. Although slightly apprehensive, Dojo quickly embraced his new reality. She bathed him, washing away the remnants of his painful past, and in return, he showered her with grateful kisses. His eyes, once filled with sadness, now held a glimmer of hope.

Soon, Love Leo Rescue, a reputable rescue based in Santa Monica, California, took over Dojo’s care. They placed him in a loving foster home where he began his journey of healing. Each day, he grew stronger, comforted by the warmth and affection of his human caregivers. His foster family ensured he received plenty of nutritious meals, medical attention, and, most importantly, the love he had been deprived of for so long.

As Dojo’s health improved, his personality began to shine through. He was no longer the timid, broken pup who had curled up under a sign for warmth. Instead, he became playful, affectionate, and full of life. His tail wagged constantly, and he relished every belly rub and cuddle session with his foster family.

Once Dojo fully recovers, he will begin the next chapter of his life—finding a forever home filled with love and security. Potential adopters will soon get the chance to meet him and give him the life he always deserved. With his resilient spirit and loving heart, it won’t be long before he finds a family eager to welcome him with open arms.

Despite enduring unimaginable hardships, Dojo’s resilience never wavered. He fought to survive, and now, thanks to the kindness of strangers, he has a second chance at the life he always deserved. His story is a powerful reminder of the difference compassion can make and the incredible transformation that love and care can bring to an animal in need.