The number of abandoned pets increases almost every day. The main reasons for people to abandon their pets are relocation, lack of money to take care of them or simply a loss of interest.
Meet Starfish, a disabled German Shepherd puppy found in a beer box on a Californian beach. This puppy will break your heart and inspire you at the same time.
Fortunately, animal control officer Alaina Onesko came to the right place at the right time and rescued the poor girl. She was just 10 weeks old when she was found. Starfish couldn’t walk because she was suffering from a Swimmer’s Pup Syndrome. Her body was splayed out just like a starfish – thus the name. Her condition might be the main reason why she was dumped on the beach.
Of course, Starfish was brought to a vet. But, he recommended immediate euthanasia, so her rescuers went to another vet for a second opinion. They believed that her disease could be cured, and they were right!
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After a surgical procedure and rehab, Starfish was able to stand on her feet. Then, a family from the San Francisco Bay area adopted her and continue her rehabilitation.
But, her story has some bad news. Starfish’s medical costs are very high, at approximately $10,000. Her new owners are now struggling to pay her medical bills. They’ve teamed up with non-profit organizations and vet hospitals to raise the money.
Leigh Ann Grey, Starfish’s mom, even set up a GoFundMe campaign to help cover the expenses. She has so far raised around $8,000 of the $10,000 goal.
Starfish is sweet, but a strong dog. She survived during the hardest times of her life and now is working hard towards a full recovery. After months of hard work, she was able to stand on her feet. But, she isn’t a fan of walks yet.
The video of Starfish’s struggle to live brought so many viewers in tears. Just in a few days, her story was viewed over 22 million times. Her sad story touched so many people and even broke their hearts. Fortunately, she was rescued in time and received proper medical care. She had a few more hip surgeries and is doing great now.
Starfish’s road to recovery is long, but it’s also successful and worth watching.
