An overlooked blind puppy discovered near a bustling highway is given a fresh start. While the thought of animal euthanasia is distressing for all dog owners, it is a harsh reality for many animals in shelters. According to a study by the Best Friends Network, Texas has had the highest number of shelter animals euthanized for the second consecutive year.
The fees for consumption have increased while the charges for adoption have decreased. This has resulted in shelters becoming overcrowded, leading to heartbreaking situations where sick dogs and those deemed less desirable end up on euthanasia lists to make space for others.
Darla was among the pups whose name was on that list, but fortunately, she was rescued just in time. Here’s how it all unfolded.
Darla, a cute Golden Retriever, was residing at Laredo Animal Care Services, a shelter in Texas, where she was described as a very timid pup struggling to adjust to shelter life. When overcrowding forced the shelter to make tough decisions, Darla, along with other less adoptable dogs, ended up on the euthanasia list.
In July 2023, shelter staff attempted to take Darla to the euthanasia room, causing her to become frightened and unable to walk. Seeing her distress, they carried her and placed her in a wheelbarrow.
Luckily, on that same day, members of Austin Pets Alive!, a non-profit organization dedicated to saving animals from euthanasia, were at the shelter to rescue some dogs and give them a second chance at life.
Clare Callison, who oversees operations across the country for Austin Pets Alive!, was present at the shelter that day as well. She recalled, “I knew it was around the time when the shelter typically carries out routine euthanasia to make room for more animals.”
As they strolled through the shelter, a nervous Golden Retriever sitting in a blue wheelbarrow grabbed their attention. It was clear to them that the fearful pup was being taken to be euthanized.
Saved Just In Time
happy dog in the grassSource: Austin Pets Alive!
From the moment they laid eyes on her, they knew they had to save her.
“We had to rescue her, we had to give her a chance. We want her to come out of her shell and be the happy pet she deserves to be. Every pet in the shelter deserves that, and that’s our mission,” explained Jordana Moerbe, APA!’s national shelter support director.
After a conversation with the shelter staff, Callison discovered that Darla’s shyness was the sole reason she was facing euthanasia.
As Callison gently petted her, she realized that despite her timidity, Darla was receptive to love and affection.
Darla was taken to the vet by the APA! team for a thorough check-up, revealing she was just an eight-month-old pup.
With the help of their partners at Mile High Lab Mission in Denver, Colorado, Darla found a foster family in no time, eager to welcome her into their home.
A New Beginning
Upon meeting her foster family, Darla wagged her tail – a gesture she hadn’t shown during her shelter stay. Finally feeling safe, she was able to receive the love and care she deserved.
“She was a completely different dog now,” Callison remarked.
On August 9, 2023, Mile High Lab Mission announced that Darla had found her forever family. Now, she resides with a loving family that cherishes her deeply. Here’s to a lifetime of happiness and love for Darla.
