Unfortunately, not every furry friend will have the opportunity to experience a life filled with love and comfort.
Many of them face the bleak reality of living in extreme conditions, deprived of love and comfort, having to survive by scavenging for scraps and drinking rainwater.
Once these puppies are finally rescued by a caring human, it can take a significant amount of time for them to realize that the person is there to help and not harm them. This was the case for a gorgeous Pitbull named Ruby, who had lived in the forest and was initially wary of a human offering assistance.
When MaryAnne discovered a mature dog living alone in the woods, she was saddened by the poor condition of the dog, whom she named Ruby. Ruby was severely malnourished, to the point where her bones were visible. Despite MaryAnne’s attempts to approach Ruby and provide some comfort, the dog was wary and kept running back into the woods. With winter approaching, MaryAnne was determined to earn Ruby’s trust and help her regain some weight one step at a time.
Ever since MaryAnn found Ruby in the woods, she made it a routine to visit her daily, bringing delicious food and reassuring her that there was nothing to fear. Despite Ruby only approaching her for food and quickly retreating back to her “safe spot”, MaryAnn noticed slow progress as spring approached. It wasn’t until early summer that MaryAnn finally succeeded in coaxing Ruby out of the woods.
“It took several months for her to come back to me consistently,” she stated with a smile. This dedicated dog rescuer was overjoyed when she noticed Ruby mustering up the courage to return to her yard for her meal. She was even able to sit with her for about twenty minutes, speaking to her in a soothing voice.
MaryAnn’s next goal was to put a collar around Ruby’s neck, and thankfully, it was easier than expected. “I think she was starting to feel like a dog. She was beginning to understand what love truly meant,” said MaryAnn.
Finally, Ruby started to have fun. Given her unfortunate past, Ruby never experienced a life of joy and play, thus she had no idea what a ball was. MaryAnn spent days with her, patiently teaching Ruby how to play with the ball, until one day, she caught on and became the happiest dog.
Ruby would eagerly wait for MaryAnn to come outside and call her name, signaling the start of another day of play. Though still hesitant to come inside the house, Ruby slowly began to trust MaryAnn.
The day Ruby finally entered the house, MaryAnn was ecstatic. Not only because Ruby took a step towards trust, but also because a once fearful dog had opened up her heart to affection and compassion.
In the end, Ruby wasn’t the only one rescued. MaryAnn found purpose and fulfillment in providing Ruby with the love and care she deserved all along. A big thank you to MaryAnn for her perseverance and patience, ensuring that everything turned out just right.
Being an animal rescuer is truly rewarding, and if you want to experience the warmth in your heart, consider lending a helping hand at your local shelter.
