One of our local animal rescues was staking out a location in the hopes of catching a mother dog and her babies. While setting up the trap for the nursing mom, someone noticed a little canine limping back and forth from his nearby hiding place in search of food. A tall chain link fence separated the dog from the rescue volunteers. Searching for a way to reach this small stray, a section of the barb wire fence was just high enough for one of the rescuers to squeeze under.
A volunteer brought some roasted chicken in an attempt to make friends. As small as he was, the little dog put on a big show – barking, growling, keeping a good distance between him and the person, looking and sounding ferocious. Hunger won over his fears. He hobbled out and grabbed the chicken pieces closest to his hide out. It was decided that the group would return the next day to try to catch this little fellow, but they would at least leave him some food until their return the following day.
While he was not welcoming their intrusion, this time the volunteer could see his tail wag as she gently spoke to him. That’s when emotions ruled over the decision to return later. There was no way the little dog would be left injured and alone one more night. With the baked chicken, Ayoba was lured. It took no time to get the leash over his head. As soon as the rope tightened, he pulled once then rolled over on his back for a belly rub. The second he was picked up, he covered the person’s face with kisses.
Since the dog was clearly injured, he was first taken to a veterinary clinic for an initial evaluation. Though he had spent his short life in the streets, he was the best-behaved passenger. He curled up in the front seat and was fast asleep. During that visit, it was painfully clear how badly he needed help. He was underweight, covered in ticks, fleas, scabs, fire ant bites and a gash that had been trying to heal for quite some time. He let the vet tech poke around, clean him up, trim his nails and he never once complained, he just offered more kisses and wanted to be held.
Their biggest concern was his limping. The radiograph results to his left rear leg were not favorable. A piece of the femoral head and neck had broken off. His left hip had been out of place for quite some time which resulted in muscle atrophy. Surgery was his only option, a femoral head ostectomy (FHO), followed by rehabilitation. Since Ayoba is only about one year old, it is thought he should have a speedy recovery. The vet felt that he was most probably hit by a car several months ago.
It does seem unfair for this adorable, loving little guy to have faced so many adversities in his short life. This small rescue group is stretched financially. Your donation to Animals Abused & Abandoned here will guarantee this dog a second chance to live a normal life and become a cherished member of someone’s family.
In case you wonder where the name Ayoba comes from, it is a South African slang term used to express amazement. A perfect name for this survivor! His foster mother is from that part of the world.