Tommy’s road to recovery

An abandoned puppy’s battle to survive

On one cold, windy day, a community member stumbled across something strange. Just beside a railroad track, someone had placed a cardboard box. And the faintest sound of whimpering could be heard from inside.

Two tiny puppies were discovered huddling for warmth in the box, and the good Samaritan knew they required immediate assistance. They also knew Animal Humane Society (AHS) would be able to provide them with the care they desperately needed. 

Tommy and his brother, Percy, were immediately brought to AHS, where the veterinary staff were shocked by the state of the young canines. At just one month old, it was clear the pit bull puppies lacked proper care and nutrition required at such a young age. They were skinny and unable to maintain any of their body heat. It would require constant supervision and around-the-clock care if they were going to survive.

Kristin, an AHS veterinary technician, brought Tommy and Percy home with her, determined to try anything and everything to help them make it through the night — subcutaneous fluids, probiotics, dewormers, eye drops, and any amount of puppy slurry or sugar water they would eat.

But the recovery was an uphill battle, and the fight was too much for Percy’s tiny body to handle. Despite all efforts, Percy passed away quietly and the staff were devastated. 

As Tommy grieved the loss of his brother alongside the veterinary team, they noticed a change in him. He started eating more. He began perking up and was quickly turning a corner in his recovery. It was as if he was pushing himself to get better in honor of his brother. 

Soon Tommy was gaining weight and transforming into the happy, playful puppy he had always deserved to be. And when he was finally ready for adoption, it didn’t take long for Tommy to find a loving new home and a family to call his own.

AHS relies on the compassion and generosity of animal lovers to support vulnerable animals like Tommy. From emergency medical treatment and behavioral care, to safe refuge and affection, every dog, cat, and critter that comes to AHS is given a fighting chance. 

Tommy found a bright new beginning at AHS, but there are still hundreds of local animals in their shelters waiting for a second chance of their own.

Thanks to the generosity of Bill Nesheim, all gifts to AHS in the month of December will be matched, dollar-for-dollar, up to $25,000! Help Animal Humane Society change 2X as many lives this holiday season. Because while healing happens at AHS, hope begins with you. Donate today.