The world of animal rescue is often tragic and emotionally draining. As a rescuer, you see things you would never wish on your worst enemy; a firsthand view into the depravity that can exist within the human race. Because the truth is, human beings are often the direct cause of the suffering these animals experience. They are easy targets and whether it’s physical abuse, neglect or abandonment, somewhere along the way they were all failed by humans. And without a voice of their own, abusers often get away with their heinous crimes. It is a thankless job - a service provided by a network of volunteers that are devoted to the animals they work to save - but it is work that is crucial to the survival of these animals. And despite the heartbreaking days that come with working in the trenches of rescue, the happy endings and success stories make all the difficult days worth it.
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Meet Shenzi.
This darling girl was found in April of this year, wandering alone in Florida and barely alive. She was emaciated, was experiencing hair loss, had blisters and open and infected sores all over her little body. She was timid and very afraid.
After weeks of veterinary care, she was diagnosed with an autoimmune disorder called pemphigus. Normally, your immune system produces antibodies to fight off harmful invaders such as viruses and bacteria. With pemphigus, the body produces antibodies that damage the cells of your skin which result in the blisters and sores all over Shenzi’s body. While the condition isn’t contagious, in most cases the triggers for the disorder are unknown and if left untreated can be deadly. An initial examination also discovered that Shenzi had already been spayed and had healing sutures throughout her body. So while the direct cause of her suffering is unknown because she was picked up as a stray, it can be assumed that she had belonged to someone at one point and was either neglected, abandoned or both.
Shenzi has since been in foster care through Animal Luvr’s Dream Rescue as she continues to work on her physical and emotional healing. Just a few months later however, she is almost unrecognizable. Her confidence has greatly improved and today she is vocal, happy and loves to snuggle and play. She continues to take medication for her skin condition, but will soon be available for adoption through this amazing organization who’s entire mission is to save dogs just like Shenzi.
Animal Luvr’s Dream Rescue is a 501(c)3 rescue organization located in the Tampa Bay, Florida region and is 100% dependent on donations and the dedication of volunteers who work to save the homeless, abused, abandoned and neglected. The work that they do isn’t for the faint of heart and with it comes days that can sometimes feel like too much. But the work is incredibly important because without them, Shenzi and other animals like her, likely would not be here today.
All month long we will be donating 30% of our profits to this wonderful organization so they can continue the amazing that they do. Shop with us to show your support and keep up with what they’re doing by following them on Instagram & Facebook.
