Otis and Baxter, two 6-year-old Cavalier King Charles spaniel brothers, had known only one home since they were puppies. That all changed the day their “guardian” posted a message on social media asking if someone was willing to watch them during a spring break trip the woman was taking with her children. The situation became nearly fatal, but fortunately, our Hope Animal Sanctuary was able to help.

A woman responded to the request for a sitter, thinking this might be a good way to see if her family was ready for a dog. Without hesitation or preparation, Otis and Baxter were handed over to complete strangers.

Spring break came and went. The family quickly realized they were not ready for dogs, but the dogs’ original “owner” was no longer answering calls or messages. Days turned into weeks. The family, heartbroken but unable to keep the dogs, turned to Webster Animal Shelter in Madison, Mississippi, which then reached out to us for help.

We drove out the next day, expecting to find two confused dogs. What we found was far worse.

Otis and Baxter were filthy and severely neglected. Otis, in particular, was in obvious distress. What we thought was matted fur was actually matted feces that was so thick and compacted that he couldn’t properly relieve himself. Our caregivers began the painstaking process of trimming away the hardened mass. Despite the discomfort, Otis remained calm, almost as if he knew we were trying to help.

When the last of it was finally cut away, Otis was able to move again, free from pain for the first time in who knows how long.

The very next day, both boys were professionally groomed and bathed. Slowly, their true personalities emerged; they were sweet, gentle, and full of life. Not long after, Otis and Baxter each found the forever homes they deserved.

Their journey from abandonment to love was only possible because of your support. Thank you for making rescue stories like Otis and Baxter’s possible.

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