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Emaciated and unable to walk, a stray dog suffers from extreme starvation and thirst, enduring the effects of neglect for an extended period of time.
When Barilla, a dog in Granada, Spain, arrived at a cat and dog rescue center, she was in an alarming state. Emaciated and weak, her organs were barely functioning, and she had lost the ability to walk, paralyzed in one spot.
The staff at the rescue center were deeply concerned about Barilla’s chances of survival. Weighing a mere 7.2kg, every passing moment was critical, and time was not on her side.
Since Barilla couldn’t stand on her own, the dedicated staff provided her with a support system to help strengthen her muscles. They made sure she was hydrated for six hours before attempting to introduce any nutritional food.
Scars covered all four of Barilla’s legs, the result of her previous struggles on the streets.
After the six-hour hydration period, Barilla managed to rise and drink water, but her strength was short-lived.
Over the course of a week, with careful care and therapy, Barilla gained 4kg. However, she still couldn’t walk or stand for extended periods and often stumbled to the ground. It took another six weeks for her to start eating properly, but she eventually regained the ability to run and leap like any healthy dog.
Barilla showed unwavering loyalty to the staff who cared for her during her recovery.
Eduardo Rodriguez, the owner of the shelter, was captivated by Barilla’s spirit and decided to adopt her. She now resides with Eduardo, his wife, their 14-year-old daughter, and five other canine companions at their home on the outskirts of Granada.
After months of living on the streets, Barilla finally has a place to call her own.
Eduardo shared that this adoption was his first since losing one of his dogs in an accident five years ago. “Her will to survive was incredible, and I felt an instant connection with her,” he expressed, reflecting on his decision.
From the start, Eduardo and Barilla shared an extraordinary bond of love and devotion. Her recovery has been nothing short of remarkable. By the fourth day of her rescue, she was consuming five to six meals a day, gaining 1kg daily. Barilla’s weight now stands at 20.8kg, and she is nearly fully healed.
The local community discovered Barilla’s plight and promptly reported it to the rescue center and the authorities. At just ten months old when she was rescued, the police are actively investigating the circumstances that led to Barilla’s distressing condition.
Barilla’s story is a testament to the resilience of animals and the compassionate individuals who dedicate themselves to their care and well-being.
