Being an animal rescuer is far from easy. Too often, it means facing heartbreaking realities—witnessing the cruelty and suffering endured by the dogs you save.
Sometimes, rescued dogs bear only minor injuries alongside hunger and thirst. Other times, they suffer excruciating pain, desperate for someone to help them.
In this story, we’ll share the journey of a dog whose face was swollen—not from weight, but from a chain so tight around his neck that it left him struggling to breathe.
A Heartbreaking Sight
Source: Bakersfield Strays
While driving down a road in California, a volunteer from R.A.D. Rescue spotted a dog nearby. Something about him caught her attention—his face looked unusually chubby.
She pulled over, got out of her car, and took a closer look. That’s when she realized the heartbreaking truth. In a TikTok post, she later wrote: “His head was incredibly swollen from having a tight chain around his neck.”
Source: Bakersfield Strays
Witnessing such cruelty inflicted on an innocent dog was truly heartbreaking—he had done nothing to deserve it.
Realizing he needed urgent help, the volunteer acted quickly. She gently lured him into her car with some chicken, hoping to get him to safety as soon as possible.
A Journey To Recovery
Source: Bakersfield Strays
Now safe in the volunteer’s care, the dog—soon named Chunk the Hunk—was on his way to the nearest veterinary clinic in California for a full checkup.
Despite likely being in significant pain, he didn’t seem too worried. Instead, he sat back and enjoyed the ride, as if he knew he was finally in good hands.
Fortunately, the vet confirmed that Chunk’s swollen head was completely treatable. With proper care, he would make a full recovery in no time.
It’s incredible to see how quickly Chunk bounced back, proving just how resilient and strong he truly is.
Source: Bakersfield Strays
Once Chunk had healed, his rescuer knew he needed more than just physical recovery—he needed to learn how to enjoy life. Having spent most of his days chained up, simple joys were new to him.
As he discovered the world around him, his playful and outgoing personality began to shine. Now, it was time to find him a loving family.
The search wasn’t easy, but the team at R.A.D. Rescue refused to give up. Chunk, too, remained patient, his spirit unshaken.
After a few months, his wait was over—he found his forever home. Today, thanks to his dedicated rescuer, Chunk is living his best life, finally free and loved as he always deserved.