Being an animal rescuer is tough, filled with daily heartbreak in many forms.
But what always inspires me is their ability to heal a broken dog and bring back its playful, happy spirit.
It’s almost like a superpower—the way these dogs completely transform after spending time with their rescuers.
In this story, we’ll share how a frightened dog learned to trust again and gave his rescuers a second chance.
A Very Malnourished Dog
Source: The Dodo
When Violet was rescued by I Stand With My Pack in California, she was so terrified that she barely interacted with anyone.
Malnourished and weak, a vet visit confirmed she was dangerously underweight—just 19.4 pounds when she should have been at least 40 pounds.
The sight was heartbreaking, a painful reminder of how long she had suffered in silence, starving with no one to help her.
Source: The Dodo
They quickly found Violet a foster home in California, where Whitney Cummings stepped in to care for her.
Under Whitney’s care, Violet slowly began to recover, gaining back some much-needed weight. She also started to realize that Whitney only wanted the best for her, allowing her to finally let her guard down and relax.
A Brand-New Start For Violet
Source: The Dodo
Violet became more playful and began to trust Whitney completely. When she was introduced to the other dogs in the house, she fit right in.
They loved playing together, though sometimes it seemed like they couldn’t keep up with Violet’s newfound energy—she was simply overflowing with joy.
After several months in Whitney’s care, Violet was a completely transformed dog, almost unrecognizable from the frightened, malnourished pup she once was.
Her health had improved dramatically, her weight was back to normal, and she had become a lively, affectionate dog who truly loved being around people.
Source: The Dodo
However, that also meant it was time for Violet to find her forever home.
Thankfully, she didn’t have to wait long—someone quickly stepped in to give her the loving home she deserved.
Saying goodbye wasn’t easy for Whitney, but she knew Violet was going to a loving home with people who would care for her.
In the end, stories like hers remind us how heartbreaking it can be to see a starving pup—but the journey is always worth it when they heal, thrive, and find the happiness they deserve.