When our pets grow older or become ill, our responsibilities do not change.
Over and over, we hear about dog owners “trading” their aging pets for puppies. Sick dogs are also abandoned because their owners do not want to or cannot afford veterinary treatment.
Abandoning a dog is never an option. Bong, the dog in this story, began his life as most dogs do: healthy and active. But then, seemingly out of nowhere, his back legs gave out and he couldn’t use them any longer. Rather than providing him with the assistance he requires, his owner abandoned him in a cardboard box!
Granny made Bong special bandages and covered his legs with a nice blanket so he wouldn’t get hurt when he tried to walk around on his own. She could only do so much for him, but it was a lot more than his previous owners had done!
Bong was so adored by Granny that she wouldn’t sleep at night unless he was curled up next to her and had fallen asleep first!
One day, a group of volunteers showed up. They’d heard about Bong and Granny and wanted to send some gifts their way. Bong received a new bed as well as some delectable dog food. They also purchased some new toys for him. Then they presented Granny with the most wonderful gift!
Grandma was informed that they had found a clinic that would help Bong at no charge to her. Even if she didn’t have much money, she and Bong should not have to go without. Grandma was inconsolably upset!
Bong, along with his new friends and Grandma, went to see his new doctor. A canine MRI was performed on him. The final result was incredible! His scans revealed that he had myelitis, which can be treated in 70% of cases!
Bong’s main disadvantage was that he would almost certainly require extensive therapy and physical rehabilitation. In order to get better, he’d have to stay in the clinic. Grandma knew it was best for Bong, but she was going to miss him terribly. She sobbed as she hugged him goodbye.
Bong’s condition improves with consistent treatment. He’s easily won over the entire crew with his pleasant demeanor. Bong, first and foremost, is able to walk…
They called Grandma every time Bong made progress. Then came Granny’s visit. Granny was overjoyed to see Bong doing so well. She couldn’t wait to give him a big hug and tell him what a wonderful kid he was! Granny is shown what she can do at home to help him with his legs by the caregivers.
Bong is ecstatic to be able to brag in front of Grandma, and he immediately gives her the warmest embrace.
A special visitor then pays Bong a visit. In our first article about Bong, we discussed his companion, or rather, girlfriend. She was terrified of seeing him again! Before therapy, Bong seemed so depressed that he couldn’t have fun with his lover, but now he can chase her around. He’s fantastic!
Bong is ecstatic to be returning to his hometown! Grandma gives him a housewarming present. There’s a new harness on the market! He gets a new harness so he can walk alongside her now that she doesn’t have to carry him!
Bong continues to improve. It’s still too early to neuter him, but the doctor plans to do so once Bong’s nerves have recovered and his muscles have strengthened.
