Neglected dog arrived at shelter nearly starved to death — now he’s living his best life

Some animals arrive at shelters in heartbreaking condition, but with a little love their lives can totally turn around.
That was the case for one neglected dog, who was found nearly starving to death, but in the weeks since has been making incredible strides.

In September, the South Suburban Humane Society, in Illinois, took in a severely emaciated dog named Pumpkin. He was first found by a local resident who thought he was dying and brought him to the police.

Emily Klehm, CEO of the South Suburban Humane Society, told Newsweek that while they rescue many dogs, Pumpkin’s was an “extreme case” that left them speechless. “He was severely emaciated and unable to walk,” she said.

Photos show how unbelievably thin the dog was — it’s a miracle he survived at all.

Vets administered fluids and shaved his matted fur. Despite the rough start, he started to perk up and went into foster care with one of the shelter employees.

“Thankfully, we got him into foster care, where he is starting to improve and stand on his own again,” the shelter wrote on Facebook. “His journey is still long, but we are incredibly proud of him so far.”

Updates from the shelter show the remarkable improvement Pumpkin has made in just a short time. While he was unable to stand when they first found him, he can now walk around the yard on his own, wagging his tail.

“This little man is so strong and getting better every single day,” the shelter wrote.

Though he’s still visibly thin, he has been slowly regaining weight. “This little man is progressing, and we cannot wait to see how much more he continues to improve!” South Suburban Humane Society wrote.

Pumpkin’s backstory is still unclear, but the shelter says he will be placed up for adoption once he gets medical clearance.

“Pumpkin will need a home that understands that he was severely neglected,” Klehm told Newsweek. “He doesn’t know how to be a dog, so everything from leash walking to toys are all new experiences for him. An experienced dog family would be best.”

In the meantime, he’s doing well and loves his foster home.

It’s heartbreaking that Pumpkin was neglected for so long, but we’re so glad he’s doing well and regaining weight — we hope he finds a forever home soon when he’s ready!

Please share this story if you love dogs!

My Grandson’s Emotional Reversal

The Unique Function of Grandparents
Grandparents have a distinct place in the world; they are a source of great love, wisdom, and insight. For their grandchildren, they offer emotional support, direction, and role modeling. They are always willing to listen and offer assistance. Having grandparents entails having friends that are always there for us.

A Story of a Grandmother
A grandmother related a tale about her close relationship with her grandson Simon. Simon listened to her stories and helped around the house throughout their many days together. But as Simon got older, their dynamic shifted. He ultimately stopped phoning and gradually stopped coming. Bewildered and saddened, the grandma told herself that Simon was simply occupied with his pals.

The Debate
The grandma went to the home of her grandson and daughter one day. Simon acted as though she didn’t exist by ignoring her. His disrespect was shocking to his mother, who reprimanded him. Everyone was shocked by Simon’s aggressive answer. “She’s the only grandmother I know who doesn’t give gifts!” he remarked. The grandmothers of all my pals spoil them. She has never sent anything to me.

The Repercussions
Simon’s mother reprimanded him for his materialistic mindset, telling him that spending time with his grandma ought to be sufficient. As things grew worse, Simon stormed into his room, breaking his grandmother’s heart. She never thought that her inability to purchase gifts was the reason for his actions. She went to Simon’s room to apologize, but he persisted in being impolite, referring to her as the “worst grandmother.”

Years Apart
The grandmother made the decision to visit less often since she felt rejected. Simon eventually lost contact with his parents after they relocated to a different nation. The granny was quite lonely and missed them. She was unaware of Simon’s life and he never sought out to her.

Forgiveness and Reconciliation
The grandmother lost hope of ever seeing her family as the years went by. Her door was knocked on one day. Simon, a fully grown guy, was in front of her. He apologized in a quiet, regretful voice for his previous actions, acknowledging that they had been painful and stupid. Simon gave his grandma a hug and begged for pardon for their years apart. He clarified that he was too ashamed to contact her until now, even though he acknowledged his sins at the age of 16.

A Fresh Start
Simon disclosed that he had set aside funds to purchase a home within the community. He wanted to live with her so he could take care of her because his company was moving him. Grateful beyond measure, the grandma accepted the chance to be with him once more and granted him her complete forgiveness.

The Instruction
This touching tale highlights the value of understanding, forgiveness, and the special relationship that exists between grandparents and grandchildren. It serves as a reminder that the value of love and quality time spent together surpasses that of material belongings. Let’s value and treasure the unique bond we have with our grandparents.