I honestly don’t know how many times my heart broke over those shelter intake photos, mostly the ones where a dog’s ribs show through thin skin. But here’s a tiny piece of hope that never ceases to amaze me: even in what can only be called the worst of times, their eyes still hold a spark of hope.
That was exactly the case for Hamlet, a tiny Bulldog, when he first arrived at a California city shelter. He was emaciated, weak, and barely able to walk. His cropped ears and crooked legs were silent proof of neglect, but his gentle nature spoke louder than words.
Fortunately, the team around Hamlet responded right away. And, before long, his healing journey took an amazing turn!
From Emaciated To Beloved
When volunteers from Piggiebully, a fostering rescue in Northern California for dogs who need extra care, met Hamlet for the first time, they knew they couldn’t leave him behind.
“Hamlet was brought in to the city shelter as a stray by an animal care officer. We weren’t seeking to add a second foster dog into our lives again, but Hamlet called to us,” Piggiebully wrote on their social media.
The caregivers provided Hamlet with round-the-clock care, helping him acclimate to life away from the streets. Then Caty and Eddie Franco of Franco Family Pets, from Sacramento, California, came into the picture.
When the couple, who already owned a dog, and has helped many canines in the past, agreed to foster Hamlet, they knew it would take a lot of work. But even so, they welcomed him with open arms, and soon found out that Hamlet was nothing but a pure lovebug.
The pup, who turned out to be 93.6 % American Bully and 6.4% Bulldog, had mild arthritis, a sensitive stomach, and years of neglect behind him, had an unbroken spirit.
Within months, Hamlet regained his normal weight and started playing with toys. He was just so happy-go-lucky and the family fell in love with him right away.
“When he first arrived to the shelter, he was emaciated and only 29 pounds. Now he’s 43 pounds! His fur and coat are so much healthier and he has so much more energy,” Hamlet’s owners wrote in one of their Instagram posts.
Living The Best Life
Just a month after arriving at the Franco’s home, Hamlet officially became part of the family.
His heartbreaking past was replaced by endless playtime with plush toys, affection, and just the comfiest naps ever. It’s safe to say that now, Hamlet has it all!
“After everything he’s been through, this sweet boy deserves it all. We love you, Ham,” the California family added.
Hamlet is truly one of a kind. His story proves that even dogs who come from the worst situations can still trust, love, and thrive again when given a chance. And Hamlet sure used his.
Happy life, Hamlet! We can’t wait to see your next pupdate!
