While driving through a remote stretch of Elloree, South Carolina, a couple slowed down after spotting a snake slithering across the road.
Just moments later, something else caught their attention. A pair of ears barely visible above the grass lining the roadside. Moved by instinct and concern, they stopped their vehicle and rushed toward the figure in the grass.
As they approached, they realized it was a puppy lying motionless, his body frail and stiff, as if he had already lost hope.
He was in heartbreaking condition. His skin was bare, ravaged by mange, and his emaciated frame showed signs of prolonged suffering. Immediate medical attention was critical.
Rescue Efforts Begin
The couple gently lifted the puppy and transported him to Orangeburg County Animal Control and Shelter. With the shelter already at capacity, staff turned to Facebook to ask for help from rescue organizations.
The puppy was gravely ill and lacked the strength to stand. Fortunately, Labor of Love Transport Rescue responded and offered to take him in.
A volunteer from the rescue agreed to foster the puppy and headed out to retrieve him.
Just minutes from home, a thunderstorm rolled in, its rumbling echoing the urgency of the moment.
Once he arrived at the rescue facility in Greenville, South Carolina, the team gave him a name that matched the stormy night: Baby Thunder.
He was immediately taken to a veterinary hospital, where doctors diagnosed him with a severe case of mange. His condition was so dire that survival was uncertain.
The veterinary staff began treatment right away, working tirelessly to stabilize him. Slowly, signs of improvement began to appear.
Recovery Begins With Gentle Care
Baby Thunder’s foster family welcomed him into their home, offering round-the-clock care and encouragement.
Despite his fragile state, Baby Thunder showed remarkable resilience and refused to give up.
During his first week, he spent most of his time sleeping. His foster family fed him every four hours and bathed him regularly with medicated shampoo. Too weak to walk, he crawled across the floor.
Westie, one of the household’s resident dogs, began interacting with him.
Although Baby Thunder was timid and unsure, Westie seemed to sense his need for companionship and remained close to him.
After two weeks, Baby Thunder’s health began to improve. His skin started healing, and his strength slowly returned. As time passed, he began walking more frequently. Two months after his rescue, soft patches of fur began to grow back.
He spent his days playing with Westie, who had become his closest friend.
A New Family Offers The Love He Deserves
Once Baby Thunder’s health was fully restored and his coat had returned, he was ready to find a permanent home.
A kind and loving family met him and immediately knew he belonged with them.
When he first arrived, he was shy and would hide in bushes during walks. Gradually, he came to understand that his new family truly cared for him.
His playful personality began to shine, bringing happiness to his new home.
Today, Baby Thunder embraces every moment. He enjoys exploring the world and snuggling with his humans and his dog sisters, Kala and Koda.
