Overweight, Snappy Dog Set to Be Put Down, Intern Rescues Him
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Photo: Sunny
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This past summer, I was an intern at the Champaign County Humane Society, and that is where my story begins.

Harley arrived at the shelter around the same time I became an intern. He was severely overweight, with a bad case of skin dermatitis leaving him with crusty, bloody skin. His fur was terribly mangled, and due to his weight, he had skin folds that left parts of his skin hidden, making them sweaty and smelly.
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His behavior was no better. Harley would growl and be extremely territorial. Not many people could approach him, strangely with the exception of me. Unfortunately, there was always work to be done and spending extra time with the dogs was not an option.

My internship came to an end and I said my goodbyes to Harley. To no surprise, I was informed that Harley had snapped and would be euthanized for his aggressive behavior. I was given the option of rescuing him. However, I am a full-time student athlete with a job, and taking care of a dog was not an option. Regardless, I decided to take him in.
This decision was the greatest decision I have ever made. Harley is now a puppy at heart with a love for his mommy and still his food! He has lost a significant amount of weight and his fur has grown in beautifully. I may have saved his life, but he has given me more life than I ever thought possible.
He is the true rescuer in my life, and I will forever be grateful for him.

Story submitted by Sunny from Champaign, Illinois
This story was originally shared on The Animal Rescue Site. Share your very own rescue story here!

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