The dogfighting industry is, unfortunately (and illegally), alive and thriving at the cost of many, many canines, most notably, Pit Bulls. Not only do the dogs that fight grow to mistrust humans through the way they’re treated, they also miss out on becoming their true, loving selves. Then there are the bait dogs, who get the brunt of the physical abuse. These smaller, gentler pups are used to rile up the fighters, acting as living, breathing punching bags.
Jude is one of those unlucky bait dogs. But his life took a happier turn when he managed to be rescued from that world.
Warning: some of these images are very graphic.
When rescuers found him, they couldn’t even tell what color he was on account of all of his own blood he was doused in .
Experts gave him a 50% chance at long-term survival if he didn’t die immediately of sepsis or shock…
But when he was on the road to the shelter to be put out of his misery…
They saw him wag his tail with the tiny bit of strength he had left…
They realized that the little guy might just pull through.
Sadly, due to punctured lungs, he did in fact contract sepsis.
He’s also battling two blood parasites, as well as liver and kidney complications.
He needs close medical attention, and still has a long way to go until he’s fully recovered.
However, he’s full of optimism.
He only had licks and love to share with his soon-to-be foster family.
This bundle of joy almost didn’t make it because some criminals thought that cash and entertainment were more important than the lives of their dogs…
But thankfully, Jude’s will to live and be happy were stronger than that.
(via The Dodo)
While Jude’s will is strong, he still needs a lot more veterinary care, and could really use your help! To donate, head over to A Pathway to Hope’s website, and share this story to help raise awareness of this terrible, illegal industry!
