Emaciated Pup Left Chained & Starved In Florida Heat, Instinctively Digs Hole To Try & Stay Cool

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32lb, 4-year-old Hercules, a young brindle Boxer, endured unimaginable suffering at the hands of his previous owners who stole his livelihood and confidence away. Left behind in Chipley, Florida, he was abandoned without food or water, and confined to a tree with a heavy metal chain. The relentless heat bore down on him as he tried to stay cool by digging a hole in the ground. Hercules awaited a miracle as he started losing hope that anyone would save him.
Fortunately, a nearby neighbor noticed his dire situation and alerted the good people at Animal Control of West Florida. Hercules was unchained and began his journey to recovery. The rescue team discovered this frail pup, marked by years of neglect and abuse, with his muscles visibly wasted from malnutrition. His coat, once likely a beautiful brindle, was now dull and lifeless.
As soon as they found him, we were called in for reinforcements and immediately scheduled a vet visit. There we learned the devastating extent of Hercules' suffering. He was diagnosed with multiple parasitic infections, including a severe case of Heartworm. His body, weakened by starvation and mistreatment, could not withstand the full Heartworm treatment. The veterinarians initiated a unique plan, beginning with addressing his parasitic infections and starting doxycycline to prepare him for future intensive treatment.
Placed lovingly into a foster home, Hercules is now learning the joys of comfort and care for the first time. He has started enjoying small, frequent meals and has transitioned from lying on the hard ground to resting in a soft dog bed. It is a bittersweet moment to see him discover the pleasures of life. This boy had so many years STOLEN from him. His confidence was stolen, his joy, his health. Yet, despite the long road ahead, we remain committed to helping this sweet boy regain his strength with more vet visits and critical care to follow.
Please consider donating today to help Hercules receive the vital medical care he needs to survive and recover from his traumatic past or consider purchasing items from his wish list of essential supplies. Anything you give goes a long way for this angel. Thank you so much.