Every dog deserves to wake up snuggled next to their humans, eyes shining with joy.
But for many canines, this dream shatters when they are abandoned by the families they trust.
Babs was one such dog. Wandering the streets of Dayton, Texas, she carried the heavy burden of rejection and heartbreak.
A Life of Struggle
After being left to fend for herself, Babs grew wary of humans, avoiding contact whenever possible.
With no one to care for her, she developed mange, leaving her skin sore and her body nearly hairless.
Her life took a turn when a kind-hearted person spotted her near a snow cone stand and contacted Kristen Erwin, a dedicated dog rescuer.
A Helping Hand
When Erwin arrived at the scene, she found Babs lying on a porch, malnourished and visibly in pain. Her heart broke at the sight of the terrified dog, whose face reflected nothing but despair.
Determined to help, Erwin devised a plan to safely capture Babs.
She set up a crate filled with treats, hoping the hungry dog would take the bait.
Babs, driven by hunger, cautiously approached the crate and began eating. But when Erwin moved closer, fear overtook her, and she began circling inside the crate.
Despite her fear, Erwin gently reassured Babs, promising that she was there to help.
The Road to Recovery
Babs was taken to a vet for a full examination. She tested positive for heartworms and immediately began treatment.
Thanks to the Houston-based non-profit This Is Houston, her medical expenses were fully covered.
Erwin brought Babs home to foster her, where love and care began to replace fear and mistrust.
Love Heals
Once in a safe environment, Babs started to let her guard down. She craved affection and quickly bonded with Erwin and her family.
“I didn’t know what to expect once I got her home. It turned out she was one of the sweetest dogs and truly only wanted attention and love. She was very affectionate and seemed very appreciative to be off the streets and out of the Texas heat,” Erwin shared with The Dodo.
With medicated baths and plenty of care, Babs’ skin began to heal. Slowly but surely, her black fur grew back, and her transformation was remarkable.
A Stunning Transformation
In time, Babs blossomed into a stunning, fluffy Poodle, full of confidence and joy. Her radiant smile reflected her new lease on life.
When Babs was ready for adoption, a family who had been following her story from the start stepped forward.
They were captivated by her journey and filled out an adoption application, eager to welcome her into their home.
A Happy Ending
When Babs met her new family, it was love at first sight. She happily ran into their arms, ready to start her next chapter.
Her new life is filled with joy, love, and companionship. She has a canine sibling to play with and two human siblings who adore her.
“She is living the good life. … Her family adores her and can’t believe how sweet and gentle she is,” Erwin shared.
A Tale of Triumph
Babs’ story is a beautiful reminder of the resilience of dogs and the transformative power of love.
From a hopeless, abandoned stray to a cherished family member, Babs finally has the life she always deserved.