Stray dogs often endure harsh conditions, scavenging for food while roaming the streets and abandoned areas.
Some, like Mikita, are born into this life, deprived of the love and care every dog deserves.
Mikita, a stray living on a South Dakota reservation, craved human kindness.
She was malnourished, weak, and barely able to walk when she was finally given the help she so desperately needed.
A Lifesaving Rescue
Mikita’s life took a turn when a rescuer from Lightshine Canine: A Rez Dog Rescue found her and brought her to safety.
The rescue staff was heartbroken by her condition.
Severely underweight, her skin inflamed, and patches of fur missing, Mikita’s appearance made it difficult to identify her breed. Diagnosed with chronic mange and skin infections, she received immediate treatment.
Mikita was fostered by Pam Jawish through Happy Tails Rescue in Minnesota. In Pam’s loving care, Mikita began her recovery.
As days passed, her once-bare skin grew strands of white and gray fur, revealing her Husky heritage.
A Forever Mom Finds Her
Around this time, Jessi Sova was searching for a companion for her dog, Kane. While scrolling through Facebook, she came across Mikita’s photo and story.
Something about the little dog struck her, and she knew she had to meet her.
After completing the application process, Sova brought her son along to visit Mikita. It was love at first sight for both of them.
Mikita found her forever home with Sova, who showered her with love and care. The sweet pup was overjoyed to finally have a family.
A New Challenge
Although Mikita had found happiness, her journey wasn’t over. Shortly after moving into her new home, she began waking up in the middle of the night, unable to stand on her back legs due to pain.
Concerned, Sova rushed her to the emergency vet.
After two days of testing, Mikita was diagnosed with discospondylitis, a vertebral infection treatable with antibiotics.
With the right medication, Mikita began to heal. Her fur grew thicker and fluffier, and her vibrant personality blossomed.
Thriving in Her Forever Home
Mikita thrived in her new home, bonding deeply with her family and her doggy brother, Kane. The two became inseparable, often cuddling and playing together.
Sova was amazed at Mikita’s transformation, saying:
“I can’t imagine life without her. She’s so silly and interesting. Watching her heal and grow is bittersweet. I think about her condition when she was rescued, but I also feel so lucky to have such a sweet baby.”
Mikita embraced her new life with boundless joy, soaking up every moment of love and attention.
A Happy Ending
From a frail and hungry stray to a fluffy and happy princess, Mikita’s journey is a testament to resilience and the transformative power of love.
Her story reminds us of the countless stray dogs waiting for their chance at a better life.
Mikita now lives her best life, surrounded by a family that adores her.
And for all who know her story, she is a symbol of hope and the happiness that comes from giving second chances.