“It was as if he was weeping.”
When the director of the Tunica Humane Society, Sandy Williams, received a distress call regarding a deserted dog, she was uncertain of the condition she would discover. A local resident had noticed the dog, Wilbur, whose family had departed the home and left him behind. He knew intervention was urgently required.
“He had stopped to feed him a couple of times but was very, very concerned for him,” Williams told The Dodo.“He had been alone at the property for weeks, searching the surrounding fields for food to survive.”
Image Source: Tunica Humane Society
Upon arrival at Wilbur’s former dwelling, Williams spotted a “Beware of Dog” admonition prominently shown. She proceeded vigilantly until catching sight of the brokenhearted dog the warning sign referred to.
“As I pulled up, Wilbur gradually emerged from beneath the porch,” Williams said. “I was startled by his state. Every rib was visible through his coat. His face was literally concave from enduring extensive periods without food or water. What remains most vivid was his tear-drenched face. One could clearly see the hurt and disorientation in his mournful eyes. It was as if he was weeping.”
Image Source: Tunica Humane Society
The poor creature was frightened and baffled, uncertain if his rescuer could be trusted. He kept his distance for a period until hunger superseded distrust, and he slowly neared Williams to accept the proffered food. She successfully leashed him and ushered him securely into her vehicle, racing urgently toward the veterinary office.
Image Source: Tunica Humane Society
The doctor thoroughly examined Wilbur, and all who interacted with him that day were crestfallen by his circumstances. He was undernourished, potentially trauma-stricken, and infected with heartworms, yet by some fortune, he was surviving. As those around him exhibited nothing but affection and care, Wilbur gradually began to unwind.
“At the veterinary clinic, I detected a glint of expectation in Wilbur’s eyes,” Williams said. “Though utterly terrified of all present, he responded with a slight wag of his tail. The most heartening instant for any rescuer – the moment they comprehend you intend only to assist.”
Image Source: Tunica Humane Society
Williams and her associates at the Tunica Humane Society publicized Wilbur’s adversity, and sympathetic followers from across the nation offered to foster and adopt him. Thankfully, his rescuers managed to find a wonderful local family to welcome him with the devotion he had never experienced.
Image Source: Tunica Humane Society
“He ingratiated himself with everyone in no time once realizing he would never again be mistreated,” Williams said. “Wilbur has been embraced by a loving family, overjoyed to have him. They have four other large dogs, and Wilbur assimilated instantly as if he had always belonged. He has captured every heart, both in the household and beyond, all who cross his path.”
If you wish to assist other dogs facing comparable adversity, please consider donating to the Tunica Humane Society.