A stray, blind dog named Hunter had been found in Elkins, West Virginia as a “stray” and dropped off at the local shelter.
It had been pilot Nick Hermann, from central Virginia, who had seen Hunter’s photo and story on social media and wanted to be a part of Hunter’s rescue. Brad Marlowe, the founder of Misfit Hounds had volunteered to take Hunter, and Hermann flew the dog on a two-and-a-half-hour flight last week to Tennessee.
The dog’s heartbreaking history indicated Hunter had been dumped at a local power plant in Tucker County. At the time the one-year-old dog was heartworm positive.
The last time he was at the vet had been in 2013; it had been recommended he receive a dental examination and treatment at the time. When he finally had an appointment at the dentist, most of his teeth had to be extracted. That would make Hunter at least 15 years old or maybe older.
Even though the rumor circulated that Hunter had been a stray for the last ten years, Hunter did have a “home.” Another senior beagle had been surrendered by the same person last fall with the same excuse.
Hunter can probably see shadows out of one eye. He has no vision in the other and no vision up close. He will dunk his head into water trying to drink because he can’t see. He does well getting around. I’m amazed he isn’t more arthritic than he is. That’s what I know about Hunter.
Hunter was likely surrendered because he has some incontinence issues. Although he is housetrained, sometimes while asleep he urinates and defecates. He is very affectionate, sleeps a lot like most senior dogs and loves to cuddle. Now he sleeps in the house and has comfortably become one of the pack.
We get so many dogs that have never stepped foot inside. It’s great to see their spirit transform but the very few we get like Hunter, it’s heartbreak for them. Hunter lost the love of his life.
Part of Marlowe’s hope is the dog’s former owner sees how Hunter’s life is so important, and the man who threw this sweet dog away – knows the whole world thinks he’s a d**** bag.
Never again will Hunter be alone, unwanted, or unloved. He’ll be a Misfit.
www.misfithounds.org
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