No dog should ever be left to face the world alone. The trauma of abandonment can make it hard for them to regain trust, as seen in the story of Mama, a pit bull who was found fending for herself in the fields of California. For over a year, she lived in isolation, shying away from human contact.
Whenever someone approached, Mama would flee in fear. She was terrified of humans, keeping her distance until a kind-hearted man took a chance on her.
Danny Spanx, a radio DJ from Bakersfield, California, and founder of SaveFor Place Animal Rescue is no stranger to rescuing needy dogs.
He had helped many strays escape harsh conditions before learning about Mama. His passion for witnessing abused dogs transform into loving companions drove him to reach out to Mama.
Danny first heard about Mama from people who had seen her hiding near an isolated road. Despite surviving for 15 months on her own, her future remained uncertain. Danny suspected Mama had been used for breeding and then heartlessly abandoned.
“Dogs like Mama often give birth and are left behind after they’ve served their purpose,” Danny explained.
Mama had made a home in an orchard outside Bakersfield next to a pile of discarded items. To help her feel secure, Danny built a temporary shelter nearby and set up a feeding station.
Despite numerous failed rescue attempts by others, Danny refused to give up. Every day, he drove an hour to check on her, patiently waiting for her to approach him.
Months passed before Mama made her first move. She cautiously sniffed Danny’s back, grabbed some food, and retreated.
Though the interaction was brief, it marked a turning point in their relationship. Danny knew she was beginning to trust him.
For months, Danny continued his daily visits, sitting quietly in the field, waiting. Over time, Mama’s fear slowly faded.
She began wagging her tail when she heard his car and would even run in his direction—though still keeping a safe distance.
One day, Danny decided to lie down on the ground with treats in hand. After much hesitation, Mama finally approached and gently took the food from him. It was the first time she had touched him, a moment Danny had waited months for.
With each passing visit, Mama grew more comfortable. She followed Danny, sat near him, and accepted treats.
Although she still wouldn’t allow him to put a leash on her, Danny found another way to bring her to safety. With help from friends, he set up a humane trap and, using food as bait, finally secured her.
The journey wasn’t over yet, though. It took weeks of effort to gain Mama’s full trust. Slowly but surely, she emerged from her shell, showing affection and interacting with other dogs and people.
Danny noticed she had a special bond with a young neighbor named Raiden. Mama and Raiden became inseparable, with Mama often ignoring everyone else when he was around.
After everything Mama had been through, Danny gave her a permanent home. Watching her find joy again has been deeply fulfilling for him. Danny said, “Every time I see her happy, it reminds me why I do this.”
Mama’s journey from fear to love is a testament to the patience and dedication it takes to rescue a dog who has lost faith in the world.
Mama will never have to worry about being abandoned again, thanks to Danny. She’s found her forever home.
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