The first time I laid eyes on the dog, it was a heartbreaking sight. Its frail body was riddled with sores, and its constant scratching betrayed the agony it was in.
With sparse fur and eyes that reflected a history of neglect, I couldn’t help but wonder if it had been abandoned.
Tentatively, I offered it some food and water. The dog devoured them instantly. Though initially planning to walk away, nightfall brought a persistent thought: leaving it to suffer alone was not an option.
That’s when I decided to bring the dog home.
Sneaking the stray past the apartment’s security wasn’t easy, but once inside, the dog seemed to understand it had reached a safe haven. It shadowed me eagerly, searching for affection.
Driven by compassion, I acted quickly by ordering medication for its skin condition. I understood that recovery would be a lengthy, demanding journey, but I was committed to providing the care and patience needed every step of the way.
The next day, I carefully attended to its painful sores, doing my best to ease its discomfort with gentle care.
Despite the evident pain, the dog remained surprisingly calm, almost as if it could sense my intentions were benevolent—that I was there to help, not harm.
As time went on, I discovered scars from ticks and lice—evidence of its difficult past. Yet, the dog never resisted, enduring each treatment with a quiet resilience.
Over the days, a heartening change occurred. The dog began to trust me, wagging its tail at my touch, staying close during walks, and responding to my calls.
Inspired by a friend’s suggestion and the month when I found the dog, I named it “September.”
With ongoing care and dedication, September’s health started to improve. Its wounds healed, patches of fur returned, and it even showed signs of previous training by walking to a grassy field alone. The transformation was gradual but truly remarkable.
Two months later, September was hardly recognizable. Its coat thickened, its energy revitalized, and the sadness vanished from its eyes.
Although my time in Zhejiang is limited and I may need to leave eventually, my commitment to September’s well-being remains strong.
I’m determined to ensure that September finds a safe, loving, and lasting home where it will be cared for and loved long after I’m gone.
Rescuing September has been an unforgettable journey. While saving one dog might not change the world, for September, it meant the world.
Seeing it heal, trust, and find joy has been a powerful reminder that small acts of kindness can have a profound impact.
For now, I will continue to care for September, making sure its future is one filled with love and security.
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