Gunther's Story

Gunther

Gunther’s Tale (In His Own Words)

A Heartfelt Plea for a Forever Home as My Euthanasia Date Drew Near

One fateful day, a compassionate soul witnessed my plight and promptly contacted Santa Barbara County Animal Services. The Animal Control Officer rushed me to PETS ER in Orcutt, where X-rays revealed the dire need for surgery to mend my shattered hind leg, sentencing me to a period of crate rest. Amidst my pain and fear, I remained non-aggressive towards the caring ER staff. The Santa Barbara County Animal Care Foundation generously covered the staggering cost of over $8,300 for my medical care. As the weeks passed, it became evident that my fractured leg wasn’t healing as expected. I faced a second surgery, involving an external device to stabilize my leg, as the break had to worsen. This time, strict crate rest became my arduous reality, a tough ordeal for a young pup like me. I spent an extended duration at PETS ER before transitioning into a medical foster home. Come March, the external device was finally removed, and my leg was declared healthier and less swollen – a victory! I began rehabilitation, residing in the shelter clinic. My daily exercise routine consisted of 2 to 3 brief 10-minute walks, with another checkup scheduled in six weeks. Throughout this time, my heart yearned to play freely, as confinement had become a prolonged challenge. Unfortunately, adoption remained elusive, and I remained a stranger due to my extended isolation. After enduring six long months in shelter life, I found myself overwhelmed and spiraling downward. I’m a young shepherd grappling with the effects of a protracted shelter stay, much of it spent in crate rest. While my body mended, my mental and emotional well-being suffered from isolation and limited social interaction. I am grateful to the shelter and the Santa Barbara County Animal Care Foundation for their support in my physical recovery, but what I truly need is a family, a home, serenity, and someone to love me. Thankfully, an empathetic man, whom I now proudly call dad heard my plea through social media. He came to my rescue, and since become inseparable best friends. I am now content in my forever home, and I extend my heartfelt gratitude to all those who contributed to my medical fund, granting me a second chance at finding my beloved companion and forever home.

With gratitude,

-Gunther