Look at me now: Abused Gus once shot with pellets and shoelace around his neck

As if he’s saying, “look at me now,”  Gus is that once abused dog in Houston rescued last week ago after an animal advocate spotted the puppy in  dire need. Advocates rushed to help; the stray’s head had swollen to at least twice its normal size as he wandered through the neighborhood scavenging for food and relief from his pain.

On her social media page, animal rescuer Laura Jean cried out for help:

“SOS!!! Dead dog walking he wouldn’t come to me and I was only pushing him into traffic. Thanks to all the cars who didn’t stop who could’ve helped me get him to safety. He was last seen going into an apartment complex and I gave my info to some residents. One said he is usually around but in the back. I was unable to find him. If anyone can dedicate some time to look for him, please let me know.”

Gus’ story and his heartbreaking photos quickly went viral opening up the eyes of the nation as to the crisis of homeless dogs in Houston. Tears flowed down the cheeks of rescuers and advocates alike – just grimacing in the thought what Gus, in his short nine-months of life, must have endured. A shoelace had been tied tightly around his neck and embedded causing trachea damage. In addition, x-rays showed at least 25 pellet bullets had riddled through his defenseless body. Surgery was performed to revise the scar tissue while his condition remained critical for days. Still, Gus had that will to live.

“But now all of a sudden, everyone I meet is good to me. Everyone asks how I am doing,” Gus might be saying if he could speak. “People touch me with kindness and love. I just knew that there had to be a better life, but I had no idea it could be this good.”

Yes, Gus is one of the lucky dogs where fate stepped in along with Laura Jean who spotted him just in time. Stepping up to help Gus with his long journey of healing, Houston K-911 Rescue has been helping along with generous donations coming in to help with Gus’ expensive medical care.

And on Friday, Gus was released from the veterinary hospital. What may be considered a double chin now, Gus is barely recognizable as his head has returned to nearly its intended size. The burning pain in his neck is slowly subsiding. His foster parent is Marina Harrison, an employee of the vet hospital where Gus received life-saving care and treatment. Marina will make sure his bandages are changed and his laser therapy continues.

“Is this all just a dream or is this really my life?,” Gus continues. [as if he is speaking] “Can people really care this much? I love you all and my one wish is that more hurt and lonely dogs on the streets get to know this love like I do now.”

Check out Gus as he gets ready to leave the hospital.

https://www.facebook.com/annambarbosa/videos/pcb.10216701527506651/10216701492865785/?type=3&theater

Help Houston K-911 Rescue save more dogs just like Gus, donations can be made by clicking here.

Read previous articles about Gus beginning here.

Read the latest animal news on the National Pet Rescue Facebook page.

Yesterday in the news: Near death, skeletal dog found abandoned in alley – more here.

Senior dog in need: Rocky is desperate to be noticed, but nobody wants him – more about helping here.

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Clever dog stands in the pool like a human – watch the adorable video here.