Rudy’s world was very small. He lived on a chain inside a pen, and although he walked the perimeters of his tiny world every day, he never saw one bit of it. Rudy was totally blind.
There was a time when Rudy was loved ... someone cared. He listened for a master’s voice, lived for kind words, affection, and a good meal, He went to sleep at night knowing he was special. He had a name. His life mattered.
But somewhere along the way, something changed ... maybe Rudy’s owner gave him away, maybe that person’s life circumstances worsened, we don’t know. We DO know, from Rudy’s temperament, that his life wasn’t always bleak.
When Rudy was discovered in November, he was wasting away from starvation. He had open sores from having only concrete or dirt to sleep on and from his bones protruding more with each passing day. There was no water fit for drinking. His pen was his prison. He cried out for help, but no one heard. No one cared.
Somehow, word came to Orange, NJ Animal Control. The blind mastiff mix was removed from his painful life by ACO Rudy Giordano, and brought to our Newark shelter’s Medical Dept. We gave Rudy, named after his rescuer, immediate veterinary care, food, fresh water and a warm place to sleep. But most importantly, we gave Rudy kind words and touched him with gentle, reassuring hands.
There WAS a time when Rudy was loved. For now, restored to health, Rudy wags his tail joyfully, treasures affection, and lives for the joy of playing with staff. While his world may be physically limited by his inability to see, it has opened to endless possibility through love.
Rudy would love a new home, but his requirements are strict – a home with experience with dominant breeds, no other resident animals, and experience or desire in working with his handicap. Contact us if you might be that very special home. Meanwhile, Rudy has been added to our Share-A-Pet Program where you can share your love by sponsoring Rudy.
Rudy is one of thousands of dogs that have received life-saving care at the Associated Humane Societies. Rudy received more than just medical care; he received the love he so desperately needed. Please support our efforts through a contribution today. Help us give forgotten dogs like Rudy the will to go on and know love again.
