How Dog Saved From Euthanasia Sparked Movement To Help Terminally Ill Pets

A very special dog who was saved from euthanasia has sparked a heartwarming movement to help terminally ill pets. Opie, a 9 year old terrier, was facing imminent euthanasia amid a harsh Texas winter in 2023 when salvation arrived in the form of the team at Austin Pets Alive! (APA) animal shelter. Initially surrendered to an under resourced outdoor shelter when her owners said she was "too old," APA was called and told that Opie would need to be euthanized due to the weather.

The rescue team immediately sent a van to collect Opie and other dogs at the shelter facing euthanasia, and her fate took a turn for the better. When she arrived at the shelter, the moment was captured live on and people watched the resilient pup finding her feet in a new and safe environment. It soon became clear though that Opie needed medical attention.

When she was examined by the APA medical triage team, it was sadly determined that she was suffering from untreatable cancer. But her fighting spirit touched hearts as she continued to love living life to the full and spending time with her new carers. Opie's original foster loved her dearly, but didn't have the resources to care for a dog needing end of life care.

The situation opened the eyes of staff at Austin Pets Alive to the need for specialized care for dogs with terminal illnesses. Opie's original foster, supported by a dedicated team of volunteers, established the shelter's "fospice" program—offering end of life care to animals in similar situations.

But Opie's hospice journey wasn't just about surviving, it was about thriving. Despite an initial prognosis giving her just eight weeks left to live, she carried on for eight months under the loving care of her fosters, enjoying every moment surrounded by comfort, special beds, treats, and outdoor adventures—including a memorable Texas bluebonnet photoshoot.

Laryssa, one of Opie's foster parents, told : "Every dog deserves dignity in their final days. It's so important to support these dogs and to give every dog a chance." Opie's legacy transcends the end of her life, emphasizing the importance of love, care, and respect for animals at every stage.

"Every dog deserves dignity in their final days. It's so important to support these dogs and to give every dog a chance," added Laryssa. Opie's legacy now transcends the end of her life—helping dogs in similar situations get the love and care they deserve towards the end of their lives.

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