Duncan’s story begins at the age of 12 when he was eventually rescued by an amazing California-based rescue organization called Hope for Paws.
No one knows much about his life before he was rescued, but it wasn’t exactly fun. This poor dog was in such a condition that even his rescuers were horrified.
On that fateful day, Duncan found himself in an auto junkyard. Or maybe he was left there, perhaps in the hope that someone would eventually help him. Bystanders provided him with food and water and quickly contacted Hope for Paws to rescue him before animal control was called.
Waiting for salvation all my life
blind senior pit bull
When help arrived, they were genuinely shocked by his condition and wondered how he had been able to survive such an ordeal. He was confused, disoriented, clearly blind, and in severe pain.
The rope tied tightly around his neck suggests that there was once someone responsible for him, but unfortunately that person completely failed.
“Sweet boy, I’m sorry whoever did this to you. I’m so sorry,” echoed the words of the compassionate Hope For Paws rescuers as they hurriedly transported him to receive urgent medical care.
Aside from being blind and completely covered in motor oil, the vet revealed that Duncan was suffering from dehydration, periodontal disease, skin infection, corneal ulcers, and two mass cell tumors.
Although the vets suggested euthanasia, Lisa Arturo, one of the rescuers, insisted on giving this dog one last chance to experience love and happiness in his life
After they gave him a thorough bath, Duncan turned out to be a beautiful color, transforming into a completely different and stunning dog.
You can watch here the entire rescue mission filmed by Hope For Paws.
He was then transported to Frosted Faces Foundation, in Ramona, California, which specializes in taking care of senior dogs whose lives are in jeopardy.
Finally, Some Happy Days
Duncan went to a wonderful foster family with Andy & Kelly Smíšek, who are also the founders of Frosted Faces Foundation.
“Now that I have met him, I cannot believe that he has had no one to tuck him in at night. We do think he can see a tiny bit because he knows not to step on his friends when he is wandering, or else is nose is excellent. We are going to manage his tumors palliatively and have started some supplements to balance his days. This is what we do, let seniors be seniors, and Duncan has lots of good meals and naps ahead of him. Oh, and bones! He loves bones,” the foundation wrote in their Facebook post.
For almost a year, he was their lobby ambassador, greeting anyone who walked through the doors and accepting their love.
Duncan loved his life at the foster home, spending time with his new friends, cuddling with his new people, and hanging out in laundry baskets.
After spending the majority of his life not knowing what love was, Duncan was finally granted a peaceful and happy home, even if only for a short while.
Unfortunately, his fosters quickly noticed that Duncan had developed dementia. Much like in humans, dementia is a challenging condition, making it difficult to ensure a dog’s happiness and peace.
“Duncan knew his way around, loved being held, and loved snuggling with other dogs. It was very clear that he was happy, and happy most of the day, most days. This is not usually the case with dementia dogs. Being able to see his transition was beautiful and rewarding,” Duncan’s foster mom said.
Three weeks before his rescue anniversary, Duncan experienced a seizure, from which he never truly regained consciousness. On top of that, his kidneys were failing.
On October 7, 2018, Duncan crossed the Rainbow Bridge.
“We didn’t have a choice, so at the very least I get the satisfaction of knowing we gave him every last good day. Duncan, our sweet boy. Mommy and Daddy love you, and we will miss you always,” Duncan’s foster parents wrote in their goodbye post.
