If assistance had not been provided, the dog would have died. The individuals who aided in saving her stated that she would have probably survived for only two more days. According to Mollie Shealy, Gracie’s foster mother, the dog could barely stand, and her back hind legs were in a crouching position. She was so small that every bone in her body could be felt when touched. Despite being afraid and timid, she would cower with her head down. In Tuscaloosa, Alabama, a road worker discovered Gracie, who was underweight and now bears that name. Shealy believes that Gracie was intended to be a hunting dog but did not meet expectations. As a result, they either tied her up or left her in the woods and expected her to perish.
Despite all odds, Gracie managed to live through the traumatic experience. A road worker contacted a nearby animal welfare organization, Canine Compassion Fund, who promptly took Gracie to the vet for treatment. Shealy and her mother Marlene were then asked to take care of Gracie as foster parents. Initially, Gracie was extremely frightened and apprehensive towards everyone, including Shealy and her mom.
According to Shealy, the initial week was quite challenging. Gracie seemed extremely low and would often wander aimlessly without being able to identify the root cause of her distress. The primary issue that caused worry for Shealy and her team was Gracie’s weight, which was only 20 pounds instead of the ideal 40 pounds.
According to Shealy, Gracie was being fed five to six small meals every day as she was always hungry and would eat whatever was given to her. Gradually, Gracie started gaining weight and became more confident. Shealy’s mother spent hours sitting with Gracie on the couch, comforting her and assuring her that she was safe and loved in her new home.
Gracie had to learn the art of playing when Shealy introduced her to dog toys. Initially, she was clueless about what to do with them, but her interest was piqued by a duck puppet. According to Shealy, Gracie went into a frenzy over the toy, and ever since then, she has been an active dog. Nowadays, Gracie enjoys playing with every toy that comes her way. She is a peculiar pup that loves to play, and Shealy keeps all her toys in a box. Gracie would then select her favorites and proceed to line them up before chewing on each toy a few times. She would also rush towards Shealy for a game of tug-of-war.
According to Shealy, the dog has transformed into a wonderful pet after receiving proper attention and care. She can now sit and behave well while being taken on walks. She also has a healthy appetite and has gained much-needed weight since her arrival. It is remarkable to see how much she has improved since she could hardly stand when she first arrived. The dog’s personality has shone through, and Shealy’s family has thoroughly enjoyed having her around.
Gracie will receive medical treatment for heartworm disease once she gains some weight. Shealy and her mom will be by her side during the therapy. Once Gracie is fully healed, she will be ready for adoption. Shealy is confident that Gracie will make a great addition to any family.
According to Shealy, the dog is thrilled to be around people and receive affection. Shealy believes that this is due to the dog’s challenging past and her loyalty to those who have shown her kindness. Each morning, when the dog is let out of her kennel, she immediately jumps onto the couch and showers her caretakers with affection. Shealy emphasized that the dog recognizes and appreciates the relationship she has with him and his mother. He is grateful that he was able to assist in restoring the dog’s well-being so that she may find a loving home.
