Marty’s miracle comeback leads to a new lease on life
Facing a bleak and uncertain future, a Shepherd mix named Marty was saved by his resilient spirit and the help of a few good friends.
When Marty arrived at the Ontario SPCA Orillia Animal Centre at just five months old, it was unclear whether he would survive. Marty was emaciated; his patchy fur stretched tightly over his protruding bones. Tests showed he had an enlarged heart and a severe heart murmur. His joints were misshaped and likely quite painful. He had a hunch in his back and couldn’t raise his tail due to joint complications.
The prognosis was grim, and the veterinarian warned that Marty’s heart might give out as he battled his way back to health.
A miraculous recovery
Bucking the odds, Marty made it through several rounds of treatment and surgery, all made possible thanks to generous supporters.
Sadly, when it was time to find a loving home, Marty was overlooked by potential adopters. But his foster caregiver saw the spark for life in his eyes. He found so much joy and excitement as he searched for frogs in every lake, pond or puddle he came across.
“Marty loves everybody and wants everyone to love him,” says Marty’s foster caregiver, recalling her time with Marty. “He likes to give everyone kisses and snuggle with everyone. He’s such a kind and gentle soul, with love for all other animals and his humans. He’s full of life and a very happy puppy.”
To help find a family for Marty, the Ontario SPCA and Humane Society shared Marty’s story far and wide on social media, and he was even featured on a local radio station. Finally, after 130 days, Marty found his loving home.
A new leash on life
When his adopter, Katherine, reached out to our animal centre to see what dogs were available, Marty sounded like a perfect fit.
“He sounded like an amazing dog,” says Katherine. “We fell in love with him as soon as we met him. He is an absolutely amazing pup.”
Thanks to a loving new family, Marty’s life has now turned around. He has gained weight and his veterinarians are comfortable with his current health status.
“He’s a very strong boy who boots around the back yard so fast now,” Katherine says. “He absolutely loves the snow just as much as the lake. He’s always searching for icicles, hiding his toys in the snow and finding them later. When it’s snowing, he tries to catch the snowflakes.”
An active pup, Marty loves playing with his new foster-sibling Maize, and cuddling with everyone in the house.
Marty’s comeback story is a testament to the power of community spirit. If you were touched by his story, help us continue to provide care and shelter for animals like Marty by making a donation. As a registered charity that does not receive annual government funding, the Ontario SPCA depends on the generosity of donors to change the lives of animals in need.
