Most dogs enjoy being outside, but not when they have no choice but to stay put. A German Shepherd named Gunner was kept in a cage in a human’s yard, but then his 64-year-old owner died suddenly when no one was around. Gunner is trapped outside with no one to meet his basic needs.
Gunner’s father had been dead for almost a month by the time someone found him. The exhausted dog miraculously survived all that time, but was on the verge of death when rescuers rescued it. Luckily, animal lovers went to great lengths to give this brave dog a second chance at life.
Weaker every day
Gunner has limited resources in his large external pen, but he finds a way to survive when he realizes his human is gone. He drank rainwater and got into a food container he could reach. But he kept getting weaker and thinner until he couldn’t stand on his own.
“His muscles were worn down to the point of being almost unable to stand, and he was covered in thousands of ticks and fleas,” the Oklahoma County Sheriff’s Office wrote after Gunner was found.
Someone called a delegate to the house a few weeks after Gunner’s owner passed away. They found the 64-year-old’s remains inside the house and a near-dead Gunner outside. Officials guessed that the man had been dead for about a month. So Gunner was alone for weeks without human contact.
The sheriff’s department contacted Bella SPCA. The vets guessed that Gunner had only a few hours to live, but they had to take care of him anyway.
Sniper Has Magic Recovery!
Gunner spent over a month at Bella SPCA, regaining his strength. He slowly gained weight and built muscle again. Many dog lovers have donated money for his medical care, raising enough to cover his treatment at Woodlake Animal Hospital. After weeks of care, it looks like a much happier and healthier dog!
After learning about Gunner’s owner’s death, several family members offered to adopt him. One of his new family members is the niece of Gunner’s late owner, and she sheds tears after reuniting with Gunner. In a video about Gunner’s adoption day, she thanked everyone who has donated and supported Gunner along the way.
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“The family is deeply saddened by the death of a loved one and we are deeply saddened by this tragic loss. Gunner has been a bright spot for them, as evidenced by our meeting today,” Bella SPCA wrote on Facebook. “We can assure you they love Gunner and will give him the best care. They are extremely grateful to all the organizations, donors and supporters who have stepped in to help. “
Gunner is now comfortable in his new home in Texas. He has a dog brother that he fell in love with. Gunner and his new family members will need more time to mourn the loss of their loved one, but at least they can comfort each other.
Watch Gunner’s Adoption Video Here:
Featured pictures: Facebook
