A two-year-old female dog was rescued in Fort Lauderdale after being discovered tied to a fence, abandoned by her owners. The emaciated mixed breed, suffering from severe malnutrition, was found in an empty field near Northwest 16th Court and Second Avenue.
Local rescuers responded to the distressing scene. "The photo was horrific," Rebecca Krakow, who was among the first to come to the dog's aid, told WSVN. "The dog looked completely starved like skin and bones." Images shared on social media spurred the rescue attempt, highlighting the plight of the animal now named Pearl.
The dog was in such dire straits when found, barely able to muster the energy to lift her head, signaling a desperate need for intervention. Collaborating with Zen Haven Barn Pet Rescue, Krakow is now ensuring Pearl receives the necessary medical attention. "We even got confirmation from the vet that she had rocks in her stool, so she had been eating rocks, she wasn’t eating anything," Krakow revealed in a statement obtained by WSVN.
Pearl is currently on the path to recovery, receiving blood transfusions and regular small meals to rebuild her strength. “Her chances of pulling through were slim, so we are still praying for her to get through this,” Krakow added, noting the dog's fighting spirit. The cost of her veterinary care has quickly climbed into the thousands, prompting Krakow to spearhead a fundraising effort with hopes to find a rescue experienced in caring for abused and neglected animals.
Amid the animal's ordeal, Pearl has shown resilience and a burgeoning trust towards those who have come to her side. "She wants you to sit down with her and be real quiet. She’s becoming a big softie. Someone is going to see her story and give her the loved and the life that she deserves," Krakow said in a KTVZ interview.
Fort Lauderdale Police have taken up the case after receiving a report that the original owner had admitted to someone via social media their intent to abandon the dog. Meanwhile, the public can help Pearl's recovery through donations, with a GoFundMe page set up to contribute towards her medical expenses.
