Gloria, a gentle pup suffering from mange, longed to find humans who would provide her with the love and care she desperately needed. Estimated to be around nine to ten weeks old, Gloria’s hopes for a better life brightened when Burlington Animal Services stepped in to rescue her. Her journey took a positive turn when Hope Animal Rescue, a North Carolina-based nonprofit, took her under their wing. The rescue quickly reached out to Emily Dunn, a dedicated foster parent, asking if she could care for a young puppy with mange.
When Dunn saw Gloria’s photo for the first time, she was instantly drawn to the little dog’s expressive eyes. Without hesitation, she agreed to bring Gloria home and help her heal. The following day, Dunn met Gloria and was taken aback by the puppy’s poor condition. Gloria had been diagnosed with demodex mange and a severe skin issue, leaving her with barely any fur on her rough and scaly skin.
Despite her condition, Gloria wagged her tail the moment she saw Dunn as if she knew this kind-hearted person was there to help her. Dunn gently stroked Gloria, holding her face in her hands, and reassured her with a soft touch.
Once home in Raleigh, North Carolina, Dunn gave Gloria a soothing medicated bath. The puppy, feeling safe and cared for, looked at Dunn with eyes full of gratitude and affection. Dunn was immediately charmed by Gloria. The little pup craved affection and loved being held. But during a visit to the vet, Dunn received an unexpected surprise.
After Gloria’s initial checkup, the vet revealed that, despite her appearance, Gloria was not a puppy but an adult dog. Both Dunn and the vet suspected that Gloria had likely endured a life of neglect due to irresponsible backyard breeding and was the result of cross-breeding that altered her appearance.
Just a few days later, Gloria’s skin began to improve. “We are thrilled to see her fur starting to grow back and her skin becoming smoother. Already, in just a few days, her markings are more visible, and she’s shedding less. Her spirit, however, never wavered—she’s still as lively and joyful as ever,” Dunn shared with Newsweek.
Gloria is now thriving in foster care, relishing every moment with her foster mom, soaking up the affection she’s finally receiving. “She’s all about love—just a glance, and she’s wagging her tail, eager to be close. She’s happiest curled up in your lap, content to simply be with you,” Dunn added. Although Gloria isn’t yet available for adoption, she’s already garnered numerous applications.
Once this resilient girl fully recovers, she’ll be ready to find a forever home that will shower her with the love she’s always deserved.
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