Rocko’s Story
There is more than one reason why they call it the “dog days of summer”. It is a time when dogs worry the most, a time when their families abandon them in a shelter to take vacations, or want to “enjoy” their freedom to get outdoors without having to take care of a pet. The price of freedom for a pet means a summer crated, or worse, behind the bars of a shelter. One of the dogs that found his way to a shelter and is now safe is Rocco, and now his summer will be worry free. Rocco comes from the worst of the worst situations, confined to a crate, along with 40 other dogs in a Memphis animal cruelty case that according to the director of the Memphis Animal Services was one of the worse that she had ever seen. Rocco and his friends were confined to a crate, some sealed shut. Many of the 40 she wanted to dispose of by euthanizing them. Rocco was one of them. This will be hard to hear, but some were living knee deep in their own waste. A smell so bad, that the odor was noticeable from the sidewalk. Imagine what it was like inside for Rocco.
Rocko after being rescued from one of the worst animal cruelty cases. Rocko was the last one to be taken by a rescue. That rescue You and Me Furever. Rocko was transported from Memphis to eastern Tennessee where we picked him up and brought him to Charlotte. #Memphis40
It’s sad, and it’s tragic that time after time humans let down their best friend. If ever there was a poster pup for forgiveness of human mistreatment, it is Rocco. This first picture on the right was Rocco at the shelter right after he was seized by animal control. It is a sad look of please help me. He was covered in waste, smelled terrible, and the fur worn from his eyes likely because the smell was so irritating that he had no choice to constantly rub them day after day, month after month, and year after year.
Today, Rocco started a new chapter in his life. One of the last from the cruelty case to get out of the shelter after a herculean effort by rescue organizations. Imminent Danger German Shepherd Rescue worked with Rocco and pulled many from this horrific situation. This picture to the left is Rocco enjoying his freedom ride.
Over the next few days we’ll share more pictures of Rocco. He’s smart and playful. He still loves people despite how people have failed him. We can’t erase the memories of what Rocco has been through, it seems Rocco is trying to put it behind him. We won’t forget for him and will get him everything he needs to get him ready for a new loving family. What does Rocco need? Right now, he needs time to run and play, put the stress of confinement behind him. He’ll learn what it will be like to be cared for, cleaned, fed, and have play time. He’ll need treatment for his skin from the conditions he was living in, he needs to get neutered, and probably has some other conditions that will surface after he gets fully evaluated next week.
Rocco is going to make some family very happy someday when he’s ready. He’s a special guy. We can see it in his pictures and video. Rocco has a big heart for forgiveness, and he needs you. You had no part in how he was mistreated, but you can help us right this wrong. He will be coming to You and Me Furever Rescue on Sunday. We are committed to do whatever it takes, whatever he needs, to show him that all humans are not like the ones that abused him. If you would like, you can be a part of Rocco’s story. Just like Rocky, Rocco is the underdog, who will beat the odds and be a champion. Please consider a donation of any amount.
Rocco is currently with a foster (picture on the right), but we are always looking for short and long term foster parents, the criteria are tough; dogs like Rocco are special and the fosters will have to be too. Fosters get supplied with all food and vet expenses. Help any way you can. Join us on Rocco’s journey from underdog to champion!
Pupdate: Rocko got adopted!!
Donations can be made thru PayPal at info@youandmefurever.org or through the donate button. We are a 501(c)3 rescue where all donations are tax deductible.
