Abandoned in a Swamp, This Starving Dog’s Response to Her Rescuer Will Melt Your Heart
Egg was barely more than skin and bones, covered in ticks, fleas, and the grime of a swamp—but when she saw a car pull over on the side of a rural road, she wagged her tail as if she had been waiting for her rescue all along. Hungry, exhausted, and alone, this determined foxhound mix knew her moment had finally come. Despite the hardships written all over her tiny 35-pound frame, Egg’s spirit was unbroken, and she was ready to fight for her second chance.
Finding Egg: From the Swamp to the Car
Weighing just 35 pounds, Egg was a shadow of the dog she was meant to be. She was infested with fleas, ticks, and flies, yet the spirit in her was unbroken. Loren, a dedicated foster, couldn’t look away from the sight of this determined dog, who, despite her condition, made her way over to greet her. After one last drink from the murky creek, Egg willingly climbed into Loren’s car, signaling the start of her new life.
In a panic, Loren immediately mapped her way to the nearest vet and contacted Monica, our adult dog coordinator. Monica sprang into action, coordinating transport back to Raleigh with another foster, Marelle, who just happened to be finishing a beach vacation that very day.
Rescue in Motion: The First Steps to Healing
Egg’s first stop was at a veterinary hospital, where her fight for survival was more apparent than ever. She remained sweet and calm as over 50 ticks were painstakingly removed from her frail body. After being given a Capstar treatment to kill the remaining fleas, she was offered food, which she eagerly devoured—her first real meal in who knows how long.
Loren, who had already fallen for Egg’s quiet strength, took her back to her rental in Myrtle Beach, where she spent hours bathing her to rid her of the parasites that clung to her. Seven flea baths later, the relentless stream of fleas finally slowed, but Egg’s battle was far from over. With each wash, it became clear just how much care this brave dog would need to recover fully.
The Road to Recovery: Heartworms, Hookworms, and Hope
When Marelle arrived to take Egg back to Raleigh, the next chapter in her rescue journey began. A veterinary examination confirmed that Egg was dealing with more than just external parasites—she was also suffering from heartworm, hookworm, and whipworm infections. Despite these challenges, Egg greeted everyone with a wagging tail, determined to keep moving forward.
At an estimated 4-6 years old, Egg has a long life ahead of her, but she’ll need time to regain her strength. At her ideal weight, Egg should be closer to 60 pounds. Although the road ahead is long, Egg’s resilience is nothing short of remarkable. Her foster family is committed to helping her recover, providing plenty of love, rest, and, of course, even more baths to ensure she’s parasite-free.
Egg’s Adventures: A Dog Who Won’t Be Kept Down
Even while healing, Egg’s zest for life shines through. From the very start, she’s proven herself to be an easygoing, adaptable dog. In her foster home, she quickly began learning basic obedience and adjusting to life with children, other dogs, cats, and even chickens! Egg loves to follow her nose on outdoor adventures, often finding joy in the simple act of sunbathing or exploring her surroundings.
Her gentle and friendly personality has made her a star wherever she goes, and she’s already enjoyed several outings with her foster family, proving that she’s an adventure-loving dog at heart. Whether it’s sitting patiently for head pets or soaking up sunshine, Egg is a dog who savors every moment, no matter the challenges she faces.
A Future Filled with Hope
Egg’s story is one of resilience, love, and second chances. Thanks to the quick thinking and dedication of her fosters, volunteers, and veterinary team, Egg is on her way to a full recovery. And while her journey to health may take time, one thing is clear: Egg’s future is as bright as her spirit.
In a heartwarming gesture of kindness, one of Egg’s rescuers, who runs a dog boarding business, has even sponsored her boarding fees for life, ensuring that Egg will always have a place to call home when needed. With her incredible will to live and her love of life, Egg is well on her way to finding her forever home—one where her days will be filled with the sunshine and affection she so richly deserves.
Egg may have been found in a swamp, but she’s destined for a life filled with love and adventure.