Born With a Cleft Palate, Bammy Wasn’t Expected to Survive—Until a Family Flew Across the Country to Save Him
Bammy was a puppy who wasn’t expected to survive, but a rescue and a loving family changed his fate. Born with a cleft palate and bilateral cleft lip, Bammy faced challenges that most puppies don’t overcome without intensive, specialized care. (Watch Video Above)
Surrendered at just a day old by his breeder, the fragile newborn was taken in by NorCal Bully Breed Rescue, who gave him the fighting chance he needed. As Bammy grew stronger, his story reached a family whose hearts were instantly touched. They knew he belonged with them and gave him the forever home every dog deserves.
Tube-Fed to Thriving: Bammy’s Journey to Love
At the California-based rescue, Bammy had to be tube-fed to survive and get the nutrition he needed. He was raised alongside 14 other cleftie puppies who also required round-the-clock care.
Despite the difficult road, the rescue gave every pup—including Bammy—a fighting chance at a healthy, happy future. Their dedication paid off in the most heartwarming way.
Tasia’s three kids saw Bammy’s story online and were so moved that they saved up for a cross-country flight to meet him. In just 24 hours, the American Bully mix was adopted, seen snoozing peacefully in his carrier on the flight to his forever home.
Miracle Puppy Surrounded by Love
The moment Bammy arrived, his new family fell completely in love. Today, he shares his life with two doting parents, three young human siblings, and two furry brothers—Oso and Koa—whom he gets along with beautifully.
With all the love and care he’s received, Bam Bam quickly transformed into a healthy, chubby pup bursting with energy and mischief, just like any other happy dog.
It’s hard to believe that only months ago, he was fighting to survive. Now, he’s thriving—and giving back every bit of love he gets, tenfold.
Tasia remarks that Bammy completes their family and is a precious addition to their home.
Pet rescue advocate Rocky Kanaka says, “Bammy’s journey is proof that even the most fragile lives can thrive when given love, commitment, and a second chance.”
Bammy’s story has received a lot of love on Instagram as well, garnering over 2K likes and plenty of comments. A user, Kelly, also a foster parent, wrote, “We love a cleft strong little squish!!!! I just love your kiddos giant hearts!! 🥹🥹❤️❤️”
Meanwhile, the NorCal Bully Breed Rescue also left a comment, saying, “We couldn’t love this more! 🩷🩷🩷”
Cleft Lip and Palate in Dogs
Cleft palate and cleft lip are birth defects in dogs caused when the tissues of the mouth or lip fail to fuse properly in the womb, according to Dr. Jo Myers, a veterinarian. These conditions are often inherited but can also result from a pregnant dog’s exposure to toxins or, rarely, injury after birth.
The severity can vary, from a small slit to a major gap affecting the hard and soft palate, leaving an opening between the mouth and nasal passages.
Mild cases of cleft palate in dogs may not require treatment, but severe cases typically need surgery, which can be risky. Sadly, the prognosis for severe cases remains poor, even with intervention.
