Brave Shelter Dog Tried to Walk on Broken Legs—What Happened Next Gave Him A Second Chance

Barley was wasting away in a city shelter, his frail body starved, and his legs so badly damaged that he could barely stand, let alone walk. Yet, despite the pain, this brave dog still tried, wobbling forward with every ounce of strength, refusing to give up.

@forgottennowfamiryrescue

Barley was part of the severely emaciated babies left at the city shelter. Unfortunately him and his sister both needed major surgeries so were stuck at the shelter begging for a chance. We jumped in. I’m so thankful for the Foster’s and family here that said we will figure this out. Thankfully Barley has rallied and improved so much that we can now do his much needed leg surgeries. These surgeries will improve his life so much. We do need to raise the $5200 he needs for surgery! Today is two Tuesday for barley! If we all donate we can rally his funds today. Please share his need and donate what you are able . Thank you

♬ original sound – forgotten now family rescue

In his condition, Barley had little hope of being adopted because he required surgery, and dogs like him often end up on the euthanasia list. But just when it seemed all was lost, Forgotten Now Family Rescue stepped in, saving him from the brink and giving him the second chance he so desperately deserved.

Ready For Life-Changing Surgery

Since arriving at the North Carolina rescue, Barley has blossomed into a joyful, spirited dog. No longer the frail, emaciated pup he once was, he’s now healthy enough to undergo much-needed surgeries on both of his legs.

Brave Shelter Dog Tried to Walk on Broken Legs—What Happened Next Gave Him A Second Chance
Source: TikTok

The rescue and veterinary team are confident these procedures will dramatically transform Barley’s quality of life. For the first time, he’ll be able to walk like any other dog—and the spark in his eyes shows just how much he wants that. But he can’t take this next step without your support.

Can You Help Barley Get A Second Chance?

In a heartfelt TikTok post, the rescue revealed that Barley’s much-needed surgeries will cost around $5,200. They’re now turning to the public for help, urging kind-hearted supporters to contribute whatever they can toward his medical care.

Brave Shelter Dog Tried to Walk on Broken Legs—What Happened Next Gave Him A Second Chance
Source: TikTok

If you’d like to be part of Barley’s healing journey, you can make a donation by visiting this link.

Pet Rescue Advocate Rocky Kanaka says it best: “Every time we choose to save a dog, we rewrite their story—and sometimes, that’s all it takes to change a life.”

How to Care For a Dog After Leg Surgery?

Once Barley gets his surgeries done, he will need a lot of care to recover fully. But what kind of aftercare does a dog need following a leg surgery? Let’s find out. 

Brave Shelter Dog Tried to Walk on Broken Legs—What Happened Next Gave Him A Second Chance
Source: TikTok

After dog leg surgery, follow your vet’s specific instructions for post-op care. Restrict activity to prevent further trauma, but allow gentle use of the leg to avoid muscle atrophy. 

Use slings for assisted walking if needed. Monitor the incision site for signs of infection and keep it clean according to your vet’s guidance. Administer prescribed medications and supplements. 

Apply heat or ice packs as recommended to reduce pain and inflammation. Rehabilitation exercises, cold laser therapy, and injections may also be beneficial. Schedule follow-up X-rays and vet visits to ensure proper healing and recovery, which can take 1-2 months.

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