Les was a 7-9 month old Lab-Terrier mix suffering from severe malnutrition; heartworm, hookworms, anemia and bacteria skin infections from advanced mange and sores from an embedded collar.  So weak from malnutrition he could not even move.  Les was abandoned in one of the play yards at Animal Refuge Center.  At that moment, with little reason to hope, he curled up in a tiny ball next to a tree and waited for what would have been a certain death.  As ARC caregivers entered the yard to exercise other canines they noticed the dogs did not want to precede.  Puzzled by their behavior, they searched the yard and noticed what first appeared to be a small tan blanket, was actually a dog.

Not even sure he would make the trip to a veterinarian; Les was rushed for emergency nutrients.  As if all his physical problems weren’t enough, it was discovered that he was heartworm positive.  It would take months of care and much patience for Les to have any chance to survive treatment for this condition.  Thus started his long journey back to health, healing and trust.

Now months later, not only is Les a healthy dog but an emotionally stable and happy companion to his new guardian.  He is loving and loyal and glad to go for walks, run and chase his toys!