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couple encountered a man caring for a pack of homeless dogs. When the couple asked this man what they could do to help him, he begged them to save a puppy in dire need. The pup was injured and the man worried that this baby would not survive without help and fast. That puppy was Rico, who had been brutally beaten with a metal pipe. Unsure what to do at first, they approached Rico who was lying in the bushes nearby. Although clearly in severe pain, Rico managed to greet his visitors with gentle kisses and sorrowful eyes. Knowing they couldn’t leave Rico to die in the streets, this couple made the selfless decision to step and do everything they could to save him.
Recognizing that time was of the essence, the couple found a veterinary hospital where they learned he had broken hips and severe internal organ damage. Additionally, Rico had been shot with pellets remaining near his vertebrae—a surgery too risky to undergo without more advanced surgical options. Despite these injuries, the couple knew that this boy deserved every opportunity to live. So, they began working with the medical team at the veterinary hospital to provide Rico with the care he needed to move forward. After tests, blood draws, vaccines, a neuter, an FHO, and physical therapy had been completed, it appeared that Rico was on the mend. However, concerns about continued kidney inflammation began to worry Rico's veterinary team. Unfortunately, they did not have the resources or expertise to do more. Recognizing that Rico needed more advanced care that could be found in the United States, the couple began pleading with the rescue community for help. Although they contacted endless numbers of rescues, with numbers at critical levels in most places, they struggled to find placement. Knowing that Rico needed additional help as soon as possible, they continued their search. When our team learned that Rico needed placement, we knew he was meant to be a MASGR dog. We welcomed Rico the family and promised him that we would help him get the care he needed to move forward.
Over the last month, Rico our incredible team has been working with Rico to get him the help he needs to move forward safely. Living in an incredible foster home, Rico is being doted on daily. He loves his foster family both human and canine, particularly his foster mom. An absolute sweetheart, Rico is gentle, loving, and a total cuddle bug. He is the definition of a velcro dog and will happily fall asleep in the arms of his foster mom. As Rico has needed significant medical support, our team has been slowly moving from one need to the next guided by our phenomenal vetting partners. Needing rounds of antibiotics, surgical intervention, and recovery time, Rico has been a star patient. He seems to know that our team is doing everything we can to ensure that he meets with success. Rico is currently recovering from his first surgery, but will need another in the near future. The cost of his care is very expensive. Please consider donating to Rico's medical needs. Your donation will not only help us continue to support Rico along his healing journey, but it will also help us continue to welcome dogs with medical needs.
When he is ready for adoption, Rico will be looking for a patient family that will give him time to adjust to the routines and expectations of the household. He hopes that they will have plenty of cozy beds and will fill his days with endless snuggles. We will provide updates as Rico's journey continues.