“He’s got just such a goofy, silly personality.”
Several months ago, Brandy Cherven traveled to a rescue center in East Asia that echoed with the sound of barking beagles. Animal advocates had recently freed the dogs from a research facility, and Cherven had come with one goal in mind: to help give them a second chance at life.
While she was there, one other dog immediately stood out to her. A small, fluffy Malamute shuffled across the grounds with a noticeable limp, his head tilted permanently to one side.
The woman who operated the rescue explained that the dog had been pulled from a truck headed for slaughter.
“My heart just dropped,” said Cherven, cofounder of Run 2 The Rescue, in an interview with The Dodo. “I told her right away, ‘We’re taking him too.’”
Once Kronk arrived at Run 2 The Rescue, he was finally able to enjoy a warm bath and a secure place to explore. Despite his uneven gait, he seemed content and curious as he moved around his new surroundings.
Cherven believes Kronk’s difficult past in the dog meat trade involved a serious head injury that affected his growth and development.
“He appears to have a form of dwarfism,” she explained. “But the veterinarian doesn’t believe he’s in pain. This is simply how his body developed after the injury.”
Further medical exams showed that Kronk has no vision in his right eye and reduced sensation on that side of his body. Even so, his cheerful, trusting nature shines through. Unaware that he’s any different, Kronk approaches life with enthusiasm.
“He’s incredibly goofy and playful,” Cherven said.
Knowing he needed long-term care and a stable environment, Cherven made the decision to adopt Kronk herself. He now lives with her in Ohio, sharing his home with several other rescue animals.
After three months of physical therapy and medication, Kronk has made remarkable progress. He moves more comfortably and seems happier than ever. His days are now filled with cozy naps by the fireplace and plenty of belly rubs.
“Kronk loves to sleep,” Cherven said. “He enjoys being wrapped in blankets, and he always wants pillows in his bed.”
Last week, Kronk celebrated his very first Christmas in his forever home — but the greatest gift of all is the security of knowing he will never have to face an uncertain future again.