When Bunny, a young pit bull, was just a puppy, she fell victim to a severe case of tetanus, a rare and dangerous infection. Her condition was so extreme that her body became completely rigid, rendering her unable to walk or move at all.
“You couldn’t even bend a part of her body,” recalled her vet, Ali Thompson.
Due to the severity of Bunny’s illness, her initial caretaker had no choice but to surrender her. Many believed that euthanasia was the only option.
But Thompson wasn’t ready to give up. Going far beyond her regular veterinary duties, she decided to take Bunny home with her to provide intensive care.
“I knew I was taking a big risk, but I was determined to do everything in my power to help her survive,” Thompson said.
Bunny was bewildered and in immense pain, but even through her fear, her affectionate nature shone through. “Whenever I walked in, her tail would start wagging,” Thompson remembered.
After three weeks of dedicated treatment, Bunny made significant progress. Thompson held her breath as she watched Bunny take her first steps across the backyard. Overwhelmed with relief, Thompson couldn’t hold back her tears.
“I always believed in her,” Thompson said.
Bunny’s recovery was swift from that moment on. She soon began running and playing like any other puppy. Despite not initially planning to adopt Bunny, Thompson found it impossible to say goodbye after being such a pivotal part of her healing journey.
Years later, Bunny has not only recovered but is thriving. She delights in running, swimming, and even paddle boarding. Her adventurous spirit has even led her to jump onto the kitchen table, much to her mom’s amusement.
It’s hard to believe that Bunny’s early days were filled with such struggle, but thanks to Thompson’s unwavering commitment, Bunny now enjoys a vibrant and joyful life.