When a little dog named Ducky arrived at the Lancaster Animal Care Center in California, his wobbly walk immediately drew attention.
With his feet splayed out in a way that resembled a duck’s, even the seasoned shelter staff were struck by his unique gait. Yet, if Ducky noticed or cared, he certainly didn’t show it.
Eager to make friends, he approached with a paw offered and his head held high, full of hope.
The volunteers at the center weren’t sure what Ducky’s future might hold, but they were certain he needed help right then. Pooling together their resources, they gave him the support, medical care, and affection he needed.
Ducky responded with heartfelt joy, rolling onto his back and wriggling with delight at every kind gesture. Though his feet never stopped their distinctive flapping, his happiness remained unwavering.
Soon, someone decided that Ducky wasn’t just unique; he was ready to find a home. Each day revealed more of his gentle and loving nature, instantly endearing him to everyone at the shelter.
Despite the bustling environment, the shelter seemed to have no impact on Ducky’s cheerful demeanor. “He wasn’t letting the environment get to him at all. He was just so hopeful,” shared Evelyn, one of the volunteers, with The Dodo.
On examining Ducky, the rescuers noticed his paws jutted out at a 90-degree angle, reminiscent of webbed duck feet, which is how he earned his name.
Initially, rescuers speculated a genetic cause but also considered that his condition might have resulted from prolonged confinement in tight spaces.
Although X-rays offered no clear answers, they confirmed Ducky experienced no pain, allowing him to live happily as he was.
Unfortunately, efforts to contact Ducky’s previous owners, identified through his microchip, were met with refusal. They no longer wanted him, a sad twist but perhaps for the best, as Ducky deserved a home where he could be cherished.
Needing temporary foster care, Evelyn welcomed him into her home, where the two formed a strong bond.
Ducky’s journey took a positive turn when he joined Minnie’s Mutts Dog Rescue, where he was placed in a long-term foster home. There, his true potential began to shine.
He quickly proved himself to be friendly and adaptable, making fast friends with everyone he encountered. Although he hadn’t yet found his permanent home, Ducky was thriving and enjoying life with a devoted foster family.
Evelyn, reflecting on Ducky’s journey, expressed her anticipation for the day he would find a loving forever home. “There’s not even enough words to explain how excited I would be for him.
The day I hear that he gets adopted, it’s just going to melt my heart. He’s really such a special dog,” she said.
Acknowledging the role she played in his journey, Evelyn added: “I am so grateful to be a small stepping stone in Ducky’s path to a new life where he will be forever loved from this day forward.”
Though she had never fostered a dog before, opportunity knocked when Ducky needed a temporary home.
Enchanted by his affectionate and playful nature, Evelyn made sure his days were filled with love and care, despite knowing their time together was short.
For now, until that special day of his adoption, Ducky is enjoying being thoroughly spoiled and loved.
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