In the sunny streets of San Bernardino, California, Neville the dog was having a hard time. For weeks, he roamed under the blazing sun, with temperatures soaring to 90 degrees. Nobody knew where he came from or what his story was, but one thing was clear: Neville needed help, and fast.
One kind-hearted person spotted him outside a business, struggling in the relentless heat. They offered him some food and water, a small act of kindness in his world of despair. Realizing Neville’s dire situation, they reached out to the City of San Bernardino Animal Services for help.
Bringing Neville to the shelter was an eye-opener for the staff. They were taken aback by his size. Neville was severely overweight, tipping the scales at an alarming 132 pounds. That’s nearly double what a dog of his size should weigh. Concerned for his health, they immediately called for a veterinary examination.
The vet’s findings were worrisome. Neville was suffering from a serious thyroid condition. “Total love bug, everyone falls for him! But he’s got a thyroid issue. This poor soul needs our support,” the shelter staff shared on social media, hoping to find him a rescue or a new family.
Neville’s story took an unexpected twist when it was discovered he was actually a she. Despite the initial mistake, Neville, now affectionately called Buddha, was a 2-year-old German Shepherd mix with a heart of gold.
News of Neville’s plight spread quickly, capturing the hearts of many. Niki Thai Van Dat, owner of Niki’s Play N’ Stay, was among those moved by Neville’s story. From Modesto, California, she embarked on a nearly 7-hour journey to bring Neville to a place where she could get the care she desperately needed.
Arriving in Modesto, Neville, who could barely walk due to her weight, was immediately taken to the vet. Despite the initial tests, her condition wasn’t deemed severe enough for a hypothyroidism diagnosis. However, Niki was determined to help Neville get back on her feet, figuratively and literally.
A strict diet and gentle exercise regimen were put in place for Neville. It wasn’t easy, but her resilience shone through. With time, medication became necessary, and Neville started to show signs of improvement.
The moment of truth came when Neville’s weight dropped to 112 pounds. Niki couldn’t hold back her tears. The dog who once weighed 132 pounds at the shelter was now a much healthier 69 pounds. Neville, or Buddha as she was now known, was almost unrecognizable.
Neville’s transformation was not just physical. She was ready to find a forever home where she could enjoy her days lounging and soaking up the sun, with occasional gentle walks. According to Niki, Neville was the epitome of a lazy, lovable dog who enjoyed the simple pleasures of life.
Neville’s journey from a struggling stray to a beloved pet ready for a forever home is a testament to the power of kindness and perseverance. She may prefer a quiet life, but her story has touched the hearts of many and serves as a reminder of the difference one can make in the life of an animal in need.
