As if homeless dogs don’t already have it bad enough, this one in particular used to have a family but was abandoned at a beach in Newport, California. To make matters worse, he was carrying around an extra 46 pounds of weight, due to a tumor that was growing on his side.
Luckily, a Good Samaritan spotted the dog, now named Henry, roaming the beach, and called Valerie Schomburg of Newport Beach Animal Control. The rescuers from NBAC are used to picking up stray dogs in poor condition, but nothing could have prepared them for what Henry looked like.
The tumor was so big that it was pushing on his right front leg in his shoulder area which was hindering him from being able to walk. Not only did he struggle to find food, but he had difficulty getting around.
Despite all of the hardships that Henry has faced in such a short period of time, he still had a zest for life. He was always smiling and wagging his tail and he loved every person he met. Whenever anyone got close enough, Henry would slobber them with kisses.
Thankfully, Schomburg was able to gather enough money, with the help of grants, for Henry to have surgery to remove the giant tumor. Although the tumor wound up being cancerous, it didn’t spread anywhere else.
The surgery was a success and Henry literally had a huge weight lifted off his shoulders. With the tumor removed, he weighed 78 pounds and could finally walk around with ease. After his surgery, he went to live with a loving foster through the Newport Beach Animal Shelter, and happily made up for lost time.
Henry became a local celebrity as the media picked up his story, with fans all over the world. People from all over the globe sent him gifts and treats to thank him for touching their heart with his story.
Sadly, Henry passed away peacefully in his sleep, but he was able to make the most of his time left on Earth and had finally felt love for the first time, He had pure enthusiasm for life, which was obvious by his constant tail-wag and his contagious smile.
Although his passing is sad news, some good news has come out of this. After doing more investigation, they were able to track down Henry’s previous owner. She has been charged by the OC District Attorney’s Office and her criminal case is still ongoing.
Please ‘SHARE' to pass on this story to a friend or family member
Stay for one more story, be sure to check out these Top Trending Stories below:
10 Of The “Most Loyal” Dog Breeds On The Planet
Giving love and support to humans is something that some dogs do better than others.
While many dogs love everyone they meet and are willing to take treats or belly rubs from anyone, the pups we found are just the opposite.
These 10 dogs are some of the most loyal breeds on the planet. They are rock steady in their loyalty to their owner no matter what.
1) Akita
When the American Kennel Club (AKC) lists loyalty to describe the temperament of the Akita, you know they mean business. The beautiful double-coated working dog of Japanese ancestry is considered hardwired in protecting those she loves. They should be socialized with other dogs and people from the time they are puppies. Their silly, fun, but dignified personalities round out the loyal Akita.
Source: NicoMonaco/Flickr
2) Boxer
This working dog is smart, full of energy, and oh so loyal to their family. They get along great with kids and have an innate instinct to protect their pack. He’s a watchdog with a heart of gold who oozes dedication to his owner.
Source: Pierre Pocs Photography/Flickr
3) Skye Terrier
Known as the “small dog with the big ears,” this adorable breed hails from the Scottish Isle of Skye, hence the name. Whether you live in the city or the country, this small dog with a big personality is steadfast in snuggling, playtime, and remaining loyal to his owners.
Source: WaketheSun/Flickr
4) Beagle
This merry hound is friendly, curious and incredibly loyal. While he doesn’t mind the occasional couch potato time, this spunky pooch is energetic and merry. A fun fact about this hound: the breed standard is for 13 inches and under and another in the 13-15 inch category. No matter how you size him, these adorable dogs just want to cling to you.
Source: Simon Hameau/Flickr
5) Shar-Pei
This wrinkly non-sporting breed is standoffish to strangers but very loyal to his owner. His ancient Chinese roots are part of the charm of the Shar-Pei. Regal, strong, and smart, if you want a BFF for life, this loose-skinned pooch may be the right choice for you.
Source: Alessandro Persano/Flickr
