Encountering a pitiable and weakened dog sprawled on the sidewalk stirred the emotions of passers-by, yet even in her suffering, they hesitated to take action. Their reluctance, stemming from fear of her size, caused them to keep their distance. But who could have foreseen that such a vulnerable and distressed creature would pose no harm?
This poignant tale unfolded in the town of Karditsa, Greece. Eventually, Markella, the moniker assigned to the dog, regained hope when a concerned neighbor reached out to Diasozo Animal Rescue volunteers. Rushing to her aid were the shelter’s founder, Ermioni Giannakou, alongside fellow rescuers Katerina and Fotini. None of them, however, could have prepared for the heart-wrenching sight they were about to witness.
After enduring over 12 hours of agony while awaiting help, Markella’s strength waned, and she surrendered to her suffering. Collapsing to the ground, she closed her eyes, revealing that her pain extended beyond her physical injuries; her heart was shattered.
Residents revealed that Markella once had a loving family, but heartbreakingly, they witnessed her being discarded from a car onto the street. They saw her approach vehicles as if yearning to reunite with her owners, only to have her devotion met with abandonment.
As if her fate hadn’t already been cruel enough, Markella was struck by another car, sustaining a painful fracture that left her unable to walk. When Ermioni extended a comforting touch, the dog appeared nearly lifeless, her spirits utterly diminished.
With swift determination, Ermioni cradled Markella despite her size and rushed her to an emergency veterinarian. Markella’s injuries were extensive, including a serious fracture in her paw. Ermioni’s worries grew, knowing that even though they were doing all they could to save her, finding her a new home would be a challenge due to her size and age.
“We coᴜld ѕee how mᴜch hiѕ depreѕѕed heart ѕᴜffered. That broke oᴜr heartѕ.”
Thankfully, Markella’s fracture eventually healed, and she embarked on her first car ride. However, an unexpected development shook her rescuers to their core. Despite her past mistreatment, Markella displayed a remarkable gesture – she searched, as if hoping to reunite with the very family that had abandoned her.
Months went by, and despite their relentless efforts, no one came forward to adopt Markella. But they refused to give up. Their dedication bore fruit when an angel from the UK appeared, ready to offer her a forever home.
Today, Markella’s story is one of triumph. She revels in a wonderful home, abundant green spaces, devoted owners, and numerous canine siblings who play with her endlessly. She has become the cherished heart of her new family. Witness her heartwarming transformation in this video: [link to video].