Luffy’s story was a heartbreaking one that broke in mid-December when BC SPCA animal protection officers were notified of his situation.
The two-year-old pit bull terrier was surrendered after officers received a complaint about the dog’s living conditions and health.
He was found living in a crate in a dark basement and was extremely emaciated.
Luffy was rushed to the BC SPCA’s North Cariboo animal centre for emergency veterinarian care, where he ended up being placed on IV fluids and was carefully administered calories and treated for internal parasites.
“Luffy was so extremely starved, he could only be given food or water under a veterinarian’s care because of the risk to his brain and other organs,” said Kristen Sumner, manager of the centre.
Fortunately, Luffy’s condition began to take a turn for the better and he was transported to the BC SPCA’s Vancouver locations where he would await adoption.
And he didn’t have to wait long.
Linda and her partner, who had lost their dog Sadie a year prior, instantly fell in love with Luffy (who is now named Baxter) when they saw his picture on the BC SPCA adoption website.
They went into the Vancouver community animal centre the very next day to meet him.
“Luffy didn’t hesitate to lean in for some loving pets,” says Linda.
“I didn’t have all the details, but I knew Luffy had some trauma in his past. I couldn’t believe how peaceful he was given what he had been through. He had the kindest eyes and seemed very soulful.”
They submitted the adoption application, and like they say, the rest was history.
Baxter was a little timid and reserved his first couple days in his new home, but quickly learned that he was safe and would be loved.
Linda says he loves all his new toys and loves to grab one of his stuffies and run in the massive backyard he gets to call home.
Linda and her partner continue to help Baxter gain weight. He is now 60 lbs but is still underweight. However, he loves his treats and gets very excited for his kibble, she adds.
“Baxter is an amazing dog. He has already brought us so much joy and we hope to do the same for him,” says Linda.
“It is so great to have a dog back in our home."
