The depths of hatred and cruelty inflicted upon the most vulnerable species seem to have no bounds. Not even a global pandemic that continues to threaten our lives can awaken our conscience. Yet, stories like the one encountered by the Malaga Plant and Animal Protection Association (SPAPMA) compel us to confront this issue head-on.
In the midst of the turmoil, a 9-month-old mastiff named Ulises was discovered in the most deplorable conditions. Fate smiled upon him when a compassionate neighbor in Puerto de la Torre, the capital of Malaga, heard his feeble and desperate cries for help.
As the woman approached, her heart shattered. The poor puppy lay hidden within a container amidst the wreckage, silently pleading for someone to notice him before drawing his last breath. SPAPMA was immediately alerted to the critical state of the young canine.
Ulises’ melancholic eyes bore witness to the immense suffering he had endured. “Ulysses is what we’ve named him… Found inside a tied-up sack, abandoned in a container,” SPAPMA shared on June 4.
He was rushed to SOSCATYCAN, a 24-hour veterinary hospital, teetering between life and death. Emaciated, anemic, and bearing numerous wounds… He required an urgent blood transfusion and stabilization. It was yet another distressing example of human savagery.
The chances of Ulises’ survival seemed bleak. How could such hatred and moral decay exist within our world? Worms, fleas, ticks, and lice were meticulously removed, and his body was carefully clothed to restore his body temperature. The rescuers breathed a sigh of relief as they managed to stabilize him, but a long road to recovery still lay ahead.
“Just one day after the rescue, he already showed signs of improvement.” Thanks to a blood transfusion, a night of serums and vitamins, and several cans of specialized food to revive him, Ulises fought his way back from the clutches of hypothermia. His youth and sheer will to live shone through, as remarked by the president of the animal protection organization.
The rescuers rejoiced as they witnessed Ulises rise to his feet and consume solid food. They shared updates on his modest progress, although their hearts ached when they looked into his eyes, bearing the weight of the suffering he had endured. Yet, the most important thing was that he was loved and cared for.
Every day, Ulises grew stronger, taking small steps toward recovery. “It was his first walk on the street.” He ate heartily and relished the freedom of exploring his surroundings, albeit with occasional bouts of weakness. His journey was far from over, as he lacked the muscle mass needed to support his body.
As Ulises’ story went viral, SPAPMA began receiving funds and donations from compassionate individuals deeply moved by the severity of his abuse. Prayers and support poured in from those closely following his progress, becoming the driving force behind his transformation.
Finally, on June 10, the long-awaited announcement was made: “Ulises has been discharged from the hospital and is now on his way to his foster home.” Gratitude overflowed toward everyone who contributed to Ulises’ chance at a new life.
We are indebted to these guardian angels who selflessly devoted themselves to surrounding him with love and healing his profound physical wounds, but above all, his wounded spirit.
Share this story far and wide, raising awareness and rallying together to put an end to these atrocities committed against the most defenseless among us. Let us stand united against cruelty and ensure that no more innocent souls like Ulises endure such suffering.
