Everyone loves adorable dogs, even those that are not conventionally attractive. It’s important to remember that all dogs have unique personalities and deserve love and care. Unfortunately, some animal shelters report that “ugly” dogs have a lower chance of being adopted, so they try to encourage potential adopters to look past physical appearances. One dog was abandoned by his family because of a physical disability, which raised concerns about his future. Luckily, a group of kind rescuers took him in and provided him with the necessary love and care. In 2015, animal control officers in Huntsville, Texas found Bjarni, a mixed-breed dog with a distinct appearance. Bjarni had less than half of his muzzle and nostrils left, crooked canines, and bite marks from an attack by another animal. He struggled to eat and breathe, and his owners seemed uninterested in providing him with the necessary care, leading them to return him to the shelter. However, compassionate individuals stepped in to ensure that Bjarni received the medical attention he needed. Anne Graber, the founder of St. Francis’ Angels, an animal rehabilitation organization in Texas, agreed to take care of Bjarni until he found a new home. Despite his physical challenges, Graber described him as an energetic and charming dog.
Graber embarked on a mission to look for clinics that could carry out a procedure to improve Bjarni’s looks. Fortunately, she stumbled upon Jason Balara of Gulf Coast Veterinary Specialists who was willing to reconstruct the pooch’s nose. To help cover the medical expenses, St. Francis’ Angels utilized their Facebook page to raise funds, and several generous donors chipped in with in-kind contributions totaling $5,100.
As part of his medical care, Bjarni received a surgical procedure that reconstructed his sinuses and nasal passages. This surgery was aimed at not only improving his ability to breathe and eat but also enhancing his physical appearance, which could make him more attractive to potential adopters. The outcome was beyond anyone’s expectations as Bjarni underwent a remarkable transformation, becoming an entirely different dog.
Bjarni began anew following his surgery and was eventually adopted by a new family only a few months later. Graber expressed her contentment in aiding Bjarni, acknowledging how greatly it improved his life. She also realized the gravity of Bjarni’s situation and how dire it could have been without her intervention.
Let your loved ones know about his tale!
