From Despair to a Miracle: The Recovery Story of Penny – The Abandoned, Mange-Ridden Dog
A kind man brought the dog inside his home and immediately called the police. The dog, later named Penny, was taken to a local rescue center.
And when staff at the Columbia-Greene Humane Society/SPCA laid eyes on her, their hearts shattered.
“She was in terrible shape,” said Ron Perez, president of the organization, in an interview with The Dodo.
“She had deep lacerations on her face and neck, and barely any fur left. It’s heartbreaking to see an animal left in that condition.”
Struggling with Severe Mange – Cracked Skin, Sores, and Pain
Penny was diagnosed with demodectic mange, a skin disease caused by mites burrowing into hair follicles, leading to severe infections.
“This type of mange isn’t usually fatal,” explained Dr. Chris Reeder, a veterinarian with BluePearl Pet Hospital in Tennessee,
“but when left untreated, it can definitely become life-threatening.”
Though she survived until rescue, the disease had ravaged Penny’s body: she had almost no fur, cracked and scabby skin, deep wounds from infection, and severe self-inflicted scratches due to unbearable itching.
One Week – and a Miracle Unfolds
With proper medical care and loving attention, Penny began to recover—faster than anyone had hoped.
“Just after one week, she looked like a completely different dog,” said Perez.
“The vets were amazed at her progress.”
Within a few more weeks, Penny’s health significantly improved. The mange was gone—though her fur may never fully grow back.
“But she’s a true fighter. Incredibly resilient,” Perez added.
“She sleeps well, eats plenty, and is finally being loved. She’s not tense or fearful anymore.”
Justice for Penny – and a Forever Home
While Penny was healing, the rescue team worked with local authorities to track down the person responsible for abandoning her. Within 24 hours, her former owner was identified and arrested for animal cruelty.
If convicted, they could face jail time and a $1,000 fine.
But the most heartwarming part wasn’t the arrest—it was Penny’s new family.
“We received a flood of adoption applications,” Perez said.
“But this one couple stood out. They visited her several times a week, even brought their own dog to meet Penny, and the dogs got along beautifully. I truly believe this is her forever home.”
A New Life Begins – With Love and Hope
Penny will leave the rescue center this coming Saturday, stepping into her new life with a loving family and doggy siblings.
“She’s such a sweet girl,” said Perez.
“There’s not an ounce of aggression in her.
She’s truly an angel—and will make an amazing companion.”