A dog on the verge of being put to sleep forever due to her spinal condition clung to the hope of receiving the second chance she deserved. Her illness doesn’t take away her right to a dignified life, to be loved and respected.
Tilly was born with short spine syndrome, a rare condition in which her compressed vertebrae make her look like a dog with no neck and a very small back.
When Anna held Tilly in her arms, she couldn’t believe no one wanted to take her home.
“When I got her, she was a tiny ball of fluff. She fit perfectly in my hand. The whole ride home, she lay on my lap. She looked up at me with her big brown eyes, and I immediately knew she needed me and I needed her,” Anna added.
From that moment on, Anna promised herself that Tilly would never feel rejected again.
Tilly doesn’t hesitate to show Anna her gratitude for everything she does for her. Tilly has a happy life, feels loved, and loves her home.
“Every hour she spontaneously approaches me and showers me with kisses, then goes back to bed. She’s like a clock; it seems like she needs kisses to keep going,” Anna added.
Although this adorable little dog doesn’t feel any different, her appearance draws the attention not only of people, but also of other furry friends.
“Other dogs are usually intrigued when they see her, but they’re very friendly with her. However, she doesn’t mind. She’s definitely a determined dog, and if she wants to play, she’ll do it with any puppy, regardless of their size,” Anna said.
Anna says she has learned a lot from Tilly and wouldn’t change anything about her.
“Tilly sleeps in bed with me. She rests her head on the pillow and tucks her paws under the blanket. She always has to be near me , touching me. When I’m cooking, she stands right between my legs, and when I’m doing my homework, she lies next to me with her paws on me,” Anna said.
Tilly reminds Anna daily to be grateful for a new day.
Anna feels very lucky to have Tilly, and she’s very happy that she’s the one who’s giving this dog a happy life. Tilly constantly reminds her mother that being different is something special.