After the passing of their 15-year-old Chihuahua-mix, Rocky, Mary and Joseph P. of Brooklyn wasted no time finding a new companion. Their search led them to Warthog, a 10-year-old mixed breed dog at the ASPCA, who would soon change their lives.
“Dogs give me a reason to get up in the morning,” said Mary. “They give me as much as I give them.” When she found Warthog’s profile, she immediately felt a connection and applied to adopt him. Little did she know, this decision would be the start of a new chapter for both Warthog and his new family.
Warthog’s journey to Mary and Joseph was not without challenges. Arriving at the ASPCA in dire condition, Warthog had been severely neglected. His matted fur had caused a painful wound to his limb, and he was suffering from a range of medical conditions, including a heart murmur, dental disease, hypertension, and anxiety. “Warthog’s case was difficult, but Mary’s experience with Rocky’s complex medical needs made her the perfect candidate to take on Warthog’s care,” said Stephanie Illescas, the ASPCA Adoption Center’s Admissions and Placement Specialist Lead.
Though Warthog struggled with anxiety, his potential was clear. Mary, having cared for Rocky through serious health issues, felt an instant bond. “It was a feeling of destiny,” Illescas recalled. Mary was determined to give Warthog the love and care he needed, and on the day she met him, it was clear the connection was mutual.
At the ASPCA, Warthog received extensive medical care. His overgrown mats were removed, revealing skin disease and a serious wound. He was also diagnosed with high blood pressure, thyroid issues, and tracheal collapse, a common condition in older small breed dogs. Despite the complexity of his conditions, the ASPCA team worked tirelessly to stabilize him, adjusting his medications and monitoring his progress.
Warthog’s recovery was gradual. With the help of a special blood pressure monitor, his hypertension was eventually controlled. After two months, he was healthy enough to undergo dental surgery, during which 17 teeth were extracted. Throughout this process, Warthog’s resilience shone through.
His anxiety, however, remained a significant hurdle. When Warthog first arrived at the shelter, he was fearful and withdrawn, trembling during exams and needing constant reassurance. To help him feel more secure, Warthog spent time in a variety of environments, from the office of ASPCA staff to foster care, where he began to show his true personality. “He had a goofy side,” said Erica Barbot, the Director of the ARC, who often spent time with him in the office.
When Mary and Joseph finally met Warthog, they were immediately smitten. They adopted him that same day, and soon, Warthog was officially part of their family. Mary affectionately renamed him Mario, and he quickly adjusted to his new life. “He follows me everywhere I go,” Mary said. “He’s the kind of companion I’m glad I never had to worry about.”
Mary and Joseph’s home soon grew larger, as they later adopted a second dog, Luigi, from a local rescue. The family’s dynamic was further enriched when, just weeks later, the ASPCA alerted them to another dog, Ziggy, who resembled Mario. They welcomed him into their home, completing their trio of senior dogs.
Mario (formerly Warthog), Luigi, and Ziggy now live happily together, each with their own set of health needs. Mario takes daily medications for his thyroid and blood pressure and receives regular treatments for arthritis, but Mary was able to discontinue his anxiety medication. “They’re all angels,” she said, reflecting on their journey. “We’re so glad to have these wonderful little old men in our lives. This is as good as it gets.”
Through love, patience, and dedication, Warthog’s transformation from a neglected senior dog to a cherished companion is a testament to the power of adoption and the unbreakable bond between dogs and their humans.
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