Skin and bones, abandoned on the roadside… yet his gentle eyes still dreamed of love and hope!!

Meet Harvey, a three-year-old Dalmatian! When two local women found him on the side of the road, he was a walking skeleton, so severely emaciated it looked as though he could barely stand, let alone walk. Harvey was found three miles away from where his owners live. They called for emergency help, and we came! We were kinda shocked, and of course horrified, with his condition that we had seen because Harvey was emaciated! How this dog is even alive is a miracle at this point; I have never seen anything like this. We immediately picked up Harvey and took him straight to a veterinarian. The vet determined that Harvey had a body condition score of 1/9, the most severely emaciated possible. Harvey weighed only 24 pounds.

Harvey barely had the energy to lift his head, yet he still wagged his tail and asked for belly rubs. His spirit had not been broken! Three vets examined him, and all confirmed the worst—Harvey was intentionally starved. His owners intentionally starved him. Harvey is on a veterinarian-prescribed re-feeding program.

His emaciated state—we have never seen a dog so severely emaciated—did not happen overnight: it is the result of many weeks of intentional starvation. And his recovery will not happen overnight. Harvey is learning what love means and is soaking up every cuddle, every beautiful note. He doesn’t have a lot of energy just yet, but he is fighting.

He’s all snuggled back in his bed now. He’s eating, and he loves to cuddle. We will start him on antibiotics for all of his cuts and pressure sores. This boy has been through hell. Together, we are going to bring him back. We bring Harvey to Yaqui Animal Rescue, hoping he finds strength to survive. He’s ready for his journey, full of hope and warmth this morning.

Our team surrounds him with love and expert care. Harvey even has a nurse by his side, keeping him safe. His bed is padded and cozy, ensuring every bit of comfort. We’re making it a “no paws on the ground” trip, protecting him from the cold and dangers.

Harvey faces a five-hour drive, with a gentle stop to feed him. Every mile is filled with love, aiming for a safe arrival. Harvey rests peacefully after his vet visit today. He’s on a slow, gentle refeeding plan, showing such patience.

Eight small meals now fill his day with healing. One day at a time, Harvey’s spirit grows stronger. Heartfelt thanks to Wynne, his devoted caregiver. Harvey’s had a wonderful day, full of energy and tail wags. He’s even started barking for attention, asking to go outside! His bond with his foster family grows stronger each day, and he loves to be held.

The vet’s update brings hope—Harvey’s liver and kidney values are excellent, though we’re still working on his anemia with patience and care. Harvey is exploring his world a bit. It was a little chilly this morning, so he went back to his warm bed! Oh, and he met the kitties! He barked at first. The second time he was like:

“Oh, it’s just you.”

Look how good he is at going up the stairs! He wants to do things on his own. We love seeing his energy level rise. I don’t usually cry in front of dogs, but taking off Harvey’s hoodie brought relief tears—he’s safe now. Harvey stretched, then playfully bowed, choosing to lay beside me on the floor instead of his comfy bed.

He pressed his head against my chest, a gentle reminder of his trust. This sweet soul, how I love him. Oh my goodness! Look at our boy! Harvey had all kinds of new experiences today. Harvey had a pretty good day. He’s a bit more tired, but otherwise still curious and engaging.

We cannot wait to watch him become healthy and thrive. Oh my goodness… our sweet boy gets two treats a day now! Our vet called with the x-ray results. Harvey still has a bit of a distended colon, which should hopefully resolve with the added pumpkin.

We have a backup prescription just in case. This is all typical for his condition. One day at a time. You got this, Harvey. Harvey is doing really well. We are very excited to announce that the pumpkin is working, and Harvey pooped this morning! Harvey met some new friends today! Today is a good day. Harvey’s wounds are healing.

He has gained a bit more weight, and his digestive system is regulating. We had a great night. Harvey had a short walk and had a good solid poop. We had our last meal at 11:30 PM, sat up and chatted for a bit, then called it a night as Harvey needed his rest. He is such a lover boy! Harvey is doing well. He has been exploring the house more, and got to check out the Christmas tree. He loves his PJs! We picked up more of Harvey’s food yesterday, grateful for his progress. He’s eating well, and each day brings hope and healing. It was raining cats outside, and Harvey did not want to go out for his morning potty break. We had an umbrella that covered all of him, but this rain vest worked well on his body.

We tried going out early this morning, but it was too cold. Harvey is enjoying being off leash outside (backyard). Harvey weighed in at a whopping 31.4 lbs!

We will be gradually increasing his food intake by ounces per meal, but continue to stay with the 8 servings per day at this time. Harvey is no longer anemic! I wanted to take the time and really show you the progress Harvey has made.

His fur is looking better, activity level is increasing. Mentally, we are exercising with different objects: balls, toys, anything we can find that is foreign to him. It was an early night for us. We spent it preparing his meals for the next day and cleaning the kitchen, but Harvey didn’t mind; he was sucking up the few kibbles that fell on the floor.

I guess you can say he was doing his cleaning part. Good morning! Another Harvey Sunshine day! Harvey’s weight: 38.6 lbs, gaining nearly 10 lbs. He is at a steady increase, not only rebuilding his gut, but his muscles as well. Time, love, and care. Our boy is healing! We love you, Harvey. Harvey is learning to entertain himself with the wonderful gifts you all have bought for him. Sharing an adorable video of Harvey’s most loyal followers, enjoying story-time, Mom reading Harvey’s story to him. Harvey deserves every ounce of happiness forever.

After all his suffering, he’s finally free. Now he’s healthy, safe, and so loved. His spirit shines bright, full of joy and trust. Harvey’s journey is proof—love heals all. Thanks all for your always support!