After Bethany, a rescued dog, was shared on multiple social media platforms, she became a viral sensation. Within days, Safe Rescue For Dogs was flooded with emails of potential adopters, and admirers of Bethany’s incredible spirit despite her differences.
Bethany, an eight-month old Labrador mix, was born with severe facial disfigurement. Her face and nose twists. Although her unusual appearance may seem a little shocking to some, it does not affect her overall health and ability to be an amazing companion.
Bethany’s mother was a Romanian street dog that was found by a local family. Her kind family took her in and raised the five puppies that she gave birth to soon. Safe Rescue For Dogs is a group that regularly travels to Romania to rescue stray dogs. One of her visits brought Bethany into contact with the family that raised Bethany. She soon brought Bethany to the UK, where she received additional care and was possibly adopted.
When Bethany’s photos were first shared, many began to worry that Bethany is ill due to her disfigurement, but the Safe Rescue For Dogs Rescue insists that Bethany is just as healthy as any other growing puppy. She is healthy according to veterinarians and doesn’t require special care to stay healthy and happy.
There have been many comments about Bethany’s popularity, suggesting that she might benefit from surgery. However, veterinary specialists insist that Bethany is happy with her current condition and that surgery would be more harmful than beneficial. This is not a serious problem and should not require surgery.
“There’s absolutely nothing wrong with Bethany – she doesn’t even snore when she’s asleep. People have asked ‘are we sure we’re doing the right thing?’ and ‘how do we know?’. We know because she’s been vet checked and checked again at Calais and Dover at DEFRA.” – Bethany’s foster, Zoe Casey
Though this is the first time the rescue has seen a disfigurement of this nature, they mention how much easier this is to handle than any kind of mental disfigurement that’s often seen in dogs with years of psychological trauma. Bethany is blessed with a happy life and endless support.
“She is very much [like]She is a Labrador in temperament. She’s happy-go-lucky and absolutely lovely. People have an obsession with finding the perfect dog, but they need to be more objective. You can get over Bethany’s facial disfigurement the moment she looks up at you with her tail wagging.” – Zoe Casey
When Bethany’s story began to circulate the internet, the Safe Rescue For Dogs rescue received thousands of emails of interested adopters and those suggesting their own recommendations for care. The rescue realized that there may have been some misinterpretation of Bethany’s interest. They knew how dear Bethany was to them and decided to keep her with their rescue family.
Bethany has been adopted by one regular foster with the rescue. She absolutely loves her new life. With the massive interest in Bethany, we’re so glad that the rescue chose to keep her in their circle and ensure a safe future for this amazing pup.
We are grateful to all who have supported Bethany and fought for her happy ending!
H/T: blog.theanimalrescuesite.greatergood.com/
Image source: KellyHare/Facebook & ZoeCasey/Facebook
