Enoch’s Story: From Heartbreaking Neglect to a Life of Love
The road to recovery starts with loving hands. photos: SPCA Monterey County
During the cold, drenching winter storms, Enoch was either abandoned or broke free with a thick chain embedded deeply around his neck. A Good Samaritan found the emaciated gray Pit Bull and rushed him to SPCA Monterey County.
“The tight, heavy chain cut into his skin all the way around his neck over a centimeter deep, causing swelling and a serious infection,” remembers Dr. Kate Riley, an SPCA Monterey County veterinarian. “He was in significant pain and yet so loving and trusting. He just wanted to be with us.” SPCA veterinarians performed emergency surgery to clean, treat, and suture gaping wounds ranging from three to five centimeters wide.
In addition to the chain wounds, Enoch’s ears had been cropped almost all the way to his skull. He was emaciated, approximately 20 pounds underweight, and had painful pressure sores on his legs. He was also very dirty and covered in fleas. A soothing, warm bath removed fleas, caked on mud, and feces.
Following the emergency surgery and bath, SPCA Monterey County staff provided soft bedding, nutritious food, and snuggles to help Enoch heal. Staff members also shared his story on social media, where adopters Harrison and Isela saw his photo and fell in love.
“When the SPCA posted his picture, it hit me hard,” says Harrison. “Knowing he went for days outside alone in the cold and rain with no way to rescue himself while we were warm in our beds. We saw his face and knew we wanted to give him love.”
Enoch is now living the good life. photo: SPCA Monterey County
When the couple visited SPCA Monterey County, Enoch immediately trotted up to Isela and put his big head right in her lap.
“The minute we saw him, we were in heaven,” says Isela. “He was perfect. We knew we could give him the life and the love he deserves.”
Enoch now spends his days playing and snuggling with his new family. He’s become a Little League mascot and loves being around children. Isela’s daughter is autistic, and she has blossomed with him in the house. When she is upset, Enoch puts his head on her lap to distract her and calm her down.
“SPCA Monterey County gives all animals a second chance,” says Isela. “They also give people a second chance by giving us the opportunity to adopt. We can’t imagine life without him now.”
“This poor dog was suffering and had been in pain for quite some time,” says Jacob Duarte, an SPCA Monterey County humane investigations supervisor. “Thanks to our community’s support, he is now safe and will never be hurt again.”