There are stories that tighten our hearts due to human indifference, yet also kindle hope through the power of compassion. This is the story of Youngji, a dog who spent nearly her entire life waiting for a fragment of love in total isolation.
1. A Critical Rescue
Youngji was discovered in a condition that left rescuers speechless. Her abdomen was so swollen from severe ascites (fluid buildup) that it looked as if it could burst at any moment.
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Complete Exhaustion: The elderly dog was so weak she could barely sit or stand, forced to drag her heavy, fluid-filled belly across the ground.
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Unwavering Trust: The most heartbreaking part was that despite her agony, Youngji wagged her tail the moment she saw humans approaching. After 16 years of being chained outside—never knowing warmth or real care—she still chose to welcome kindness with gentleness.
2. The Painful Truth of 16 Years of Neglect
Youngji’s owner claimed she was “too old” and had “already lived her life,” words that cut deeper than any physical wound. For 16 long years, she had never slept indoors or been treated as a true member of a family.
At the veterinary clinic, doctors confirmed her critical state:
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Multiple Ailments: She suffered from heartworms, heart disease, and severe lung damage. Her internal organs were failing.
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The Treatment: To relieve the pressure and help her breathe, doctors had to drain a total of over 8 liters of fluid from her abdomen over several days.
3. Small Steps Toward Freedom
Despite her trembling legs and frail body, Youngji never complained. She began her recovery with extraordinary resilience:
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Adapting to Comfort: Initially, even when provided with soft blankets, she preferred the cold floor—likely because it was the only sensation she had known for 16 years.
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The Will to Live: Step by small step, she tried to stand and walk, even though moving just a few paces left her gasping for air. Every time someone visited, her tail would wag as if to say, “Thanks to you… I am still here”.
4. A Message of Compassion
Youngji’s case is more than just a medical emergency; it is a wake-up call regarding the fate of “yard dogs” left to suffer in silence. They are often given just enough food to survive but are deprived of the warmth, care, and dignity that every living being deserves.
We may not know how much time Youngji has left, but one thing is certain: from now on, every single day of her life will be filled with comfort, compassion, and true love.