When a woman encountered an elderly dog living his entire life chained without food, clean water, or care, she knew she couldn’t walk away. The dog, later named Ricky, had been abandoned to quietly die. What followed was not just a rescue, but a life-altering journey that reshaped her purpose and sparked a broader mission in animal welfare.
A Life Spent on a Chain
Ricky’s condition told a heartbreaking story. The chain around his neck had been there so long it had embedded into his skin, causing pain and long-term damage. His owners admitted they no longer wanted him, assuming his age meant he wouldn’t live much longer anyway.
Despite neglect and suffering, Ricky greeted his rescuer with a wagging tail. That quiet resilience moved her deeply. A veterinarian was called immediately, and for the first time in his life, the chain was removed, marking the start of Ricky’s freedom.
A Rescue That Became Personal
While Ricky was cared for temporarily, his rescuer received constant updates—photos and videos showing his gentle nature. When the time came to collect him from Kosovo, the bond was undeniable. She knew instantly that Ricky was meant to be her dog.
Leaving behind the place where he had suffered was emotional, but the hope of a new beginning outweighed the pain. Together, they traveled to Zurich, where Ricky quickly settled in, surprising everyone with how comfortable and calm he seemed.
A New Home and a New Mission
Ricky’s presence opened her eyes to the countless “invisible dogs” still living chained lives. What began as compassion for one dog grew into a desire to do more. She eventually moved with Ricky and her two cats to rural Albania to focus on animal welfare work.
Since then, Ricky has welcomed around 15 foster dogs. His calm, steady demeanor has helped traumatized dogs learn trust, making him an unexpected teacher and source of stability for others.
Watching a Senior Dog Bloom
Ricky isn’t overly affectionate, but his quiet moments speak volumes. Over time, he learned to sleep in a dog bed, jump on the sofa, and express joy through wagging and playful barks—simple acts he’d never known before.
Seeing him truly happy has been transformative. Ricky became the reason his rescuer wakes up motivated each day, proving that saving one life can change many more.
Ricky’s rescue shows how compassion can ripple outward. Freeing one senior dog from chains didn’t just give him a second chance—it reshaped an entire life dedicated to helping others just like him.
