It’s hard to move on from a near-death experience. These moments can take an emotional and physical toll on any living creature.

But few things are as heartbreaking as an innocent dog suffering through a traumatic event, especially one that leaves them scarred for life. But the road to recovery, long and daunting as it may be, is nevertheless a worthwhile effort.

One dog is turning his tragic accident into a triumph by training to become a therapy pet.

On October 23rd, 2018, disaster struck a quiet suburban home in Georgia when a fire broke out. While the residents escaped on time, Take, an eight-year-old Shiba Inu, had no such luck. As the fires consumed the house, the family thought they had lost their beloved dog for good.

Taka, thankfully managed to escape from the fire miraculously.

Taka ran down the street to a neighbor’s home, who found the dog severely injured. The dog was in terrible pain from the burns on his face, belly, and back. The neighbor then took Taka to a nearby vet in Augusta, where he received proper care and treatment.

Taka’s family feared they wouldn’t be able to care for their injured pet. So, out of concern, they handed him over to Care More Animal Hospital in Martinez, Georgia.

Despite the loss, Taka still won the hearts of the veterinary staff.

However, finding a final owner proved to be a bit difficult. Veterinarian, Emily Martin, took in Taka for a while, loving him as her own, but ultimately couldn’t adopt since she already had several dogs and her baby to take care of. A burn unit nurse, Tish Myers, adopted Taka. However, Taka didn’t get along with Myers’s other dogs, often instigating fights.

Finally, Taka found a permanent home thanks to hospital technician Crystal Leslie.

“I had been taking him home with me every day so I realized I couldn’t part with her,” Leslie said. “After months of recovery and the impact he had on the community. I was approached by a nurse at the burn center about Taka coming in to visit burned children, in hopes of giving them something to relate to.”

Leslie realized Taka would make an excellent therapy pet thanks to his scars and friendly demeanor around children.

In order for dogs to become therapy pets, they need to pass a Canine Good Citizen test. With the help of a trainer, Mandy Foster, Taka passed the test of July 26th, 2019 to his owner’s absolute joy.

“I am so incredibly proud of him,” Leslie said. “Just thinking back to how far he has come and where he is now, is just so emotional. The amount of love and respect I have for him is profound.”

No one wants to get into an accident, but sometimes they can’t be avoided and injuries are sustained. But through enough love and support, any creature can overcome their experiences and bring inspiration to both humans and animals.

Take a minute or two and watch the video about this inspiring story below.

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Source: YouTube – WSAV3, American Kennel Club, Positive Outlooks.