Almost a year ago, the approximately two-year-old Schnauzer is seriously injured by a car in southern Italy, but since he is not chipped, no owner can be found. We call the little unlucky dog "Schlumpf" and would like to tell you his story.

The detailed examination by the Vets in Action reveals two subluxations of the spine at the transition from thoracic to lumbar vertebrae and a complex avulsion fracture of the ileum. Without a chip, Schlumpf's young life (or death) depends on the decision of the municipality, which, according to the law (because the dog has no owner), has to decide whether surgery or euthanasia should take place.

Seeing good chances of recovery, the municipality agrees to one complicated operation.

After the operation, the municipality wants to place Schlumpf in one of the regional, horrible dog shelters, where he would certainly not survive. The traumatized dog needs a lot of attention as well as professional physiotherapy to be able to walk again. Both would be impossible in such a shelter.

We decide to take care of Schlumpf - an incredible recovery story begins.

In the first three months, thanks to regular physiotherapy, Schlumpf learns to use his two back legs. His patience and participation are extremely touching.

After another three months he can stand, but not yet walk. As often as possible, he spends time with his four-legged friends, which makes him forget his handicap.

Movement is a priority, however Schlumpf is given a roller, which he manages surprisingly well after a short time.

Thanks to his still limited, but nevertheless existing possibility of movement, he can easily socialize with the other dogs in our shelter and shows his deep gratitude in his own endearing way. The physiotherapy is continued for two months, the successes come slowly but steadily.

Schlumpf spends many hours in our office, resting and watching our vets working.

Then comes - to our greatest joy - the day when Schlumpf can walk freely again! Confidence-building social contacts as well as months of professional physiotherapy make it possible that he now walks freely on all four paws in the shelter and the roller is a thing of the past.

In order to be able to romp around with the other dogs in the winter, Schlumpf gets a warming coat.

His sad story finds a wonderful happy ending - at the end of January a new phase of his life begins in a home that is ideal for him. We will all miss him! But we are happy that he has a bright future ahead of him after almost a year full of difficulties and pain.

Dear donors - THANK YOU! Without your valuable support Schlumpf ‘s future life would have been very different!