Family on beach trip helps dog in ‘rough shape.’ Now the ‘thriving’ pup needs a home
A family on a beach trip rescued a dog in “rough shape” — and now, he needs a home.
While driving back to North Carolina from Virginia, the family spotted the stray dog running near a highway.
“They stopped to help and named him Ernie before reaching out to Peak Lab Rescue for assistance,” the North Carolina animal organization wrote Dec. 11 on Facebook. “When Ernie arrived at the rescue, he was severely malnourished, heartworm positive, and battling an ear infection.”
Now, two months after Ernie was saved from the roadside in October, he’s “thriving” in a foster home, the Raleigh-area rescue wrote in its social media post and an email to McClatchy News.
“In the beginning, Ernie wasn’t used to walks or being petted,” rescuers wrote. “But with patience and love, he gradually learned to enjoy these simple pleasures. His transformation has been amazing — he became more confident, playful, and affectionate.”
As part of his recovery, Ernie received care for his ear infection and is undergoing heartworm treatment. The once-skinny dog also made a physical transformation, gaining 15 pounds.
Ernie is described as a roughly 8-year-old “calm and cozy pup.” While he’s a fan of strangers and other dogs, his ideal home wouldn’t have cats, according to an online adoption profile.
“He is a very sweet and friendly boy,” rescue administrator Leslie Haller told McClatchy News via email. “Now that he is feeling better, he is acting much more playful and interested in toys and chews.”
As of Dec. 12, Ernie was listed among the animals available for adoption at the rescue, which is based in the Raleigh suburb of Apex. Details about the organization’s adoption process can be found at peaklabrescue.com.
“I may be an older pup, but I have so much love to give,” the rescue said in a post written from Ernie’s perspective. “My calm demeanor combined with my playful spirit makes me the perfect addition to any family. If you’re looking for a loyal companion — let’s meet!”
This story was originally published December 12, 2024 at 10:40 AM with the headline "Family on beach trip helps dog in ‘rough shape.’ Now the ‘thriving’ pup needs a home."
