Never underestimate the power of love! Even in what can only be called the worst of times, love has the power to light your way and make it instantly better – like it did with Elephant!

This 20-year-old canine was near the end of his life two years ago when his owners surrendered him to a shelter due to mounting health issues, but then – a miracle happened!

It took one giant-hearted woman and lots of love to fire a spark in Elephant’s eyes, but what she did for him turned out to be astounding, even for vets!

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Elephant’s Story

Source: @elephant_retires

This pawdorable doggo spent 18 years with his owners when they decided to part ways with him due to various health issues he faced at the moment. He was practically bald from his shoulders all the way down.

On top of all that – Elephant was battling several infections, anemia, and a tumor in his prostate.

Source: @elephant_retires

Team Dog Rescue decided to intervene, offering Elephant the support he needed so desperately, and reaching out to Roslyn, informing her that this senior might have only three weeks to live.

When the two finally met – Roslyn felt an instant connection with Elephant, and she knew that they were about to embark on a complex, exhaustive journey, fighting for this “ancient” dog’s life for as long as possible!

But, Roslyn showed no doubt, as she was ready and determined to make Elephant’s life better!

Choosing Life Over Surrender

The initial months were so challenging, but it was as if Elephant knew he was in the right hands. He fell in love with Roslyn from the moment he saw her, and from that moment on – his affection was just getting stronger!

She took him to vet exams, medical interventions, and hydrotherapy sessions regularly, and after she neutered him – Elephant started feeling so much better! Soon after his neutering, his tumor shrunk and he soon started gaining weight again.

“It takes a village of rescuers, fosters, vets, rehabilitation experts and many more dedicated humans to move a dog from an imaciated, mange ridden mess to a chonky, furry, happy boy,” Roslyn wrote on Instagram.

Source: @elephant_retires

In a short period of time, Elephant completely transformed around his new mama and his other housemates – the dogs, Gertie, and a cancer survivor – one-eyed Wanda.

Mama’s Furever Valentine

Source: @elephant_retires

His wonderful (and, at times, silly) nature endeared Elephant to everyone. He brought a lot of happiness into the house, and even influenced his pawrents to completely adjust their new home to him!

They built a ramp for the aging dog so he doesn’t have trouble moving around the house, and whenever he feels tired of walking – the family puts him in a comfortable wagon and walks him around while he enjoys sightseeing.

“I’ve met a lot of dogs, but none quite like him. He is a quiet, confident alpha with the heart of an angel. He loves being at home and being pampered. Give him all your attention, kisses and massages – he can’t get enough,” Roslyn wrote in an Instagram post.

According to Roslyn and the family, Elephant is very loved in his new home, and having him around for more than expected is just amazing!
“We love Elephant so, so much and his retirement has been longer than expected. Which is like winning lottery, really. He is a dream.”
Even at twenty years of age, Elephant still walks two times a day for about 20 minutes, and when he’s not busy goofing around with Gertie and Wanda – he loves to take naps in his cozy bed.

You can follow his future adventures on his official Instagram, and make sure you don’t miss out on anything about this amazing “ancient” doggo!