Dog Left Alone When Owner Died on Road to Recovery

He bears little resemblance to the German shepherd that was discovered in a home alone following the death of his owner in July.

Back then, Bruno was near death. He was starving, covered with mange and had open, bleeding sores on his feet, making it difficult for him to move or lay down. No one knows how long he was left alone without food and water after his owner died.

Hearing about Bruno's circumstances, Heidi's Legacy Dog Rescue in Lithia, founded by Lori Hoffman, promptly came to his rescue.

Bruno remains under veterinary care but has made drastic improvements, said Hoffman.

"Although he seems to have recovered from most of his issues, we are still battling with MRSA," said Hoffman. MRSA is a virulent antibiotic-resistance staph infection. "It has been a very long process for our poor boy. He requires medication three times a day and special ointment for his feet and wraps two times a day."

Since fostering the dog, Hoffman said the dog rescue group has learned more about Bruno's background. He is believed to be a little under 2 years old. His previous owner was a disabled Vietnam veteran who died in July. Bruno continues to grieve for the man who raised him. 

After he was released to Heidi's Legacy, he spent two weeks at a veterinary hospital battling a high fever and infection. Since then, his foster mother has taken him almost weekly to vet appointments and provided extensive home care.

"The good news is, Bruno is one resilient boy and, despite all his ailments, he has a wonderful spirit," said Hoffman. "He loves to run and play and his favorite pastime (aside from playing fetch with his foster dad) is chasing squirrels."

Hoffman said Bruno gets along with other dogs, cats and has never met a stranger.

"Once he fully heals, he will be neutered, fully vetted and ready for adoption for some very lucky family," she added.

To follow Bruno's progress, visit the Saving Bruno website.

If you would like to support Bruno's recovery, donate here. 

Heidi's Legacy is an all-volunteer 501(c)3 nonprofit so donations are tax-deductible.