In the heart of Claremore, Oklahoma, a Border Collie named Kong endured a heartbreaking existence in a shelter, suffering from the scars of abuse. For an entire year, he lived under the weight of neglect, his fur patchy and sparse, revealing sunburned skin beneath. It was a bleak existence until the compassionate team at Border Collie Rescue & Rehab in Texas discovered him, learning that Kong was battling a severe skin condition that had left him feeling abandoned and alone.
After months of healing and care, Kong was finally given a chance at a new life, featured as #387 on the rescue's website. But little did he know that love often finds its way in the most unexpected forms. Enter Curtis Hartsell, a man who, upon stumbling across Kong’s profile, was immediately captivated by a single photograph and the poignant description that accompanied it. Despite concerns about his busy lifestyle, Curtis felt a magnetic pull towards the white puppy who seemed to smile right through the screen.
"I fell in love at first sight," Curtis told The Dodo, reminiscing about the moment he laid eyes on Kong’s profile. "When I shared my life story with his foster mother, she assured me we sounded like a perfect match." After navigating a thorough application process filled with interviews and home visits, the anticipation grew as the day of their meeting approached.
When they finally met, Curtis decided to rename him ZIB, marking a new beginning for the pup. The connection between them was palpable; it felt as though they had known each other in another life. Witnesses couldn’t help but shed tears as they watched ZIB embrace his new dad with pure joy and affection.
“I knelt down in front of him and asked if he wanted to come home with me,” Curtis recalled with a smile. “I told him, ‘I’m going to call you ZIB. How does that sound?’ He looked deep into my eyes, nuzzled against me, and lowered his head in that unforgettable moment.”
Curtis couldn’t find the words to express his happiness. "Knowing that this once-abandoned puppy just needed love, which I get to give him every day now, fills my heart with joy."
Today, ZIB thrives, transforming from a timid dog who once flinched at touch into a playful companion who now craves affection and cuddles. The journey from pain to love is a testament to the healing power of companionship, and ZIB’s story is a reminder that sometimes all it takes to mend a broken spirit is a caring heart.
