The little dog’s eyes said it all — he was in pain and desperately needed help. Life as a stray in Arkansas had left him bald, his body covered in sores from Demodex mange. Despite his suffering, the pup, later named Goulash, clung to hope. Thankfully, he found a savior in Rochelle Steffen, founder of Mac’s Mission.
Rochelle first saw Goulash’s photo on Facebook. His pink, raw skin and soulful eyes immediately tugged at her heart.
“When a dog has Demodex mange, it’s like their skin is melting off,” Rochelle explained. “The mites cause the hair to fall out, leaving the skin raw and painful. His condition spoke of pure neglect, but despite it all, he wagged his tail.”
Once Goulash arrived at Mac’s Mission in Missouri, he began his journey toward recovery. Volunteers administered medication to kill the mites and gave him soothing baths to heal his skin.
“Our team and supporters rallied behind him,” Rochelle said. “Even in pain, he never stopped wagging his tail. These transformations are some of the most beautiful moments we witness here.”
Rochelle knew Goulash would eventually shine and find a loving home. But what she didn’t know was that he had already stolen someone’s heart.
While Goulash was undergoing treatment, a volunteer fell in love with him. She decided to foster him, taking him into her home and nursing him back to health.
For the first time, Goulash experienced the comfort of a warm bed and the joy of being part of a family. He adjusted quickly, showering his foster family with love.
“He’s always by my side,” his foster mom shared. “He loves car rides, food, toys, and snuggling. He even sleeps in my bed every night and snores like a grown man!”
Despite his quirks, including being “the gassiest dog ever,” Goulash’s foster mom couldn’t get enough of his sweet soul.
Within months, Goulash’s transformation was complete. His skin healed, his fur grew back, and his vibrant personality matched his handsome appearance.
“Seeing the before-and-after photos is always astonishing,” Rochelle said. “The darkness leaves them, and they become these bright, happy dogs. Goulash is proof that every dog deserves love and care.”
When the time came to find Goulash a forever home, his foster mom realized he was already there.
“His future is now filled with love, joy, and a family who adores him,” Rochelle said. “His foster family officially adopted him, and Goulash is living his happily ever after.”
