Many street dogs pass through life anonymously, without names or anyone to care for them. But over the course of a few eventful hours in Saranda, one hurting puppy got a new name, a new family, and a new home.

Around 1:15 a.m. on a Wednesday morning, the phone rang at Saranda Dog Services (SDS). Benedetta, an Italian tourist, anxiously described finding a puppy in distress — wheezing and barely breathing — but trying to follow her and her friends around. The local veterinarians were closed until Thursday morning  — Beneditia found SDS's phone number via google search — so the local heroes stepped up and told her to bring the pup over.

By 2:00 a.m., 10 Italian tourists were on Saranda Dog Service’s terrace with the injured dog. The dog’s windpipe was swollen — either stomped on the throat or strangled — and he was badly wheezing. 

An anti-inflammatory drug and ice got the pup breathing better. An early morning trip to a town veterinarian got him some more medication and stabilization. When Benedetta called later in the day to ask about the pup, there was good news: he would fully recover and could have a passport ready in 24 hours to travel to Italy.

She said yes!

Saranda Dog Services returned to the local vet to prepare the necessary travel documents and have a microchip implanted. 

In 18 hours, one street dog’s life in Saranda turned completely around. Benedetta named him Saranda. Benedetta’s  holiday started with 10 people. The return trip to Italy included a very happy and grateful dog.

It’s definitely a trip to remember!

ONE SARANDA STREET DOG GOT HIS HAPPY ENDING. WHEN YOU SIGN THIS PETITION, YOU HELP THE CITY’S LEADERS SEE HOW SARANDA CAN LEAD THE WAY IN ADVANCING ANIMAL WELFARE.