Husky on Euthanasia List After Being Hit by a Car—Then Unexpected Happens
Newsweek AI is in beta. Translations may contain inaccuracies—please refer to the original content.
A husky who was believed to have been hit by a car and found near the wreckage was placed on the euthanasia list due to his severe injuries—until rescuers stepped in to save him.
Cosmo, thought to be a 2-year-old husky, was discovered in a rural area of Patterson, California on July 24. He was unable to walk due to a suspected broken leg, had a painful head wound, and was in extreme pain. He was lying in the shade near the debris of a car, leading rescuers to believe he was hit by a vehicle.
Cosmo was taken to Stanislaus Animal Services Agency, but due to the severity of his injuries and the pain he was suffering, he was added to the euthanasia list. He was due to be put down on July 26, but then Saving Gizmos Friends, a rescue organization, spared his life.
Dijana Josic, the Director of Rescue Operations and Programs at Saving Gizmos Friends couldn't let poor Cosmo lose his life through no fault of his own. Josic told Newsweek that Cosmo was in so much pain and "they could not manage at the shelter," so her rescue organization immediately transported him to Standiford Veterinary Center.
Cosmo after surgery with a cone around his neck.
Cosmo after surgery with a cone around his neck.
@savinggizmosfriends / Instagram
"After getting seen by our doctor, it was confirmed that Cosmo arrived at the shelter with a broken left femur, likely from being hit by a car," Dijana said. "His injury was so severe it required urgent hospitalization, intensive pain management, and preparation for complex orthopedic surgery involving both a plate and intramedullary pin."
Following the complex surgery, Cosmo must rest for around 8 to 12 weeks, with only short walks on a leash for bathroom breaks. Thankfully, he appears to be doing well and volunteers at Saving Gizmos Friends can't wait to see him back on his feet.
"He is on multiple pain medications and has frequent vet checkups to make sure his leg is healing properly. He is healing wonderfully and will soon be able to run without any limitations," Dijana continued.
Videos of Cosmo have been shared on the rescue's social media accounts (@savinggizmosfriends on Instagram). The videos detail the severity of Cosmo's injuries, as well as documenting his ongoing recovery after surgery.
While he still has a long way to go yet, his personality is already shining through. He has started to show just how loving and social he can be, and Dijana tells Newsweek that Cosmo loves people, children, other dogs, and is a "true social butterfly."
His forever home is out there somewhere, and Dijana hopes he will find it soon.
"Cosmo is an incredibly sweet and goofy boy who brightens everyone's day. He's great on a leash, walks nicely and enjoys every step. One of his favorite things is getting gentle facial massages, and he's always excited for treats," Dijana said.
She continued: "Cosmo would thrive in a loving home where he can get plenty of attention and social interaction. A family or individual who enjoys daily walks and gentle play would be perfect. A calm environment where he can get lots of affection and have opportunities to explore and socialize would suit him best."
The social media response to Cosmo's story has been overwhelmingly positive, and Dijana is so thankful for all the support that's has been sent his way. Whether it's with donations or well wishes, Cosmo has received so much love since being hit by a car.
"His journey hasn't been easy, but we remain hopeful for the best," Dijana said.
Many internet users have taken to the comments section to thank Saving Gizmos Friends for doing everything they can to save Cosmo.
One comment reads: "Thank you for saving Cosmo! Welcome to your next, very best chapter yet!"
Another Instagram user wrote: "This made my day! A Husky that was saved by this incredible team."
While another person replied: "Omg thank you for saving his life, he's the cutest!"
Do you have funny and adorable videos or pictures of your pet you want to share? We want to see the best ones! Send them in to life@newsweek.com and they could appear on our site.
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