Through Ms Yan’s WeChat posts, animal lovers in China slowly became aware of Tuffy’s plight. “Team Tuffy” was born, and T-shirts were distributed to the Animals Asia vets, nurses, translators and office workers who contributed to the effort. A supporter flew from Beijing to assist Ms Yan in taking Tuffy from the hospital to her home. Friends donated to the cause and so did total strangers – Animals Asia donated all of the nursing care Tuffy received, and many sleepless nights.
In time Tuffy began eating properly. He was able to close his eyes and sleep properly. He even began playing like a normal puppy
While the China staff attended to Tuffy, others saw his recovery take miraculous shape. Jill said:
“I’ve read that people who jump out higher than the third floor of a burning building are unlikely to survive. It was a miracle that Tuffy did.
“The second miracle was the extent of his burns. When they cover over 50 per cent of the body, animals are not expected to survive. Tuffy survived with over 60 per cent of his body burned. How his life started was horrific.
“The cruelty he faced was inexcusable. But we all refused to accept that this would be a story of cruelty. Kindness and concern and love won. He refused to be beaten, and that strength was infectious. “
Tuffy will always have large patches of fur missing, and with winter approaching he needs to stay warm – so Tuffy’s friends have been making coats for him to wear. He now lives with Ms Yan, back with the kind woman that helped him start his new life. She has even invested in a wardrobe for him – making him surely China’s most stylish dog.
Emily said:
“Time and time again we find that those who are cruel to animals are a tiny minority. Animals have the ability to bring out the best in people, and it’s true for Tuffy. His strength and bravery was incredible – but Ms Yan was equally determined he would live.
“Tuffy has more passion for life than any animal, or person, I have ever met. Nothing can keep him down. He is boisterous and full of play. To say Tuffy is a fighter is an understatement.
“But for all his toughness and his bravery, Tuffy has a softer side. Amazingly, Tuffy still sees the good in people. He still comes to us for love and warmth.
“I do not think he has forgotten what has happened, I don’t think he ever will. But he has forgiven us, and he trusts us, and I think this is the reason Tuffy is still with us today.”
Animals Asia’s Cat and Dog Welfare Team continue to campaign for better care for dogs and cats in China. It’s hoped that Tuffy’s story can inspire a better future for millions more dogs.