The cliffsides of the Himalayan mountains are an adrenaline junkie’s dream. Only the most experienced of hikers would dare to venture up the treacherous slopes. Tim Gorski, a filmmaker and animal activist, was adventuring up to the Taksand Palphug Monastery (AKA The Tiger’s Nest) when something caught him by surprise!
Tim had crossed paths with a stray dog. The poor dog was surely a sight to see. It was knocking on death’s door due to a horrible case of mange. Seeing the condition of the dog truly got to Tim, so he knew what he had to do. He had been traveling for days to reach the monastery, but he didn’t hesitate to put his mission on hold in order to help this dog in need.
Someone apparently had left the dog to fend for himself. Half of his hair was missing due to a skin disease, called mange, which is caused by parasitic mites. Thanks to Tim reaching out to a local animal rescue group, the poor pup would soon be out of hands of death.
A local tour company gathered up the pup and brought him to the Maya Foundation’s Barnyard Bhutan Animal Rescue & Sanctuary (TMF). When he arrived, the dog received “the barnyard spa” treatment. This five-star care included a fresh haircut, a bath, and even a pedicure.
In order to treat the mange, The Maya Foundation had to shave off most of the fur that was left. He also got a new red shirt! Not only does the shirt provide a little bit of warmth, but it was also used to comfort the pup. When dogs are in unfamiliar situations covering their chest can give them a sense of calm.
The dog was only under the care of TMF for less than two weeks when his skin began to drastically improve. The dog was named after his rescuer Tim, and is now the image of picture perfect health. The group posted a picture of his incredible improvement after only two weeks of care.
And now, the pup looks absolutely amazing with an entire coat of black hair! Thanks to Tim, he was given a second chance at life. Tim saw the pictures of the new, and improved, dog and he was stunned. Tim shared the amazing picture on Facebook, and shared a bit of inspiration, as well:
“This is how the world works, folks, through random acts of love and kindness rather than detachment and indignation. I urge everyone to not simply walk by when you see an animal suffering. Take the time. Connect with the animal. Make the call if need be. But do something. Don’t just walk by feeling sorry or helpless because you are not. But the animals often are.”
The Maya Foundation said Tim “is such a cool, playful guy.” Tim began to grow his fur back, and he even began to look like a pretty handsome fella! It’s amazing what a few weeks and a bit of love can do!
Tim is still living at The Maya Foundation. He’s still happy and furry, too! “Here is sweet Tim the dog from Taktsang, and the moment he met his soon-to-be rescuer,” The Maya Foundation wrote on Facebook when sharing Tim’s photo.
“As many people take this holy pilgrimage to pray and make offerings, I’m quite sure Tim made the same journey knowing he could find salvation there – such a smart doggie!” It’s unbelievable the transformation that Tim the dog has gone through! He doesn’t even look like the same dog!
Tim’s story is one to be shared because it has a valuable lesson. If you ever feel like you can’t help, remember: You are not helpless, the animal suffering is. Help is only a phone call away. There are so many rescues, or organizations, that would love to help out, but they can only do it if they’re notified about the situation. Please don’t hesitate to let them know!
This story just goes to show that it only takes one person to make a difference, just look at Tim the Dog! When people are willing and able to help, a lot can be accomplished. The Maya Foundation takes care of all kinds of animals including dogs, cats, and even some goats!
We should never turn a blind eye to an animal in need. Please share this story as a reminder that we can end their suffering! Help’s only a call away!