Any room Bear enters will be illuminated by his radiant smile. You’d never know what the former stray has been through, though, because he never gave up hope that, ultimately, things will go his way. This is in spite of his contagious charm and undying confidence in others.
This is precisely why Laura Forma, a co-founder of This Is Houston, took in Bear after the dog had spent eight years on the streets.
Forma told The Dodo, “We discovered Bear, but he was really terrified of us. Someone pointed out a residence that belonged to Bear as we attempted to apprehend him, so we went there to speak with the resident. He had been fed by her for eight years.
Forma and her group could see a huge tumor on Bear’s face as they got closer. It was soon apparent that Bear need urgent medical care.
He couldn’t have survived another day on his own, according to Forma. “When the lump was medically removed, it weighed three and a half pounds. It’s unfortunate that he had to carry that object about for such a long time.
However, Bear’s problems went beyond the mass. He had heartworm disease, heart failure, lymphoma, and cancer, according to a thorough series of tests. The veterinarian estimated that Bear had three to twelve months to live, but since Bear had only recently learned the meaning of love and kindness, he had plans to stay.
“He goes to the vet weekly, [and] we’re happy to report that he’s been in remission for a couple months now,” Forma stated. “As of today, there are no signs of cancer. He’s doing great!”
Bear will continue to receive treatment for his various conditions, but according to Forma, he doesn’t look like he’s been through much.
“He’s rainbows and sunshine,” Forma said. “He’ll wake up pacing around the house with a smile, and woofing at us. He starts every day off being happy.”
Forma and her partner, Tom, decided to permanently add Bear to their family because of how warm and lovable he is. The formerly lonely dog may now enjoy his favorite activity—car rides—as well as all the affection and cuddles he could possibly want.
“It’s crazy to think this perfect boy was a street dog all of his life,” Forma said. “He’s a constant reminder that life goes on and life can get better. To go through all that he went through and to still be happy today, that is so many life lessons right there. He gives us purpose.”
Bear is in remission, but Forma makes careful to savor every moment she has with him.
“[He has] brought so much joy,” Forma said. “He exuberates life and happiness. It’s nearly impossible to be around him, or even look at him and not smile. When he’s not there, you can just feel that something is missing. He makes us want to spend our days giving him all the opportunities to experience the joys of life while he still can.”
Source: The Dodo
