Gus, a six-year-old Golden Retriever and Poodle mix from Minnesota, may have the impression that he’s living a happy and carefree life. But behind his soulful eyes and enthusiastic tail wags is a three-legged dog waging its battle against cancer.
It all started as a malignant tumor which prompted the veterinarians to amputate one of his hind legs to prevent cancer from spreading all over his body. He also had to under chemotherapy sessions as part of his treatment.
The dog’s owner, Cleo Young, feared that because of his cancer, his disability, and his chemotherapy sessions, Gus would not be able to run and play like he used to. However, Gus proved them all wrong.
On Easter Sunday, while the family was out for a trip to St Croix River in Lakeland, Minnesota, Gus suddenly went for a swim after spotting something in the water. When he returned to the shore, his family saw him holding something in his mouth. It turned out to be a baby otter who was in danger of drowning.
According to Lucy, one of the granddaughters of Cleo, Gus knew the animal needed help. He had been gentle with the animal when he brought it to his humans. He also knew his limits, so he allowed them to take over.
The Young family immediately brought the baby otter to the Wildlife Rehabilitation Center in Roseville, a center that provides quality medical care and rehabilitation for all injured, sick, and orphaned wild animals. After which, they transferred it to another facility for more intensive treatments.
According to one of the staff, Gus played a crucial role in saving the baby otter’s life. There was no way the juvenile animal could have survived in the freezing river, away from its mother’s den. Now that the baby otter is in good hands, the Young family can focus on keeping up with Gus’s chemotherapy sessions.
According to the Young family, it was a remarkable Easter Sunday. Gus’s heroic deed is something that they’ll remember for a long time. Moreover, despite fighting a severe illness, his indomitable spirit and zest for life are worthy of admiration.
Watch the full interview here:
Source: CBS News via YouTube
