Felix, a black Labrador Retriever with an infectious grin and a heart of gold, wasn’t dealt the easiest paw in life. Born with a cleft lip and palate, he faced significant health challenges from the very beginning. This heartwarming story chronicles Felix’s journey from a fragile puppy fighting for survival to a happy, energetic dog living life to the fullest.
After surgery, this Black Lab with a cleft lip and palate can finally play in water
From barely surviving to thriving: Felix’s early struggles
Felix’s story starts at just 11 days old. Rejected by his mother due to his cleft lip and palate, he was on the brink of death when Jamie, a dedicated animal rescuer, intervened. Unable to nurse properly, Felix suffered from aspiration pneumonia. With unwavering care and dedication, Jamie tube-fed him for seven weeks, nursing him back to health.
Despite overcoming the initial hurdle, Felix’s challenges weren’t over. Cleft lip and palate is a congenital defect that can cause difficulty eating, drinking, and even breathing. Additionally, Felix had a slew of other medical issues, including digestive problems due to his colon being on the wrong side of his body and vision impairment from having only one functioning eye.
From barely surviving to thriving: Felix’s early struggles
A life-changing surgery and a new beginning
Determined to give Felix the best possible life, Jamie decided to proceed with corrective surgery. In January, at 14 months old, Felix underwent a complex procedure to repair his cleft lip and palate. The surgery not only improved his ability to eat and drink normally but also significantly enhanced his quality of life.
Felix’s post-surgery journey wasn’t entirely smooth sailing. He developed a neurological tic, likely due to skull shifting during the operation. However, with the help of his loving family and innovative treatment options, Felix is learning to manage this new challenge.
A life-changing surgery and a new beginning
A family of happyness: Where love knows no bounds
Felix’s story isn’t just about his medical journey; it’s also a testament to the power of family. He shares his home with a quirky and loveable crew: Sammy, an Australian Cattle Dog with a mild cleft; PB, a 12-year-old dachshund; Baby Girl, an Alaskan terrier; and Meera, a brindle whippet. This rescued menagerie exemplifies the beauty of chosen families, where love transcends species and medical conditions.
A family of happyness: Where love knows no bounds
A ball of unbridled joy: Felix’s infectious zest for life
Despite his past struggles, Felix is a picture of pure joy. He’s described as “blissfully unaware of his health issues” and possesses an endless reserve of energy. Whether playing fetch with his favorite stuffed toys (even if he does occasionally eat them!), swimming in the river, or simply spending time with his family, Felix embraces life with unbridled enthusiasm.
Felix’s story is a beacon of hope, reminding us that even with significant challenges, resilience, love, and proper care can create a world of difference. He serves as an inspiration to never give up on those who need us most and to celebrate the beauty of life, no matter the obstacles.
