Junum, a two-year-old shepherd mix, captured the hearts of many after surviving a terrifying accident that left him gravely injured. On July 31, the Arizona Humane Society (AHS) received an urgent call from Phoenix Police about a stray dog impaled and severely injured. The rescue dog, later named Junum, had attempted to climb a wire fence, resulting in a traumatic injury that nearly took his life. However, thanks to swift medical intervention and weeks of intensive care, Junum has made an incredible recovery and is now thriving in his new home.
Stray dog impaled on a fence makes a miraculous recovery and finds a new home
The Accident: A Life-Threatening Injury
Junum’s journey to survival began with a horrific incident. According to the Arizona Humane Society’s report, Junum was found impaled and disemboweled, likely the result of trying to scale a wire fence. The dog sustained a massive laceration to his abdomen, causing his intestines to spill out of his body. When emergency medical technicians arrived, they quickly recognized the severity of the situation and rushed the injured dog to the Lazin Animal Foundation Trauma Hospital. Junum’s condition was critical, and it required immediate emergency surgery to save his life. The operation was extensive, with veterinarians removing over five feet of intestine to stabilize the dog.
Despite the severe nature of his injuries, Junum’s fighting spirit shone through. After surviving the emergency surgery, he was placed in the hospital’s Intensive Care Unit (ICU) to begin a long and challenging recovery.
The Accident: A Life-Threatening Injury
The Long Road to Recovery
Following the surgery, Junum faced an arduous recovery process. He spent over a month in the ICU, receiving daily medical attention, including wound care and monitoring for infections. His resilience was evident as he began to heal, though the process was slow and fraught with challenges. In addition to recovering from his traumatic injuries, Junum also underwent dental surgery, further showcasing the extensive care he required during his stay at the hospital. Throughout this time, the Arizona Humane Society’s medical team remained dedicated to his recovery, and their hard work paid off. By mid-September, AHS shared an update on their Instagram account, revealing that Junum was “feeling much better” after his prolonged hospital stay.
The video shared by AHS documented Junum’s miraculous transformation, from the early days of his critical condition to his recovery. The post resonated with many animal lovers, and comments poured in celebrating the dog’s journey to health.
The Long Road to Recovery
A New Beginning in a Forever Home
After his month-long recovery, Junum was ready for the next chapter of his life. He spent just over a week on the adoption floor before finding his forever home. A loving family from Buckeye, Arizona, adopted Junum and renamed him Cooper. The new owners shared their excitement and joy on social media, proudly claiming him as their own. “Hey, that’s my dog now! His name is now Cooper, and he is in fact a very good floof,” one of the family members commented on AHS’s Instagram post. They also shared how much they adore Cooper, describing him as “gentle and sweet” and noting that he gets “LOTS of scratches and treats.”
This happy ending is a testament to Junum’s incredible resilience and the unwavering commitment of the Arizona Humane Society. Cooper is now thriving in a loving home where he receives the care and affection he deserves. His transformation from a severely injured stray to a cherished family member is truly inspiring.
A New Beginning in a Forever Home
The Arizona Humane Society: A Lifeline for Thousands of Animals
Junum’s story highlights the critical role played by the Arizona Humane Society, a nonprofit organization dedicated to the rescue and care of animals in need. Founded in 1957, AHS has grown into the state’s largest animal welfare and protection agency. In addition to responding to emergency situations like Junum’s, AHS also plays a vital role in helping animals during natural disasters and distress situations. Each year, the organization provides care for nearly 22,000 sick, injured, and abused pets, offering a lifeline to those who might otherwise not survive.
Junum’s miraculous recovery is just one of the many success stories that showcase the impact of AHS’s work. The organization’s team of emergency responders and medical technicians continuously work to ensure that animals in critical condition receive the best possible care. In Junum’s case, their efforts not only saved his life but also gave him the chance to live a happy, healthy future in a loving home.
Junum, now Cooper, represents hope, resilience, and the power of compassion. His story reminds us of the importance of organizations like the Arizona Humane Society, whose dedication ensures that animals in dire circumstances are given a second chance at life.
