We are heartbroken to announce the passing of Miracle, the most incredible rescue Dobe. Over the years, this amazing boy has been a huge part of IDR+.
On 1/11/11, we got a call about a Doberman, who was found in the trash in an alley. He weighed only 33 lbs. Volunteers from IDR+ and other rescues rushed to get this severely emaciated boy to critical vet care. Dr. E. and her talented staff (especially Kathy) saved his life. They could not believe that he was still alive. His temperature was so low that it didn’t register on the thermometer, and his eyes had sunk into his head. The vet said, “He was hypothermic, semi-comatose, hypoglycemic and extremely dehydrated.”
But after several days of essential medical care, Miracle started to pick his head up and eat. We celebrated when he wagged his tail nub and eventually stood to walk! His astonishing recovery was a miracle, so he earned his name. His story went viral, and people from around the world sent donations and prayers. After weeks at the vet, Miracle was strong enough to finish recovering in a foster home. He continued to put on weight and get healthy, eventually weighing 90 lbs!
A wonderful man, Rob, fell in love with Miracle and was the perfect home for our boy. But Miracle’s involvement with IDR+ did not end with his adoption. He made several appearances at our fundraisers and slept over at the former president’s and vice president’s homes when Rob traveled for work. Miracle and Rob were part of the IDR+ family. We even named our monthly donation program after him–the Miracle Makers.
In 2011, the vet estimated Miracle at 3-4 years old, so he must have been 12-13, which is a good, long life for a Dobe. He maintained good health this whole time, but he declined recently and was hospitalized with pneumonia last week. He fought hard, but it was ultimately too much for him. Miracle passed away on Saturday with Rob at his side.
We will be forever grateful for Dr. E. and Kathy for saving his life, Andy and Pam for their efforts, Lauren for documenting his recovery and life, and Rob for loving him every day. We will never forget his story, which reminds the volunteers of what drives us to keep rescuing.