Instagram is chalk full of adorable pups, however, Phoenix is one in a million. This pup was found by Skiatook Paws and Claws in November 2019, an animal rescue and adoption organization based in Oklahoma. When Phoenix was found in Collinsville, many of the organization’s volunteers and concerned users on social media believed his appearance was the result of severe animal abuse. However, after being analyzed by a veterinarian, he was diagnosed with an auto-immune disease called Systemic Lupus Erythematosus. This disease causes the immune system to attack the body’s healthy tissue.
After spending several weeks undergoing tests, Phoenix eventually found his forever family and is living it up. Due to his condition, he does wear clothing and has a space heater to stay warm—but other than that, he’s just like any other pup!
Phoenix’s amazing story has captured the attention of hundreds of thousands of people online, who tune in for updates on this unusual dog. His transformation from the streets to his forever home is utterly inspiring and proves that every animal is deserving of love—no matter what they look like.