When the rescue team from Animal Aid Unlimited, India, received a distress call about a dog in urgent need of help, they didn’t hesitate. Reports described a dog roaming the streets with a deep, gaping wound around his neck. Upon arrival, the rescuers’ worst fears were confirmed—the dog, later named Sage, had a thin metal wire cutting deeply into his flesh, nearly strangling him. His movements were slow, his body weak, and his eyes carried the weight of immense suffering.
The wire had likely been embedded for weeks, each day slicing further into his skin and muscles as he moved. Infection had already set in, and the wound was raw and bloody. Despite the unbearable pain, Sage still had the spirit to keep going, though he had no way of escaping his cruel trap.
A Delicate Capture to Save His Life
Source: Animal Aid Unlimited
The rescuers knew they had to act quickly but carefully. Any sudden movements might cause Sage to panic, worsening his injury. Using a humane net, they gently caught him, ensuring that the wire wouldn’t pull further into his wound. Once secured, he was placed inside a transport cage and rushed to the Animal Aid Unlimited shelter for immediate treatment.
Inside the ambulance, the team could see how deeply the wire had cut through—down to the muscle in some areas. Flies swarmed around the open wound, and his fur was stained with dried blood. The sight was heartbreaking, but they remained focused on the mission: to free Sage from his pain.
Treating a Wound That Cut to the Bone
Source: Animal Aid Unlimited
At the shelter, Sage was sedated to spare him further agony as the medical team worked to remove the embedded wire. As they carefully cut it away, the extent of the damage became clear. The flesh around his neck was severely infected, with pus and dead tissue surrounding the deep lacerations. His skin had started to rot from the prolonged constriction.
They flushed the wound multiple times, removing bacteria and dirt. Sage was given antibiotics to fight the infection and painkillers to ease his suffering. Though he remained unconscious during the procedure, his breathing was steady—a sign that he still had a fighting chance.
With fresh bandages wrapped around his neck, Sage was placed in a quiet recovery area, where he could rest. The next 24 hours would be critical in determining his survival.
A Slow But Miraculous Recovery
Source: Animal Aid Unlimited
By the second week, Sage had made incredible progress. His wound, once an open chasm of pain, was now closing steadily thanks to regular cleaning and medication. The team continued flushing the wound daily, applying fresh bandages, and ensuring he received proper nutrition and hydration.
Despite the trauma he had endured, Sage’s personality began to shine. He wagged his tail when caregivers entered his enclosure, eager for affection. It was as if he knew he was finally safe. His eyes, once filled with exhaustion, now sparkled with life.
With each passing day, his strength improved. He started to walk around the shelter, exploring his surroundings with curiosity. His appetite returned, and he ate every meal with enthusiasm, savoring the simple joy of a full belly.
A Handsome Boy Healed and Loved
Source: Animal Aid Unlimited
Weeks of care and dedication led to a complete transformation. Sage’s wound had healed entirely, leaving only a faint scar as a reminder of his past suffering. His white fur was clean and soft, and his once-sunken frame had filled out with healthy weight. But more than his physical recovery, it was his spirit that amazed everyone—Sage was gentle, affectionate, and incredibly sweet.
The team ensured he received full vaccinations and neutering before preparing him for a future where he would never suffer again. With love, patience, and medical attention, he had overcome what could have been a tragic ending.
Sage now spends his days playing with other rescued dogs at the shelter, his tail wagging freely, his heart full of trust. Without rescue, he wouldn’t have survived the cruel wire that nearly took his life. But today, thanks to the kindness of strangers, he is happy, healthy, and deeply loved.
If you’d like to see the full rescue in action and learn more about their incredible work, watch the original video here.