When the rescue team at Animal Aid Unlimited, India, received a call about a street dog convulsing on the roadside, they knew every second counted. The caller reported that the dog was having a violent seizure, her small body trembling uncontrollably on the damp pavement. Without immediate intervention, she could choke, sustain head trauma, or suffer permanent brain damage.
As the team rushed to the location, they braced themselves for the worst. A dog experiencing seizures could be difficult to approach, and they would have to be extremely careful not to cause additional distress. Upon arrival, they found her lying motionless near the wheel of a parked car, her breathing rapid but shallow. Her eyes were distant, unfocused, and her body twitched in the aftermath of the seizure. It was clear she needed urgent medical attention.
A Delicate and Urgent Capture
Source: Animal Aid Unlimited
Catching a dog in such a fragile state required precision and patience. Any sudden movements could startle her and send her into another seizure, but they also needed to act quickly before she slipped further into danger. The rescuers decided to use a net to safely capture her without causing additional stress or injury.
One of the team members gently placed the net over her while another carefully lifted her weak body from the ground. She barely responded—her energy was completely drained from the violent convulsions. They wasted no time and transported her straight to their facility, cradling her gently as they drove, hoping she would hold on just a little longer.
Fighting for Her Life
Source: Animal Aid Unlimited
Upon arrival, the medical team immediately administered anti-seizure medication to stabilize her condition. They weren’t sure what had caused the episode—it could have been epilepsy, a severe infection, poisoning, or even head trauma from an accident. They ran tests and checked for injuries while closely monitoring her vitals. Despite her exhaustion, there was a faint glimmer of life in her eyes.
For the next several hours, the rescuers took turns sitting by her side, keeping watch over the fragile dog. They named her Stella, a name fitting for a little fighter who had just survived a battle she didn’t even know she was fighting. But the road to recovery was still uncertain. Stella had trouble standing and couldn’t keep her balance when she tried to lift herself. The team feared she might have suffered brain damage from the prolonged seizure.
A Long Road to Recovery
Source: Animal Aid Unlimited
The following days were critical. Though Stella was no longer seizing, she remained disoriented and weak. She could not stand without assistance, her legs wobbling beneath her like she had forgotten how to use them. The team provided round-the-clock care, ensuring she received proper medication, fluids, and nutritious meals. They gently massaged her limbs and helped her practice short, supported walks to rebuild her strength.
It was heartbreaking to see her struggle, but Stella never gave up. Even when she fell, she tried again, her spirit shining through despite her frail body. Each day, she made tiny improvements, gaining a little more stability and confidence.
A Triumph Against the Odds
Source: Animal Aid Unlimited
Weeks passed, and Stella continued to improve. She no longer needed constant support and could now take slow but steady steps on her own. Her once-dull eyes sparkled with hope, and she began wagging her tail when she saw her rescuers approaching. The moment she stood fully on her own for the first time, the entire team erupted in cheers. Stella had done it—she had fought through the pain, the confusion, and the fear, and she had come out stronger.
With her recovery nearly complete, Stella transformed into a joyful, affectionate girl. She showered her rescuers with licks and leaned into their embraces, showing them just how grateful she was for their kindness. Her days of suffering on the roadside were now just a distant memory.
A Future Filled with Love
Source: Animal Aid Unlimited
Stella’s incredible journey is a testament to the power of resilience and compassion. Without the swift action of her rescuers, she may not have survived the day. But thanks to their dedication and her own unwavering spirit, she now has a second chance at life—one filled with love, warmth, and endless tail wags.
If you’d like to see the full rescue in action and learn more about their incredible work, watch the original video here.