I’m thrilled to report that Timber is out of the hospital and now at our Rehabilitation Facility in Okatie, SC. We were all nervous about his transition from the ICU, but he had improved enough that I felt confident he was past the worst danger. At some point, I had to trust my instincts and give Timber the chance to be a dog again, free from round-the-clock hospital care. He had already overcome so many obstacles and was finally able to eat his normal amount of calories.

I’m hopeful the worst is behind us. Timber remains in critical condition and requires constant care and bandage changes, but I believe we can provide everything he needs and more. Animals don’t thrive in hospital environments. While hospitals are essential for saving lives, once an animal is out of immediate danger, a home or rehab facility is far better for recovery. Timber has thrived since being released from the hospital. What we thought would be overwhelmingly stressful has proven otherwise. He still needs intensive medical care and frequent bandage changes, but he’s gaining weight and beginning to stand on his own.

I learned long ago that animals heal more quickly and effectively in a home-like environment, which is why our Rehabilitation Facility is designed to resemble a home. The interior features rooms similar to those found in a typical house. This is critical because most animals in our care will spend their entire lives at our facility. We are their family, and this is their home.

I’ll provide weekly updates since Timber’s progress will be gradual over the next couple of months. He will require wound care and bandage changes for at least two months, possibly longer. Once his main wound has healed, he’ll be able to socialize with the other dogs. For now, he interacts through his kennel and loves when every dog stops by to say hello. His kennel is next to Maya’s, and I’ve noticed Maya getting up at night to check on Timber. Once she’s sure he’s sleeping soundly, she settles back down to sleep.

Thank you for helping us save this incredible dog. His fight to survive has now become his journey to heal. Timber is happy, loved, and growing more confident each day. Six months from now, I believe you’ll be amazed at how magnificent he’ll be once he regains his weight. I look forward to sharing his progress each week.