{"id":3585,"date":"2025-05-07T09:22:45","date_gmt":"2025-05-07T09:22:45","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/albotips.com\/?p=3585"},"modified":"2025-05-07T09:22:45","modified_gmt":"2025-05-07T09:22:45","slug":"rescue-dog-with-autoimmune-disease-that-proved-beauty-comes-from-within-has-sadly-passed-away","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/albotips.com\/?p=3585","title":{"rendered":"Rescue dog with autoimmune disease that proved beauty comes from within has sadly passed away"},"content":{"rendered":"

(Warning: This article contains graphic medical photos. The dog was not abused and was not in pain.)<\/strong><\/p>\n

All dogs deserve love, no matter how they look. Phoenix, a stray dog found in Collinsville, Oklahoma in 2020, had a severe facial disfigurement that shocked everyone\u2014but his spirit never wavered.<\/p>\n

Carisa Ducharne rescued Phoenix, describing him as “skin and bones” with swelling so bad he couldn\u2019t close his eyes. He was taken to Skiatook Paws & Claws Animal Rescue, where his story and photos drew both compassion and disbelief online.<\/p>\n

Though abuse was suspected, vets eventually diagnosed Phoenix with a rare autoimmune disease called Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE). It explained his condition and allowed them to manage it, even though some effects were permanent\u2014his muscles wouldn\u2019t return, and he needed protective clothing and sunscreen.<\/p>\n

Despite everything, Phoenix thrived. He played, barked, and inspired people battling illness and hardship. His story went viral, and he received endless love from the shelter and vet team.<\/p>\n

Many wanted to adopt him, but due to ongoing treatment, he stayed with those caring for him\u2014especially Dr. Gena, who became his person.<\/p>\n

In June 2020, the rescue shared that Phoenix had peacefully passed away, surrounded by love. Though his journey ended, his legacy of hope and resilience lives on.<\/p>\n

\n