Driving down the main motorway from Belgrade to Skopje is a journey many of us are familiar with. This critical artery, fenced for safety, includes numerous parking lots and rest areas where travelers can pause for a break.
However, for some, these rest areas are a matter of survival rather than convenience. One such rest area, a nondescript stop with only a toilet and a few scattered trees, holds a significant place in my heart.
It was here, on a cold January day in 2022, that I found Angel, a severely emaciated and nearly frozen dog. And it was in this very same spot, on May 9, 2024, that I rescued Thomas.
Thomas’ Condition and Rescue
Thomas, a mixed-breed dog estimated to be over five years old, had been surviving on the motorway for more than four weeks. Each time I passed by, I hoped and prayed that someone would come to his aid.
But as days turned into weeks, it became clear that Thomas was waiting for me.
Many might think I was crazy to take him in, especially considering the enormous debt I already faced from my rescue efforts. But I couldn’t bear to see another innocent life lost to the dangers of the motorway.
The speed limit on this stretch is 120km/h, with many drivers exceeding that limit, making it a perilous place for any animal.
Fenced in with nowhere to go, the chances of survival for a stray dog are slim. I had to act, and I did.
Thomas’ Transformation
When I first rescued Thomas, he was understandably terrified. He wouldn’t move, sitting still as if afraid any movement might bring harm.
But with time, patience, and a lot of love, Thomas began to show his true personality.
He is a good, gentle boy who gets along well with everyone. Now, he plays joyfully with his boarding housemates, his fear slowly replaced by trust and happiness.
Thomas is a medium-sized dog, standing around 45cm tall and 50cm long, and weighing about 20kg.
His key characteristics make him an ideal companion: he is obedient, calm, and playful. He loves other dogs, is great with people and kids, and has a particular fondness for cuddles.
His adaptability is one of his strongest traits; he fits in easily and would thrive in any loving home.
Why Thomas Needs Your Help
Thomas’ story is a testament to the resilience and kindness that dogs possess, even in the face of adversity.
However, rescuing and rehabilitating dogs like Thomas comes with significant financial burdens. The cost of food, veterinary care, and boarding can be overwhelming, especially for someone already facing double-digit thousand debts from previous rescues.
Despite these challenges, I couldn’t ignore Thomas’ plight. He needed help, and I stepped in, hoping that others would join me in supporting these noble efforts.
Thomas is now healthy, neutered, vaccinated, and ready to travel to his forever home. But I need your help to continue providing for him and other rescues like him.
The Call to Action: How You Can Help
Thomas is ready for adoption and eager to find a family that will love him as much as he loves life.
His journey from a terrified, stranded dog on a motorway to a playful, loving companion is nothing short of miraculous. But his story doesn’t end here. He needs a permanent home, a place where he can continue to thrive and bring joy to those around him.
By adopting Thomas, you’re not just giving him a home; you’re also making room for another rescue.
If you can’t adopt, consider fostering or sponsoring. Every little bit helps and makes a significant difference in the lives of these dogs.
Donations, no matter how small, contribute to covering the costs of food, medical care, and shelter for Thomas and many others like him.
Conclusion: A Plea for Support
Thomas’ story is one of many that highlight the urgent need for rescue and support. The dangers of the motorway are ever-present, and countless dogs are at risk every day. But with your help, we can change their fate.
So, what are you waiting for? Open your heart and your home to Thomas.
If adoption isn’t an option, please consider donating to support his care and the ongoing rescue efforts.
Together, we can ensure that dogs like Thomas have a chance at a better life, filled with love, safety, and happiness.
Rescuing Thomas was a leap of faith, driven by compassion and a refusal to let another life slip away. Now, I ask you to join me in this mission. Let’s give Thomas the home he deserves and continue to save more lives, one dog at a time.
Another Heartbreaking Encounter
On July 20, when the city temperature soared to 43°C and the parking area was even hotter due to the parked trucks, I found another terrified, emaciated, and dehydrated dog in the same rest area.
Someone had tried to give her water in a small tuna fish can, but it was far from enough.
Unfortunately, due to my enormous debt, I couldn’t take her in. The only thing I could do was relocate her to a safer spot by the river near my home.
This area, with its abundance of trees, provided a perfect hiding place, much like the motorway rest area. Here, she had access to plenty of water and a more secure environment.
When I brought her to this spot, she drank eagerly but refused to eat until she had cooled down.
She hid away, but I know she’s there because she regularly eats the food I leave for her. I hope that one day, she’ll be brave enough to come out for a cuddle.
How to Adopt a Dog from a Rescue?
If you decide to adopt Thomas or any other Nevena’s Rescue, please check out this blog 👉 the process of adoption from Nevena’s Rescues.
This is not prying into your life, this is just the measure to value if the dog is a good fit into your lifestyle and household.
These measures are just to make both sides satisfied. We don’t want anyone to suffer, neither a human nor a dog that already went through a horrible past.
However, by adopting a dog you save not one but two lives because this way you free up space for another dog to be rescued from the streets.
Here you can discover more dogs for adoption.
If you’re interested in
- Fostering
- Adoption
💌 Please contact us via the FB page
If you want to help Thomas & my other dogs stay safe in the boarding home, fed and healthy, please
- Donate
- Sponsor
💟 Via PayPal
nancyadams@live.co.uk with a note for Nevena’s Rescues.
Nevena’s Rescues
Many animals under our care have been waiting for a home offer for a long time. By checking out my Facebook page, you can learn about these animals and take action to help them find loving homes.
To continue changing the lives of vulnerable animals, Nevena’s Rescues relies on the generosity of individuals like you.
Don’t miss out on the opportunity to make a difference in the lives of rescued pets! You have the opportunity to take part in our animal auctions, which provide a unique way for you to both shop and donate in my FaceBook group.
Please consider making a donation today. Every penny goes towards providing medical care, food, and shelter for animals in need.
Thomas’ journey reminds us that even the smallest act of compassion can transform a life, showing that kindness has the power to create lasting change.
A very well-written and useful article. Thanks for sharing such valuable insights!