All shelter dogs share a common desire for a loving and permanent home, but unfortunately not all of them are able to achieve this on their first attempt. Bandit’s story is a testament to the resilience and strength of these furry creatures, as he faced major health challenges after being taken in as a stray by the Gwinnett Jail Dogs Program and becoming paralyzed below his waist. However, fate intervened and someone with the same condition as Bandit learned about him and decided to adopt him. Now, Bandit has finally found his forever home, after being returned four times before. His heartwarming story is a reminder that every dog deserves a chance at happiness.
Bandit’s life as a shelter dog has been far from smooth sailing. Unlike most shelter dogs, he was found wandering alone and taken to the Gwinnett County Animal Shelter. However, he was soon transferred to the one-of-a-kind Gwinnett Jail Dogs Program, where dogs are saved from being put down and trained and cared for by jail inmates.
In no time, they found out that he was suffering from heartworms and required intensive medical procedures.
The perfect family for Bandit was hard to come by until Darrell and Sue Rider discovered him on Facebook. They didn’t mind that Bandit required extra care, as Darrell also uses a wheelchair due to a previous accident that left him paralyzed below the waist.
Initially, it was believed to be a temporary condition, but as time went by, it became apparent that the paralysis was irreversible.
Darrell expressed that the most fascinating aspect of Bandit is their shared condition of paralysis, which requires the use of a wheelchair for mobility. Being familiar with life in a wheelchair, he and his wife Sue were able to provide the necessary care for Bandit, and this created a profound connection between them. Fortunately, Darrell and Sue discovered Bandit and decided to give him a loving home.
Darrell Rider expressed that what fascinates him the most about Bandit is their shared experience of paralysis and reliance on a wheelchair for mobility.
Despite feeling comfortable around the prisoners, he has adapted seamlessly to his new family. Rider expressed his joy with regards to Bandit’s adjustment, stating that he has settled in perfectly with his new environment. Rider and Sue, both of whom have lived life using wheelchairs, were able to understand Bandit’s needs better and felt a deeper connection with him. The family is overjoyed to have Bandit in their lives.
The online community warmly reacted to the tale and expressed their well-wishes for the individuals involved.