A kind volunteer unknowingly shared a final, cherished walk with Fiona, a mixed-breed dog often overlooked by potential adopters, who crossed the rainbow bridge just hours later.
Johannesburg, South Africa (18 June 2025) – A student and a visiting volunteer at Paws R Us: SA recently took doggo Fiona on what would be her last adventure before the mixed-breed crossed over to the other side of the rainbow bridge just hours later.
What this special human doesn’t know is that she was one of the very few kind strangers who even looked twice at Fiona and nevertheless took her on a walk.
According to Paws R US, on the morning of Saturday, 14 June, Fiona showed no signs of discomfort or distress.
“She headed out with her human volunteer to go and explore and sniff around the grounds and returned to her kennel as normal. This is a stark reminder that we never know when it is our last day.”
Later on that afternoon, the dog was rushed to the Blue Hills Vet after showing signs of discomfort and lethargy.
“Upon arrival, and following a scan, Fiona was diagnosed as having a big spleen tumour with free fluid in the abdomen. This was confirmed as internal bleeding.
“Given her age, her condition, and the prognosis, the vet advised that we should let her go,” Paws R Us explained.
A stranger’s kindness during Fiona’s last moments
The animal welfare charity revealed that Fiona was never blessed with a home.
“No one ever enquired about her. As is the case with so many mixed-breed dogs who wait for miracles and blessings. Yet her heart contained oceans of love and patience, and a purity that shone out of her eyes as she interacted with us all.”
Fiona’s tragic passing sends a reminder of the countless and often overlooked mixed-breed dogs awaiting adoption in the kennels.
The Paws R Us team extended their heartfelt gratitude to this special volunteer, whose compassion and gentle pats brightened up Fiona’s last day before closing her eyes for the very last time.
Blessings to you, kind human. Rest softly, Fiona girl.
Sources: Paws R Us: SA
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