Rescue dog with autoimmune disease that proved beauty comes from within has sadly passed away

All dogs deserve love and happiness, regardless of their appearance. Some dogs face medical challenges that may initially make them hard to handle visually, but they possess hearts of gold on the inside.

Such was the case for Phoenix, a stray dog who had a severe disfigurement that seemed unbelievable to many. However, thanks to his indomitable spirit and the efforts of a dedicated team of rescuers, he inspired thousands along his journey to a better life.

In 2020, a stray dog was discovered in Collinsville, Oklahoma, and Carisa Ducharne, a compassionate woman, stepped in to rescue him. Carisa was shocked by the dog’s condition – his face was severely disfigured for unknown reasons.

“He was skin and bones,” Carisa told News on 6. “You could see all his ribs, and he couldn’t close his eyes due to the swelling and inflammation in his face.”

The dog was named Phoenix and taken to Skiatook Paws & Claws Animal Shelter. When the shelter shared his story on Facebook, people couldn’t believe what they saw.

“We received a lot of criticism for posting Phoenix’s picture,” the shelter wrote. “Many believed we had photoshopped his picture.” But it was all too real. While the exact cause of Phoenix’s condition remained unclear, Family Animal Medicine began investigating his health.

Given the prevalence of dog abuse, it was easy to assume that Phoenix’s disfigurement was due to mistreatment. However, while veterinarians didn’t rule out the possibility of abuse, they started suspecting that a medical condition was to blame.

Throughout the process of assessing his health, the shelter ensured that Phoenix felt at home. Despite his appearance, Phoenix did not suffer and embraced his new life.

“Phoenix is warm and comfortable; his belly is full, and he is being well cared for,” the vets affirmed. “Even though his appearance may be alarming, the scarring and disfigurement do not reflect his quality of life.”

The love and support Phoenix received from the veterinarians and shelter workers completely turned his life around. His story went viral on social media, and people rejoiced in witnessing Phoenix’s steady improvement.

“He’s been improving every single day,” Carisa shared with News on 6.

Phoenix’s resilience not only kept his spirits high but also inspired others facing their own challenges. “People with autoimmune diseases, burn victims, or anyone going through a tough time reached out, saying he’s been their inspiration,” Carisa added. “Being part of his story has been incredibly inspiring, and while it might not change the world, it changed his world.”

Phoenix consulted with various veterinarians specializing in skin disorders, who diligently worked to unravel the mystery behind his facial disfigurement. After exhausting all possibilities, they reached a diagnosis: Phoenix had a rare autoimmune disease called Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE). With this diagnosis, they could finally take steps to manage the disease.

“Last night, at around 5 pm, we let Phe go,” a heartfelt message announced.

Phoenix’s passing was peaceful. He was surrounded by people who adored him, and his mother and sisters held him close. Phoenix had found his person in Dr. Gena, and their bond was immeasurable. His heart belonged to her, and her heart belonged to him. All a dog wants is to find their person, and he was one of the fortunate ones who did. He held on as long as he could, not for himself but for her and her daughters. Exhausted, he let them know it was time to go.

The story of Phoenix, the resilient dog with a disfigurement caused by an autoimmune disease

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