In a Florida dumping ground, a young Rottweiler named Susanna faced a dire situation, abandoned and paralyzed near a dumpster. Isabel Zapata, a local animal rescuer, discovered Susanna’s plight and reached out to Gulfstream Guardian Angels Rottweiler Rescue for help.
These dumping grounds are where, sadly, unwanted animals are left. Sometimes they are dead when they are dumped, but too many times they are left clinging to life by owners who don’t care. “She couldn’t even lift her head or walk,” Zapata recalled, describing Susanna’s condition. “It was heartbreaking.”
Hospital staff work to stabilize Susanna after she was found dumped behind a trash bin. Photo from Facebook/Laurie Kardon
The co-founder of the group, Yolanda Ramirez, said that as she watched video of Susanna’s capture she was horrified. “We can’t even begin to imagine the pain and suffering she has been through – she has been discarded like a piece of garbage, she is lying in a dump among the debris, pieces of trash, decomposed food, dirt, pieces of wood, plastic cups, Styrofoam, and metal,” she said.
Her weak, fragile and exhausted body is about to give up.”
Laurie Kardon, a board member for the rescue, highlighted the dangers faced by animals left in such locations. “It’s a dangerous place with trucks speeding through,” Kardon said. “Many don’t make it.” Susanna was fortunate to be rescued and taken to an animal hospital for urgent care.
Despite initial tests showing no spinal issues or broken bones, Susanna’s paralysis remained unexplained. Further examination revealed a troubling past—Susanna had likely been used for breeding and confined to a crate for most of her life.
Susanna swims during therapy. Photo from Facebook/Laurie Kardon
”She had some arthritis and physical deformities to her legs, that make us think she was simply stuffed into a crate since puppyhood,” Kardon said. “She was most likely in there the majority of her life and used for breeding. And when breeders are done with dogs, they simply dispose of them,” she added.
Despite the challenges, Susanna’s spirit remained strong. With dedicated care from rescuers and veterinary staff, she began a journey of recovery through physical therapy and treatments. “From the moment we saw her, we knew she wanted to live,” Kardon said.
We were going to do everything we could to help her.”
Through perseverance and support, Susanna regained her strength and mobility. “She is just so happy,” Kardon remarked. “It’s probably for the first time in her life she’s felt this way.” Susanna had sessions swimming in a pool to regain enough strength to be able to walk. After a time, she found that strength and is now able to walk around and live a normal life.
Susanna walks through the grass with another rescue dog. Photo from Facebook/Laurie Kardon
Kardon was finally able to post that Susanna had found her forever home, something everyone knew this brave doggy deserved. “She’s really a testament to her breed,” Kardon said. “She is strong, determined and brave, but also so sweet and loving. She’s got the heart of a Rottweiler, that’s for sure.” Watch Susanna’s story, below.
