Gigantón’s Journey: From Abandonment to Hope

On May 19, a large senior dog named Gigantón was found tied near the doors of Samaha’s Garden - an animal rescue centre in Turkey. At approximately 10 years old, he had spent his life as a livestock guardian until he became too old to serve and, like many others before him, was discarded.

When Gustavo, the co-founder of Samaha’s Garden, saw him, he didn't hesitate to help. Gigantón was nearly blind, severely underweight, and covered in ticks. He had large patches of missing fur and open, untreated wounds on his back legs. A strong odour indicated that he was suffering from deep bacterial infections that had been left untreated for months. Although he was emotionally shut down, something changed when he met Gustavo — he instantly trusted him.

Michelle Fenton, a dedicated supporter of Gustavo, contacted Animal Aid Abroad for assistance. Recognising the urgency of Gigantón’s situation, funds were quickly sent for his medical treatment.

Gustavo administered Bravecto to address the parasites and rushed Gigantón to the vet. He weighed just 58 kilograms - dangerously thin for a dog of his size, who should weigh around 80 kilograms. Despite his fear, Gigantón remained calm and cooperative at the vet's office, even while muzzled (this is a common precaution for large dogs in Turkey).

At the clinic, he received an injection for fever and antibiotics, treatment for his wounds and eye infection, and instructions to be fed four full plates of food each day to help him rebuild his strength.

Since then, Gigantón has been healing slowly but steadily. While he still carries emotional scars, he no longer tucks his tail or trembles in fear. Recent photos show him smiling and enjoying life again. His bond with Gustavo has become unshakeable.

Samaha’s Garden has no volunteers — only one dedicated man doing the work of many. Thanks to support from Animal Aid Abroad, working dogs like Gigantón, who were once discarded like trash, are rediscovering what it means to be loved, fed and safe.

His road to recovery is ongoing, but the worst is behind him.

Samaha’s Garden has become a new partner of Animal Aid Abroad. We will continue to sponsor Gigantón and any other rescued working dogs who are in need of care and help from Gustavo at Samaha’s Garden refuge.