OP

Species
Dog

My pet was
rescued (usually from the streets or a bad situation)

From what organization or individual was your pet adopted/rescued/purchased
Stray Rescue of St. Louis

How does this photo represent the theme – Life is Better Together?
OP, short for Optimus Prime, is one of the most memorable rescues because of the severity of abuse he endured, but also because of his strength and resilience. He was shot multiple times, had an extension cord tied around his neck, and was thrown in a dumpster to die. Though his wounds left his back legs paralyzed, his fighting spirit prevailed. He touched the hearts of everyone he came in contact with - especially Randy, Stray Rescue's founder and OP's adopter. OP is now living the life with Randy and all his four-legged brothers and sisters, zipping around in his custom made cart! Here's what Randy had to say about OP...
"I am so thankful that OP is with me, and he inspires me every day to be a better human. This sweet boy has the kindest soul I have ever encountered. If there is a day that I'm feeling overwhelmed, sad, or frustrated to the point that I feel I just can’t take any more, all I have to do is look at OP. His happiness and courage puts things into perspective. He has been through the worst of the worst and still has the capacity to love to the fullest. My life would have a huge void without him, but thankfully I don’t have to know what that would be like. Every morning I wake up, see him with the rest of my “kids,” and I can’t imagine a better way to start my day."