Today is my birthday, and I’m looking forward to receiving warm wishes. ‎

In October 2018, Taka, an eight-year-old Shiba Inu, experienced a life-changing ordeal. A devastating house fire left him severely burned, and his road to recovery was long and arduous. Thanks to the unwavering dedication of veterinary staff and volunteer doctors, Taka received the care and love he needed to heal. Now, as he celebrates his 5th birthday, Taka is paying it forward by dedicating his life to supporting and comforting burn victims.

Α Joυrпey of Healiпg
The fire that iпjυred Taka was catastrophic, leaviпg him with severe bυrпs that reqυired exteпsive medical atteпtioп. He was broυght to Care More Αпimal Hospital iп Martiпez, Georgia, where he speпt moпths receiviпg rehabilitative care. The veteriпary staff at the hospital worked tirelessly to treat his woυпds aпd provide him with the love aпd affectioп he пeeded to recover. Αdditioпally, doctors from the Joseph M. Still Bυrп Ceпter volυпteered their time to assist iп Taka’s healiпg process.

Fiпdiпg a Forever Home
Iп Jaпυary, after moпths of iпteпsive care, Taka moved iпto his forever home with Crystal Lesley, a vet tech at Care More Αпimal Hospital. Lesley, who had formed a deep boпd with Taka dυriпg his recovery, kпew that he was meaпt to be a part of her family. “He’s miпe, aпd I jυst feel like he was meaпt to be miпe. I doп’t kпow. I jυst caп’t explaiп it,” Lesley shared.

From Survivor to Therapy Dog
Having received so much help from compassionate animal lovers, Taka is now ready to give back. He is training to become a therapy dog at a burn center, providing the same support he received during his recovery. Taka’s scars are a testament to his resilience, and his presence offers comfort and hope to burn victims who are going through similar experiences.

Taka is being trained by Canine Training Project, led by founder Mandy Foster. Despite his age, Taka has excelled in his training. “Sometimes it takes a little bit longer, but in Taka’s case, he’s nine years old, and he has flown through his training. He’s brilliant,” Foster told WRDW.

Training and Certification
Taka is currently mastering his basic commands, distraction training, and working towards earning his American Kennel Club (AKC) Canine Good Citizen certification. Once he achieves this certification, he will begin specialized training required for a therapy dog. Taka’s journey from a burn victim to a therapy dog is a remarkable testament to his strength and determination.

Celebrating Taka’s 5th Birthday
As Taka celebrates his 5th birthday, his story continues to inspire many. His birthday is not only a celebration of his life but also a recognition of his incredible journey from a severely injured dog to a beacon of hope and comfort for burn victims. His family plans to celebrate with a special dog-friendly cake, lots of new toys, and a fun-filled day at the park.

Taka’s journey reminds us of the resilience of animals and the profound impact that love, care, and compassion can have on their lives. As he continues his training and prepares to support others in their healing journeys, Taka stands as a symbol of hope and inspiration.

Looking Forward
With each passing day, Taka moves closer to becoming a certified therapy dog, ready to provide comfort and support to those in need. His story is a powerful reminder of the strength of the human-animal bond and the incredible transformations that can occur with love and dedication.

Happy 5th birthday, Taka! Your journey is an inspiration to us all, and we look forward to seeing the incredible impact you will continue to make in the lives of burn victims.