Dog used as bait adopted—7 years later, shelter shares heartbreaking video

A dog who had been used as bait had his life changed forever when he was rescued, and he went on to help save countless other dogs.

Freedom was found abandoned seven years ago, with wounds and rips to his ears making it clear he had been used as bait in dog fights.

He was rescued by the Dan Cosgrove Animal Shelter in Branford, Connecticut, who could see Freedom’s potential behind the horrific past he had endured—and after many surgeries and rehabilitation, his adopter, Jennifer Newmaker, saw it too.

Freedom went on to live a happy life as a much-loved pet with Newmaker, sometimes returning to the shelter that saved him for visits, and his story touched hearts wherever he went.

Shelter director Laura Selvaggio Burban told Newsweek: “Freedom changed the scope of how government officials viewed dog fighting in our state. Because of Freedom’s publicity, a task force was created investigating dog fighting and many other dogs and animals were saved from horrific fates.

“Freedom’s story is one that highlights both the horrific abuse animals sustain at the hands of humans, and also the rehabilitation that occurs when other humans step in to provide the proper care, love and treatment.”

Now, seven years later, the shelter has shared a heartbreaking video, featuring Freedom’s start to life, and how he overcame it all to become a happy and adored pet.

A clip shared to the Dan Cosgrove Animal Shelter Facebook page on December 11 begins with Freedom when he was first rescued, his ears torn to shreds as he had been “systematically torn apart over and over again by other dogs.”

“Freedom was hogtied likely with wires, his teeth shaved down and his spirit crushed,” they wrote—but after spending a year in their care, being treated with love and kindness, and Freedom showing that same love back to them, they believed he was ready to be adopted.

When Newmaker visited the shelter, she and Freedom formed an instant bond, and staff “knew immediately, they were meant to be together.”

In the years since, Freedom was a true member of the family, going on walks, adventures, and even becoming a local celebrity “because so many people knew him and how friendly he was.”

The video showed a joyously happy dog, jumping in leaf piles, going camping, getting treats, and plenty of love, as Freedom “learned that people are safe and life can be fun.”

They then revealed that Freedom, by now a senior dog, was diagnosed with cancer earlier this year. And, after one last visit to his former home at the shelter, reuniting with the staff that cared for him, Freedom died in December.

“Freedom changed the world,” they wrote. “He showed the world bait dogs could be rehabilitated…his mom changed the world too, by believing in him.”

Selvaggio Burban told Newsweek: “Freedom’s transformation was due to dedication on part of the Dan Cosgrove Animal Shelter staff, volunteers, and donors of our shelter, and especially due to Jenn adopting him and giving him the world.

“Jennifer provided Freedom with all of the love and guidance that we could have hoped for and more. His scars, both physically and emotionally, had completely healed because of her, and for that we are forever grateful to her.”

Newmaker herself told Newsweek that the first photo she ever saw of Freedom was him in a St Patricks Day hat, but beneath the festivities “he looked so sad and my heart just melted. I knew he would become mine.”

“Even knowing his history I knew he deserved a chance at a real life and to be able to be loved,” she said. “Once he came home, he truly blossomed into the most loving, silly and devoted boy. He was by my side until the time came that he passed.”

Newmaker spoke proudly about how Freedom “changed perceptions that people had about dogs involved in dog fighting,” and recalled their “many adventures” camping, on the beach and on road trips.

“He was my soul dog and I will love him forever. Words cannot express the gratitude I have for him choosing me.”

The shelter’s video had a major reaction, with over 1,000 likes, as moved animal lovers flocked to the post to pay tribute to Freedom.

One user wrote: “I am sobbing for what this dear dog went through, and crying tears of joy that he learned about love. And I’m laughing at him playing in the leaf pile! Thanks to the shelter, the vets, and his mom who gave him a chance at the food life he, and all dogs, deserve. My sincere condolences to all who loved him.”

“I remember his story so vividly,” another said. “I rescued a pittie mix from Project Precious Rescue because of him. I wanted to be an advocate for the breed. Run free Freedom. You & your mom changed so many hearts.”

And another wrote: “Oh my heart. So many tears for so many reasons but mostly joy in seeing his joy and gratitude for the amazing souls who rescued him and so many others. Rest in peace after all you gave, Freedom.”

Dogfighting, including being a spectator at a dogfight, is a felony in every state. Anyone involved can face three years in jail and a fine of $250,000.

However, tens of thousands of people are believed to be involved in the illegal bloodsport, according to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA).