Mr. Big was found in 2024, abandoned in a public bathroom and in such poor condition that he had barely a few days to live. He had worms in his ears and so many ticks that they were practically draining his blood.
But Mr. Big clung to life.
After five weeks of recovery, the dog who had been hidden behind all that pain began to emerge. His personality blossomed, and amid all the love and care, the shelter team affectionately started calling him “Turbo Hippo” and “Sir Chunksalot”. His favorite place was a simple hammock, where he could lie back happily and rest.
He managed to return to his original owner, but shortly afterward, he accidentally escaped and was attacked by a pack of stray dogs. Once again, he was on the brink of death. Niall Harbison and his veterinary team rescued him again and managed to stabilize him.
Mr. Big survived once more. And he was still himself: a big, beloved dog who was happy with the simplest things.
Until, in early October 2026, his body finally gave out. He had tumors growing toward his nerves and an enlarged heart. This time, there was no new battle. He passed away peacefully, without pain and surrounded by affection, eating his treats until the very last second.
After everything he had been through, that was the goodbye Mr. Big deserved: feeling loved.
“He was a very, very good boy”.