From paralysed horror to a wobbly walk

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GEORGE NEWS AND VIDEO - A heartbreaking plea has gone out for Tilley the dog. Tilley, who was named Varkie before she was rescued, is a sweet-natured and resilient dog that has endured terrible pain and suffering. She now needs a forever home.

Tilley was found paralysed in a local informal settlement after her then owners contacted Oudtshoorn Dogs in Need (Odin). She suffered a severe back injury after being stoned in December last year.

Her owners contacted Odin in January. "Had they contacted us earlier, her recovery might have been quicker and less stressful," says Odin's Colleen Smith.

However, Tilley has shown the world that her will to live outshines everything. She has been recovering at a foster home where she receives amazing treatment to help her regain movement in her hind legs.

Albeit still a bit wobbly, Tilley can now walk again.

Tilley is recovering well in the foster care of Sacha and Forrest Hair.

"She has a kind and placid nature despite her suffering, but we can't send her back to where she came from," says Smith.

This gentle, affectionate girl deserves a second chance at life. A soft lawn to rest on and a kind soul to care for her.

"We have renamed her Tilley. Her full name is Matilda, which means strength in battle. She needed a name that suits her personality and journey," say Sacha and Forrest Hair, who have been fostering her.

"Names are very important for animals as they resonate with their souls and who they are."

The Hairs say Tilley has shown great strength in her recovery and is a fiercely loyal and clever girl. "She will do well with a small or older dog as she is calm and cannot yet run or play. She is getting stronger day by day and needs a home where people will understand her abilities and limits."

A screenshot from a video taken when Tilley was found. She was completely paralysed in her hind legs.