All dogs deserve the chance to experience love, comfort, and companionship—regardless of how they look. Some dogs may have medical conditions that alter their appearance in ways that can be hard to look at initially, but those changes don’t affect the beauty of their souls. Their loyalty, playfulness, and capacity to love remain untouched. One incredible example of this truth is Phoenix, a stray dog whose face was so disfigured that many people thought he couldn’t be real. But with unwavering determination and the help of some truly compassionate people, Phoenix went from being abandoned and overlooked to inspiring thousands around the world.
In 2020, a stray dog was discovered wandering the streets of Collinsville, Oklahoma. His condition shocked everyone who saw him. He was extremely thin, and his face was severely disfigured—so much so that it didn’t seem possible he could have survived this long. The dog was rescued by a woman named Carisa Ducharne, who was deeply affected by what she saw. “He was skin and bones,” Carisa told local news outlet News on 6. “You could see all his ribs, and his face was so inflamed that he couldn’t even close his eyes. The swelling and inflammation were just unbelievable.”
Carisa brought the dog to Skiatook Paws & Claws Animal Rescue, where he was given the name Phoenix. The shelter quickly shared Phoenix’s story and photos on social media, hoping to find support and help. But the reaction wasn’t what they expected at first. Many people online accused the shelter of photoshopping the pictures. “We received a ton of criticism for posting Phoenix’s picture,” the shelter later shared. “Many thought it had been digitally altered.”
Unfortunately, the images were real. Phoenix’s face had been so drastically changed by his condition that people simply couldn’t believe it. At the time, the exact cause of his disfigurement was unknown. He was transferred to Family Animal Medicine, where veterinarians began to investigate his condition. Given how many animals suffer abuse, it was easy to assume Phoenix might have been intentionally hurt. While they didn’t rule that out, the medical team leaned toward the possibility that his appearance was the result of an underlying medical condition.
During this uncertain time, the shelter focused on giving Phoenix a safe and loving environment. Although his face appeared alarming, the vets were clear that he wasn’t in pain and was, in fact, enjoying life. “Phoenix is warm and comfortable; his belly is full, and he is being well cared for,” the team at Family Animal Medicine said. “Even though his appearance may be shocking, the scarring and disfigurement do not reflect his quality of life.”
With love, care, and proper medical attention, Phoenix began to improve. His story spread across social media platforms, and people all over the world rooted for him. Carisa watched him get stronger every day. “He’s done nothing but improve every single day,” she said.
Phoenix’s unbreakable spirit began to touch people far beyond the local community. “People with autoimmune diseases, burn victims, or anyone going through a hard time have reached out saying he’s inspired them,” Carisa said. “It’s been so inspiring to be part of his story. It might not change the world, but it changed his world.”
As Phoenix continued to heal, he was seen by veterinary specialists in skin diseases. After extensive testing and careful evaluation, they finally found an answer. Phoenix was diagnosed with a rare autoimmune disease known as Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE). This diagnosis gave the medical team the clarity they needed to manage the disease and help him live more comfortably.
Still, some of Phoenix’s features would be permanently affected. The rescue team acknowledged that his head muscles would never regenerate, his unique “sharky grin” would stay with him forever, and he would always require special protection for his skin—dog clothing and sunblock became part of his daily routine. But none of that mattered to Phoenix. Despite his limitations, he remained playful, affectionate, and full of life. “He’s gained weight. His skin is healing,” the shelter shared. “He barks, chases balls, plays tug-of-war, and even has his own little dog couch where he naps.”
As Phoenix gained more attention, adoption requests poured in from people moved by his resilience. However, because of his medical needs and ongoing treatment, the shelter needed to wait for veterinary clearance before considering a permanent home. The priority remained on making sure Phoenix was healthy and happy.
But just when things were looking so hopeful, the shelter shared heartbreaking news in June 2020. Phoenix had reached the end of his journey. In a tender Instagram post, the team at Skiatook Paws & Claws Animal Rescue said their goodbyes. “Last night, around 5 p.m., we let Phe go,” they wrote. “His exit was peaceful. He was surrounded by people who adored him. His mom and sisters held him close.”
Phoenix had formed a special bond with Dr. Gena, a veterinarian who had been with him through much of his journey. The shelter shared that Phoenix had found his person in her. “She could not have adored him more if she tried. Her heart was his, and his heart was hers. All any dog wants is to find their person, and he was one of the lucky ones who did. He held on as long as he could—not for himself, but for her and her girls. He was exhausted and let them know it was time to go.”
Phoenix’s story is one of strength, compassion, and the extraordinary power of second chances. He reminded the world that beauty isn’t found in appearance but in resilience, love, and the ability to bring hope to others. Thank you to everyone who stood by Phoenix, cared for him, and helped him live his final days surrounded by love. Rest in peace, sweet angel. You will never be forgotten.
