Mojo was a 3-month-old pit bull mix when his life hung by a thread. Years later, a video of him reuniting with the man who rescued him has been watched and shared countless times.
A Puppy Running Out of Time
In Nova Scotia, Canada, a kind person had tried to care for Mojo, a puppy with a severe case of demodectic mange. But his condition was too serious. Joey Wagner, a co-founder of the non-profit Baie Ste. Marie Animal Society, stepped in and rushed him to an animal hospital. According to Mojo’s “Hope for Mojo” Facebook page, he had only hours to live.
Wagner later told CBC that he knew Mojo was a fighter from the way the puppy looked at him.
What Is Demodectic Mange?
Demodectic mange is caused by Demodex mites, which normally live on dogs’ skin without causing trouble. When a puppy’s immune system is weak or still developing, the mites can multiply and cause hair loss, crusting and infection. Severe cases can be painful, and they need veterinary treatment. With proper care, many dogs recover, although the process can be long.
A Reunion He Never Expected
As Mojo recovered, an obvious question came up: who would adopt a puppy with such a severe medical history? His caretakers decided against a standard adoption. Instead, they asked Wagner whether he would take him home.
When Wagner returned to the clinic, Mojo was shy at first. Then he recognized his rescuer and leaped into his arms, covering him with kisses. The moment was caught on video, and it spread widely online, including through The Dodo.
Life After the Rescue
Mojo went home with Wagner and has lived there ever since. His coat never fully grew back, according to Bark, but that has not bothered him. Reports since then describe him as a healthy, happy and well-loved dog.
Donations made through the Hope for Mojo page now go to the Baie Ste. Marie Animal Society, which helps other animals in need.
Caring for a Puppy With Skin Problems: What It Costs
Mojo’s story shows how much medical care some rescued puppies need. If you plan to adopt, think about:
- Pet insurance. Compare puppy insurance plans and sign up early, since conditions that exist before coverage often aren’t covered.
- Veterinary care. Skin scrapings, medicated shampoos and prescription mange treatments can add up over weeks or months.
- Gentle products. Hypoallergenic dog shampoo, soft bedding and dog sweaters help dogs with sensitive or hairless skin.
- Quality nutrition. A balanced puppy food supports the immune system during recovery.
- Adopt and donate. Adopting from a shelter or giving a donation to an animal rescue helps dogs like Mojo.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Mojo? A pit bull mix puppy rescued in Nova Scotia, Canada, while suffering from severe mange.
Who rescued him? Joey Wagner, co-founder of the Baie Ste. Marie Animal Society.
Who adopted him? Wagner himself, after the clinic asked whether he would take Mojo home.
Is Mojo healthy now? Yes. His coat never fully returned, but reports say he is thriving.
Sources: iHeartDogs.com, Bark, and TV Overmind, all covering the rescue of Mojo, a pit bull puppy with severe mange, and his reunion with Joey Wagner of the Baie Ste. Marie Animal Society in Nova Scotia.
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