Stories of animal abuse are heartbreaking, but the resilience and spirit of animals like Clementine are what inspire hope. Clementine is a shepherd mix with a painful past that includes severe cruelty, but her journey doesn’t end there.
After being pelted by rocks so violently that she lost an eye, Clementine was rescued, rehabilitated, and is now awaiting the day she finds her forever home. Her story is one of survival, resilience, and the power of second chances.
A Harrowing Start: Clementine’s Life in Afghanistan
Clementine’s journey began in one of the most difficult places for stray animals—Afghanistan. Life on the streets is tough for any dog, but for Clementine, it was particularly brutal. In the fall of 2021, she was rescued by Kabul Small Animal Rescue (KSAR) after being found with a ruptured eyeball caused by being pelted with rocks.
“Clementine came to us with a ruptured eye after being hit by rocks,” a KSAR representative told Newsweek. With limited medical equipment—much of it lost when the clinic was looted—an emergency enucleation surgery (eye removal) had to be done by flashlight. Despite the dire circumstances, Clementine showed remarkable resilience and quickly began to heal.
She had already endured more than most animals could bear, but even as she recovered physically, her sweet and gentle personality emerged. Her traumatic experiences did not rob her of her ability to love and trust, making her story one of hope for animals everywhere.
From Afghanistan to the United States: A New Chapter
In early May 2023, Clementine’s life took another dramatic turn. She was among approximately 200 dogs and 100 cats rescued from Afghanistan by KSAR and flown to the United States. This massive rescue operation aimed to give these animals a second chance at life—away from the dangers of the streets.
Upon arriving in the U.S., Clementine was placed in the care of Passion for Pets Rescue in Maine. Along with 12 other dogs from Afghanistan, she began her new life in foster care. While most of the other dogs have since found homes, Clementine remains among the three who are still waiting for their forever families.
Overcoming Emotional Scars: Clementine’s Struggle with Trust
Though her physical wounds have healed, Clementine still carries emotional scars. Losing an eye and enduring such cruelty has understandably made her wary of new people. She is shy around strangers, and it takes time for her to warm up and build trust.
This is common among shelter dogs who have experienced trauma, especially those who may have been abused or neglected in the past. Building trust with a dog like Clementine requires patience, understanding, and above all, a loving, stable environment. Her foster carer, Paul Lemont, has been instrumental in helping her slowly come out of her shell.
“Clementine is shy at first, but once she feels comfortable, she really starts to show her sweet side,” Lemont told Newsweek. His compassionate care has allowed Clementine to begin feeling safe again, and her true personality is shining through.
Life in Foster Care: Clementine’s Progress
One of the key elements of Clementine’s recovery has been her time spent in foster care. Foster carers like Lemont provide a crucial stepping stone for dogs recovering from trauma, offering them the love, care, and attention they need to start healing emotionally.
In Lemont’s care, Clementine has started to rediscover the simple joys of life. “She loves riding in the car, going for walks, and just hanging out on our back deck,” Lemont shared. “She enjoys chasing squirrels and birds, then laying in the sun. You can see how much she loves being outside, enjoying peaceful moments.”
Clementine’s traumatic past still lingers in some aspects of her behavior. Lemont has noticed that she often barks at passing dogs, a likely result of her years spent fending for herself on the streets. She’s also what’s known as a “high food resource guarder,” meaning she’s very protective of her food—something that’s not uncommon for dogs who have had to survive on scraps.
However, these behaviors are manageable with the right approach and understanding. “She needs to eat separately from other animals to feel secure,” Lemont explained, adding that it’s a small price to pay for the love and companionship she brings into his life.
Clementine’s dog Affectionate Side: The Love She Longs to Give
Despite the challenges she has faced, Clementine has not lost her capacity for love. In fact, one of the most heartwarming aspects of her personality is how affectionate she can be once she feels safe.
“Clementine is a love bug,” Lemont said with a smile. “She absolutely loves head scratches, and when you stop, she’ll raise her paw and ask for more—it’s the cutest thing.”
This adorable behavior was even captured in a TikTok video posted by Adoptapet, which shared Clementine’s story with thousands of viewers. The video, which has been watched over 140,000 times, highlights her loving nature and the bond she’s formed with her foster carer. There’s hope that the video will reach someone who can give Clementine the forever home she’s been waiting for.
What Clementine Needs in a Forever Home
Clementine is a special dog with unique needs, and it’s important that her future family understands this. She would thrive in a home where she is the only pet, as her experiences have made her selective about her interactions with other animals.
“We have two elderly cats, and she gets along fine with them outdoors,” Lemont explained. “But indoors, she can be territorial and will occasionally growl if they enter her space. So, we think it’s best for her to be in a home without other pets.”
When it comes to other dogs, Clementine’s behavior can vary. She’s gotten along well with some dogs in the past but has shown a lack of comfort around others. Lemont believes that she would do best in a home where she can be the sole focus of attention and affection.
In addition to her need for a pet-free home, Clementine is house-trained, walks well on a leash, and can be left alone without being crated. Her favorite thing, though, is being around people who love her. She’s ready to give all her love to the right person or family.
Clementine’s Hopeful Future: Waiting for Her Forever Family
Clementine’s journey from the streets of Afghanistan to her foster home in Maine is a story of incredible resilience. She has survived cruelty, trauma, and loss but remains hopeful that her future holds a forever home where she will be cherished and loved.
For anyone considering adopting a dog, Clementine’s story is a reminder that every shelter dog has a past, but with the right love and care, they can thrive in the present and future. While Clementine’s journey has been long and difficult, her spirit remains unbroken, and she’s ready to find that special someone who will love her as much as she deserves.
If you’re looking for a loyal, affectionate companion who has overcome the odds and is ready to start a new chapter in life, consider opening your heart and home to Clementine. Her journey isn’t over yet, and you could be the one to give her the happy ending she’s been waiting for.
