Couple planning their dream wedding found an injured pup abandoned on the road — their next move changed everything

Unfortunately, the dog wasn’t chipped, leaving the couple no way to track down her owners.

PUBLISHED OCT 12, 2025

(L ) A couple counting money ; (R) Veterinary surgeons operating on a dog at a clinic (Representative Cover Source: Getty Images | Photo by (L) JackF; (R) andresr

Saving up for a wedding can be one of the most tedious tasks, as it is expensive and people usually avoid dipping into their wedding savings. But when a couple came across an injured dog on a roadside, they did not hesitate to make the most selfless choice that left everyone stunned.

Veterinarian wrapping bandage around a dog's leg. Representative Image: Getty Images | Photo by Media Photos — Veterinarian wrapping bandage around a dog's leg. (Representative Image: Getty Images | Photo by Media Photos)

According to PEOPLE, Dylan McCay and his fiancé Emily Roberts were ready to splurge all their wedding savings for their big day, but when they came across a Goldendoodle they found seriously injured and abandoned by the side of the road, they decided to get her the help she needed. The couple had found a Facebook post that mentioned the injured dog. Dylan drove to the location and found the poor animal "struck by a vehicle in a hit and run."

A man and woman counting money. (Representative Image Source: Getty Images | Photo by Jose Luis Pelaez)

According to their Facebook post, it had been raining all day, and the injured Goldenpoodle, whom they named Acklin, was "covered in blood and appeared broken." McCay took Acklin to Greenbrier Animal Hospital to be treated for her injuries, where they discovered that the femurs in both of her hind legs were fractured. The vets were also concerned that Acklin could catch an infection from being left out in the rain. Unfortunately, Acklin was not chipped, hence the couple was unable to contact the owners responsible for the pooch. But when the dog required surgery for her recovery, the couple did not think twice and agreed to pay, using the money pulled from their wedding fund and overall savings.

Bride and groom walking on pavements. (Representative Cover Image Source: Getty Images | Photo by JovanaT)

The dog’s injuries required extensive reconstructive surgery on her legs, costing between $10,000 and $15,000, according to the couple. "That being said, we are joyous and excited at the possibility of saving this wonderful girl and giving her the best life she could imagine," the pair said. Post the successful surgery, the couple looked forward to the dog's "long-term" care and created a GoFundMe to raise the money. Despite the rehabilitation and therapy expenses, the couple is elated to give the sweet dog a deserving second chance at life.

Reacting to their post, people filled the comment section with praise and blessings. Shawn Becklund wrote, "Blessings to you both for doing this! Such a selfless and beautiful thing." "Thank you for your sacrifice and kindness," penned Susan Ho. Meanwhile, Darren M Crandall appreciated, "What you and Dylan McCay have done is far beyond anything most would do."

According to the Veterinary Record, a 2018 study examined the medical records of 140 dogs brought to a veterinary hospital after being hit by vehicles. The findings revealed that 83.2% of the dogs survived to discharge, with younger dogs more likely to suffer lung contusions and limb fractures, while older and smaller dogs tended to have pelvic fractures. The study also noted that orthopedic injuries often required longer hospital stays. The study concluded that while most dogs who make it to treatment recover well, the data only represent those who received care, leaving an unknown number of injured dogs that are never brought in for help.

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