Mork's life changed when rescuers found him barely hanging on. The tiny dog was discovered gravely ill on a truck carrying other animals in China, and he came close to dying. A network of rescuers helped him reach safety, receive medical care, and eventually find a home where his differences became his greatest strength.
Here's what to know
iHeartDogs shared how Mork went from a near-fatal ordeal to ongoing care in the United States.
Once he was taken off the truck, Mork was helped by Harbin SHS in Harbin, Northeast China, a rescue group that works with partner organizations to protect dogs affected by the meat trade, abuse, neglect, and abandonment.
"Mork was very lucky as he was extremely sick and nearly died in hospital but got wonderful care," Mork's caregiver, Carvey, said. "Roadogs Rescue brought him to the U.S. a few months later."
Because Mork's medical troubles continued after the immediate crisis, Roadogs Rescue, a Southern California nonprofit focused on bulldogs and puppies born with defects, was prepared to care for him.
No one knows exactly how Mork got onto the truck, but Carvey said many dogs in that situation are "dogs from breeders that they couldn't sell, sick dogs, street dogs that have been picked up, or unwanted dogs that were sold to meat dealers by owners because it's easy money."
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Why does it matter?
Dogs with complex health issues often need far more than routine veterinary treatment, including specialized food, regular appointments, medications, and close monitoring over time.
That has been the case for Mork, who continues to live with severe allergies and inflammatory bowel disease.
Carvey described him as probably "one of the most complicated medical dogs I've dealt with." His care now includes home-cooked meals prepared especially for him and a monthly visit to a holistic veterinarian.
Mork's unusual face also helped him stand out.
"He looked like a little alien," Carvey said, and that inspired the name Mork after Robin Williams' character from Mork & Mindy.
Carvey began sharing videos of Mork online, including clips showing his quirks, including walking on the back of a couch like a cat.
What's being done?
Helping Mork required an international rescue effort, with Harbin SHS and Roadogs Rescue both playing roles in responding to his medical and developmental challenges.
Mork's care has continued long after the initial rescue.
Special-needs rescues often depend on foster homes, experienced organizations, and donations to help cover costly treatment.
Not every household can care for a medically complex dog, but financial support and temporary foster help can still be life-changing.
Animals that look different or require extra care can still thrive in the right environment.
In many cases, they become deeply bonded companions because of the attention and patience they receive.
Mork may never be a low-maintenance pet, but he is no longer fighting to survive. He now has consistent care, safety, and someone committed to meeting his needs every day.
Carvey said, "His message is really about love and kindness and embracing our differences and not judging each other. People love Mork because he's unique, but we're all unique, right?"
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