In the bustling streets of Mettupalayam, India, a heart-wrenching sight stopped a seasoned rescuer in their tracks — a stray dog with a massive, swollen growth consuming the top of his head, wandering the town alone.

But behind the heartbreaking image was a soul just as massive — one that would soon touch the hearts of animal lovers across the globe.

In India, seeing a stray dog is nothing out of the ordinary – with tens of millions of them roaming the streets, alleys, and public spaces across the country. But when a dog named Biggie was spotted wandering alone, it was impossible to look away, especially if you have a soft spot for homeless animals.