What started as an ordinary Saturday for Alexandra Waychoff and her family, the proprietors of a ranch in North Carolina, took an unexpected turn. Enjoying a bright day, the family was outside tending to their yard when something surprising happened.
Out of the blue, a stray puppy they had never encountered before dashed into their driveway.
The little dog was undernourished, starving, and incredibly affectionate. As soon as she appeared, she bolted straight into the arms of Waychoff’s 11-year-old son.
Compelled by her charm and vulnerability, the family felt a strong urge to assist the lovable stray.
Offering A Helping Hand
The caring family quickly bathed her and removed several ticks from her coat.
Given their uncertainty about her health status, they chose not to introduce her to their resident dogs just yet.
They prepared a cozy spot for her in the barn, anticipating that the stray might eventually return home.
The following morning, they were astonished to find the same pup nestled in front of their door.
She looked sorrowful, as if silently pleading for love and care.
Waychoff and her family began to suspect that the pup might be homeless and took her to the vet for a check-up.
They discovered that the stray was a Carolina dog, a rare and ancient breed known for its wild nature.
“She appears to be about a year old, very thin and hasn’t been adequately fed. She has intestinal worms, fleas, and ticks, plus her ankle seems recently healed from a fracture,” Waychoff recounted to Newsweek.
After confirming that the dog was not microchipped, the compassionate family decided to take her into their care.
They named her Leia, inspired by the iconic character from Star Wars.
The family began treating her to remove the fleas and ticks, and Leia expressed her gratitude in her own way.
Embracing The Love She Deserved
Waychoff and her family quickly grew attached to the pup, showering her with love and affection.
Leia adored snuggling in Waychoff’s arms, basking in the warmth of their care. She felt secure and content.
As the days went by, the Waychoffs couldn’t help but fall deeper in love with Leia’s charming personality.
Ever since Leia arrived on May 4th, Waychoff has been sharing videos of the pup on her TikTok account, aiming to encourage her followers to support animals in need.
“…I hope that my videos inspire others to open their hearts to all kinds of animals and promote kindness towards them,” she expressed.
The family allowed Leia to adjust to her new life at the North Carolina ranch.
They gradually introduced her to Bo Brando, their rescue cat, as well as their dogs, Stella, a German Shepherd, and Capone, a Goldendoodle.
The Waychoffs believed wholeheartedly that Leia’s arrival in their lives was meant to be.
On May 7th, 2024, Waychoff announced fantastic news: the family had decided to adopt the adorable pup, who had stolen their hearts.
“Although she has only been with us for a few days, we have already formed a bond and believe she came into our lives for a purpose. We’ve made the decision to keep her and provide her with the best life possible, because she truly deserves it,” she shared in a TikTok video.
I couldn’t be happier that Leia followed her instincts, leading her to the perfect family. This wonderful pup deserves a life filled with love and happiness.
