Rescuing stray animals can be quite challenging, and Donna Lochmann from Stray Rescue of St. Louis, Missouri, has experienced this firsthand for over 20 years.
She typically needs to gain the trust of animals that have been let down by humans, but this frightened Pittie was something special.
In just a few minutes, she transformed from a frightened street dog into an affectionate sweetheart, capturing the hearts of countless people online.
From Fearful to Fond
The event unfolded on Valentine’s Day when Donna Lochmann received a report about a terrified street dog spotted in an industrial zone.
Upon her arrival, a fearful dog peeked from around a building corner. As Donna approached slowly, the dog attempted to flee swiftly, ultimately becoming trapped between a building and a fence.
“She was clearly trying to escape, but there was no exit. She barked a couple of times, sounding a very fearful warning,” Donna shared with The Dodo.
While Donna has rescued numerous street dogs, none responded like this particular one.
With no path to escape, the frightened dog cowered on the ground, her tail tucked in fear.
Realizing her distress, Donna began tossing her food while softly speaking to her. “I knelt down to make myself less intimidating and started talking to her. I threw her a piece of sausage, and she ate it,” explained Donna.
After throwing a few more pieces of sausage, Donna expected her to keep eating; however, a surprising change occurred.
The dog suddenly lost interest in the food, focusing solely on Donna instead.
“She completely bypassed the other sausages. When she reached me, she buried her head against my shirt, rolled over, and gazed up at me,” Donna recounted.
Even with her extensive experience, Donna was utterly astonished, having never witnessed a dog act this way.
This stunning dog, later named Cutie Pie, completely melted in Donna’s embrace, realizing she was finally safe.
“It was incredibly touching how she gazed at me as if to say, ‘Thank you!’” Donna expressed.
The Transformative Power of Love
Accompanied by Cutie Pie, Donna headed to the Stray Rescue of St. Louis facility, where she received food, a refreshing bath, and a thorough veterinary examination.
Everyone instantly fell in love with Cutie Pie and her sweet, affectionate nature. She swiftly emerged from her shell, and all it took was a little love.
Now, she is a completely transformed dog, her eyes radiating pure joy.
Shortly thereafter, Cutie Pie moved into her foster home, which she adored.
“She curls up in her own bed and her little foster brother’s bed. She has the biggest, sweetest smile, loves zooming around the yard… she is truly a special soul with an infectious spirit,” the rescue noted in a Facebook post.
After all she had endured, she is finally receiving all the love she rightfully deserves.
