Being an animal rescuer entails being prepared for the unexpected, as you never know when a new mission will arise. One day, the dedicated team of Stray Rescue of St. Louis, led by Donna Lochmann, hurried to assist dogs in need before an impending rainstorm, only to discover something truly shocking.
Peeking Behind The Benches
A teeny, tiny dog stared at them shyly from behind the benches. As they approached, the team realized his owners had tied him to a picnic table and likely abandoned him there. No one knows how long he endured without food or water, but the pup was in very poor condition. He looked traumatized and confused after what must have been the worst experience of his life; being abandoned by those he trusted was a heart-wrenching ordeal.
Compounding this cruel situation, the dog’s fur was completely covered in dog ringworms. “It rained on and off this week, with thunderstorms in St. Louis. This little puppy was tied up and left at a park, and he’s COVERED in ringworm,” the rescue reported in a Facebook post.
Terrified and alone, the puppy initially kept his distance, barking loudly in fear to ward off his rescuers. Despite his initial bravery, the moment he was secured in the rescue team’s Jeep, he relaxed into Donna’s lap, letting out a deep sigh of relief; it was a sigh that conveyed so much.
Fortunately, it didn’t take long for the team to earn his trust with gentle words and tasty treats. They gently placed a leash around his neck and took him to their vehicle, signaling the start of his new life. Wilbur, as he was eventually named, was prescribed medicated baths upon arriving at SRSL headquarters, and aside from the ringworms, he was diagnosed with no other issues. “He’ll receive medicated baths and will be ready for foster care in just a few short days. He’ll never have to feel lonely or muster that much bravery again,” the rescue stated.
He felt immense relief to be away from the park, which had left him soaked and abandoned. Though he would take some time to fully adjust to his new surroundings, it was clear that Wilbur was grateful. When he is ready, Wilbur will start a new chapter in a foster home, eagerly anticipating the family that suits him best.
