It truly saddens me to think about all the innocent dogs that have suffered and have been let down by their owners. Instead of showering them with affection, their cruel guardians have harmed them, leaving the dogs filled with fear.
These dogs are deprived of love—the very thing that can alleviate their fears.
Donnie was one such frightened dog who lost faith in humans after experiencing abuse. He eventually found himself in a shelter where he would hide and tremble in a corner.
After spending a year at the shelter, the dog nearly lost hope of ever finding his happily ever after. He couldn’t fathom that compassionate humans would come to his aid and change his fate.
Rescuing Donnie And Giving Him Hope
Shira Scott Astrof, who founded The Animal Rescue Mission in California, learned about Donnie and the struggles he endured. She and her rescue team picked him up from the shelter and brought him to safety.
Astrof was heartbroken to see the despondent look on Donnie’s adorable face. The pup was extremely fearful and avoided any interaction with those trying to help him. He could not erase the memory of the humans who had betrayed him before.
Being an experienced rescuer, Astrof was dedicated to helping terrified dogs like Donnie. She and her team worked tirelessly to transform these dogs into happy, playful companions.
She was determined to win Donnie’s trust. To establish a connection, she spent time sitting with him in his kennel. Gradually, he began to open up to her.
When the day came for her to take him out of the shelter, Donnie was still filled with dread and just wanted to flee.
Astrof and another rescuer attempted to load Donnie into Astrof’s car, but he resisted and was unwilling to get inside. They spent hours talking to him and coaxing him to join them. After a long struggle, the frightened pup finally agreed to enter the car.
Feeling Safe After A Long Time
In the backseat, Astrof reassured Donnie, telling him that all would be well. As he sensed her genuine care, the timid dog began to feel a bond forming.
Astrof was overjoyed to notice a spark of hope in Donnie’s eyes.
“There was this moment where we were in the car and he was sitting on my lap, and I think it was the first time in probably a year that he realized he was safe,” Astrof shared with The Dodo.
He appeared relieved to leave the shelter. With a gentle smile, he gave his rescuer a small kiss, and Astrof felt grateful to have earned his trust.
Upon reaching home, she observed that Donnie was frightened by everything. Seeing him lying on the kitchen floor, she decided to lie down next to him.
She wanted him to know that she was there for him. Astrof stayed by Donnie’s side throughout the night.
“On the first night, I always stay awake with them. I want to show them, ‘Look, you can trust me. I’m just going to lie here and be here for you,’” she explained.
Donnie began to realize that Astrof was kind and reassuring. She made him feel secure, and gradually he started to relax.
Since Astrof was unable to foster him herself, she arranged for a wonderful foster mom—her friend, Nikki. The next day, the sweet pup moved in with her.
Donnie Gets His Happy Ending
Nikki surrounded him with affection and care, helping the pup to blossom into a joyful and confident dog who enjoyed playing and running around.
Donnie was finally ready to embrace a new chapter in his life. He met a loving family who quickly fell in love with him.
The moment they took him home, the handsome California pup was ecstatic. He adores playing with his new canine brother. Donnie feels loved and cherished beyond measure.
We couldn’t be happier that he has found his dream life.
