For Donna Lochmann, an experienced rescuer with Stray Rescue of St. Louis, it was supposed to be a routine morning.
Her schedule included another life-saving mission, and though the work carried risks, she approached it with passion and dedication.
A Sudden Detour
As Donna drove to the emergency site with her coworker Natalie Thompson, an unexpected twist occurred.
While Donna sped down the streets of St. Louis, Natalie suddenly yelled for her to slow down.
“I saw something small and brown by the side street,” Natalie explained.
Curious, Donna turned to investigate. It turned out to be a puppy.
But given the urgency of their original mission, they decided to return for the pup after completing their first rescue.
A New Rescue Mission
The initial medical intervention was swift and successful, freeing the pair to search for the little brown puppy.
Returning to the side street, they stepped out of the car, scanning the area.
At first, there was no sign of the dog. Disappointed but not deterred, Natalie’s instincts led her to search a nearby alleyway.
Suddenly, she spotted the frightened and skinny pup darting into an abandoned building.
Into the Unknown
The building was dilapidated and eerie, but Natalie’s determination to save the puppy outweighed her fear.
Inside, unstable stairs led her to the second floor, where she found a heartbreaking scene: a frail, shivering puppy curled up in a blanket, trying to stay warm in the harsh, cold surroundings.
A Moment of Triumph
Overcome with emotion, Natalie sprang into action but quickly realized she’d left her slip lead in the Jeep.
By the time she returned, the puppy had slipped out of sight again, exiting the building through another door.
Outside, Natalie found the pup sitting in an open field. Careful not to frighten her, Natalie reached for a trusted method to gain the pup’s trust: Vienna sausages.
The tasty treat worked like magic, and the pup allowed Natalie to approach.
Dodie Finds Safety
Natalie affectionately named the little pup “Dodie,” charmed by her sweet doll-like face.
Despite the challenging conditions, Dodie was surprisingly calm and cooperative, making it easy to place her on a leash and bring her to safety in the Jeep.
A New Chapter for Dodie
At the veterinarian’s office, Dodie passed her checkup with flying colors, aside from being underweight.
To help her recover, she was placed on a carefully monitored feeding schedule, receiving small meals multiple times a day.
Today, Dodie is thriving in a loving foster home. Wrapped in soft blankets and surrounded by care, she has found warmth, comfort, and love.
Her foster mom, Nicolina, and the dedicated volunteers at Stray Rescue of St. Louis have given Dodie a
chance at life she deserves.
A Reminder of Compassion
Dodie’s rescue is a testament to the tireless work of individuals like Donna and Natalie, who go above and beyond to save lives.
Thanks to their determination and love, Dodie’s future is bright, filled with hope, safety, and the promise of a forever home.