Dogs are not just pets; they are cherished members of the family who deserve endless love and care. They are loyal companions whose devotion is unmatched.
Unfortunately, many owners abandon their dogs, leaving them to survive on their own. Such heartless actions show a lack of empathy for these gentle creatures.
Even when their loved ones don’t return, faithful dogs often wait endlessly, clinging to hope. Over time, that hope can fade, but they remain steadfast.
This story is about Thunder, a devoted dog who refused to leave the fire hydrant where he last saw his owner.
Waiting By The Fire Hydrant
Thunder lay by the fire hydrant where he had been abandoned, hoping his owner would come back. Observant neighbors noticed the loyal dog waiting day after day.
Unable to catch him, they reached out to Suzette Hall, an experienced rescuer and founder of Logan’s Legacy, located in Irvine, California.
Hall arrived promptly with all her equipment, but Thunder was too fearful to accept help. His trust in humans had been shaken.
Each time Hall watched him cross the busy street, it was clear he was searching for someone. After a while, he would return to the fire hydrant.
Thirsty, he gratefully drank the water Hall offered.
She carefully set up a trap with some snacks and waited. Thunder hesitated, circling the crate before returning to his spot.
Hours passed, daylight turned to night, yet Hall remained with him, determined to rescue him that evening.
Using a couple of hot dogs as bait, she knew it would be hard for him to resist. And it worked.
“I drove down the street to make him think I [wasn’t] there anymore and when I came back, he was finally in the trap. Hotdogs did the trick,” Hall said.
Recovery And Foster Care
Hall was overjoyed to have Thunder safe at last, but he seemed sad and wanted to return to the fire hydrant. He still hoped his owner might come back.
“The little bit of love he got from his family, he remembered. I just think he didn’t want to leave in case they came back,” Hall said.
Thunder was rescued just in time. As soon as they drove away, a powerful storm hit the area.
Had they remained outside five minutes longer, both would have been caught in the storm.
“We named him Thunder because we had the worst thunderstorm after I drove away. It was so scary,” Hall said.
After the rescue, Thunder visited the vet and received all necessary care. He was then ready for foster care.
Alix Smith, the founder of Second Leash On Life, a non-profit organization, offered to foster Thunder in her San Diego home.
She nurtured him with love and patience. Gradually, he regained trust in people, feeling secure and prepared to find his forever family.
A Forever Home And New Adventures
Soon, Hall announced that Thunder had been adopted and moved to his forever home on the East Coast.
He was thrilled for the journey and meeting his new family, smiling throughout the trip.
Upon arrival, a beautiful double rainbow marked the start of his new life. Meeting his forever parents for the first time was the happiest moment for Thunder.
His family adores him, and one of his favorite activities is taking boat rides with them.
It’s heartwarming to know that Thunder now lives surrounded by love and care.
If you ever notice stray dogs, contact local shelters or rescues. Every canine deserves care and a safe home. Let’s help them find their happy ending.