When Orlando Police Department officer Michelle Rohlf reported for duty that morning, she never expected what the day would bring.
At the very start of her shift, she responded to a service call and headed to the location with her squad. Upon arrival, officers arrested a woman suspected of theft. To their surprise, she was not alone.
Inside the dog stroller she carried sat what appeared to be a tangled clump of filthy fur.
When Officer Rohlf stepped closer, she noticed a pair of sad eyes peeking out. The sight broke her heart. The little dog was silent and motionless.
Sullivan’s Life Begins To Turn Around
Worried for the pup’s condition, Rohlf brought him, later identified as Sullivan, to Orange County Animal Services in Orlando, Florida. His neglected state was clear. His fur was heavily matted and soaked with urine.
Since Sullivan’s owner could not reclaim him, he remained at the shelter.
As soon as Dannielle Southon, founder of Central Florida Fosters,, saw his photo, she was devastated by his condition. She immediately offered to bring him into her rescue and foster him.
Before leaving the shelter, a groomer shaved away the mats. Everyone was amazed to see the sweet face hidden beneath. The transformation made him look like a completely different dog.
When Southon met him for the first time, Sullivan showered her with kisses and licks, showing how affectionate he truly was.
He soon settled into a foster home where he received the love and care he had long been denied. Initially shy, he gradually grew happier and more confident as his foster family nurtured him.
An Emotional Reunion With His Rescuer
Sullivan never forgot the officer who first helped him. Thanks to Southon, he was able to see her again.
When he spotted his favorite officer, he leapt from the car and raced toward her.
The officer could hardly believe this was the same dog she had rescued. Completely transformed, Sullivan bounded into her arms. Both were overjoyed.
The reunion left both Southon and Rohlf deeply moved.
“She cried, I teared up. [Just] seeing how happy he was with her was so heartwarming. She couldn’t get over how great he looked, and kept saying how he seemed like a totally different dog now,” Southon said.
Today, Sullivan is living with his foster mom, Heather, while searching for a permanent family. His joyful spirit and resilience ensure that he will soon find the loving home he deserves.