It is sadly common these days to see a dog left to wander alone, especially for people who devote their lives to animal rescue.
One kind hearted rescuer from Houston, Texas, lived that reality when she spotted a dumped dog standing beside a heavily trafficked road.
The poor pup had been left behind by his family. After so long in the comfort of a home, the sudden shock of the streets left him lost, confused, and afraid.
Moved by what she saw, this incredible woman decided she would do everything possible to help him feel safe again.
She Would Not Leave Without Trying
Kristin Erwin, founder of Streetheart Project, a nonprofit rescue in Houston, understood that saving a frightened roadside dog would not be simple.
Even so, she was fully committed. She had not planned a rescue that day, so her only option was to speak softly and hope the dog would come to her.
The dog, later named Eggnog, had lost trust after being abandoned and did not respond. Still visibly shaken, he eventually bolted, leaving Kristin worried about what might happen.
Even though the first attempt failed, she did not give up. She returned the next day with a plan.
Kristin brought a humane trap and some irresistible food. She placed the food inside and left the door open, hoping hunger would coax Eggnog closer.
The idea worked. Cautious but starving, Eggnog crept forward. When he saw no one nearby, he stepped in and began to eat.
The door clicked shut, and Kristin finally had the chance to get him off the street.
From Shaking With Fear To Learning To Trust
Kristin was relieved to have rescued Eggnog, yet she knew the hardest part might be ahead.
He was not aggressive in his foster home, but the fear was unmistakable. His body trembled nonstop.
As a seasoned rescuer, Kristin understood what to do. She would be patient, move slowly, and let him set the pace.
After a few tough days, something shifted. Eggnog began to relax. He seemed to realize that this new place was safe and that this new person would not hurt him. She was there to help.
Before long, Eggnog looked like a different dog. He wore a smile, followed Kristin from room to room, and wagged his tail with real joy.
The future still holds unknowns, but there is no doubt about the direction of his journey. Eggnog is moving toward a life filled with love and far away from those who once left him behind.