It’s not every day you see an animal standing on top of a house. So when a New Jersey resident spotted something furry moving across a rooftop, they were taken aback.
Curious, the neighbor looked closer and was stunned to realize the creature wasn’t a cat or a raccoon: it was a small, scruffy puppy.
The thin little dog, later named Fiddler, paced nervously across the shingles as if hoping someone would notice him and offer help.
The resident quickly snapped a photo and posted it on Facebook, asking for assistance.
The Rescue Mission Begins
Thankfully, compassionate people soon arrived at the scene to help the stranded pup.
Although Fiddler seemed to know he needed rescuing, the moment help came, he grew anxious and unsure. The rescuers spoke softly to reassure him, using calm voices until he began to relax.
Before long, he realized these were the kind souls he had been waiting for.
Fiddler’s thin frame showed how much he had struggled. Exhausted and malnourished, his ribs were clearly visible beneath his patchy coat.
He was taken to a local shelter that was already filled beyond capacity, where he was held for seven days in case someone came forward to claim him. But no one did.
Fortunately, the team at Ramapo-Bergen Animal Refuge in Oakland, New Jersey, stepped up to take him in and give him the second chance he needed.
It didn’t take long for Fiddler’s sweet and spirited nature to emerge. The rescuers could tell right away that this little dog had a big heart and a playful soul.
“Fiddler is pure spirit. He wants to play. To love. To live,” Ramapo-Bergen Animal Refuge shared in a Facebook post.
The team began his recovery journey with care and patience, gently grooming his tangled fur and providing a thorough health check.
A New Chapter Of Hope
Veterinarians created a careful feeding schedule to help him gain weight safely.
Surrounded by kindness and comfort, Fiddler slowly began to understand that he was finally safe. He started wagging his tail more often and greeting people with bright eyes.
Over time, his transformation was remarkable. Fiddler grew stronger, his coat looked healthier, and his personality blossomed. He was no longer the frightened puppy on the roof, but a joyful, loving companion eager to explore life.
“He is a typical silly puppy — tall, lanky, awkward and endlessly charming. Fiddler loves playing with other dogs, soaking up attention and bouncing around with a goofy joy that’s contagious,” a representative from the rescue told The Dodo.
Now, Fiddler’s final step toward happiness is finding his forever home.
The ideal family for him would be patient, ready to continue his training, and committed to giving him the security and affection he deserves.
After everything he has endured, Fiddler is ready to leave the hardships behind and start fresh.
Just like his rescuers, we’re all rooting for him to find the loving home he’s been waiting for.