Each day brings new reminders of how many dogs are left behind, struggling to survive without care. Across the country, countless pups wander the streets, abandoned and vulnerable.
Yet even in the face of cruelty, there are always those who choose kindness.
One of those people is Joey Tuccio, a dedicated rescuer based in Los Angeles, California. Over the years, Joey has helped so many dogs that he’s lost track of the number. His compassion was once again on full display when he encountered a sick mother dog and her starving litter.
A Frail Pittie And Her Hungry Babies
Joey was heartbroken when he learned that this dog had been surviving alone on the streets of Los Angeles for two years. Her fragile body told the story of everything she had endured.
This Pit Bull was in terrible shape, and to make matters worse, Joey and his fellow rescuers soon discovered she had recently given birth. Her puppies were crying out in hunger, but she couldn’t nurse them. Her nipples were infected, leaving her unable to provide the nourishment they needed.
Time was critical. Joey and the team from Starts With One Today rushed her to a veterinary clinic, determined to save both her and her babies.
Thankfully, the medical staff acted swiftly. She began to recover, though the sorrow in her eyes hadn’t yet faded.
The dog, who was later named Lena, was discharged from the hospital, and Joey knew her healing journey had officially begun.
She spent her days surrounded by her puppies, receiving affection from her rescuers, and finally experiencing the warmth and safety she had been denied for so long.
Watching her transformation brought Joey immense joy. Though he had seen many recoveries before, each one left a lasting impression.
A Milestone Rescue With A Hopeful Future
Joey has spent more than ten years rescuing dogs. Lena marked a special moment: she was his 200th rescue.
Even after all he had witnessed, Lena’s story felt just as meaningful as the very first. His joy grew when he learned that each of Lena’s puppies had been adopted into loving homes.
Now, the final piece was finding a permanent family for their brave mother. Joey was determined to make sure Lena’s journey ended with love.
“Considering what she went through, she still loves people so much. She’s smart, she’s adorable. The ideal home for Lena would be a home with somebody that can be a little patient with her, which she’ll return with love and snuggles,” Joey shared in his interview with The Dodo.
Until her forever family finds her, Lena will remain safe with her rescuers, soaking up the affection she missed during her years of hardship.
Thanks to Joey and the compassionate team who stepped in, this once-overlooked Pittie now has the chance to live the peaceful, loving life she was always meant to have.