On a bitterly cold day in Missouri, rescuers spotted a frightened stray dog running along the railroad tracks, and their hearts dropped.
With a train expected to pass at any moment, they knew there was no time to waste.
The small white dog kept moving along the metro line, exhausted and lost, unsure of where to go. All he wanted was someone to see him, to offer warmth and safety before it was too late.
Racing Against Time To Save Him
The rescuers worried not only about the approaching train but also about the dangerous terrain.
“[T]he spot [where] we initially saw him on the tracks was open and right above the river. One wrong step and he could have very easily fallen in,” said Donna Lochmann, chief life-saving officer at Stray Rescue of St. Louis, in an interview with The Dodo.
Lochmann’s first instinct was to rush forward and grab the dog, later named Laclede, before anything could happen.
But her team stopped her, knowing how risky it would be to step onto the active tracks.
Instead, Lochmann relied on her trusted rescue method: gently coaxing the terrified pup with treats to lure him away from danger.
Meanwhile, metro workers quickly notified the conductor about the situation, slowing the train. Several employees hurried to help, guiding the stray closer to rescuers.
Their teamwork paid off. Lochmann finally managed to slip a leash around Laclede’s neck, and everyone breathed a sigh of relief.
“He was scared, filthy, so skinny and freezing. The temperatures that day were in single digits, and the wind was so cold … it was nice to finally get him off those tracks,” Lochmann said.
At first, the frightened dog didn’t seem to understand that he was safe.
Finding Warmth And Comfort
Lochmann carried the shivering pup to her warm Jeep, wrapping him securely in a blanket. As rescuers whispered to him softly and offered gentle touches, the little dog began to relax.
Within moments, Laclede curled up and fell asleep, finally able to rest after his ordeal.
Once back at the rescue center in St. Louis, the veterinary team gave him a full examination. Apart from being underweight and covered in dirt, he was healthy and ready to begin healing.
After a warm bath and plenty of food, Laclede’s spirit began to shine through. His once-dull eyes now sparkled with life, and his tail wagged endlessly.
“Everyone who meets Laclede falls in love instantly. He’s a big, boisterous, joyful boy, but he is also so gentle and caring,” the rescue shared in a Facebook post.
Each day, he grew stronger and more affectionate, winning hearts across the shelter.
A Bright Future Ahead
Now surrounded by love and care, Laclede no longer trembles from fear or cold. He cherishes every bit of kindness shown to him, but deep down, he still dreams of a forever home.
This once-lonely dog now spends his days playing, cuddling, and waiting patiently for the family who will finally make him their own.
Everyone at the rescue believes that when that day comes, it will be the happy ending he always deserved.