When Orlando Police Department officer Michelle Rohlf began her shift that morning, she had no idea what awaited her.
At the very start of her duty, 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 looked like a tangled clump of filthy fur.
When Officer Rohlf stepped closer, she noticed a pair of sorrowful eyes peeking out. The sight broke her heart. The little dog was silent, unmoving, and clearly in distress.
Sullivan’s Journey Toward Healing
Concerned for the pup’s condition, Rohlf brought him, later identified as Sullivan, to Orange County Animal Services in Orlando, Florida.
His neglected state was obvious. His fur was severely matted and soaked with urine.
Since Sullivan’s previous owner was unable to reclaim him, he remained at the shelter.
When Dannielle Southon, the founder of Central Florida Fosters, came across his photo, she was heartbroken by his condition. Without hesitation, she offered to take him into her rescue and foster program.
Before Sullivan left the shelter, a groomer carefully shaved away the heavy mats.
Everyone was astonished to see the gentle face that had been hidden beneath. The change made him appear like a completely different dog.
The moment Southon met him in person, Sullivan covered her with kisses and licks, revealing just how affectionate he truly was.
Soon after, he settled into a foster home where he finally received the love and attention he had been missing. Though shy at first, he gradually grew more cheerful and confident as his foster family continued to nurture him.
A Reunion Filled With Emotion
Sullivan never forgot the officer who had first come to his aid. With Southon’s help, he was given the chance to see her again.
The moment he spotted his favorite officer, he jumped from the car and sprinted straight toward her. Completely changed, Sullivan bounded into her arms, and the joy between them was undeniable.
She could hardly believe this was the same pup she had once rescued.
The reunion left both Southon and Rohlf deeply touched.
“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.
Now Sullivan is living with his foster mom, Heather, while waiting for a permanent family. His cheerful spirit and remarkable resilience make it certain that he will soon find the loving home he deserves.