Those devoted to rescuing dogs know a painful truth: heartbreak has a way of showing up without warning.
It can feel devastating, yet at the same time empowering, to realize that in certain moments, you may be the only thing standing between a dog’s survival and its surrender.
Suzette Hall, an experienced rescuer working in Southern California, has lived this reality countless times. Alongside her team, she has faced abandoned pets, dogs with severe injuries, and others barely holding on to life. Through every encounter, one principle has carried them forward: never walk away.
That promise is what kept them moving when they discovered Tillie, whimpering softly from the bushes.
She Couldn’t Move From The Pain
Despite all her experience, Hall was shaken when she first laid eyes on Tillie. The young puppy lay still in the underbrush, unable to move.
At first, the reason wasn’t clear. But soon, they realized the truth. Tillie was badly hurt and physically incapable of standing. All she could do was cry softly, hoping someone would end her suffering.
“This poor little puppy has been crying in the bushes since yesterday. She cannot stand up,” Hall wrote in her initial Facebook post.
Hall and her team acted quickly. They gently lifted Tillie and placed her in the car. She was rushed to the vet for an urgent evaluation.
The initial prognosis was grim. Based on her symptoms, the team feared a spinal injury. Fortunately, the actual diagnosis offered a bit more hope.
Tests revealed Tillie had a fractured pelvis. While serious, it could be treated with strong pain medication and careful recovery over the next few weeks.
“I have named her Tillie. Poor baby was in so much pain. She has a fractured pelvis… She has pain meds and getting lots of love. She will never have to beg for help ever again,” Hall added in another post.
Thankfully, no other injuries were found.
Despite the trauma, Tillie showed resilience. With her rescuers by her side, she now had a real chance to heal.
And she was ready to embrace it.
In the days that followed, Hall reached out to her supporters, asking for help in finding Tillie a foster home.
The response came quickly.
A New Chapter Begins
Just four days later, Hall returned to Facebook with joyful news: Tillie had found her foster home.
She was welcomed by compassionate caregivers who were committed to helping her recover slowly and safely. For now, she requires crate rest and brief outdoor breaks until she regains strength.
“She does have a fractured pelvis and just needs cage rest, small potty breaks outside, and love,” Hall added.
One thing is clear: Tillie is exactly where she’s meant to be. She’s surrounded by people who cherish her and is learning what it means to be part of a family.
Once she’s fully recovered, she’ll begin the search for her forever home.
Until then, one thing is certain: Tillie will never face the world alone again.