While strolling through the Bronx, New York, a compassionate passerby stumbled upon a heartbreaking sight—tucked between two cars, a small black dog trembled in the cold. The man quickly approached, realizing she wasn’t just lost—she had been tied to a nearby pole and abandoned.
Without hesitation, he offered her food and water, then called Jennifer Rodriguez, an experienced rescuer and foster with Waldo’s Rescue Pen. He explained the dire situation, hoping she could help the frightened pup.
A Rescuer Steps In
Rodriguez wasted no time. When she arrived and saw the helpless dog curled up and alone, her heart sank.
“My heart was shattered. I just couldn’t believe how a human could do that to a small pup,” Rodriguez told The Dodo.
The little dog, later named Cleo, wasn’t ready to trust. She growled softly, unsure of the stranger approaching her. But Rodriguez came prepared—with treats. Gradually, Cleo’s defenses softened, and she allowed Rodriguez to come closer.
Wrapped in a warm blanket, Cleo was gently lifted from the cold sidewalk. Rodriguez brought her to her friend Lisa Encarnacion’s grooming salon nearby, where Cleo received her first taste of safety and care.
Though still confused, the tiny pup began to understand that she was no longer in danger.
On The Road To Recovery
Rodriguez then took Cleo to the vet for a full checkup. While Cleo was thankfully healthy, she had no microchip. Still, she was now safe and surrounded by people determined to help her heal.
She spent the next few weeks recovering under the loving care of Encarnacion. With every meal and gentle touch, Cleo slowly regained strength—and trust.
Love Changes Everything
Cleo’s next stop was a foster home, where she continued to blossom. Her foster mom gave her the affection she had always longed for. It wasn’t long before that affection turned into something even deeper.
As days passed, Cleo’s foster mom knew she couldn’t let her go. She officially adopted Cleo, promising a lifetime of love and companionship.
Cleo now had everything she ever needed: a devoted mom, a warm home, and even a best friend—a little Chihuahua sister.
“Her new mom works from home, so she has a lot of time for her. She has a little sister, a Chihuahua, and [they’ve] become best friends,” Rodriguez added.
From the cold streets of New York to the warmth of a forever home, Cleo’s journey is a powerful reminder of what kindness and compassion can do.
A big thank you to Jennifer Rodriguez and all the loving humans who helped Cleo find her happy ending.