When a Good Samaritan noticed a scared dog curled behind a dumpster in a St. Louis, Missouri alley, they contacted Stray Rescue of St. Louis, asking for their help.
Donna Lochmann and her team responded right away.
As soon as they reached the site, they spotted the pup, later named Joan of Bark, doing her best to stay hidden. She stayed quiet, seemingly accepting her fate.
But when Joan of Bark heard Lochmann’s voice, she lifted her eyes. Her beautiful gaze reflected deep sadness and intense fear.
Helping Her Feel Safe
Lochmann sat nearby and offered her some Vienna sausages.
Though still uneasy, the hungry pup quickly finished the treat.
After giving her time to feel comfortable, Lochmann gently placed a leash around her neck.
The hesitant dog didn’t move at first, so Lochmann let her decide when to walk. When Joan of Bark finally stood, her rescuers understood her fear.
One of her back legs appeared broken. The team believed she had likely been hit by a vehicle.
Once they managed to guide her into a crate, they comforted her, letting her know she was now protected.
“She’s fearful and painful, but who wouldn’t be in her position. It’s ok baby, you are safe now! We got you,” Stray Rescue of St. Louis shared in a Facebook post.
Joan of Bark was taken to the vet, who examined her and X-rayed her injured leg.
The veterinary staff gave her a calming bath, which the pup seemed to enjoy. Her eyes revealed thankfulness as she looked at those helping her.
Although they tried to save her leg, it ultimately had to be removed because the injury had gone untreated too long.
After the surgery went well, Joan of Bark began her healing journey.
Showered With Affection
Once she was stable, Joan of Bark moved to the shelter.
She was finally pain-free, and her caregivers showed her constant affection, helping her feel loved and secure.
The sweet dog cherished every cuddle she shared with the people who saved her.
Their love gave her confidence that a forever family might be out there waiting.
Though she now had three legs, Joan of Bark didn’t let it stop her. She ran joyfully through the yard.
Eventually, she was placed in a loving foster home through the St. Louis rescue. At first, she was shy, but it didn’t take long for her to feel at ease.
Her foster family treated her with care and kindness. She was thankful to enjoy the comfort of a real home.
Joan of Bark also bonded with her furry foster sister, and the two spent lots of time together.
Hoping for a permanent home, Joan of Bark continued searching for her ideal match.
It’s not yet known whether she has found that perfect family, but with her loving spirit, it seems likely her dream will come true.