Sadly, it feels like we keep letting our four-legged friends down.
Countless stray animals wander our streets, and instead of offering them kindness, too many people respond with neglect or cruelty.
That’s why my heart warms every time I see compassionate rescuers stepping in — those incredible humans who make it their mission to give abandoned animals the love, safety, and happiness they’ve been missing. One such hero is Donna Lochmann.
No Dog Left Behind
As the chief life-saving officer with Stray Rescue of St. Louis (SRSL), Lochmann has rescued more dogs than she can count. But no matter how many missions she completes, she never hesitates when another animal needs her help.
So when word reached her about a small pup hiding inside an abandoned house, she grabbed her gear without a second thought and drove straight to the scene.
The moment she arrived, it was clear the home had been neglected for years — piles of debris, broken furniture, and trash everywhere.
And then, peeking shyly from behind a heap of rubbish, Lochmann spotted her — a tiny, wary face watching closely, unsure of what was happening.
Speaking in a soft, reassuring tone, Lochmann told the pup she was there to help.
Although cautious, the little dog didn’t run away. It was as if she sensed this human could be trusted.
To build that trust further, Lochmann offered some tasty food. Not only would it fill her empty belly, but it would also show her that kindness still existed.
While the pup focused on eating, Lochmann gently slipped a leash over her head.
The sudden feeling startled her — after all, she had no idea what it was for — but Lochmann’s soothing voice quickly put her at ease.
Once outside, the change in her demeanor was almost instant. The fresh air and open space seemed to calm her, and she even leaned in for a few gentle pets from her rescuer.
After a short break lying in the grass to relax, Lochmann guided her to the car. That’s when the real transformation happened.
Gone was the timid, uncertain pup hiding in the shadows. In her place was a tail-wagging, smiling dog who had finally found someone to believe in.
A Brighter Future
The sweet girl, now named Kukala, was brought to the St. Louis shelter where she was welcomed with open arms.
“You’re coming with us. You will never be alone again. Just take this leap of faith with us. It’s ok if you have to crawl. We’re so proud of you. We can’t wait to show you toys, treats, puppy friends, and all the love you’ve been missing. You’re so worthy, little one,” the shelter wrote.
It’s hard not to get emotional seeing a dog go from frightened and alone to safe and joyful in such a short time.
Kukala’s rescue is a beautiful reminder that with patience, kindness, and a little trust, even the most hesitant pups can blossom.
Sometimes, all it takes to change a life is a caring hand, a gentle voice, and maybe — just maybe — a belly rub or two.