Stray dogs roam the streets, each one silently longing for the day they’ll be rescued from the dangers around them. All they want is a bit of kindness—love that will warm their heart and help them forget their hardships.
Tabea was one such gentle soul, in desperate need of care. Malnourished, exhausted, and alone, she wandered through the streets of St. Louis, Missouri.
One day, her search for safety led her to the porch of a family home. Hoping the people inside might take pity on her, she curled up on a blanket she found there, trying to make herself as small and invisible as possible.
Kind People In Rescue Mission
The woman living in the house was immediately moved to sadness when she saw the frail pup resting on her porch. Tabea looked utterly worn out—her eyes heavy with exhaustion and sorrow.
Knowing the dog needed urgent help, she contacted Stray Rescue of St. Louis and explained the situation.
Rescuer Donna Lochmann and her team quickly jumped into their rescue Jeep and headed to the address.
When they arrived and saw Tabea’s condition, their hearts sank. Her thin body bore scars from a rough life. And when the pup looked up at them, it was with eyes that seemed to have lost all hope.
Lochmann knelt beside her, speaking softly and gently stroking her head. She slipped a leash over Tabea’s neck, and the pup, later given her name, allowed herself to be led away without resistance.
Soon, she was on her way to the shelter, leaving the streets behind.
Getting Much-Needed Help
At the shelter, the staff surrounded her with affection. At first, Tabea seemed confused, unsure if she could trust these new faces. But slowly, she realized she was safe.
Her sweet nature won over everyone she met, and the love she received began to heal her spirit.
A veterinary check revealed an ear infection. X-rays also showed a broken section of her tail, which unfortunately had to be amputated.
Thanks to the excellent medical care she received, Tabea began to feel stronger.
With time, she blossomed into a trusting, affectionate dog. But just as she was recovering, another challenge arose—an autoimmune condition that caused her pain in her neck and back.
Still, Tabea didn’t give up. She kept fighting, supported by her devoted shelter team.
“… Our amazing Dr Schulz was confident she would be ok. She gave her steroids, which thankfully worked and now she is up and moving and cuddling again,” the rescue shared on Instagram.
Soon after, Tabea was placed in a loving foster home, where she continued to heal surrounded by care and comfort.
Finding Forever Home
On December 21st, 2022, the rescue shared the happiest news—Tabea had found her forever home.
Her new mom showers her with the love she had been missing for so long. Now, Tabea knows what it means to be cherished.
Her days are filled with joy, and her big, happy smile says it all.
We’re overjoyed that Tabea’s story ended in happiness. Thanks to the kindness and compassion of so many, this sweet Missouri girl finally found her place under the sun.