You might expect to come across all sorts of things in a dumpster, but definitely not a living soul inside.
That’s exactly what one passerby thought when they noticed something strange shifting around in one. As they moved closer to take a look, the movement only grew more obvious, and soon the truth became clear.
There it was, a small creature in need of help, and that’s when they knew they had to step in.
Nova’s Sad Beginning
“Who can be so cruel to leave a helpless animal inside a dumpster?” was probably the first thought racing through their mind. But after realizing the little dog needed urgent help, the passerby didn’t waste a second.
They quickly placed the pup in their car and brought him straight to PAWS Chicago.
At first, Nova was hidden under a tarp, leaving the rescuers unsure of his exact condition. But soon, the reality hit them hard.
“Last week, our team was headed into CACC when they saw a puppy, Nova, covered by a tarp sitting outside. A Good Samaritan had found him in a dumpster earlier and dropped him off there for help, according to a bystander,” PAWS Chicago wrote in a Facebook post.
The poor pup had a badly infected leg that required urgent medical attention. Sadly, his chances didn’t look good.
In the end, Nova’s front leg had to be removed to save his life.
It was a heartbreaking moment, but also the beginning of a new chapter. Nova now had the chance to move forward, and as fate would have it, something wonderful was waiting for him.
A Whole New Life Ahead
A Chicago couple, Charlie and his wife, were instantly moved when they learned Nova’s story. His disability didn’t matter to them at all. They decided to adopt him and give him what he had always been missing, a loving home.
In the first few weeks, Nova kept to himself. He stayed close to his crate, always cautious, and seemed surprised that people were suddenly being so kind. He looked almost stunned every time he was served a warm meal or received a gentle stroke on the back.
But then, the real change began.
Nova soon relaxed, welcomed his family fully, and showed his affection without hesitation. He even got a furry brother named Omar to share his days with.
“He really does feel comfortable at home and you can tell that he’s just happy in a place that’s warm and safe,” Charlie told GeoBeats Animals.
Even though his past left scars, Nova never let it darken his spirit.
“He’s clearly been through a lot and has a lot of pain and mental scars, but even if he has hard days, he’s still trying his best to be a sweet, sweet angel,” Charlie added.
He’s nothing short of gentle, kind, and the perfect companion, cherishing every moment of the life he now has.