Playing hide and seek is usually a fun game; however, sometimes it turns into something far more serious.
A scared, abandoned pup chose the woods as her hiding spot, seeking safety and solitude away from the world. That remained true until a kind rescuer arrived, showing her that there are still good people in the world.
Fergie Is Spotted In The Woods
The Stray Rescue of St. Louis, Missouri (SRSL) was contacted after someone noticed Fergie, a 2-year-old black and white dog, tucked away in the underbrush.
A rescuer quickly made her way to help, but finding the pup proved difficult.
“At first, I didn’t really see her anywhere. But I went back the next day and sure enough there she was, still in the weeds,” said Donna Lochmann, SRSL’s chief lifesaving officer.
Fergie was very wary. Having been alone in the cold woods for so long, she didn’t trust anyone who approached.
She began growling at Donna, warning her to stay away. Yet Donna, trained in animal behavior, noticed something important.
“I realized that she wasn’t using her front right leg. She was clearly injured.“
The Initial Rescue Attempt
In addition to her injury, Fergie was trapped among thick leaves and tangled vines. Donna realized that trying to catch her with a slip lead around her neck would be unsafe.
Fortunately, she had a careful plan.
“I thought it’d be easier to set a trap and see if she went in. So I got a bunch of fresh fried chicken and put it in one of my traps.“
Donna decided to leave Fergie alone, hoping the pup would eventually enter the trap if no one was watching.
When Donna returned later, she was surprised. The chicken was untouched, the trap remained empty, and Fergie had left the woods entirely.
She had made her way to an abandoned house nearby.
Settling along the foundation, Fergie continued to watch Donna, showing that she still hadn’t earned her trust.
But Donna was determined not to give up.
Gaining Fergie’s Confidence
Donna realized that Fergie could not be forced; she needed to be gently lured. Kneeling down, Donna spoke softly to the pup, reassuring her that she was safe.
“She didn’t get up and try to run away from me this time.“
Slowly, Donna moved closer, tossing one end of the leash in Fergie’s direction to show that it was harmless.
Fergie barely reacted. Donna carefully slipped the leash over her head. To her surprise, Fergie did not resist.
She seemed to shut down entirely, likely exhausted from so much time alone.
Donna was thrilled to have finally gained her trust. Without delay, she carefully carried Fergie to the car and drove to the vet.
After a thorough checkup, the vet confirmed that Fergie’s shoulder injury required amputation. She had also tested positive for parvo.
Beginning The Road To Recovery
Although Fergie has a long journey ahead before regaining full strength, she is now exactly where she needs to be.
Surrounded by love, care, and medical attention at Missouri St. Louis Stray Rescue, this brave pup is well on her way to becoming her good dog self once again, ready to find a forever home that will finally give her the life she deserves.