Not every abandoned dog is fortunate enough to be rescued by an organization. Shelters can be overwhelmed, rescuers may lack the authority to intervene, or they simply cannot reach the animal in time.
In those moments, the actions of everyday individuals become vital, and sometimes lifesaving.
Chance, a frightened and emotionally scarred dog from Texas, was left behind when his family moved away. Alone in the heat, his chances of survival were slim. But one woman refused to let him fade away and gave him the opportunity to begin again.
A Dog Left Behind With No One To Help
Stephanie Garcia was standing in her kitchen when she noticed a dog lingering in her neighbor’s yard. Normally, this wouldn’t have caught her attention, but she knew the neighbors had recently moved out.
That’s when it hit her: Chance had been abandoned.
“My neighbors left and took five of their dogs with them and left Chance behind. I noticed and took action by immediately taking food and water,” Stephanie shared on TikTok.
She brought food and water to the dog, who was struggling in the intense Texas heat. Then she contacted the local SPCA for help. Unfortunately, the organization was unable to obtain a warrant and couldn’t intervene.
Other nearby rescues also declined to assist, citing overcrowding and lack of space.
“The SPCA abandoned the abandonment case I reported because a judge wouldn’t grant a warrant to go on the property. And rescues were too full,” added Stephanie.
With no other options, Stephanie decided to take matters into her own hands. She and her husband continued to bring food and water to Chance, hoping someone would eventually allow them access to the property.
Finally, someone arrived with a key to the house and gave them permission to rescue him.
They approached the situation with care. Chance was deeply traumatized and afraid of everything. He spent most of his time hiding under a trailer, making the rescue even more delicate.
But after a few days of gentle kindness, Chance began to trust.
He emerged from his hiding spot and allowed Stephanie to pet him. He even followed her to the garage, a clear sign that he was ready to accept help.
Chance spent the next few days adjusting to his new surroundings and meeting Stephanie’s four dogs.
One day, another stray wandered into the yard, a German Shepherd named Nova. Chance welcomed her immediately, and the two became inseparable.
Before long, both Chance and Nova were officially part of the Garcia family.
A Home Filled With Love And Healing
All Chance ever needed was love. After enduring neglect and abandonment, he finally had a place to call home.
With the support of his new family, Chance began his recovery. He was diagnosed with heartworms, and treatment started right away.
He felt safe with his new mom and dad, and slowly began to relax around his siblings. His fear started to fade, revealing a sweet and affectionate dog beneath the trauma.
“Chance is an amazing dog and is not aggressive in any way, shape or form. Just scared of quite literally everything. He’s safe and loved forever now with us,” Stephanie wrote.
Chance, Nova, and their fellow dog siblings thrived together. Stephanie felt deeply grateful for the bond they shared.
“Saving Chance and Nova has been such a blessing in disguise. I’m glad I was able to make a difference for two more dogs,” Stephanie shared in another TikTok.
Chance no longer has to worry about surviving. His days are now filled with playtime, affection, and the comfort of knowing he is truly loved.