When Hope For Paws received a text about an injured dog resting on a stranger’s porch, they knew they had to act fast. The poor pup had wandered up to a kindhearted person’s home, clearly in need of help. Despite his injuries, he showed nothing but warmth and friendliness, as if he understood that better days were coming.
The good Samaritan, Ernesto, took it upon himself to keep the dog safe and comfortable until help arrived. When rescuer JoAnn finally pulled up, she was greeted by a gentle giant who, despite his pain, wagged his tail and welcomed her presence. He didn’t flinch or back away—he trusted her immediately, sensing she was there to help.
Before they could move him, JoAnn had the perfect peace offering: a cheeseburger. The moment the delicious treat appeared, all of the dog’s worries seemed to melt away, if only for a brief moment. He eagerly accepted the meal, his eyes filled with gratitude, as if it was the first kindness he had received in a long time.
Once he finished his snack, it was time to get him to safety. With great care, JoAnn and Ernesto guided him to the rescue vehicle. True to his sweet nature, the pup remained cooperative the entire way, his gentle demeanor never wavering. It was clear—this dog wanted to be saved.
Upon arriving at CARES for a medical evaluation, the team gave him a thorough checkup. Given his rough condition and the road rash covering his body, their best guess was that he had been hit by a car. But miraculously, X-rays showed no broken bones. He had been lucky. His wounds would take time to heal, but he was on the path to recovery.
With a fresh start ahead, it was time for some well-deserved pampering. His rescuers gave him a soothing bubble bath, washing away the dirt and pain of his past. The warm water cooled his irritated skin, and for the first time in a while, he could relax.
They decided to name him Hippo—a fitting name for this lovable, tank-sized pup with a heart of gold. Now, all that was left was the final chapter of his journey. After spending time at LA Animal Rescue for rehabilitation and fostering, he would be ready for his forever home.
Hippo had already endured so much, but his spirit remained unbroken. Now, he just needed the right person to see his worth and give him the loving home he had always deserved.
