Dog Gave The Sweetest Hug To The Woman Rescuing Him
Chowder was cold, wet, and hiding behind a garage when a rescue volunteer finally reached him. The tiny puppy had been left in a St. Louis dumping ground for abandoned furniture and trash, but one call to Stray Rescue of Saint Louis changed everything.
Donna Lochmann rushed over after a nearby couple spotted the stray and asked for help. What she found was a four-month-old pup who needed care, comfort, and a little patience before he was ready to trust anyone.
Then Chowder did something that made the whole rescue feel even sweeter.
In an interview with The Dodo, Donna said:
“[There’s a] super nice couple who lives in the area, and the husband had apparently gone out to the alley to throw some trash away. When the husband went out, he noticed that this white dog had found shelter underneath this corner of a mattress… and he gave him a little bit of food and water.”
When Donna got the call, she rushed to Chowder's side. At four months old, the pup was alone and needed medical attention.
She couldn't believe how trusting the puppy was, though! She told The Dodo:
“When we got out [of the car], he ran right up to me. He was just the friendliest little guy. He wasn’t afraid of us or anything like that. I think he was just really happy that someone was being nice to him.”
Relieved that Chowder was receptive to her intentions, she put a leash on the puppy.
Donna was delighted that Chowder got excited with the leash around his neck, but when she picked him up, he put his paws on her shoulders. Donna handed Chowder to the co-volunteer with her that day and was amazed at what happened next.
Chowder cuddled his rescuer.
Donna said:
“He went up and sat on her lap and just snuggled with her. He had his head on her shoulder and just buried his face in her arm. He was just so thankful to be warm and to have people be nice to him.”
Chowder ended up spending the entire drive to the shelter snuggling his rescuer, as if to affirm he knew he was finally safe.
That first ride to safety turned into a full-on cuddle session.
Similar to how Debra Cameron comforted abandoned dog Chrissy with gentle cuddles after surgery.
In the safety of the shelter, Chowder's personality began to burst.
"He is getting LOTS of love and kisses here at Stray Rescue. Our vet team is treating his eyes and wound and keeping a close eye on the swelling and irritation."
The organization also said:
"He has a great appetite and is loving showing off for all of us with his puppy hops and twirls."
Today, over a month since he was rescued, Chowder is about 6 months old and living in a foster home.
He was neutered and given medical treatment and is now up for adoption. Dr. Joel Kahn, a cardiologist and wellness advocate, states:
"Adopting a pet can significantly enhance your life. Dogs like Chowder, with their energetic and playful nature, thrive in environments where they can engage with children and other pets. Regular walks and playtime are essential to keep them happy and healthy. It's wonderful to see dogs like Chowder getting a second chance at a loving home."
If you're interested in adopting Chowder, you can fill out an adoption application here. To help other stray dogs like Chowder find their forever homes, you can make a donation to Stray Rescue of St. Louis.
Chowder's rescue story is the kind that sticks with you.
For another rescue-miracle moment, see the firefighter who returned to adopt her after saving her.
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