Dogs truly deserve the very best. They’re symbols of friendship and kindness, always by our side when we need them most.
Unfortunately, people often take that for granted. Sometimes, dogs are mistreated or neglected, even when they’ve done nothing wrong.
Caring for a dog requires patience, compassion, and a lot of love. If someone isn’t ready to provide that, maybe it’s best not to get a puppy at all.
This story shows what happens when a dog’s trust is betrayed — but also how kindness can bring hope again.
A Scared Dog Looking For Shelter
When animal rescuer Suzette Hall heard about a small dog wandering through a neighborhood, desperately searching for shelter, she knew she had to help.
Hall could relate to the dog’s situation. She, too, had been feeling displaced after recent flooding in Southern California forced her to leave her home.
“I had been feeling so lost that day, like I didn’t have anywhere to go,” Hall told The Dodo. “And then I got the message about this little dog.”
Neighbors said they had seen the dog for several days. It was likely that her family had abandoned her, leaving her alone to survive the cold and heavy rain.
“She would go up and scratch on doors like, ‘Let me in!’” Hall explained. “When no one answered, she would just sit there, shaking.”
The Rescue Mission Begins
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Before taking action, Hall wanted to make sure the dog didn’t already have an owner. She posted about her online, but no one came forward.
When Hall finally found her, the dog was terrified — avoiding all contact. She tried using treats and a humane trap, but the little pup was too frightened to approach.
So Hall tried something different — she simply talked to her.
“She was too scared to go into the trap, so I sat there and talked to her,” Hall said. “I told her I understood how she felt. I said, ‘I don’t have a home either right now.’”
To Hall’s surprise, the pup started to relax. Slowly, she allowed Hall to come close enough to touch her.
After a few gentle pets, Hall carried her to the truck — where the exhausted dog finally fell asleep.
A Second Chance At Life
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The dog was immediately taken to a veterinarian, who gave her the care and comfort she needed. Her fur was badly matted, so she was brought to a groomer who carefully shaved away the tangled hair, revealing the sweet dog beneath.
They named her Nikki.
“She’s one of those dogs everyone falls in love with instantly,” Hall said. “She’s so gentle — she doesn’t even bark!”
Nikki is now safe in a loving foster home, waiting for her forever family. Until that day comes, Hall and her team continue to shower her with the love she’s always deserved.