A typical game of hide and seek usually brings joy, but for one frightened puppy, it became a tool for survival.
In the tranquil woods of Missouri, a young dog named Fergie sought refuge, trying to disappear from a world that seemed to have abandoned her. She found solace amongst the brush, believing it to be her safest option.
Everything changed when a compassionate rescuer demonstrated that kindness and hope still existed.
After receiving a tip-off about the 2-year-old black and white dog lying deep in the undergrowth, the Stray Rescue of St. Louis, Missouri (SRSL) sprang into action.
The challenge of locating Fergie fell to Donna Lochmann, SRSL’s chief lifesaving officer. She recounted, “Initially, I couldn’t see her, but upon returning the next day, I found her in the dense vegetation.”
Fergie was cautious, having learned that the wilderness could be safer than people. When Donna approached, Fergie growled defensively. But Donna noticed something critical through Fergie’s fear.
“I saw she wasn’t using her front right leg,” Donna noted, realizing the pup was injured.
With Fergie trapped by thick vines and leaves, Donna knew a slip lead might harm her further. So, she devised a careful plan.
“I decided to set a trap with some fresh fried chicken to see if I could coax her in,” Donna explained.
Unfortunately, when Donna returned later, nothing had changed. The trap laid undisturbed, and Fergie had moved to a nearby abandoned house.
Hiding by the old building, Fergie watched Donna from a distance, still wary of trust. Despite this, Donna was determined not to give up.
Understanding that patience was necessary, Donna gently approached, speaking softly to convey her good intentions.
This time, Fergie stayed put.
Seizing the moment, Donna tossed one end of the leash towards Fergie to show it was harmless. Fergie remained still, seemingly too exhausted to resist.
Donna successfully slipped the loop over Fergie’s head. The pup had reached her limit, utterly spent from her ordeal.
Feeling immense relief, Donna carefully lifted Fergie, transported her to the car, and rushed her to the veterinarian.
The examination revealed that Fergie’s shoulder injury required amputation. Additionally, she tested positive for parvo, presenting more hurdles in her path to recovery.
Though the journey to health will be long, Fergie is now in a safe place. At Stray Rescue of St. Louis, she receives medical care and love, far from the dangers of the woods.
Surrounded by people who believe in her, Fergie is stepping into a hopeful future, on her way to finding a lifelong home that will cherish her unconditionally.
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