A Terrified Pup Behind a Dumpster
A Good Samaritan discovered a frightened dog curled up behind a dumpster in an alley in St. Louis, Missouri, and contacted Stray Rescue of St. Louis. Rescuers, including Donna Lochmann, immediately responded to the call. Upon arrival, they found the dog, later named Joan of Bark, huddled and trying to hide. Her eyes, filled with sorrow and fear, conveyed the depth of her distress.
A Gentle Rescue and a Painful Discovery
Lochmann approached Joan of Bark gently, offering her Vienna sausages. The hungry dog, despite her fear, accepted the food. After spending some time building trust, Lochmann placed a leash around Joan of Bark’s neck. As the dog finally stood, the rescuers discovered the reason for her hesitation: one of her back legs was broken, likely the result of being hit by a car.
Medical Care and Recovery
Joan of Bark was carefully placed in a crate and reassured that she was now safe. She was rushed to a veterinary clinic, where she received a thorough examination and X-rays. The veterinary staff provided her with a comforting bath, which she seemed to appreciate. Due to the severity and age of the break, the difficult decision was made to amputate her injured leg. After a successful surgery, Joan of Bark began her recovery.
From Trauma to Trust and a Search for a Home
After recovering from surgery, Joan of Bark moved to a shelter where she received love and care from the staff. She gradually regained her trust in humans and began to enjoy cuddles and attention. Despite being a tripod, she embraced life, even enjoying playful “zoomies” in the yard. She was then placed in a loving foster home where she quickly settled in, bonding with her foster sister. While it’s not explicitly stated whether Joan of Bark has found her forever home yet, the story emphasizes her remarkable progress from a terrified and injured stray to a confident and loving dog ready for a new chapter in her life. The dedication of the rescuers and foster family has given Joan of Bark the opportunity for a happy and fulfilling future.
