On a cold, drizzly day, NYPD Officer Michael Pascale stumbled upon a heart-wrenching sight in a public park. Amidst the litter of broken bottles and discarded needles was Joey, a small black dog tethered to a fence, drenched and trembling from the cold.
Pascale’s heart ached as he saw Joey’s pleading eyes begging for rescue. “His gaze was filled with a silent plea for help,” he recounted to The Dodo. “I knew immediately that I couldn’t leave him there.”
From Rainy Desolation to Warm Embrace
The compassionate officer swiftly took Joey to the Animal Care Centers of NYC in Brooklyn. As he gently patted Joey dry, he felt an unmistakable bond forming.
“It’s more than just seeing an animal,” Pascale mused. “I see a soul. And it’s impossible to turn away from that.”
Without hesitation, he sent a photo of the despondent pup to his wife, who promptly responded with, “He needs to be with us!” They were set on adopting Joey, with just one regulation in their way.
A Waiting Game
The ACC informed Officer Pascale about the compulsory 72-hour stray hold, a policy ensuring potential owners have a window to reclaim lost or possibly stolen pets. Regardless of Joey’s visible neglect, there was a chance someone might be desperately searching for him.
Determined to keep his promise, Pascale visited Joey daily. Their bond only deepened with each interaction.
When the waiting period finally ended, Officer Pascale eagerly completed the adoption process. Joey’s exuberant affection, displayed through endless licks, solidified the officer’s resolve to protect him from any future harm.
A New Chapter
From being a forsaken pup left out in the cold, Joey transformed into a cherished family member. He relishes exploring the city alongside his savior-turned-owner and enjoys cozy moments snuggled up with his new mom, proving himself to be quite the Mama’s Boy, as Officer Pascale fondly mentions.
Joey now thrives under the moniker @Joey Good Doggo on Instagram. Sure, he has his quirks — he occasionally raids the trash and isn’t a fan of rainy outings — but he’s now happy and, most importantly, loved.
In the end, that’s the only thing any dog truly wishes for.
