Stray Dog Seeks Refuge In Open Car Door, Finds Unexpected Shelter

"Her survival was uncertain"

Damjan

• Published in Animal Stories
• March 7, 2024

Life for stray dogs is really tough. They're left alone to deal with a lot of problems.

They're always hungry, often sick, and have to face dangers all the time. Being a stray dog means fighting to survive every single day, with no end in sight.

Bill, a resident of Missouri, was on his way back home from a fishing expedition in Arkansas when an unexpected incident occurred. During a brief pit stop, he left his car door ajar due to the hurried nature of his errand.

Upon his return, he discovered an unexpected passenger – a stray dog had leaped into the front seat. The dog appeared visibly famished and in dire need of assistance.

Bill could only offer her a Rice Krispie Treat, the sole food item in his vehicle. The dog eagerly accepted it, a clear indication of her hunger.

Observing her plight, Bill realized he couldn’t abandon her to the elements; her survival was uncertain. Fortuitously, the dog had encountered the right individual.

Bill and his wife, Angela, were renowned for their empathy toward stray animals, often providing them with a nurturing home. Their residence already served as a sanctuary for numerous rescued dogs.

After informing Angela about his unexpected passenger, Bill sent her a photo of the dog. Angela promptly extended a warm reception to their newfound family member. They christened her River, drawing inspiration from the locale where Bill had encountered her.

Bill sent a picture of the dog to his wife Angela.

Upon arriving home, Angela and their son welcomed River. Despite the hospitable atmosphere, River seemed hesitant to depart from the car, possibly viewing it as the only secure haven from her life on the streets.

Eventually, Bill carried River into the house, gradually acquainting her with her new companions to prevent overwhelming her. With three rescue dogs and a rescued cat already part of the household, River was destined to assimilate seamlessly.

Visit to the vet.

River's inaugural night at her new abode entailed a much-needed bath to rid her of the mud, blood, and ticks that besmirched her coat. Following a hearty meal, she spent the night beside a space heater on a makeshift bed in Bill and Angela's chamber.

The subsequent morning witnessed River embarking on a voyage of exploration within her novel surroundings, fueled by newfound inquisitiveness. Bill and Angela discerned her house-trained behavior, implying she might have once dwelled in a domestic setting.

River’s first night at home.

Concerns regarding River's health prompted a visit to the veterinarian, where she was diagnosed with tapeworms, heartworms, and wounds on her neck and face. Despite her ailments, River exhibited increasing contentment each passing day, owing to the nurturing environment provided by her new family.

Introducing her to her new siblings.

With the passage of time and attentive care, River convalesced and acclimated to her fresh existence. Her confidence burgeoned with each passing day, and she appeared grateful for the second lease on life afforded by the benevolent man whose car she had sought refuge in.

River swiftly integrated into the family routine, frolicking with her canine counterparts and eventually winning over the initially aloof cat. Angela remarked, "She frolics in the yard and romps with Winston, obeys commands for treats alongside Ginger, and commandeers the bed alongside Butters."

Damjan