Responding to a distressing call, Officer Angela Laurella hurried to a dead-end street in Pompano, Florida, where she discovered two dogs tied to poles. There were no surveillance cameras in the area, leaving Officer Laurella unaware of how long the dogs had been abandoned. However, with scorching temperatures reaching 100 degrees outside, she knew immediate action was crucial.
Among the dogs, Officer Laurella noticed a frail gray pup, tightly bound to a pole, barely able to move. The sight was heartbreaking. “He was absolutely emaciated, dehydrated, with every bone and rib protruding,” shared Amy Roman, president and founder of 100+ Abandoned Dogs of Everglades Florida.
The officer approached the dog, now named Liam, with caution. To her surprise, he placed his paw in her hand and lowered his head, as if pleading for help. Recognizing his desperate situation and special needs, Officer Laurella reached out to the 100+ Abandoned Dogs rescue for assistance. Despite being over capacity, Roman readily accepted Liam into their care.
Liam underwent multiple vet visits and is now recuperating in Roman’s home. As a 17-pound pocket bully, he is slowly regaining his strength and enjoying a more nourishing diet than ever before. Volunteers are cooking batches of boiled chicken and rice, ensuring he receives round-the-clock love and care.
While Liam’s journey to full recovery is far from over, his rescue has brought joy and hope to all involved. Despite the hardships he has endured, Liam remains loving and gentle. “To me, that says it all because after everything he’s endured, he’s still so grateful and forgiving,” Roman expressed.
Liam’s story sheds light on the increasing number of animals abandoned or surrendered by their owners in Florida. Roman urges pet owners to seek help and resources from shelters and rescues before deciding they can no longer care for their pets. Liam serves as a reminder that every dog deserves a second chance at a loving family.
Amidst the challenges, Liam continues to offer his paw to people, demonstrating his readiness to embrace a life filled with love and compassion. “I think humanity can definitely learn a thing or two from dogs such as Liam,” Roman reflected. “It just restores your faith.”
