When Niko was found, his face was extremely swollen, and he had a heavy chain wrapped around his neck. The poor dog appeared sad and defeated. The rescuers tried to remove the rusted chain, but it was so tightly wrapped around his neck that they had to use bolt cutters to free him. It seemed like Niko knew they were there to help, and he was ready for them to take him away from his misery.
Upon arriving at the shelter, Niko was shy and timid. However, once the staff gave him treats and affection, he began to warm up. The shelter made contact with Niko’s owners, who admitted they didn’t have the means to care for him and surrendered him.
Niko’s time in the kennel seemed to be shutting him down emotionally. Kelsi, a staff member at the shelter, noticed this and decided to spend her lunch breaks with Niko. This special time together helped Niko come out of his shell, and he transformed into a dog with lots of personality. He was extremely happy when Kelsi entered the room, and the two formed a strong bond.
Niko stayed at the shelter for about three months, waiting for a foster family. Finally, a family came in to meet him, and Niko made a great impression. The shelter staff was overjoyed to find someone willing to foster Niko. As Niko settled into his new home, it became apparent that he truly enjoyed his lunchtime dates with Kelsi and missed her very much.
The shelter decided to surprise Niko with a special lunch date with Kelsi, complete with a selection of treats for him to choose from. They also made him a beautiful “bark-cuterie” board, which he thoroughly enjoyed. Niko was dressed in a handsome bow tie for the occasion, looking dapper and ready for his lunch date.
It wasn’t long before Niko’s foster family fell in love with him and couldn’t bear the thought of giving him up to another family. They decided to adopt Niko, giving him a forever home where he could continue to thrive and be happy.
Toledo, United States.
