Stories like this one need to be shared to raise awareness of the heartbreak of animal abandonment. This type of behavior will not be tolerated. As animal lovers, we must band together and do all we can to prevent such a callous act. Animal abandonment isn’t just heartless; it can lead to unnecessary consequences. It’s profoundly sad to see some dog owners abandon their dogs in perilous places, leaving these faithful animals to fend for themselves and cling to the hope of being reunited with their families. But, thankfully, there are many animal advocates out there prepared to step in when needed. Heart and Soul, two best friends, were victims of such cruelty when they were left near a highway. Together, they relied on each other for comfort and survival.
Their bond was tested when Soul was struck by a car along a St. Louis highway. Heart, witnessing her friend’s injury, barked frantically, attracting a crowd of concerned bystanders. Donna Lochmann, Chief Lifesaving Officer at Stray Rescue of St. Louis, was coincidentally driving on that highway. Upon noticing the accident, she immediately stopped to help. Heart’s loud barks drew Lochmann closer, and she quickly secured Heart with a leash and gently carried Soul to her vehicle.
As they headed to the shelter, Heart remained anxious, continually checking on her injured friend. At the shelter, despite all efforts, the X-rays revealed that Soul’s injuries were too severe. The decision was made that he would be put to rest to prevent suffering, and Heart was allowed to be by his side during his final moments. Heart’s understanding and farewell left everyone at the shelter heartbroken.
In the days that followed, the shelter staff showered Heart with love and attention to help her cope with the loss of Soul. They allowed her to rest and provided comfort. To honor the bond between the two, the staff attached a pendant containing Soul’s ashes to Heart’s collar, symbolizing Soul’s everlasting presence in her life as a guardian angel.
Heart did not remain in the shelter for long. She moved to a foster home where she was lavished with care and affection. Soon, she found a forever family, resonating deeply with them because they had recently experienced a similar loss. They believed Heart was destined to be with them.
Her new family, including their dog Bo, who had also recently lost a friend, welcomed her warmly. Heart and Bo quickly bonded, sharing in their mutual understanding of loss and companionship. Heart’s new life is filled with love, play, and snuggles with her family. She continues to wear the pendant with Soul’s ashes, a poignant reminder of her dear friend as she thrives in her new home.
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*The video below highlights the dogs’ bond and Soul’s last moments. The images are both heartbreaking and beautiful. Proceed with that in mind.
Toledo, United States.
