On a chilly and rainy day, NYPD Officer Michael Pascale came across a troubling sight while on patrol in a local park. He found a small black dog, later named Joey, abandoned and tied to a fence with a heavy chain.
Surrounded by discarded needles and broken beer bottles, Joey was wet, shivering, and in clear distress.
Recalling the moment, Officer Pascale said that the dog’s expressive eyes seemed to plead for help, filling him with the urgency to rescue the little canine.
With empathy and determination, Officer Pascale brought Joey to the Animal Care Centers of NYC shelter in Brooklyn. While drying off the appreciative pup, Pascale felt an undeniable connection.
“I don’t see an animal,” Pascale explained. “I see a soul. And that’s not something I walk away from.”
Eager to share his discovery, Pascale quickly snapped a picture of Joey and sent it to his wife. Her immediate response, urging him to bring the lovable dog home, confirmed that they hoped to make Joey a part of their family.
However, there was a small hurdle to overcome before this could happen.
The shelter informed Officer Pascale that Joey had to remain there for a mandatory 72-hour stray hold. This waiting period is crucial to give any potential owner the opportunity to claim their lost pet.
Despite this temporary setback, Pascale made a heartfelt vow to return for Joey. He stayed true to his promise, visiting the shelter daily during the holding period.
Each visit strengthened their bond, as Joey began to recognize and respond to Pascale with increasing affection. What had started as a chance meeting was quickly evolving into an undeniable connection between them.
After the waiting period concluded, Officer Pascale was thrilled to officially adopt Joey. With joy and relief, Pascale assured Joey that he was now safe and cherished. They headed home, ready to begin their new life together.
Today, Joey is a treasured member of Pascale’s family. No longer a scared stray, he thrives on adventures around New York with Pascale and enjoys cozy snuggles with his wife on the couch.
Officer Pascale often jokes that Joey has truly become a Mama’s Boy.
Although Joey has some habits, like rooting through the trash or shying away from rain, he remains a beloved companion. His cheerful personality even shines on Instagram. Most importantly, Joey is loved, fulfilling what every dog truly desires.
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