On a dreary, rainy day in the city, Officer Michael Pascale discovered an unlikely companion while on patrol. While navigating his NYPD squad car through the park, he spotted a small black dog nestled amongst used needles and shattered beer bottles – this was Joey.
Officer Pascale took a better look and noticed the dog had an oversized chain locked around his neck, binding him to the fence. Joey was saturated in water, shaking uncontrollably, and left behind.
Pascale looked into the dog’s eyes and felt an urgency to help him, telling The Dodo “He was just staring up at me with these ‘Help Me’ eyes. I knew immediately that I had to save him.”
As Officer Johnson dried the grateful pup with a towel, he felt an intimate connection start to develop between them. After rescuing Joey from wet and lost, the kind-hearted officer took him to Animal Care Centers of NYC’s refuge in Brooklyn for much-deserved safety and comfort.
Pascale exclaimed, “I don’t just view this as an animal. I recognize a soul living within it and would never ignore that.”
He texted his wife a photo of the little pup, to which she quickly replied “Bring him home!” Without any hesitation or further discussion, they decided Joey would be their newest family member – all that was left was one tiny obstacle.
Officer Pascale was informed by the ACC that Joey needed to be held in their care for an obligatory 72 hours. Despite how neglected or abused an animal may seem, there could always potentially be a worried owner desperately searching for them. This stray hold permits enough time for any owners of a lost or stolen pet to come forward and lay claim to their beloved companion.
Officer Pascale said a teary goodbye the first time, but he stayed true to his promise and came back the very next day. As days passed, their bond only strengthened with each visit.
At long last, the waiting period was over and Pascale could adopt Joey with official paperwork. To celebrate this momentous occasion, Joey was brought out to meet his new mom for a joyous reunion.
Officer Pascale was showered with affection as the eager pup expressed his gratitude. He reassured him that he’d always be safe and never experience neglect or abuse again before they set off to start their new life together.
A Happy Ending for Joey
Joey’s transformation from a fearful, starving stray to an adored pet was remarkable. Whether it be meandering around New York City with his father or snuggling up on the couch with his mother, Joey loves spending time with them; Officer Pascale even noted that he has become quite affectionate towards his mom!
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