Lady Bird, a 9-year-old black Labrador, was found in a heartbreaking situation on a day that started like any other at Splash Park in Destrehan, Louisiana. Tied to a public bathroom, the elderly dog was left with a note attached, reading: “Be nice, dogs - no car broke down - come back soon - give my dog some water - come back in the morning.”
Though the note was somewhat unclear, local animal control assumed Lady Bird had been abandoned. She was taken to the St. Charles Parish Animal Shelter, where rescue workers quickly assessed her condition.
However, the next morning, a phone call from Lady Bird's owner revealed the heartbreaking truth. The man, who had rescued Lady Bird when she was just 6 weeks old, explained that he was homeless, without a car, and in desperate need of help. He had no transportation to get to his family in North Carolina, but he didn't want Lady Bird to suffer in her final years.
His note was a cry for help, asking anyone who could assist in caring for Lady Bird until he could get her to his family. Seeing his genuine concern for his dog, several rescues—Turning Rescues Into Pets, GreaterGood, and Wings of Rescue—came together to help. They devised a plan to reunite Lady Bird with her owner’s family in North Carolina.
Through the combined efforts of animal control and these compassionate organizations, Lady Bird’s journey took a turn for the better. The bond between the owner and his dog, despite their hardships, touched the hearts of all those who became part of this incredible story. Thanks to the kindness and understanding of these rescues, Lady Bird was able to find her way to safety, and her owner was able to get the help he needed.
This story is a beautiful reminder of the power of compassion, especially when faced with difficult circumstances.
