Hunger is a relentless enemy for dogs left to fend for themselves. Without steady meals, each day becomes a fight for survival, and too often that fight is lost.
Most strays scrape by on scraps, discarded trash, or whatever they can claw together just to keep going. Only a handful ever stumble upon real nourishment before their strength fades.
Levey, a gentle dog with striking eyes of two different colors, was not among the lucky ones. She had been abandoned in a desolate Missouri schoolyard, tied cruelly to a fence with no one to care for her.
By the time rescuers found her, her frail body spoke volumes. Every bone and every patch of her weakened frame told the heartbreaking story of what she had endured.
Desperate And Starving Outside A Vacant School
A passerby was stunned when they spotted Levey tethered to a fence outside the empty Missouri school. She had no food, no water, and her ribs were clearly visible through her thin coat.
Realizing the severity of her condition, the good Samaritan immediately contacted animal control. Responders rushed to the scene and quickly transported her to Stray Rescue of St. Louis for urgent care.
Though the rescue was operating at full capacity, the team refused to turn Levey away. She was dangerously malnourished and on the brink of collapse, needing immediate attention to survive.
The staff gently comforted her, assuring her she was safe at last. They crafted a detailed care plan designed to stabilize her fragile state and rebuild her strength.
“She’s scared, but already climbing into our laps for comfort and security. She weighs just 23 pounds,” the Missouri rescue reported on Facebook.
To prevent refeeding syndrome, Levey was given small, frequent meals throughout the day. With every bite, her spirit began to return.
Within a week, her transformation was remarkable. Though still underweight and not yet ready for adoption, her eyes were brighter, and her joyful energy began to shine through.
Joy Returns As She Begins To Heal
Now, Levey is full of enthusiasm and playfulness. Her days are spent enjoying affection and discovering what it means to be loved and cared for.
Even better, she has formed a close bond with another dog named Alaric. The two have become inseparable companions, offering each other comfort and joy during recovery.
“Not only did you fall in love with them, but they have fallen in love with each other! They are both at a weight that is safe enough for them to leave the shelter and go to a foster home,” SRSL stated.
Levey still requires a foster environment where her feeding plan can be followed carefully and where she’ll continue to receive the affection she’s learning to trust.
Soon, she’ll be strong enough to find her forever family and begin a life far removed from the pain of her past.
Best of luck, Levey. We’re definitely looking forward to your next update.
