Some people see dogs as family, while others treat them as if they don’t matter at all.
Every year, countless animals are abandoned on roadsides, in fields, or outside shelters. Without any sting of regret, their owners leave them to survive without food, warmth, or safety.
One afternoon on a road in Missouri, a driver noticed something unusual.
An old suitcase sat by the edge of the road, worn and out of place. Something about it didn’t feel right. She decided to stop and investigate.
A Heartbreaking Discovery
When she unzipped the suitcase, her heart sank.
Inside were four tiny puppies, barely eight weeks old, zipped in with no way out. Someone had discarded them as if they were nothing more than things to throw away.
Realizing how much danger they were in, the driver acted quickly.
Wanting to make sure the puppies were safe, she contacted Ozarks Pet Rescue and the Howell County Sheriff’s Office.
A passerby offered to take one puppy home, while she stayed with the others until help arrived.
When Tanya Meeks, co-founder of the rescue, reached the location, she was relieved to find the little Labradors were in good shape. They were a bit dirty but full of life.
“They were very, very fat. No fleas, no ticks, a little dirty, you know, but that’s expected,” Meeks told The Dodo.
Despite everything, their tails began to wag as soon as someone showed them kindness.
On The Road To A Better Life
After the puppies settled into foster homes, they started to relax. At first, they were timid and clung to their caregivers.
“They just went through a traumatic event,” Meeks added.
But soon, they began enjoying their puppyhood. They chased toys, explored, and curled up for naps in soft blankets.
“They’re very friendly and playful,” she shared.
A few days later, Meeks got another call. A fifth puppy had been found near the same area. It was a little black Labrador who looked just like the others.
She was certain he was their missing brother and brought him to join the rest of the litter.
Luckily, all five puppies are thriving in foster care.
They’re getting vaccinations, learning what it means to be safe and loved, and waiting for families who will never abandon them again.
The rescue team continues to search for the person who left them behind, but their main focus is on giving these puppies the future they deserve.
