Offering hope to a neglected dog is like opening the door to an entirely new life. With patience and kindness, even those who have suffered deeply can rediscover trust and affection.
Oakley, a ten-month-old puppy, stands as proof of that truth.
She was discovered in a Missouri yard, tucked away in the bushes, quietly enduring a serious wound on her neck. Lack of care and neglect had left her in a heartbreaking state, and the injury worsened as time went on.
For days, Oakley bore her pain in silence, waiting for the moment when someone would finally see her and bring the help she needed.
A Cry For Help Hidden In The Bushes
Donna Lochmann, a rescuer with Stray Rescue of St. Louis, Missouri, happened to be in the right place at the right time.
While driving through a neighborhood, Donna noticed something moving in a cluster of bushes.
When she looked closer, she saw a small, frightened puppy peeking out. It was Oakley, and the sight broke her heart.
“This adorable 10 month old female puppy was all by herself hiding in some bush. Upon closer inspection, we saw she suffered from a gaping neck wound,” SRSL stated in a Facebook post.
The wound had been caused by a collar that was much too tight, cutting deep into her skin and preventing it from healing.
Even after everything she had been through, Oakley greeted her rescuer with gentle tail wags and hopeful eyes. It was as if she knew help had finally arrived.
A Second Chance At Life
Donna brought Oakley to Stray Rescue of St. Louis, where the medical team immediately began treatment.
After a few careful stitches and days of rest, her wound began to close, leaving behind only a small scar as a reminder of her struggle.
“She was rescued, stayed in our clinic where we healed her gaping neck wound. Now she’s in foster, her stitches are out, she’s fully healed, and ready for her forever home,” the rescue wrote in an update post.
Now healthy and full of energy, Oakley has blossomed into a happy, affectionate pup.
“She’s dog friendly, and happy as can be. Her foster mom is teaching her all about love and manners with lots of patience – we couldn’t ask for more,” they added.
Her recovery is nearly complete, and her next adventure is just begin
