A Disturbing Discovery: Abandoned in a Taped-Up Bag
What began as an ordinary day for Lilia Toscano quickly transformed into an unforgettable one when she noticed a rubber tote bag left on the roadside outside her Detroit home.
Toscano sensed that something was amiss and rushed outside to investigate. Upon closer inspection, she realized that the bag was sealed with tape.
When she opened it, Toscano was shocked and horrified to discover a terrified dog inside. He was trembling uncontrollably and looked at her with an expression of disbelief.
Because the pup was too scared to move, Toscano called her neighbor and urgently requested his assistance.
A Rescue Mission: Overcoming Fear and Hesitation
Toscano’s neighbor carefully picked up the dog and brought him into Toscano’s home. They then contacted P.O.E.T. Animal Rescue, a rescue organization in Westland, Michigan, and informed them about the abandoned pup’s plight.
Since the dog, later named Kendrick, remained completely motionless, Toscano and her neighbor were unsure if he was suffering from any injuries.
A board member from P.O.E.T. Animal Rescue arrived at Toscano’s residence and took Kendrick into their care. The pup was transported to a veterinary clinic for a thorough examination.
After an X-ray revealed that Kendrick had no injuries, everyone breathed a collective sigh of relief. The reason for his refusal to move was attributed to his overwhelming fear of humans.
One of the veterinary technicians gently spoke to him, attempting to help him relax and feel safe.
Sensing their genuine desire to help, Kendrick gradually lowered his guard and began to place his trust in them.
The veterinary team could only imagine the heartbreak and trauma that the poor dog had endured.
It was evident that he needed a loving foster home where he could receive abundant affection and support to overcome his deep-seated fears.
A Foster Home’s Embrace: Building Confidence and Trust
When Lauren Boesen, another board member at the rescue, learned about Kendrick’s situation, she decided to foster him and immediately went to the clinic to pick him up.
Upon their initial meeting, Kendrick attempted to hide from Boesen, still overwhelmed by fear and apprehension.
The compassionate woman knew that she needed to earn his trust and demonstrate that he could rely on her. It didn’t take long for Kendrick to realize that she was someone he could trust.
“When I met him at the vet, he was hiding and very apprehensive. I sat on the floor with him and began talking baby talk to him and I saw a tail wag,” Boesen shared with The Dodo, describing the first sign of progress.
He gradually warmed up to her and allowed her to put a leash around his neck and lead him to her car.
Boesen reassured him that everything would be alright. Sensing that he was in safe hands, Kendrick willingly hopped into his foster mom’s car.
During the drive home, Kendrick looked out of the car window, seeming to enjoy the unfamiliar sights and sounds.
A Journey of Transformation: Learning to Love and Play
Shortly after the dog moved in with his foster mom, she realized that he didn’t know how to “be a dog.” Boesen provided him with toys, but Kendrick didn’t know how to play with them.
Although he was an adorable pup, he didn’t know how to express affection or give kisses.
Boesen gave him time to decompress and adjust to his new environment.
Slowly but surely, Kendrick began to explore his surroundings and enjoy the cuddles and affection that his foster mom showered upon him.
The pup was delighted to discover that life could be beautiful and filled with joy.
“Over the last few weeks, he has grown now to love cuddles and pets. He also now loves to get picked up and run around in the yard. He absolutely loves running through the snow,” Boesen added, highlighting Kendrick’s remarkable progress.
Kendrick still needs to continue learning to trust people, but he has already made significant strides in his journey of healing. He will remain in his foster home until he finds a forever family who will love him unconditionally, just as he deserves.
