It was a heartbreaking scene—an abandoned dog, tied to a post in an isolated field, crying desperately for help. Rescued by the police, the grateful pup lowered his head in appreciation, touching the hearts of everyone who witnessed his rescue.
Officer Angela Laurella responded to a distress call about two dogs found chained to posts on a dead-end road in Pompano, Florida.
With no security cameras in the area, it was impossible to determine how long the dogs had been there or who had abandoned them. However, with temperatures soaring above 100 degrees, Officer Laurella knew there was no time to waste.
Rushing to the scene, she discovered a frail gray dog tied so tightly to a post that he could barely move.
“He was secured with a very short leash, completely emaciated and dehydrated—his ribs and bones were visibly protruding,” said Amy Roman, president and founder of 100+ Abandoned Dogs of Everglades Florida, in an interview with The Dodo.
Despite his suffering, the dog, now named Liam, gently placed his paw in the officer’s hand and bowed his head, as if pleading for help.
“She cautiously approached him, extended her hand, and he responded by cowering slightly before offering his paw—almost as if to say, ‘Please help me out of here,’” Roman shared.
Officer Laurella knew that Liam had endured immense hardship and required specialized care. She reached out to 100+ Abandoned Dogs of Everglades Florida for assistance. Though already overwhelmed with rescues, Roman didn’t hesitate to welcome Liam into their care.
Now, Liam is on the road to recovery, resting at Roman’s home after several vet visits. The 17-pound pocket-sized bulldog is slowly regaining his strength and eating better than ever.
“He’s getting plenty of love and attention,” Roman said. “We feed him every hour to help his body adjust… Our volunteers even prepare fresh batches of boiled chicken and rice for him—he’s truly enjoying every moment.”
Although Liam still has a long journey ahead, including multiple vet visits, he has remained a beacon of joy since his rescue.
“He loves everyone—there’s not a single mean bone in his body,” Roman said. “That speaks volumes because, after everything he’s been through, he still remains so grateful and forgiving.”
Liam’s story is one of resilience, hope, and the incredible power of kindness.
