On a cold and rainy day, New York police officer Michael Pascale became a hero in more ways than one when he crossed paths with a black puppy named Joey. While patrolling a public park in his patrol car, he couldn’t ignore the sight of Joey, nestled among discarded needles and broken beer bottles.
Joey was in a desperate situation, tied to a fence with a sturdy chain around his neck, soaked by the rain, trembling, and clearly abandoned. Joey’s pitiful gaze touched Officer Pascale’s sensitive heart, and he knew he had to act.
“The first thing that occurred to me was that I needed to get him out of here,” Pascale shared with The Dodo. What followed was a touching rescue and adoption story that would change both their lives forever.
Officer Pascale wasted no time. He took Joey to the Animal Care Centers of NYC in Brooklyn, and while drying off the grateful pup with a towel, a special bond began to form between them. To Pascale, Joey was not just an animal; he saw a soul in need.
“I don’t see any animal,” Pascale emphasized. “I notice a soul. And that’s not something I avoid.” He texted a photo of the abandoned puppy to his wife, who didn’t hesitate to respond: “Bring him home!” The couple was ready to adopt Joey, with just one obstacle in the way.
The Animal Care Centers informed Officer Pascale that Joey had to undergo a mandatory 72-hour hold. This waiting period ensures that even abandoned or mistreated animals have the opportunity to reunite with their owners. Despite their eagerness to adopt Joey, Pascale and his wife understood the importance of this waiting period.
During those long 72 hours, Officer Pascale visited Joey every day, forming an even stronger connection with the sweet dog. Finally, when the hold on strays was lifted, Pascale fulfilled his promise to Joey, adopting him and promising to protect him from cruelty and abandonment.
Joey’s transition from a cold and wet street dog to a beloved family member was complete when he showered Pascale with grateful kisses. They returned home to start a new chapter in their lives together.
Today, Joey enjoys exploring the city of New York with his father and snuggling on the couch with his mother. Officer Pascale notes that Joey has become his “mommy’s boy” entirely. While Joey may not be perfect (he occasionally rummages through garbage and still doesn’t like going out in the rain), he is content and loved.
In the end, all Joey truly wished for was a home filled with love, and thanks to Officer Pascale’s compassion, he found that and more. Joey’s touching journey reminds us of the incredible bond that can form between humans and animals and the transformative power of kindness and rescue.