On a freezing day in Missouri, rescue staff spotted a terrified stray puppy darting along the railroad tracks, sparking immediate concern for his safety.
With a train due to arrive at any moment, the rescuers wasted no time springing into action.
The weary white pup trudged along the metro tracks, exhausted and uncertain, silently hoping someone would see him and provide a safe, warm haven.
Working Together to Save Laclede
The approaching train wasn’t the only danger on the minds of the rescuers.
“The spot where we initially saw him on the tracks was open and right above the river. One misstep, and he could have easily fallen in,” explained Donna Lochmann, chief life-saving officer at Stray Rescue of St. Louis, in an interview with The Dodo.
Lochmann’s immediate reaction was to rush toward the frightened pup, later named Laclede, and pull him to safety before the next train arrived. However, her colleagues insisted she avoid putting herself in harm’s way and refused to let her step onto the tracks.
Instead, Lochmann implemented a safer plan. Armed with tasty treats, she began luring the pup away from danger. Meanwhile, metro employees sprang into action, alerting the train conductor about the dog on the tracks. In response, the train slowed, giving the team more time.
With the help of compassionate metro staff, who gently guided Laclede closer to his rescuers, Lochmann finally secured him with a leash. Relief washed over everyone.
“He was scared, filthy, so skinny, and freezing,” Lochmann recalled. “The temperatures that day were in single digits, and the wind was so cold … it was such a relief to finally get him off those tracks.”
For Laclede, the rescue was confusing at first, but it marked the beginning of a new chapter in his life.
Feeling Safe and Loved
Lochmann gently carried Laclede in her arms to the warmth of her Jeep. Wrapped in love and reassurance, the exhausted pup quickly nestled into their embrace, soaking up every bit of affection. Feeling safe for the first time, Laclede drifted into a peaceful sleep during the ride.
Once at the rescue headquarters in St. Louis, Missouri, the veterinary team gave him a thorough examination. Despite being malnourished and filthy, Laclede was surprisingly in good health.
After a warm, soothing bath and some nutritious meals, Laclede began to perk up. His once-weary eyes now sparkled with gratitude as he gazed at his rescuers. Overcome with happiness, he wagged his tail nonstop, fully aware that his life had taken a turn for the better.
Each passing day brought further improvement. Laclede’s vibrant personality began to shine, endearing him to everyone around him. His joyful spirit, paired with his gentle and loving demeanor, captured countless hearts.
“Everyone who meets Laclede falls in love instantly,” the rescue shared in a heartfelt Facebook post. “He’s a big, boisterous, joyful boy, but he is also so gentle and caring.”
The staff adores Laclede and eagerly anticipates the day when he finds his forever home and a happy ending to his remarkable journey.
Searching for His Place in the Sun
Laclede is filled with gratitude for the kindness and affection his human friends have showered upon him. Fear no longer clouds his days, and he finally feels safe and loved.
While he enjoys spending time with the compassionate staff and volunteers who saved him, Laclede holds onto a special dream—finding a forever family of his own. He imagines the day he’ll run joyfully into the arms of loving parents, showering them with hugs and beginning a beautiful new chapter in his life.
With all my heart, I hope Laclede’s dream comes true soon. He truly deserves the happiness and love he’s been waiting for.
