
For tow truck driver Andrew, it was just another workday near Fort Wayne, Indiana. The woods rushed past in a blur of leaves and brambles — until something made him slam on the brakes.
Was that … a face?
Peering closer, Andrew realized he hadn’t imagined it. A tiny brown dog was huddled in the tangle of sticks and mud, eyes wide and wary.

Before the pup could vanish, Andrew snapped a photo and posted it on Facebook, tagging Lost Dogs of Fort Wayne. Maybe, just maybe, someone would recognize the dog — or come help.
The response was immediate. Volunteers from Lost Dogs of Fort Wayne and a fellow animal lover rushed to the spot. Soon, four more strangers appeared, eager to lend a hand.
Working together, the group carefully tracked the pup until they finally spotted him across a creek. Moments later, he was safe in their arms.
They named him Joey.

At Fort Wayne Animal Care & Control, Joey was given the care he desperately needed. Though weak, his spirit quickly began to shine through. Staff watched him shake toys with surprising gusto and greet each new day with more confidence.

“Despite all that he has been through, Joey was a constant light of happiness,” said Delaney Atkinson, community outreach educator at the shelter. “His rescue is a testimony to how powerful a group of animal lovers can be.”

Joey’s resilience soon captured the heart of a woman who saw his story online. When she met him, it was love at first sight. She adopted him, welcoming Joey into a home filled with warmth, plus a new dog sibling and two cats to play with.
Now, the little dog once lost in the brambles spends his days surrounded by love — never again to feel alone.
To help other animals like Joey, make a donation to Fort Wayne Animal Care & Control.
